bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Muscle movement and loss
Authors: Lanza Ian R.
Published: December 2015

Immobilization causes loss of muscle by decreasing its protein synthesis and response to feeding.
Histamine H2 Receptor-Mediated Suppression of Intestinal Inflammation by Probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri
Authors: Gao Chunxu , Major Angela , Rendon David , Lugo Monica , Jackson Vanessa , Shi Zhongcheng , Mori-Akiyama Yuko , Versalovic James
Published: December 2015

Probiotics and commensal intestinal microbes suppress mammalian cytokine production and intestinal inflammation in various experimental model systems. Limited information exists regarding potential mechanisms of probiotic-mediated immunomodulationin vivo. In this report, we demonstrate that specific probiotic strains ofLactobacillus reuterisuppress intestinal inflammation in a trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)-induced mouse colitis model. Only strains that possess thehdcgene cluster, including the histidine decarboxylase and histidine-histamine antiporter genes, can suppress colitis and mucosal cytokine (interleukin-6 [IL-6] and IL-1β in the colon) gene expression. Suppression of acute colitis in mice was documented by diminished weight loss, colonic injury, serum amyloid A (SAA) protein concentrations, and reduced uptake of [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose ([18F]FDG) in the colon by positron emission tomography (PET). The ability of probioticL. reuterito suppress colitis depends on the presence of a bacterial histidine decarboxylase gene(s) in the intestinal microbiome, consumption of a histidine-containing diet, and signaling via the histamine H2 receptor (H2R). Collectively, luminal conversion ofl-histidine to histamine byhdc+L. reuteriactivates H2R, and H2R signaling results in suppression of acute inflammation within the mouse colon.

IMPORTANCEProbiotics are microorganisms that when administered in adequate amounts confer beneficial effects on the host. Supplementation with probiotic strains was shown to suppress intestinal inflammation in patients with inflammatory bowel disease and in rodent colitis models. However, the mechanisms of probiosis are not clear. Our current studies suggest that supplementation withhdc+L. reuteri, which can convertl-histidine to histamine in the gut, resulted in suppression of colonic inflammation. These findings link luminal conversion of dietary components (amino acid metabolism) by gut microbes and probiotic-mediated suppression of colonic inflammation. The effective combination of diet, gut bacteria, and host receptor-mediated signaling may result in opportunities for therapeutic microbiology and provide clues for discovery and development of next-generation probiotics.
Common Viral Integration Sites Identified in Avian Leukosis Virus-Induced B-Cell Lymphomas
Authors: Justice James F. , Morgan Robin W. , Beemon Karen L.
Published: December 2015

Avian leukosis virus (ALV) induces B-cell lymphoma and other neoplasms in chickens by integrating within or near cancer genes and perturbing their expression. Four genes—
MYC
,
MYB
,
Mir-155
, and
TERT
—have previously been identified as common integration sites in these virus-induced lymphomas and are thought to play a causal role in tumorigenesis. In this study, we employ high-throughput sequencing to identify additional genes driving tumorigenesis in ALV-induced B-cell lymphomas. In addition to the four genes implicated previously, we identify other genes as common integration sites, including
TNFRSF1A
,
MEF2C
,
CTDSPL
,
TAB2
,
RUNX1
,
MLL5
,
CXorf57
, and
BACH2
. We also analyze the genome-wide ALV integration landscape
in vivo
and find increased frequency of ALV integration near transcriptional start sites and within transcripts. Previous work has shown ALV prefers a weak consensus sequence for integration in cultured human cells. We confirm this consensus sequence for ALV integration
in vivo
in the chicken genome.

IMPORTANCE
Avian leukosis virus induces B-cell lymphomas in chickens. Earlier studies showed that ALV can induce tumors through insertional mutagenesis, and several genes have been implicated in the development of these tumors. In this study, we use high-throughput sequencing to reveal the genome-wide ALV integration landscape in ALV-induced B-cell lymphomas. We find elevated levels of ALV integration near transcription start sites and use common integration site analysis to greatly expand the number of genes implicated in the development of these tumors. Interestingly, we identify several genes targeted by viral insertions that have not been previously shown to be involved in cancer.
Bilateral closed flexor pollicis longus musculotendinous junction ruptures
Authors: Qureshi Arham , Wong Kai Yuen , Cormack George , Gillespie Patrick
Published: December 2015

We present a case of bilateral closed flexor pollicis longus musculotendinous junction ruptures. Our case suggests multifactorial aetiology and provides further evidence for genetic influences in musculotendinous junction injuries.
Survival analysis of time to uptake of modern contraceptives among sexually active women of reproductive age in Nigeria
Authors: Fagbamigbe Adeniyi Francis , Adebowale Ayo Stephen , Morhason-Bello ImranOludare
Published: December 2015

Objective

To assess the timing of modern contraceptive uptake among married and never-married women in Nigeria.

Design

A retrospective cross-sectional study.

Data and method

We used nationally representative 2013 Demographic and Health Survey data in Nigeria. Modern contraceptive uptake time was measured as the period between first sexual intercourse and first use of a modern contraceptive. Non-users of modern contraceptives were censored on the date of the survey. Kaplan–Meier survival curves were used to determine the rate of uptake. A Cox proportional-hazards model was used to determine variables influencing the uptake at 5% significance level.

Participants

A total of 33 223 sexually active women of reproductive age.

Outcome measure

Time of uptake of a modern contraceptive after first sexual intercourse.

