bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular Basis of Bacterial Longevity
Authors: Pechter Kieran B. , Yin Liang , Oda Yasuhiro , Gallagher Larry , Yang Jianming , Manoil Colin , Harwood Caroline S.
Published: November 2017

It is well known that many bacteria can survive in a growth-arrested state for long periods of time, on the order of months or even years, without forming dormant structures like spores or cysts. How is such longevity possible? What is the molecular basis of such longevity? Here we used the Gram-negative phototrophic alphaproteobacterium
Rhodopseudomonas palustris
to identify molecular determinants of bacterial longevity.
R. palustris
maintained viability for over a month after growth arrest due to nutrient depletion when it was provided with light as a source of energy. In transposon sequencing (Tn-seq) experiments, we identified 117 genes that were required for long-term viability of nongrowing
R. palustris
cells. Genes in this longevity gene set are annotated to play roles in a number of cellular processes, including DNA repair, tRNA modification, and the fidelity of protein synthesis. These genes are critically important only when cells are not growing. Three genes annotated to affect translation or posttranslational modifications were validated as
bona fide
longevity genes by mutagenesis and complementation experiments. These genes and others in the longevity gene set are broadly conserved in bacteria. This raises the possibility that it will be possible to define a core set of longevity genes common to many bacterial species.

IMPORTANCE
Bacteria in nature and during infections often exist in a nongrowing quiescent state. However, it has been difficult to define experimentally the molecular characteristics of this crucial element of the bacterial life cycle because bacteria that are not growing tend to die under laboratory conditions. Here we present and validate the phototrophic bacterium
Rhodopseudomonas palustris
as a model system for identification of genes required for the longevity of nongrowing bacteria. Growth-arrested
R. palustris
maintained almost full viability for weeks using light as an energy source. Such cells were subjected to large-scale mutagenesis to identify genes required for this striking longevity trait. The results define conserved determinants of survival under nongrowing conditions and create a foundation for more extensive studies to elucidate general molecular mechanisms of bacterial longevity.
Making It Last: Storage Time and Temperature Have Differential Impacts on Metabolite Profiles of Airway Samples from Cystic Fibrosis Patients
Authors: Wandro Stephen , Carmody Lisa , Gallagher Tara , LiPuma John J. , Whiteson Katrine
Published: November 2017

Metabolomics has great potential for uncovering biomarkers of the disease state in CF and many other contexts. However, sample storage timing and temperature may alter the abundance of clinically relevant metabolites. To assess whether existing samples are stable and to direct future study design, we conducted untargeted GC-MS metabolomic analysis of CF sputum samples after one or two freeze-thaw cycles and storage at 4°C and −20°C for 4 to 8 weeks. Overall, storage at −20°C and freeze-thaw cycles had little impact on metabolite profiles; however, storage at 4°C shifted metabolite abundances significantly. GC-MS profiling will aid in our understanding of the CF lung, but care should be taken in studies using sputum samples to ensure that samples are properly stored.
Isokinetic strength assessment offers limited predictive validity for detecting risk of future hamstring strain in sport: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Green Brady , Bourne Matthew N , Pizzari Tania
Published: November 2017

Objective

To examine the value of isokinetic strength assessment for predicting risk of hamstring strain injury, and to direct future research into hamstring strain injuries.

Design

Systematic review.

Data sources

Database searches for Medline, CINAHL, Embase, AMED, AUSPORT, SPORTDiscus, PEDro and Cochrane Library from inception to April 2017. Manual reference checks, ahead-of-press and citation tracking.

Eligibility criteria for selecting studies

Prospective studies evaluating isokinetic hamstrings, quadriceps and hip extensor strength testing as a risk factor for occurrence of hamstring muscle strain.

Methods

Independent search result screening. Risk of bias assessment by independent reviewers using Quality in Prognosis Studies tool. Best evidence synthesis and meta-analyses of standardised mean difference (SMD).

Results

Twelve studies were included, capturing 508 hamstring strain injuries in 2912 athletes. Isokinetic knee flexor, knee extensor and hip extensor outputs were examined at angular velocities ranging 30–300°/s, concentric or eccentric, and relative (Nm/kg) or absolute (Nm) measures. Strength ratios ranged between 30°/s and 300°/s. Meta-analyses revealed a small, significant predictive effect for absolute (SMD=−0.16, P=0.04, 95% CI −0.31 to −0.01) and relative (SMD=−0.17, P=0.03, 95% CI −0.33 to −0.014) eccentric knee flexor strength (60°/s). No other testing speed or strength ratio showed statistical association. Best evidence synthesis found over half of all variables had moderate or strong evidence for no association with future hamstring injury.

Summary/Conclusion

Despite an isolated finding for eccentric knee flexor strength at slow speeds, the role and application of isokinetic assessment for predicting hamstring strain risk should be reconsidered, particularly given costs and specialised training required.
Review of systematic reviews of non-pharmacological interventions to improve quality of life in cancer survivors
Authors: Duncan Morvwen , Moschopoulou Elisavet , Herrington Eldrid , Deane Jennifer , Roylance Rebecca , Jones Louise , Bourke Liam , Morgan Adrienne , Chalder Trudie , Thaha Mohamed A , Taylor Stephanie C. , Korszun Ania , White Peter D. , Bhui Kamaldeep
Published: November 2017

Objectives

Over two million people in the UK are living with and beyond cancer. A third report diminished quality of life.

Design

A review of published systematic reviews to identify effective non-pharmacological interventions to improve the quality of life of cancer survivors.