Results

The median modern contraceptive uptake time was 4 years in never-married and 14 years among ever-married women. Significant differences in modern contraceptive uptake existed in respondents’ age, location, education and wealth status. Never-married women were about three times more likely to use a modern contraceptive than ever-married women (aHR=3.24 (95% CI 2.82 to 3.65)). Women with higher education were six times more likely to use a modern contraceptive than those without education (aHR=6.18 (95% CI 5.15 to 7.42)).

Conclusions

The rate of modern contraceptive uptake is low, and timing of contraceptive uptake during or after first sexual intercourse differed according to marital status. Age and number of children ever born influenced modern contraceptive uptake among the never-married women, but religion and place of residence were associated with the probability of modern contraceptive uptake among ever-married women.
Long-term risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease after removal of the colonic microbiota by colectomy: a cohort study based on the Danish National Patient Register from 1996 to 2014
Authors: Jensen Anders Boeck , Ajslev Teresa Adeltoft , Brunak Søren , Sørensen Thorkild I A
Published: December 2015

Objectives

The hypothesis of the study was that if the gut microbiota is involved in the development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases (CVDs), total colectomy may reduce the long-term risk of CVDs. The aim was therefore to investigate the risk of CVD in patients after a total colectomy compared with patients undergoing other types of surgery, which are not expected to alter the gut microbiota or the CVD risk.

Setting

The Danish National Patient Register including all hospital discharges in Denmark from 1996 to 2014.

Participants

Patients (n=1530) aged 45 years and above and surviving 1000 days after total colectomy without CVDs were selected and matched with five control patients who were also free of CVD 1000 days after other types of surgery. The five control patients were randomly selected from each of the three surgical groups: orthopaedic surgery, surgery in the gastrointestinal tract leaving it intact and other surgeries not related to the gastrointestinal tract or CVD (n=22 950).

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The primary outcome was the first occurring CVD event in any of the seven diagnostic domains (hypertensive disorders, acute ischaemic heart diseases, chronic ischaemic heart disease, cardiac arrhythmias, heart failure, cerebrovascular diseases and other arterial diseases) and the secondary outcomes were the first occurring event within each of these domains.

Results

Estimated by Cox proportional hazard models, the HRs of the composite CVD end point for patients with colectomy compared with the control patients were not significantly reduced (HR=0.94, 95% confidence limits 0.85 to 1.04). Among the seven CVD domains, only the risk of hypertensive disorders was significantly reduced (HR=0.85, 0.73 to 0.98).

Conclusions

Colectomy did not reduce the general risk of CVD, but reduced the risk of hypertensive disorders, most likely due to salt and water depletion induced by colectomy. These results encourage a reappraisal of the associations between gut microbiota and CVD.
Ethnic differences in cognitive development in the first 7 years: does maternal generational status matter?
Authors: Smith Neil R , Kelly Yvonne J , Nazroo James Y
Published: December 2015

Background

Differences in cognitive development have been observed across a variety of ethnic minority groups but relatively little is known about the persistence of these developmental inequalities over time or generations.

Methods

A repeat cross-sectional analysis assessed cognitive ability scores of children aged 3, 5 and 7 years from the longitudinal UK Millennium Cohort Study (white UK born n=7630; Indian n=248; Pakistani n=328; Bangladeshi n=87; black Caribbean n=172; and black African n=136). Linear regression estimated ethnic differences in age normed scores at each time point. Multivariable logistic regression estimated within-group generational differences in test scores at each age adjusting stepwise for sociodemographic factors, maternal health behaviours, indicators of the home learning environment and parenting styles.

Results

The majority of ethnic minority groups scored lower than the white UK born reference group at 3 years with these differences narrowing incrementally at ages 5 and 7 years. However, the black Caribbean group scored significantly lower than the white UK born reference group throughout early childhood. At 3 years, Pakistani, black Caribbean and black African children with UK born mothers had significantly higher test scores than those with foreign born mothers after baseline adjustment for maternal age and child gender. Controlling for social, behavioural and parenting factors attenuated this generational advantage. By 7 years there were no significant generational differences in baseline models.

Conclusions

Ethnic differences in cognitive development diminish throughout childhood for the majority of groups. Cumulative exposure to the UK environment may be associated with higher cognitive development scores.
Statistical arrival models to estimate missed passage counts at fish weirs
Authors: Sethi Suresh Andrew , Bradley Catherine
Published: December 2015

Missed counts are commonplace when enumerating fish passing a weir. Typically “connect-the-dots” linear interpolation is used to impute missed passage; however, this method fails to characterize uncertainty about estimates and cannot be implemented when the tails of a run are missed. Here, we present a statistical approach to imputing missing passage at weirs that addresses these shortcomings, consisting of a parametric run curve model to describe the smoothed arrival dynamics of a fish population and a process variation model to describe the likelihood of observed data. Statistical arrival models are fit in a Bayesian framework and tested with a suite of missing data simulation trials and against a selection of Pacific salmon (Oncorhynchus spp.) case studies from the Yukon River drainage, Alaska, USA. When compared against linear interpolation, statistical arrival models produced equivalent or better expected accuracy and a narrower range of bias outcomes. Statistical arrival models also successfully imputed missing passage counts for scenarios where the tails of a run were missed.
Modified citrus pectin stops progression of liver fibrosis by inhibiting galectin-3 and inducing apoptosis of stellate cells
Authors: Abu-Elsaad Nashwa M. , Elkashef Wagdi Fawzi
Published: December 2015