Data sources

Databases searched until May 2017 included PubMed, Cochrane Central, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Web of Science, the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and PsycINFO.

Study selection

Published systematic reviews of randomised trials of non-pharmacological interventions for people living with and beyond cancer were included; included reviews targeted patients aged over 18. All participants had already received a cancer diagnosis. Interventions located in any healthcare setting, home or online were included. Reviews of alternative therapies or those non-English reports were excluded. Two researchers independently assessed titles, abstracts and the full text of papers, and independently extracted the data.

Outcomes

The primary outcome of interest was any measure of global (overall) quality of life.

Analytical methods

Quality assessment assessing methdological quality of systematic reviews (AMSTAR) and narrative synthesis, evaluating effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions and their components.

Results

Of 14 430 unique titles, 21 were included in the review of reviews. There was little overlap in the primary papers across these reviews. Thirteen reviews covered mixed tumour groups, seven focused on breast cancer and one focused on prostate cancer. Face-to-face interventions were often combined with online, telephone and paper-based reading materials. Interventions included physical, psychological or behavioural, multidimensional rehabilitation and online approaches. Yoga specifically, physical exercise more generally, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) programmes showed benefit in terms of quality of life.

Conclusions

Exercise-based interventions were effective in the short (less than 3–8 months) and long term. CBT and MBSR also showed benefits, especially in the short term. The evidence for multidisciplinary, online and educational interventions was equivocal.
Protective effect of smoking against pterygium development in men: a nationwide longitudinal cohort study in South Korea
Authors: Rim Tyler Hyungtaek , Kim Dong Wook , Cheng Ching-Yu , Kim Sung Soo
Published: November 2017

Objective

The present study aimed to evaluate the association between smoking and incident pterygium in adult Korean men.

Design

A retrospective nationwide longitudinal cohort.

Setting

National Health Insurance database of South Korea.

Participants

This study included Korean men (age range: 40–79 years) registered in the Korea National Health Insurance Service database from 2002 through 2013. We compared HRs for pterygium between 90 547 current/past and 90 547 never-smokers via 1:1 propensity-matched analysis.

Primary outcome measure

Incident cases of pterygium were identified from the database.

Results

Pterygium developed in 5389 (6.0%) never-smokers and 3898 (4.3%) past/current smokers (P<0.001). The incidence of pterygium per 1000 person-years in never-smokers and in past/current smokers was 6.5 and 4.7, respectively (age-adjusted HR, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.70 to 0.76). This protective effect was more pronounced among current smokers than among past smokers (for current smokers: HR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.65 to 0.71 and for past smokers: HR, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.80 to 0.90). A longer duration of smoking and higher amounts of cigarette consumption were associated with a lower incidence of pterygium.

Conclusions

Longitudinally, cigarette smoking was associated with a reduced risk of pterygium, and this protective effect was more pronounced among current smokers than among past smokers.
Postpartum management of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy: a systematic review
Authors: Cairns Alexandra E , Pealing Louise , Duffy James M N , Roberts Nia , Tucker Katherine L , Leeson Paul , MacKillop Lucy H , McManus Richard J
Published: November 2017

Objectives

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) affect one in ten pregnancies and often persist postpartum when complications can occur. We aimed to determine the effectiveness and safety of pharmacological interventions, other interventions and different care models for postpartum hypertension management.

Design

A systematic review was undertaken. Nine electronic databases, including Medline, were searched from inception to 16 March 2017. After duplicate removal, 4561 records were screened. Two authors independently selected studies, extracted study characteristics and data, and assessed methodological quality.

Setting

Randomised controlled trials, case–control studies and cohort studies from any country and healthcare setting.

Participants

Postnatal women with HDP.

Interventions

Therapeutic intervention for management of hypertension, compared with another intervention, placebo or no intervention.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Outcome data were collected for maternal mortality and severe morbidity; systolic, diastolic and mean arterial blood pressure (BP) control; and safety data. Secondary outcome data collected included the length of postnatal hospital stay and laboratory values.

Results

39 studies were included (n=2901). Results were heterogeneous in terms of intervention, comparison and outcome requiring a narrative approach. There were insufficient data to recommend any single pharmacological intervention. 18 studies reported calcium-channel blockers, vasodilators and beta-blockers lowered BP postpartum. 12 of these reported safety data. Limited data existed regarding management in the weeks following hospital discharge. Neither loop diuretics (three studies) nor corticosteroids (one study) produced clinical benefit. Uterine curettage significantly reduced BP over the first 48 hours postpartum (range 6–13 mm Hg) compared with standard care (eight studies), with safety data only reported by four of eight studies.

Conclusion

There was insufficient evidence to recommend a particular BP threshold, agent or model of care, but three classes of antihypertensive appeared variably effective. Further comparative research, including robust safety data, is required. Curettage reduced BP, but without adequate reporting of harms, so it cannot currently be recommended.
Cerebral arteriovenous malformation draining vein stenosis is associated with atherosclerotic risk factors
Authors: Mendoza-Elias Nasya , Shakur Sophia F , Charbel Fady T , Alaraj Ali
Published: November 2017

Objective

The pathogenesis of venous outflow stenosis associated with cerebral arteriovenous malformation (AVM) draining veins is poorly understood. We sought to determine the relationship between venous stenosis and atherosclerotic risk factors.

Materials and methods

All patients with an AVM seen at our institution between 1990 and 2016 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients <18 years of age were excluded. Patients were classified into two groups based on the presence or absence of venous stenosis. Patient charts were reviewed for the following atherosclerotic risk factors: age >50 years, sex, race, hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, coronary artery disease, chronic kidney disease stage III, and cigarette smoking. The relationship between venous stenosis and atherosclerotic risk factors was assessed using univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results

278 patients were included (mean age 41 years, 55% men). Venous stenosis was present in 87 patients (31% of the cohort). The presence of venous stenosis was significantly associated with age >50 years (P=0.05), hypertension (P=0.05), diabetes (P=0.02), and hyperlipidemia (P=0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that hyperlipidemia (P=0.05) was predictive of draining vein stenosis.

Conclusions

Venous stenosis is associated with several atherosclerotic risk factors, suggesting that cerebral AVM venous outflow stenosis occurs by a degenerative process. Additional studies can show whether these modifiable risk factors may be targeted to prevent draining vein stenosis and AVM rupture.
Plasma urate, lung function and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a Mendelian randomisation study in 114 979 individuals from the general population
Authors: Kobylecki Camilla J , Vedel-Krogh Signe , Afzal Shoaib , Nielsen Sune F , Nordestgaard Børge G
Published: November 2017

Background

Urate is a strong antioxidant in plasma and may protect against lung function impairment. We tested the hypothesis that high plasma urate is causally associated with better lung function and low risk of respiratory symptoms and COPD.

Methods

We measured lung function and plasma urate in 114 979 individuals from the Copenhagen City Heart Study and the Copenhagen General Population Study and genotyped forSLC2A9rs7442295 andABCG2rs2231142 variants, previously associated with high plasma urate, in 110 152 individuals.

Results

In the two studies combined, multivariable-adjusted 100 µmol/L higher plasma urate was associated with −1.54% (95% CI −1.67 to −1.40) lower FEV1% predicted and −1.57% (95% CI −1.69 to −1.44) lower FVC % predicted observationally; the corresponding estimates for genetically determined 100 µmol/L higher plasma urate were −0.46% (95% CI −1.17 to 0.25) and −0.40% (95% CI −1.03 to 0.23). High plasma urate was also associated with higher risk of respiratory symptoms; however, genetically determined high plasma urate was not associated with respiratory symptoms. Finally, we identified 14 151 individuals with COPD and found ORs of 1.08 (95% CI 1.06 to 1.11) for COPD observationally and 1.01 (95% CI 0.88 to 1.15) genetically per 100 µmol/L higher plasma urate.

Conclusion

High plasma urate was associated with worse lung function and higher risk of respiratory symptoms and COPD in observational analyses; however, genetically high plasma urate was not associated with any of these outcomes. Thus, our data do not support a direct causal relationship.
τ−→ ℓi−ℓi+ℓj−ν̄jντ decays with a magnetic dipole term
Authors: Arroyo-Ureña M. A. , Díaz E. , Meza-Aldama O. , Tavares-Velasco G.
Published: November 2017

Using the massive helicity formalism, we calculate the five-body average square amplitude of the decays [Formula: see text] [Formula: see text] within the Standard Model (SM), we then introduce a dimension-five effective vertex [Formula: see text] in order to determine the feasibility of imposing limits on the tau anomalous magnetic dipole moment [Formula: see text] via the current or future experimental measurements of the branching ratio for the decay [Formula: see text].
Current-Mode Network Structures Dedicated for Simulation of Dynamical Systems with Plane Continuum of Equilibrium
Authors: Petrzela Jiri , Gotthans Tomas , Guzan Milan
Published: November 2017

This review paper describes different lumped circuitry realizations of the chaotic dynamical systems having equilibrium degeneration into a plane object with topological dimension of the equilibrium structure equals one. This property has limited amount (but still increasing, especially recently) of third-order autonomous deterministic dynamical systems. Mathematical models are generalized into classes to design analog networks as universal as possible, capable of modeling the rich scale of associated dynamics including the so-called chaos. Reference state trajectories for the chaotic attractors are generated via numerical analysis. Since used active devices can be precisely approximated by using third-level frequency dependent model, it is believed that computer simulations are close enough to capture real behavior. These simulations are included to demonstrate the existence of chaotic motion.
A CMOS Low-Power Digital Variable Gain Amplifier Design for a Cognitive Radio Receiver “Application for IEEE 802.22 Standard”
Authors: Lahiani Sawssen , Salem Samir Ben , Daoud Houda , Loulou Mourad
Published: November 2017

This paper presents the design of a new Digital Variable Gain Amplifier cell (DVGA). The proposed circuit based on transconductance, gm, amplifier and a transconductance amplifier is analyzed and designed for a cognitive radio receiver. The variable-gain amplifier (VGA) proposed consists of a digital control block, an auxiliary pair to retain a constant current density, and offers a gain-independent bandwidth (BW). A novel cell structure is designed for high gain, high BW, low power consumption and low Noise Figure (NF). The Heuristic Method is used to optimize the proposed circuit performance for high gain, low noise and low power consumption. This circuit is implemented and simulated using device-level description of TSMC 0.18[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m CMOS process. Simulation results show that the DVGA can provide a gain variation range of 54[Formula: see text]dB (from 54[Formula: see text]dB to 0[Formula: see text]dB) with a 3[Formula: see text]dB BW over more than 110[Formula: see text]MHz. The circuit consumes the maximum power of 0.65[Formula: see text]mW from a 1.8[Formula: see text]V supply.
Stability in distribution of stochastic Lotka–Volterra delay system under regime switching
Authors: Zang Yanchao , Hou Pingjun , Tian Yuzhu
Published: November 2017