Modified citrus pectin (MCP) is a pH modified form of the dietary soluble citrus peel fiber known as pectin. The current study aims at testing its effect on liver fibrosis progression. Rats were injected with CCl4 (1 mL/kg, 40% v/v, i.p., twice a week for 8 weeks). Concurrently, MCP (400 or 1200 mg/kg) was administered daily in drinking water from the first week in groups I and II (prophylactic model) and in the beginning of week 5 in groups III and IV (therapeutic model). Liver function biomarkers (ATL, AST, and ALP), fibrosis markers (laminin and hyaluronic acid), and antioxidant biomarkers (reduced glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD)) were measured. Stained liver sections were scored for fibrosis and necroinflammation. Additionally, expression of galectin-3 (Gal-3), α-smooth muscle actin (SMA), tissue inhibitor metalloproteinase (TIMP)-1, collagen (Col)1A1, caspase (Cas)-3, and apoptosis related factor (FAS) were assigned. Modified pectin late administration significantly (p < 0.05) decreased malondialdehyde (MDA), TIMP-1, Col1A1, α-SMA, and Gal-3 levels and increased levels of FAS, Cas-3, GSH, and SOD. It also decreased percentage of fibrosis and necroinflammation significantly (p < 0.05). It can be concluded that MCP can attenuate liver fibrosis through an antioxidant effect, inhibition of Gal-3 mediated hepatic stellate cells activation, and induction of apoptosis.
Resveratrol reduces matrix metalloproteinases and alleviates intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy in rats
Authors: Chen Zhong , Hu Lingqing , Lu Mudan , Shen Zongji
Published: December 2015

Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) is a severe liver disorder occurring specifically in pregnancy, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9 were found to be elevated in ICP patients. Using ethinylestradiol-induced ICP rats as the model, we examined the effect of resveratrol on ICP symptoms such as bile flow rate, serum enzymatic activities, and TBA concentration, as well as MMP levels, and compared with the known ICP drug ursodeoxycholic acid. Both MMP-2 and MMP-9 were upregulated in ICP rats, and resveratrol treatment could inhibit the elevation of both MMPs, whereas ursodeoxycholic acid did not exhibit any effect. Although ursodeoxycholic acid alleviated ICP symptoms, resveratrol treatment in general exhibited better outcome in restoring bile flow rate, serum enzymatic activities, and TBA concentration. Our results for the first instance strongly supported the potential of RE as a new therapeutic agent in treating ICP, possibly through inhibiting MMP-2 and MMP-9.
Pudendal but not tibial nerve stimulation inhibits bladder contractions induced by stimulation of pontine micturition center in cats
Authors: Lyon Timothy D. , Ferroni Matthew C. , Kadow Brian T. , Slater Richard C. , Zhang Zhaocun , Chang Victor , Lamm Vladimir , Shen Bing , Wang Jicheng , Roppolo James R. , de Groat William C. , Tai Changfeng
Published: December 2015

This study examined the possibility that pudendal nerve stimulation (PNS) or tibial nerve stimulation (TNS) inhibits the excitatory pathway from the pontine micturition center (PMC) to the urinary bladder. In decerebrate cats under α-chloralose anesthesia, electrical stimulation of the PMC (40 Hz frequency, 0.2-ms pulse width, 10–25 s duration) using a microelectrode induced bladder contractions >20 cmH2O amplitude when the bladder was filled to 60–70% capacity. PNS or TNS (5 Hz, 0.2 ms) at two and four times the threshold (2T and 4T) to induce anal or toe twitch was applied to inhibit the PMC stimulation-induced bladder contractions. Propranolol, a nonselective β-adrenergic receptor antagonist, was administered intravenously (1 mg/kg iv) to determine the role of sympathetic pathways in PNS/TNS inhibition. PNS at both 2T and 4T significantly ( P < 0.05) reduced the amplitude and area under the curve of the bladder contractions induced by PMC stimulation, while TNS at 4T facilitated the bladder contractions. Propranolol completely eliminated PNS inhibition and TNS facilitation. This study indicates that PNS, but not TNS, inhibits PMC stimulation-induced bladder contractions via a β-adrenergic mechanism that may occur in the detrusor muscle as a result of reflex activity in lumbar sympathetic nerves. Neither PNS nor TNS activated a central inhibitory pathway with synaptic connections to the sacral parasympathetic neurons that innervate the bladder. Understanding the site of action involved in bladder neuromodulation is important for developing new therapies for bladder disorders.
A new model of an arteriovenous fistula in chronic kidney disease in the mouse: beneficial effects of upregulated heme oxygenase-1
Authors: Kang Lu , Grande Joseph P. , Hillestad Matthew L. , Croatt Anthony J. , Barry Michael A. , Katusic Zvonimir S. , Nath Karl A.
Published: December 2015

The arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is the preferred hemodialysis vascular access, but it is complicated by high failure rates and attendant morbidity. This study provides the first description of a murine AVF model that recapitulates two salient features of hemodialysis AVFs, namely, anastomosis of end-vein to side-artery to create the AVF and the presence of chronic kidney disease (CKD). CKD reduced AVF blood flow, observed as early as 3 days after AVF creation, and increased neointimal hyperplasia, venous wall thickness, thrombus formation, and vasculopathic gene expression in the AVF. These adverse effects of CKD could not be ascribed to preexisting alterations in blood pressure or vascular reactivity in this CKD model. In addition to vasculopathic genes, CKD induced potentially vasoprotective genes in the AVF such as heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and HO-2. To determine whether prior HO-1 upregulation may protect in this model, we upregulated HO-1 by adeno-associated viral gene delivery, achieving marked venous induction of the HO-1 protein and HO activity. Such HO-1 upregulation improved AVF blood flow and decreased venous wall thickness in the AVF. Finally, we demonstrate that the administration of carbon monoxide, a product of HO, acutely increased AVF blood flow. This study thus demonstrates: 1) the feasibility of a clinically relevant murine AVF model created in the presence of CKD and involving an end-vein to side-artery anastomosis; 2) the exacerbatory effect of CKD on clinically relevant features of this model; and 3) the beneficial effects in this model conferred by HO-1 upregulation by adeno-associated viral gene delivery.
Grids from bands, or bands from grids? An examination of the effects of single unit contamination on grid cell firing fields
Authors: Navratilova Z. , Godfrey K. B. , McNaughton B. L.
Published: December 2015