In this paper, we consider a class of stochastic competitive Lotka–Volterra system with time delay and Markovian switching. We prove that there exists a global positive solution under the random perturbation. Some sufficient conditions for the stability in distribution of the system are established which improved the classical case. An example is given to illustrate theoretical results.
Non-Markovianity by undersampling in quantum optical simulators
Authors: Rossi Matteo A. C. , Benedetti Claudia , Tamascelli Dario , Cialdi Simone , Olivares Stefano , Vacchini Bassano , Paris Matteo G. A.
Published: November 2017

We unveil a novel source of non-Markovianity for the dynamics of quantum systems, which appears when the system does not explore the full set of dynamical trajectories in the interaction with its environment. We term this effect non-Markovianity by undersampling and demonstrate its appearance in the operation of an all-optical quantum simulator involving a polarization qubit interacting with a dephasing fluctuating environment.
Buonomano against Bell: Nonergodicity or nonlocality?
Authors: Khrennikov Andrei
Published: November 2017

The aim of this note is to attract attention of the quantum foundational community to the fact that in Bell’s arguments, one cannot distinguish two hypotheses: (a) quantum mechanics is nonlocal, (b) quantum mechanics is nonergodic. Therefore, experimental violations of Bell’s inequality can be as well interpreted as supporting the hypothesis that stochastic processes induced by quantum measurements are nonergodic. The latter hypothesis was discussed actively by Buonomano since 1980. However, in contrast to Bell’s hypothesis on nonlocality, it did not attract so much attention. The only experiment testing the hypothesis on nonergodicity was performed in neutron interferometry (by Summhammer, in 1989). This experiment can be considered as rejecting this hypothesis. However, it cannot be considered as a decisive experiment. New experiments are badly needed. We point out that a nonergodic model can be realistic, i.e. the distribution of hidden (local!) variables is well-defined. We also discuss coupling of violation of the Bell inequality with violation of the condition of weak mixing for ergodic dynamical systems.
The Sound of Flow Over Rigid Walls
Authors: Devenport William , Alexander Nathan , Glegg Stewart , Wang Meng
Published: November 2017

An overview of the acoustics of boundary layer flows over rough surfaces and surfaces with discontinuities at low Mach number is presented. Roughness noise is dominated by dipole radiation produced by unsteady tangential pressure forces on the uneven surface. Pressure fluctuations may be generated by turbulence of the overriding boundary layer or by the wakes of upstream roughness features, but in either case the sound can be predicted from the wall pressure frequency spectrum and the surface geometry. Small discontinuities, such as steps and gaps, are special cases of isolated two-dimensional roughness. Forward steps are much louder than backward steps because the former generate strong turbulence close to the step. Gap noise is dominated by any exposed forward-step portion of the gap. Rounding can substantially reduce forward step noise, and moderate sweep does not alter the noise-generation mechanism.
Effects and mechanisms of caffeine to improve immunological and metabolic abnormalities in diet-induced obese rats
Authors: Liu Chih-Wei , Tsai Hung-Cheng , Huang Chia-Chang , Tsai Chang-Youh , Su Yen-Bo , Lin Ming-Wei , Lee Kuei-Chuan , Hsieh Yun-Cheng , Li Tzu-Hao , Huang Shiang-Fen , Yang Ying-Ying , Hou Ming-Chih , Lin Han-Chieh , Lee Fa-Yauh , Lee Shou-Dong
Published: November 2017

In obesity, there are no effective therapies for parallel immune and metabolic abnormalities, including systemic/tissue insulin-resistance/inflammation, adiposity and hepatic steatosis. Caffeine has anti-inflammation, antihepatic steatosis, and anti-insulin resistance effects. In this study, we evaluated the effects and molecular mechanisms of 6 wk of caffeine treatment (HFD-caf) on immunological and metabolic abnormalities of high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese rats. Compared with HFD vehicle (HFD-V) rats, in HFD-caf rats the suppressed circulating immune cell inflammatory [TNFα, MCP-1, IL-6, intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1), and nitrite] profiles were accompanied by decreased liver, white adipose tissue (WAT), and muscle macrophages and their intracellular cytokine levels. Metabolically, the increase in metabolic rates reduced lipid accumulation in various tissues, resulting in reduced adiposity, lower fat mass, decreased body weight, amelioration of hepatic steatosis, and improved systemic/muscle insulin resistance. Further mechanistic approaches revealed an upregulation of tissue lipogenic [(SREBP1c, fatty acid synthase, acetyl-CoA carboxylase)/insulin-sensitizing (GLUT4 and p-IRS1)] markers in HFD-caf rats. Significantly, ex vivo experiments revealed that the cytokine release by the cocultured peripheral blood mononuclear cell (monocyte) and WAT (adipocyte), which are known to stimulate macrophage migration and hepatocyte lipogenesis, were lower in HFD-V groups than HFD-caf groups. Caffeine treatment simultaneously ameliorates immune and metabolic pathogenic signals present in tissue to normalize immunolgical and metabolic abnormalities found in HFD-induced obese rats.
Effect of sensory attenuation on cortical movement-related oscillations
Authors: Lee Joseph J. , Schmit Brian D.
Published: November 2017