Neural recording technology is improving rapidly, allowing for the detection of spikes from hundreds of cells simultaneously. The limiting step in multielectrode electrophysiology continues to be single cell isolation. However, this step is crucial to the interpretation of data from putative single neurons. We present here, in simulation, an illustration of possibly erroneous conclusions that may be reached when poorly isolated single cell data are analyzed. Grid cells are neurons recorded in rodents, and bats, that spike in equally spaced locations in a hexagonal pattern. One theory states that grid firing patterns arise from a combination of band firing patterns. However, we show here that summing the grid firing patterns of two poorly resolved neurons can result in spurious band-like patterns. Thus, evidence of neurons spiking in band patterns must undergo extreme scrutiny before it is accepted. Toward this aim, we discuss single cell isolation methods and metrics.
Thyroid hormone receptor-α deletion decreases heart function and exercise performance in apolipoprotein E-deficient mice
Authors: Liu Kiao Ling , Canaple Laurence , del Carmine Peggy , Gauthier Karine , Beylot Michel , Lo Ming
Published: December 2015

The deletion of thyroid hormone receptor-α (TRα) in atherosclerosis-prone apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE−/−) mice (ApoE−/−TRα0/0) accelerates the formation of atherosclerotic plaques without aggravation of hypercholesterolemia. To evaluate other predisposition risk factors to atherosclerosis in this model, we studied blood pressure (BP) and cardiac and vascular functions, as well as exercise tolerance in young adult ApoE−/−TRα0/0 mice before the development of atherosclerotic plaques. Telemetric BP recorded for 4 consecutive days showed that the spontaneous systolic BP was slightly decreased in ApoE−/−TRα0/0 compared with ApoE−/− mice associated with a reduced locomotor activity. The percentage of animals that completed endurance (57% vs. 89%) and maximal running (0% vs. 89% at 46 cm/s speed in ApoE−/−TRα0/0 and ApoE−/− mice, respectively) tests was lower in ApoE−/−TRα0/0 mice. Moreover, during the maximal running test, both maximal running speed and running distance were significantly reduced in ApoE−/−TRα0/0 mice, associated with a blunted BP response to exercise. Transthoracic echocardiography revealed a decreased interventricular septum thickness and an increased end-systolic left ventricular volume in ApoE−/−TRα0/0 mice. Accordingly, left ventricular fractional shortening, ejection fraction, and stroke volume were all significantly decreased in ApoE−/−TRα0/0 mice with a concomitant blunted cardiac output. No interstrain difference was observed in vascular reactivity, except that ApoE−/−TRα0/0 mice exhibited an enhanced acetylcholine-induced relaxation in mesenteric and distal femoral arteries. In conclusion, the deletion of TRα in ApoE−/− mice alters cardiac structure and contractility; both could contribute to blunted BP response to physical exercise and impaired exercise performance.
Relationship between Caffeine and Levels of DNA Repair and Oxidative Stress in Women with and without a BRCA1 Mutation
Authors: Nikitina Dina , Chen Zhou , Vallis Katherine , Poll Aletta , Ainsworth Peter , Narod Steven A. , Kotsopoulos Joanne
Published: December 2015

Background: Coffee consumption has been associated with a reduction in breast cancer risk among women with a BRCA1 mutation. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether major contributors of caffeine intake are associated with a reduction in DNA damage and/or oxidative stress in women with and without a BRCA1 mutation. Methods: Coffee, tea, soda and total caffeine consumption was collected by a dietary history questionnaire, and DNA repair capacity in lymphocytes was assessed by the comet assay (tail moments), micronucleus test (per 1,000 binucleated cells) and analysis of γ-H2AX staining (nuclear foci). The thiobarbituric acid-malondialdehyde and DTNB assays were used to estimate serum lipid peroxidation (µmol/l) and protein oxidation (µmol/l), respectively. Results: Among all women, high levels of caffeine and caffeinated coffee intake were associated with significantly lower levels of micronuclei (138.50 vs. 97.67, p = 0.04, and 138.12 vs. 97.70, p = 0.04). There was no significant relationship between caffeine, coffee, tea and soda intake and the other markers of DNA repair capacity and oxidative stress among all women and in analyses stratified by BRCA1 mutation status. Conclusion: The chemopreventive effects of coffee and/or caffeine may be associated with improved capacity to efficiently repair DNA damage.
Normative Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone Values for Healthy Nigerian Newborns
Authors: Yarhere Iroro E. , Jaja Tamunopriye , Oduwole Abiola , Ibekwe M. Ugochi , Suwaid Salma , Alkali Yahaya , Adeniran Kayode , Fetuga Bolanle , Jarrett Olumide O. , Elusiyan Jerome B. , Adesiyun Omotayo , Idris Hafsat W. , Blankenstein Oliver , Akani Nwadiuto A.
Published: December 2015

Background: Congenital hypothyroidism is a common congenital endocrine disorder prevailing all over the world. No nationwide screening exists for any sub-Saharan country. We present normative cord and capillary thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) values for healthy Nigerian newborns. Subjects and Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out in 6 university hospitals in Nigeria between January 1 and December 31, 2013. Cord and heel blood placed on 4 concentric circles on a Whartman filter paper were analysed for TSH within 1 week of collection using AutoDelfia 1235 immunoassay (Perkin Elmer Wallace, Boston, Mass., USA) at Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany. The mean TSH levels of the newborns were determined, considering their sex, birthweight, socioeconomic status, and birth city. The association between the mean TSH level and other parameters was determined by analysis of variance. Results: A total of 2,014 subjects were recruited during the study period. The mean TSH value for the subjects was 1.86 μIU/ml, and 98.1% of the newborns were within the 2.5th and 97.5th percentiles (range: 0.09-7.90 μIU/ml) of the TSH levels. We collected 247 cord and 1,767 heel samples, respectively, and the range was slightly higher in samples from cord blood. Conclusion: The study highlights the normal reference values for capillary/cord TSH levels in term Nigerian newborns. TSH was higher in one region, attributable to earlier sampling, but was not influenced by gender, socioeconomic status, or birthweight.
Clinical Presentation and Multi-Parametric Screening Surrogates of Ischemic Stroke Patients Suffering from Infective Endocarditis
Authors: Hobohm Carsten , Hagendorff Andreas , Schulz Sandra , Fritzsch Dominik , Budig Sarah , Stöbe Stephan , Michalski Dominik
Published: December 2015

Background: Infective endocarditis (IE) represents a life-threatening condition due to complications like cardiac failure and thromboembolism. In ischemic stroke, IE formally excludes patients from approaches addressing the recanalization of occluded vessels, challenging decision-making in the early phase of hospitalization. This study aimed at the rate and clinical course of stroke patients with IE and explored clinical, imaging-based and serum parameters, which would allow early identification. Methods: A hospital-based registry containing 1,531 ischemic stroke patients was screened for IE identified by echocardiography. In addition to clinical parameters, patterns of cerebral manifestation as well as a variety of inflammatory serum and myocardial markers were analyzed concerning their predictive impact for identifying affected patients. Results: IE was found in 26 patients (1.7%) and was associated with an increased body temperature and cardiac murmurs. Patients suffering from IE demonstrated a more severe clinical affection at hospital discharge and an impaired symptom decline during hospitalization, further deteriorated by the use of systemic thrombolysis. Distribution of cerebral infarction patterns did not differ between the groups. C-reactive protein (CRP) and leukocyte count as well as troponin and myoglobin, taken at hospital admission, were found to be significantly associated with IE. Conclusions: IE in stroke patients is associated with worse clinical outcome, complicated by intravenously applied thrombolysis, and therefore needs to be screened during the early phase of hospitalization. Increased serum levels of CRP and leukocyte count in combination with an increased body temperature or abnormal cardiac murmurs should entail rapid initiation of further diagnostics, that is, transoesophageal echocardiography.
Pre- and Postnatal Analysis of Chromosome 15q26.1 and 8p23.1 Deletions in Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia
Authors: Shetty Mitesh , Kadandale Jayarama , Hegde Sridevi
Published: December 2015

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is defined as a protrusion of abdominal content into the thoracic cavity through an abnormal opening in the diaphragm present at birth. It is a common birth defect with high mortality and morbidity. Submicroscopic deletions of 15q26.1 and 8p23.1 have been reported in several cases of CDH. We studied a total of 17 cases with CDH in pre- and postnatal samples using FISH probes. Deletion 15q26.1 was seen in 1/17 prenatal samples. There was no deletion for 8p23.1 in all the samples analyzed. CDH has a genetic etiology, and deletion 15q26.1 increases the risk of CDH. Deletion 15q26.1 in a fetus with CDH is a predictor of poor prognosis. This deletion is also seen in a phenotype similar to Fryns syndrome. CDH identified pre- or postnatally should be investigated further to exclude a 15q26.1 deletion and enable appropriate parental counseling.
A Case of Basal Cell Carcinoma with Outer Hair Follicle Sheath Differentiation
Authors: Onishi Masazumi , Takahashi Kazuhiro , Maeda Fumihiko , Akasaka Toshihide
Published: December 2015

A 70-year-old Japanese man presented at our hospital with an asymptomatic, blackish, irregularly shaped plaque with a gray nodule in the periphery on his left lower leg. The lesion had been present for 10 years and had recently enlarged, associated with bleeding. Histopathologically, the tumor consisted of three distinct parts: The first part showed massive aggregation of basophilic basaloid cells with peripheral palisading and abundant melanin granules, and was diagnosed as solid-type basal cell carcinoma. The second part showed aggregation of clear cells with squamous eddies, and was diagnosed as proliferating trichilemmal tumor. The third part showed reticular aggregation of basaloid cells with infundibular cysts in the papillary dermis, and was diagnosed as infundibulocystic basal cell carcinoma. We diagnosed this tumor as basal cell carcinoma with various forms of hair follicle differentiation, including differentiation into the outer root sheath.
Natural IgM Blockade Limits Infarct Expansion and Left Ventricular Dysfunction in a Swine Myocardial Infarct Model
Authors: Sihag Smita , Haas Michael S. , Kim Karen M. , Guerrero J. Luis , Beaudoin Jonathan , Alicot Elisabeth M. , Schuerpf Franziska , Gottschall James D. , Puro Robyn J. , Madsen Joren C. , Sachs David H. , Newman Walter , Carroll Michael C. , Allan James S.
Published: December 2015

Background—

Acute coronary syndrome is the leading cause of mortality worldwide. However, treatment of acute coronary occlusion inevitably results in ischemia-reperfusion injury. Circulating natural IgM has been shown to play a significant role in mouse models of ischemia-reperfusion injury. A highly conserved self-antigen, nonmuscle myosin heavy chain II, has been identified as a target of pathogenic IgM. We hypothesized that a monoclonal antibody (m21G6) directed against nonmuscle myosin heavy chain II may inhibit IgM binding and reduce injury in a preclinical model of myocardial infarction. Thus, our objective was to evaluate the efficacy of intravenous m21G6 treatment in limiting infarct expansion, troponin release, and left ventricular dysfunction in a swine myocardial infarction model.