This study examined the impact of induced sensory deficits on cortical, movement-related oscillations measured using electroencephalography (EEG). We hypothesized that EEG patterns in healthy subjects with induced sensory reduction would be comparable to EEG found after chronic loss of sensory feedback. EEG signals from 64 scalp locations were measured from 10 healthy subjects. Participants dorsiflexed their ankle after prolonged vibration of the tibialis anterior (TA). Beta band time frequency decompositions were calculated using wavelets and compared across conditions. Changes in patterns of movement-related brain activity were observed following attenuation of sensory feedback. A significant decrease in beta power of event-related synchronization was associated with simple ankle dorsiflexion after prolonged vibration of the TA. Attenuation of sensory feedback in young, healthy subjects led to a corresponding decrease in beta band synchronization. This temporary change in beta oscillations suggests that these modulations are a mechanism for sensorimotor integration. The loss of sensory feedback found in spinal cord injury patients contributes to changes in EEG signals underlying motor commands. Similar alterations in cortical signals in healthy subjects with reduced sensory feedback implies these changes reflect normal sensorimotor integration after reduced sensory input rather than brain plasticity.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Transient attenuation of sensory afferents in young, healthy adults led to similar changes in brain activity found previously in volunteers with incomplete spinal cord injury. Beta band power associated with ankle movement in these controls was attenuated after prolonged vibration of the tibialis anterior. Evoked potential measurements suggest that prolonged vibration reduces phasing across trials as the mechanism behind this attenuation of cortical activity.
Prevalence of HCV, HBV, and HIV Seropositivity among Cadavers Referred to Autopsy Hall of Legal Medicine Bureau of Tehran, Iran
Authors: Gharehdaghi Jaber , Abedi Khorasgani Mohammad Hassan , Ghadiani Mohammad Hassan , Kazemifar Amir Mohammad , Solhi Hassan , Solhi Sadra
Published: November 2017

A large number of dead bodies are referred to forensic autopsy halls for medicolegal examination. They can be a source of transmission of infectious diseases through direct contact or autopsy tools. The main aim of this study was to estimate the virus infection rates in the dead bodies. One thousand consecutive dead bodies that had been referred to autopsy hall of Legal Medicine Bureau of Tehran, Iran, during 2016, were included. The blood samples were analyzed in the laboratory for detection of HBs Ag, HBs Ab, HIV Ab, and HCV Ab, after providing informed consent from legal next of kin of the dead bodies. The general characteristics of the dead bodies were also collected by a checklist. Forty-seven cases of HIV seropositivity, 80 cases of HBs Ag seropositivity, and 97 cases for HCV Ab seropositivity were found. Among them, 27 cases of HIV, 40 cases of anti-HBC positive, and 94 cases of RIBA testing positive for HCV were proved through confirmatory tests. In other words, 2.6% of the dead bodies were infected with HIV, 3.8% with HBV, and 9% with HCV. The total infection rate was 15.5%. This is a worrying risk for pathologist and autopsy technicians.
Preparation, Characterization, andIn VivoPharmacoscintigraphy Evaluation of an Intestinal Release Delivery System of Prussian Blue for Decorporation of Cesium and Thallium
Authors: Sandal Nidhi , Mittal Gaurav , Bhatnagar Aseem , Pathak Dharam Pal , Singh Ajay Kumar
Published: November 2017

Background.Prussian blue (PB, ferric hexacyanoferrate) is approved by US-FDA for internal decorporation of Cesium-137 (137Cs) and Thallium-201 (201Tl).Aim.Since PB is a costly drug, pH-dependent oral delivery system of PB was developed using calcium alginate matrix system.Methods.Alginate (Alg) beads containing PB were optimized by gelation of sodium alginate with calcium ions and effect of varying polymer concentration on encapsulation efficiency and release profile was investigated. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was carried out to study surface morphology. Adsorption efficacy of Alg-PB beads for201Tl was evaluated and compared with native PB.In vivopH-dependent release of the formulation was studied in humans using gamma scintigraphy.Results.Encapsulation efficiencies of Alg-PB beads with 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0% polymer solution were 99.9, 91, 92, and 93%, respectively. SEM and particle size analysis revealed differences between formulations in their appearance and size distribution. No drug release was seen in acidic media (pH of 1-2) while complete release was observed at pH of 6.8. Dissolution data was fitted to various mathematical models and beads were found to follow Hixson-Crowell mechanism of release. The pH-dependent release of beads was confirmedin vivoby pharmacoscintigraphy in humans.
In-Bag Morcellation as a Routine for Laparoscopic Hysterectomy
Authors: Rimbach Stefan , Schempershofe Miriam
Published: November 2017

Tissue morcellation during laparoscopic hysterectomy carries the risk of spreading cells from unsuspected malignancy. Contained morcellation inside a bag is supposed to minimize this risk. The present study evaluated routine use of in-bag morcellation during laparoscopic hysterectomy in a consecutive patient cohort (n=49). The system used was More-Cell-Safe (A.M.I. Austria). Median age was 47 (35 to 76) years and BMI 25.1 (18.8 to 39.8). Indications for hysterectomy were fibroids (71.4%), adenomyosis (16.3%), prolapse (8.2%), and bleeding disorders (4.1%). 48 (98%) patients underwent supracervical hysterectomy and 1 (2%) underwent total hysterectomy. No unsuspected malignancy occurred. Median weight of extirpated tissue was 195 g (18 to 1110). Residual tissue and/or fluid in the bag amounted to 29 g (0 to 291). Median overall duration of surgeries was 100.5 min, and median time associated with the use of the bag was 10 min (5 to 28), significantly correlated with uterine volume (p=0.0094) and specimen weight (p=0.0002), but not with patient’s BMI (p=0.6970). Technical success rate for contained morcellation was 93.9%. Peritoneal washings after contained morcellation were all negative for malignant or smooth muscle cells.
Cyclic Nonrespiratory Pulse Pressure Oscillations Caused by Atrioventricular Dissociation
Authors: Rudas László , Hankovszky Péter , Lovas András , Zöllei Éva , Molnár Zsolt
Published: November 2017