Methods and Results—

Massachusetts General Hospital miniature swine underwent occlusion of the midleft anterior descending coronary artery for 60 minutes, followed by 1 hour, 5-day, or 21-day reperfusion. Specificity and localization of m21G6 to injured myocardium were confirmed using fluorescently labeled m21G6. Treatment with m21G6 before reperfusion resulted in a 49% reduction in infarct size (
P
<0.005) and a 61% reduction in troponin-T levels (
P
<0.05) in comparison with saline controls at 5-day reperfusion. Furthermore, m21G6-treated animals recovered 85.4% of their baseline left ventricular function as measured by 2-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography in contrast to 67.1% in controls at 21-day reperfusion (
P
<0.05).

Conclusions—

Treatment with m21G6 significantly reduced infarct size and troponin-T release, and led to marked preservation of cardiac function in our study. Overall, these findings suggest that pathogenic IgM blockade represents a valid therapeutic strategy in mitigating myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury.
Efficacy and Safety of Vorapaxar in Non–ST‐Segment Elevation Acute Coronary Syndrome Patients Undergoing Noncardiac Surgery
Authors: van Diepen Sean , Tricoci Pierluigi , Podder Mohua , Westerhout Cynthia M. , Aylward Philip E. , Held Claes , Van de Werf Frans , Strony John , Wallentin Lars , Moliterno David J. , White Harvey D. , Mahaffey Kenneth W. , Harrington Robert A. , Armstrong Paul W.
Published: December 2015

Background

Perioperative antiplatelet agents potentially increase bleeding after non–
ST
‐segment elevation (
NSTE
) acute coronary syndromes (
ACS
). The protease‐activated receptor 1 antagonist vorapaxar reduced cardiovascular events and was associated with increased bleeding versus placebo in
NSTE ACS
, but its efficacy and safety in noncardiac surgery (
NCS
) remain unknown. We aimed to evaluate ischemic, bleeding, and long‐term outcomes of vorapaxar in
NCS
after
NSTE ACS
.

Methods and Results

In the
TRACER
trial, 2202 (17.0%) patients underwent major or minor
NCS
after
NSTE ACS
over 1.5 years (median); continuing study treatment perioperatively was recommended. The primary ischemic end point for this analysis was cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, stent thrombosis, or urgent revascularization within 30 days of
NCS
. Safety outcomes included 30‐day
NCS
bleeding and
GUSTO
moderate/severe bleeding. Overall, 1171 vorapaxar and 1031 placebo patients underwent
NCS
. Preoperative aspirin and thienopyridine use was 96.8% versus 97.7% (
P
=0.235) and 89.1% versus 86.1% (
P
=0.036) for vorapaxar versus placebo, respectively. Within 30 days of
NCS
, no differences were observed in the primary ischemic end point between vorapaxar and placebo groups (3.4% versus 3.9%; adjusted odds ratio 0.81, 95%
CI
0.50 to 1.33,
P
=0.41). Similarly, no differences in
NCS
bleeding (3.9% versus 3.4%; adjusted odds ratio 1.41, 95%
CI
0.87 to 2.31,
P
=0.17) or
GUSTO
moderate/severe bleeding (4.2% versus 3.7%; adjusted odds ratio 1.15, 95%
CI
, 0.72 to 1.83,
P
=0.55) were observed. In a 30‐day landmarked analysis,
NCS
patients had a higher long‐term risk of the ischemic end point (adjusted hazard ratio 1.62, 95%
CI
1.33 to 1.97,
P
<0.001) and
GUSTO
moderate/severe bleeding (adjusted hazard ratio 5.63, 95%
CI
3.98 to 7.97,
P
<0.001) versus patients who did not undergo
NCS
, independent of study treatment.

Conclusion

NCS
after
NSTE ACS
is common and associated with more ischemic outcomes and bleeding. Vorapaxar after
NSTE ACS
was not associated with increased perioperative ischemic or bleeding events in patients undergoing
NCS
.
Admission Hyperglycemia and Clinical Outcome in Cerebral Venous Thrombosis
Authors: Zuurbier Susanna M. , Hiltunen Sini , Tatlisumak Turgut , Peters Guusje M. , Silvis Suzanne M. , Haapaniemi Elena , Kruyt Nyika D. , Putaala Jukka , Coutinho Jonathan M.
Published: December 2015

Background and Purpose—

Admission hyperglycemia is associated with poor clinical outcome in ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke. Admission hyperglycemia has not been investigated in patients with cerebral venous thrombosis.

Methods—

Consecutive adult patients with cerebral venous thrombosis were included at the Academic Medical Center, The Netherlands (2000–2014) and the Helsinki University Central Hospital, Finland (1998–2014). We excluded patients with known diabetes mellitus and patients without known admission blood glucose. We defined admission hyperglycemia as blood glucose ≥7.8 mmol/L (141 mg/dL) and severe hyperglycemia as blood glucose ≥11.1 mmol/L (200 mg/dL). We used logistic regression analysis to determine if admission hyperglycemia was associated with modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score of 3 to 6 or mortality at last follow-up. We adjusted for: age, sex, coma, malignancy, infection, intracerebral hemorrhage, deep cerebral venous thrombosis, and location of recruitment.