Dynamic preload assessment tests, especially pulse pressure variation (PPV) and stroke volume variation (SVV), are increasingly acknowledged in mechanically ventilated patients as being predictors of fluid responsiveness. However, the limitations of this method are often neglected or overlooked. One of the prerequisites for PPV and SVV evaluation, in addition to intermittent positive pressure ventilation, is a “regular heart rhythm,” which may be an ambiguous term. We present a case where, despite a regular (paced) rhythm, atrioventricular dissociation was present and resulted in marked PPV elevation, which subsequently disappeared once sinus rhythm returned. Our case indicates that PPV and SVV should be interpreted with caution when atrioventricular dissociation is present.
Frequency and Type of Hepatic and Gastrointestinal Involvement in Juvenile Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Tahernia Leila , Alimadadi Hosein , Tahghighi Fatemeh , Amini Zahra , Ziaee Vahid
Published: November 2017

Background.Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a frequent rheumatology disorder among children. Since hepatic involvement is a common systemic manifestation in lupus, the frequency and type of hepatic involvement were determined in pediatric cases of SLE admitted to Children’s Medical Hospital from 2005 to 2014.Methods and Patients.In this observational case-series study, 138 pediatric cases of SLE were admitted in Children’s Medical Center (a pediatric rheumatology referral center in Tehran, Iran) enrolled from 2005 to 2014 and the outcomes, frequency, and type of hepatic involvement were assessed among them.Results.Hepatic involvement was reported in 48.55% of total SLE patients. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and both enzymes higher than normal upper limits were detected in 8.7%, 5%, and 34.7% of lupus patients, respectively. Increased level of liver enzymes was categorized as less than 100, between 100 and 1000, and more than 1000 levels in 23.1%, 23.1%, and 2.1% of cases. The only gastrointestinal involvement in lupus patients contributing to hepatic involvement was gastrointestinal bleeding. Rising in liver enzymes was detected mostly in lupus patients without gastrointestinal bleeding (52.2% without versus 25.8% with gastrointestinal bleeding,P=0.007).Conclusion.Approximately half of the pediatric patients suffering from SLE have hepatic involvement. No significant correlation was observed between various organs involvement and abnormal level of liver enzymes.
Does Cerebral Hemispheric Laterality Control Swallow Performance?
Authors: Balasubramanium Radish Kumar , Dodderi Thejaswi , Bhat Jayashree S.
Published: November 2017

Objectives. It is well established that the brainstem regulates the act of swallow. However, the role of cortex and its influence on swallowing are still a question. Hence, the present study aimed to investigate if cerebral hemispheric laterality controls swallow activity. Methods. Thirty normal right handed participants were subjected to time test of swallow using 100 ml of water. Dual paradigm was used to investigate hemispheric laterality for swallowing which involved listening to the speech or music stimuli presented binaurally while swallowing. The clinician measured total time taken and hyolaryngeal movement simultaneously which was used to calculate volume/time, volume/swallow, and time/swallow on an offline basis. Results. Results revealed that swallow performance decreased with the dual task paradigm compared to baseline swallow. These results are suggestive of cortex playing a role during swallowing in the dual task paradigm. Moreover, quantitative parameters like volume/swallow and volume/time were affected more when speech was competing with swallowing. However, music exerted greater interference over the speech for time/swallow. Conclusions. These results suggests that there exists differential cue lateralization hypothesis which means volume related parameters are controlled by left hemisphere and time related swallowing parameters are controlled at the right hemisphere.
Did the International ALPPS Meeting 2015 Have an Impact on Daily Practice The Hamburg Barmbek Experience of 58 Cases
Authors: Stavrou Gregor A. , Donati Marcello , Fard-Aghaie Mohammad H. , Zeile Martin , Huber Tessa M. , Stang Axel , Oldhafer Karl J.
Published: November 2017

Background: ALPPS (associating liver partition and portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy) was introduced only 10 years ago and has gained wide acceptance as a variation of staged procedures in liver surgery. It has been criticized for its high morbidity and mortality, which all centers reported in their initial series. Methods: After a world expert meeting in Hamburg in 2015 where all experts in the field met to discuss this method, caveats were extracted and formulated. We researched our complete prospective ALPPS database to see if the recommendations had any impact on outcome. Results: In total, we performed 58 ALPPS procedures in our center. 33 patients were operated on before, 25 after the meeting. Results in terms of morbidity and mortality were significantly better after the meeting, as were patient selection and strategy. Conclusion: In our own center's experience, the implementation of the meetings' recommendations and the information gathered through this valuable exchange had a dramatic impact on results. Having performed 58 ALPPS procedures in total, we can now conclude that ALPPS has become much safer in our hands since the 2015 meeting and that morbidity and mortality are no longer the issue to be discussed. Future research must focus on oncologic outcomes in these patients.
Phosphatidylcholine Causes Lipolysis and Apoptosis in Adipocytes through the Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha-Dependent Pathway
Authors: Jung Tae Woo , Kim Sung Tae , Lee Jun Ho , Chae Soo In , Hwang Kwang Woo , Chung Yoon Hee , Kim Hyoung-Chun , Abd El-Aty A.M. , Lee Tae Jin , Park Eon Sub , Jeong Ji Hoon
Published: November 2017