Results—

Of 380 patients with cerebral venous thrombosis, 308 were eligible. Of these, 66 (21.4%) had admission hyperglycemia with 8 (2.6%) having severe admission hyperglycemia. Coma (31.3% versus 5.0%,
P
<0.001) and intracerebral hemorrhage (53.0% versus 32.6%,
P
=0.002) at presentation were more common among patients with admission hyperglycemia than normoglycemic patients. Patients with admission hyperglycemia had a higher risk of mRS score of 3 to 6 (adjusted odds ratio, 3.10; 95% confidence interval, 1.35–7.12) and mortality (adjusted odds ratio, 4.13; 95% confidence interval, 1.41–12.09). Severe hyperglycemia was even more strongly associated with mRS score of 3 to 6 (adjusted odds ratio, 11.59; 95% confidence interval, 1.74–77.30) and mortality (adjusted odds ratio, 33.36; 95% confidence interval, 3.87–287.28) compared with normoglycemic patients.

Conclusions—

Admission hyperglycemia is a strong predictor of poor clinical outcome in patients with cerebral venous thrombosis.
Early Detection and Quantification of Cerebral Venous Thrombosis by Magnetic Resonance Black-Blood Thrombus Imaging
Authors: Yang Qi , Duan Jiangang , Fan Zhaoyang , Qu Xiaofeng , Xie Yibin , Nguyen Christopher , Du Xiangying , Bi Xiaoming , Li Kuncheng , Ji Xunming , Li Debiao
Published: December 2015

Background and Purpose—

Early diagnosis of cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is currently a major clinical challenge. We proposed a novel magnetic resonance black-blood thrombus imaging technique (MRBTI) for detection and quantification of CVT.

Methods—

MRBTI was performed on 23 patients with proven CVT and 24 patients with negative CVT confirmed by conventional imaging techniques. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on the duration of clinical onset: ≤7 days (group 1) and between 7 and 30 days (group 2). Signal/noise ratio was calculated for the detected thrombus, and contrast/noise ratio was measured between thrombus and lumen and also between thrombus and brain tissue. The feasibility of using MRBTI for thrombus volume measurement was explored, and total thrombus volume was calculated for each patient.

Results—

In 23 patients with proven CVT, MRBTI correctly identified 113 of 116 segments with a sensitivity of 97.4%. Thrombus signal/noise ratio was 153±57 and 261±95 for group 1 (n=10) and group 2 (n=13), respectively (
P
<0.01). Thrombus to lumen contrast/noise ratio was 149±57 and 256±94 for group 1 and group 2, respectively. Thrombus to brain tissue contrast/noise ratio was 41±36 and 120±63 (
P
<0.01), respectively. Quantification of thrombus volume was successfully conducted in all patients with CVT, and mean volume of thrombus was 10.5±6.9 mL.

Conclusions—

The current findings support that with effectively suppressed blood signal, MRBTI allows selective visualization of thrombus as opposed to indirect detection of venous flow perturbation and can be used as a promising first-line diagnostic imaging tool.
Modern Western Christian Missions in Iran: The Connection Between Government and Missionary
Authors: Hopkins Philip O.
Published: December 2015

Iran and Christianity are not typically associated with one another in the modern period. However, in the context of the greater historical narrative, a connection becomes apparent, a montage showing that Christianity in Iran includes ethnic Iranian Christians from Assyrian and Armenian backgrounds as well as Western missionaries. Western missionaries came to Iran to convert Iranians, including ethnic Iranian Christians. In their efforts, their activity played a role in Iranian state and society. This paper examines the connection between the government and the Western missionary in the modern period, suggesting the influence was not completely positive.
Thirty-two More Pears For Uwe
Authors: Rossi Adriano V.
Published: December 2015

The paper deals with the etymology and dialectology of Turkic armut, Persian armud ‘pear’. The interrelations of these phytonymical families were treated a few years ago by Prof. Uwe Bläsing who considered the Turkic words borrowed from a Middle Iranian language (viz. Pahlavi, because of some isolated attestation in this language), but also the Iranian words probably borrowed from a third (unknown) language of the Irano-Caucasian area. On the basis of an extensive areal study (with original materials from the archive of the Balochi Etymological Dictionary Project, L’Orientale University, Naples) the author argues for a back dating of the Iranian attestations, and the preservation in many modern Iranian dialects of a lexical type believed to be isolated in Middle Persian.
ECCENTRIC GROWTH AND GROWTH STRESS IN INCLINED STEMS OF GNETUM GNEMON
Authors: Shirai Tatsuya , Yamamoto Hiroyuki , Yoshida Masato , Inatsugu Mikuri , Ko Chisato , Fukushima Kazuhiko , Matsushita Yasuyuki , Yagami Sachie , Lahjie Abubakar M. , Sawada Mitsuaki , Kule Abraham
Published: December 2015

Gnetum gnemon L. (Gnetales) forms hardwood-like secondary xylem in its trunks and branches although it is a gymnosperm. The present study tested the surface growth stress in relation to anatomical and chemical properties of the secondary xylem in inclined and vertical stems of G. gnemon using morphological and chemical composition analyses. Secondary growth was promoted on the upper half of the cross section in an inclined stem; at the same time, tensile growth stress increased on the upper side and decreased on the lower side of the inclined stem. However, formation of reaction wood fibers was not detected on either side. The microfibril angle was associated with differences in tensile growth stress. Thus, we conclude that negative gravitropism in G. gnemon is caused by a synergistic effect of increased tensile growth stress as well as the promotion of secondary growth on the upper side of the inclined stem. Our results are comparable to the negative gravitropism observed in the family Magnoliaceae, which does not form gelatinous fibers in its tension wood.
FORMATION OF SUCCESSIVE CAMBIA IN THE MENISPERMUM TREE COCCULUS LAURIFOLIUS (MENISPERMACEAE)
Authors: Rajput Kishore S. , Gupta Sangeeta
Published: December 2015