A phosphatidylcholine (PPC) formulation has been used to treat cellulite; however, its underlying mechanism of action remains unclear. In this study, we demonstrated that PPC induces lipolysis and apoptosis in adipocytes, and evaluated a possible tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα)-dependent pathway, whereby PPC exerts these effects. For in vitro study, fully differentiated 3T3-L1 cells, mouse adipocytes were treated with various concentrations of PPC and cell apoptosis and lipolysis were assayed. For in vivo experiments, mice fed on a high-fat diet for 8 weeks were injected twice to abdominal subcutaneous fat tissues of either vehicle or PPC. We found that PPC induced lipolysis and apoptosis dose-dependently in fully differentiated 3T3-L1 cells. In addition, PPC augmented both expression and release of TNFα in a dose-dependent fashion. Induction of TNFα by PPC was associated with the stimulation of nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB)-mediated transcriptional activity. Small interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated suppression of NFκB abrogated the effect of PPC on TNFα secretion. Suppression of TNFα with specific siRNA abrogated the effects of PPC on lipolysis and apoptosis. Through in vivo experiments, we demonstrated that PPC injection not only stimulated the local lipolysis and apoptosis, resulting in weight loss, but also induced TNFα mRNA expression and neutrophil infiltration. Furthermore, PPC injection prevented lipogenesis and suppressed the mRNA ­expression of adipokines (such as adiponectin and leptin), due to the down-sizing of adipocytes. In conclusion, we suggest that PPC induces lipolysis and apoptosis in adipocytes through TNFα-dependent pathways.
Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography in Optic Nerve Drusen
Authors: Cennamo Gilda , Tebaldi Sabrina , Amoroso Francesca , Arvanitis Dimitri , Breve Mariangelica , Cennamo Giovanni
Published: November 2017

Aim: To determine the efficacy of optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A) in diagnosing optic nerve head flow impairment in patients with optic nerve drusen. Methods: Patients affected by optic-nerve head drusen (ONHD) attending the Eye Clinic of the Federico II University of Naples were enrolled in this prospective case series between October 2015 and October 2016. Each patient underwent evaluation of best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), Goldman applanation tonometry, slit-lamp biomicroscopy, fundus examination, standard visual-field testing (perimetry), spectral domain (SD)-OCT and OCT-A. Results: Thirteen patients (6 females and 7 males with a mean age of 22.05 ± 7.54 years) with ONHD (19 eyes) were enrolled. Mean BCVA was 0.16 ± 0.21 LogMar and mean intraocular pressure was 15.68 ± 1.66 mm Hg. The control group constituted 16 individuals (24 eyes). Both ganglion cell complex (GCC) and retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) parameters were lower in patients than in controls. Similarly, the flow index (U = 134, p = 0.021) and vessel density (U = 90, p = 0.001) were significantly lower in eyes affected by ONHD than in normal eyes. Visual-field parameters did not differ between the 2 groups. GCC parameters were significantly correlated with OCT-A parameters (p < 0.05). No correlation was found between RNFL and OCT-A parameters. Conclusions: Our data suggest that OCT-A could be an objective method, helpful in the analysis of flow changes in patients with ONHD.
Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome Improved by Enteral Nutritional Therapy according to the Controlling Nutritional Status Score
Authors: Takehara Kazuhiro , Sakamoto Kazuhiro , Takahashi Rina , Kawai Masaya , Kawano Shingo , Munakata Shinya , Sugimoto Kiichi , Takahashi Makoto , Kojima Yutaka , Fukunaga Tetsu , Kajiyama Yoshiaki , Kawasaki Seiji
Published: November 2017

Superior mesenteric artery syndrome (SMAS) is a relatively rare disease that involves bowel obstruction symptoms, such as vomiting and gastric distension, owing to the compression of the third portion of the duodenum from the front by the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) and from the rear by the abdominal aorta and the spine. SMAS is diagnosed on the basis of an upper gastrointestinal examination series indicating the obstruction of the third portion of the duodenum or a computed tomography scan indicating the narrowing of the branch angle between the aorta and the SMA (i.e., the aorta-SMA angle). Here, we report the case of a 78-year-old woman diagnosed with SMAS after a laparoscopic right hemicolectomy for cecal cancer, whose condition was improved by enteral nutritional therapy. We used her controlling nutritional status (CONUT) score as a nutrition assessment and noted the changes in the aorta-SMA angle over the course of the disease. This patient appeared to develop SMAS, on the basis of a worsened CONUT score and a decreased aorta-SMA angle, owing to the inflammation resulting from the intraoperative dissection of the tissues around the SMA and prolonged postoperative fasting. After the initiation of enteral nutritional therapy, the patient exhibited body weight gain and an improved aorta-SMA angle and CONUT score. Hence, assessment of the aorta-SMA angle and CONUT score is an important preoperative consideration.
Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS): Assess, Diagnose, and Evaluate for POTS Treatment (ADEPT)
Authors: Schmidt Lisa L. , Karabin Beverly L. , Malone Audra C.
Published: November 2017

Background/Aims: Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is often identified as being clinically underdiagnosed and undertreated, resulting in unnecessary costs and poorer patient outcomes. Method: Through a literature search, the information has been synthesized, supporting the creation of a POTS diagnostic screening tool that can be implemented within the psychiatric outpatient clinic. Results: POTS patients are often referred to psychiatry for the treatment of chronic fatigue and anxiety disorders. Psychiatric professionals are in a position to prescreen for POTS in patients with orthostatic intolerance. Conclusion: A diagnostic prescreening tool helps to identify patients with POTS so they can be referred for proper treatment, improving their functionality and quality of life, and decreasing the healthcare burden.
Genomic Organization of Repetitive DNAs and Differentiation of an XX/XY Sex Chromosome System in the Amazonian Puffer Fish, Colomesus asellus (Tetraodontiformes)
Authors: Viana Patrik F. , Ezaz Tariq , Marajó Leandro , Ferreira Milena , Zuanon Jansen , Cioffi Marcelo B. , Bertollo Luiz A.C. , Gross Maria C. , Feldberg Eliana
Published: November 2017

The genus Colomesus is the sole representative of the family Tetraodontidae in the Amazon region. Here, Colomesus asellus was analyzed using conventional and molecular cytogenetic protocols. Its diploid chromosome number is 2n = 46 with 12 meta-, 10 submeta-, 16 subtelo-, and 8 acrocentric chromosomes and a fundamental number of FN = 84. An XX/XY sex chromosome system was identified. Mapping of 18S rDNA correlated with the nucleolus organizer regions (Ag-NORs) in the short arms of the 2 X chromosomes in females and in the Y chromosome in males. C-banding revealed heterochromatin in the centromeric regions of all chromosomes, except for pair 3. Prominent sex chromosome-specific heterochromatin amplification was observed, covering the short arms of the Y chromosome almost entirely. FISH with telomeric and tropomyosin (tpm1) sequences, respectively, revealed terminal signals in all chromosomes. The analysis of extended DNA fibers confirmed the colocalization and the interspersed pattern of the telomeric and tpm1 sequences. Thus, this study highlights the remarkable evolutionary dynamism presented by the Amazonian puffer fish regarding the differentiation of a heteromorphic XY sex chromosome system and a particular sex-specific amplification of rDNA sites. This is the first record of such an association in the Tetraodontidae family.
CRF35-AD as the Main Circulating Genotype of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 Infection in Iran: A Phylogenetic and Demographic-Based Study
Authors: Mozhgani Sayed-Hamidreza , Ebrahimian Seyedeh Arefeh , Gudarzi Hoda , Jazayeri Seyed Mohammad , Jahanbakhsh Fatemeh , Mohraz Minoo , Rezaee Seyed Abdolrahim , Azadmanesh Kayhan , Soltani Saber , Norouzi Mehdi
Published: November 2017

Finding the predominant circulating subtype of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) and surveying co-infection with other infectious viruses are crucial to making preventive decisions. To this end, 50 Iranian HIV-positive patients made up of 37 men and 13 women were selected. Most of the HIV-positive patients (70%) were intravenous drug users (IDUs), and 48 and 32% of patients were co-infected with HCV and HBV, respectively. The rate of simultaneous infection with HIV, HCV, and HBV was found to be 6%. The p17 region of the gag and the c2-v5 region of the env genes were sequenced and then clustered by phylogenetic analyses. CRF35-AD was specified as the predominant circulating subtype among different high-risk groups. In our survey, most of the patients in the IDU group had co-infections with HCV and HBV. Some possible reasons for the increased transmission risk of HIV in IDUs could be low levels of education, poor hygiene and housing conditions, and limited access to health services.
ADAMTS9 is Silenced by Epigenetic Disruption in Colorectal Cancer and Inhibits Cell Growth and Metastasis by Regulating Akt/p53 Signaling
Authors: Chen Ling , Tang Jun , Feng Yixiao , Li Shuman , Xiang Qin , He Xiaoqian , Ren Guosheng , Peng Weiyan , Xiang Tingxiu
Published: November 2017

Background/Aims: ADAMTS (disintegrin-like and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs) proteins are extracellular zinc metalloproteinases that play an important role in extracellular matrix assembly and degradation, connective tissue structuring, angiogenesis, and cell migration. Multiple studies suggest that ADAMTS proteins (e.g. ADAMTS9) can act as tumor suppressors. In gastric, esophageal, and nasopharyngeal carcinomas ADAMTS9 is frequently down-regulated by promoter methylation. Whether ADAMTS9 can function as a tumor suppressor gene (TSG) in colorectal cancer is still unclear. Methods: We performed immunohistochemistry, RT-PCR, and qRT-PCR, to examine the expression of ADAMTS9 in colorectal cancer cell lines and primary colorectal cancer tissues. Methylation-specific PCR was also carried out to investigate the promoter methylation status of ADAMTS9. We also explored the functions of ADAMTS9 in colorectal cancer cell lines through in vitro experiments. Results: ADAMTS9 expression was down-requlated or silenced in 83.3% (5/6) of colorectal cancer cell lines, and frequently repressed in 65.6% (21/32) of colorectal cancer tissues. Down-regulation of ADAMTS9 was partially due to promoter methylation. Exogenous expression of ADAMTS9 in colorectal cancer cell lines inhibited cell proliferation and migration through the regulation of cell cycle and apoptosis. In addition, ADAMTS9 prevented the activation of Akt, and its downstream targets in colorectal cancer cell lines. Conclusion: Our findings suggest ADAMTS9 is a TSG in colorectal cancer.