Successive cambia are often associated with the climbing or shrub habit, and is less common in trees. We studied formation of successive cambia and structure of secondary xylem in young stems of Cocculus laurifolius DC., a tree species of Menispermaceae. Cell division in the vascular cambium ceased in pencil-thick stems. Subsequently, parenchyma cells located outside the perivascular fibre cap re-differentiated and gave rise to several small segments of meristematic cells, of which the central cells divided repeatedly to initiate the first successive cambium which produces secondary xylem centripetally and phloem centrifugally. Cells located on the inner side of the newly initiated cambium differentiated into conjunctive tissue while cells on the outer side of it divided further and differentiated into sclereids. Xylem was diffuse porous and composed of vessels, fibre tracheids and ray parenchyma cells, and only differed in vessel diameter from wide-vessel climbing relatives.
Tree rings show a different climatic response in a managed and a non-managed plantation of teak (Tectona grandis) in West Africa
Authors: Dié A. , De Ridder M. , Cherubini P. , Kouamé F.N. , Verheyden A. , Kitin P. , Toirambe B. B. , Van den Bulcke J. , Van Acker J. , Beeckman H.
Published: December 2015

Establishing large-scale plantations of teak could reduce the pressure on natural forests and sequester atmospheric carbon into durable wood. Understanding the growth dynamics of this species in plantations, outside its natural distribution area, is crucial for forest management. Stem discs of teak were collected in Ivory Coast at two sites, a non-managed plantation (Gagnoa) and a managed plantation (Séguié). All stem discs were processed using the standard dendrochronological methods in order to unravel the relationships between growth and climate. Results showed that growth is slower in Gagnoa compared to the Séguié plantation that is being thinned regularly. In Gagnoa, trees responded positively to April rainfall, i.e., during the early stage of tree-ring formation, and negatively to September-October rainfall, i.e., during the short dry period. In Séguié, trees responded positively to July rainfall, i.e., during latewood formation, under decreasing rainfall. At both sites, tree growth was influenced by sea-surface temperature anomalies during the summer in the Gulf of Guinea. Teak growth in Séguié could be additionally linked to El Niño events, specifically during three major episodes (1976–77, 1982–83 and 1997–98).
Two new taxa of Impatiens L. (Balsaminaceae) from Western Ghats of India
Authors: PRABHUKUMAR K. M. , OMALSREE M. , HAREESH V. S. , BHASKAR V. , NIRMESH T. K. , SREEKUMAR V. B. , BALACHANDRAN INDIRA
Published: December 2015

Two new taxa of Impatiens (Balsaminaceae), viz., I. sasidharanii sp. nov. and I. sasidharanii var. hirsuta var. nov. are described and illustrated from the southern Western Ghats of India. Detailed notes on description, ecology, distribution, morphological variations and IUCN status are provided along with illustrations.
Varanusia nom. nov., a replacement name for Lizardia Nogueira, Hutchings & Carrerette, 2015 (Annelida: Terebellidae), preoccupied by Lizardia Pleijel & Rouse, 2005
Authors: NOGUEIRA JOÃO MIGUEL DE MATOS , HUTCHINGS PAT , CARRERETTE ORLEMIR
Published: December 2015

Nogueira et al. (2015) proposed the generic name Lizardia to accommodate L. quasimodo Nogueira, Hutchings & Carrerette, 2015, an abranchiate terebellid from Lizard Island with only 9 pairs of notopodia beginning from segment 4 and bearing both distally smooth and distally serrated notochaetae, and neuropodia beginning from segment 6.
Oospila bulava, a new emerald geometrid moth from South America (Lepidoptera, Geometridae, Geometrinae)
Authors: LINDT AARE , VIIDALEPP JAAN
Published: December 2015

Warren (1897) described the genus Oospila for Phorodesma trilunaria Guenée, 1857 from Brazil. Prout (1912; 1932–1933) revised the genus, listing 48 species in the first publication and 58 species in the latter one, in Oospila. Cook and Scoble (1995) grouped eight related genera under Oospila, including 73 species and dividing these into 13 species groups. Pitkin (1996) relied on this revision while publishing a monographic review of the Neotropical geometrine genera. Parsons et al. (1999) attributed the same species that in Cook and Scoble (1995) to the genus. Two species are described later (Viidalepp, 2002; Lévèque & Viidalepp, 2015). While revising collections from the Neotropical region during the last decade, the authors of the present article have found several undescribed taxa: cryptic species are frequently overlooked in large-scale works (Vodă et al., 2014). The result of one case study is published in this article. The primary and subsequent descriptions of relevant taxa are consulted.
Comments on the type locality, type series, and geographic distribution of Pseudopaludicola falcipes (Hensel, 1867) (Amphibia, Anura)
Authors: LANGONE JOSÉ A. , LAVILLA ESTEBAN O. , SÁ RAFAEL O. DE , CARDOZO DARÍO
Published: December 2015

The genus Pseudopaludicola was erected by Miranda–Ribeiro, 1926 to accommodate Liuperus falcipes Hensel, 1867a. Currently, there are 18 recognized species of Pseudopaludicola, with 45% of the species described since 2003. Although Pseudopaludicola falcipes is the type species, Hensel’s description lacked designation of type specimens for that species; furthermore, it was based on a series of 30 individuals (without collection numbers or indication of where were they deposited) from "Provinz S[ão]. Pedro do Rio Grande do Sul" (today Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil).