bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acid‐sensing ion channel 1a drives AMPA receptor plasticity following ischaemia and acidosis in hippocampal CA1 neurons
Authors: Quintana Patrice , Soto David , Poirot Olivier , Zonouzi Marzieh , Kellenberger Stephan , Muller Dominique , Chrast Roman , Cull‐Candy Stuart G.
Published: July 2015

Key points

The hippocampal CA1 region is highly vulnerable to ischaemic stroke. Two forms of AMPA receptor (AMPAR) plasticity – an anoxic form of long‐term potentiation and a delayed increase in Ca2+‐permeable (CP) AMPARs – contribute to this susceptibility by increasing excitotoxicity.

In CA1, the acid‐sensing ion channel 1a (ASIC1a) is known to facilitate LTP and contribute to ischaemic acidotoxicity.

We have examined the role of ASIC1a in AMPAR ischaemic plasticity in organotypic hippocampal slice cultures exposed to oxygen glucose deprivation (a model of ischaemic stroke), and in hippocampal pyramidal neuron cultures exposed to acidosis.

We find that ASIC1a activation promotes both forms of AMPAR plasticity and that neuroprotection, by inhibiting ASIC1a, circumvents any further benefit of blocking CP‐AMPARs.

Our observations establish a new interaction between acidotoxicity and excitotoxicity, and provide insight into the role of ASIC1a and CP‐AMPARs in neurodegeneration. Specifically, we propose that ASIC1a activation drives certain post‐ischaemic forms of CP‐AMPAR plasticity.

The CA1 region of the hippocampus is particularly vulnerable to ischaemic damage. While NMDA receptors play a major role in excitotoxicity, it is thought to be exacerbated in this region by two forms of post‐ischaemic AMPA receptor (AMPAR) plasticity – namely, anoxic long‐term potentiation (a‐LTP), and a delayed increase in the prevalence of Ca2+‐permeable GluA2‐lacking AMPARs (CP‐AMPARs). The acid‐sensing ion channel 1a (ASIC1a), which is expressed in CA1 pyramidal neurons, is also known to contribute to post‐ischaemic neuronal death and to physiologically induced LTP. This raises the question does ASIC1a activation drive the post‐ischaemic forms of AMPAR plasticity in CA1 pyramidal neurons? We have tested this by examining organotypic hippocampal slice cultures (OHSCs) exposed to oxygen glucose deprivation (OGD), and dissociated cultures of hippocampal pyramidal neurons (HPNs) exposed to low pH (acidosis). We find that both a‐LTP and the delayed increase in the prevalence of CP‐AMPARs are dependent on ASIC1a activation during ischaemia. Indeed, acidosis alone is sufficient to induce the increase in CP‐AMPARs. We also find that inhibition of ASIC1a channels circumvents any potential neuroprotective benefit arising from block of CP‐AMPARs. By demonstrating that ASIC1a activation contributes to post‐ischaemic AMPAR plasticity, our results identify a functional interaction between acidotoxicity and excitotoxicity in hippocampal CA1 cells, and provide insight into the role of ASIC1a and CP‐AMPARs as potential drug targets for neuroprotection. We thus propose that ASIC1a activation can drive certain forms of CP‐AMPAR plasticity, and that inhibiting ASIC1a affords neuroprotection.
Cardioprotection in ischaemia–reperfusion injury: novel mechanisms and clinical translation
Authors: Altamirano Francisco , Wang Zhao V. , Hill Joseph A.
Published: July 2015

In recent decades, robust successes have been achieved in conquering the acutely lethal manifestations of heart disease. Nevertheless, the prevalence of heart disease, especially heart failure, continues to rise. Among the precipitating aetiologies, ischaemic disease is a leading cause of heart failure. In the context of ischaemia, the myocardium is deprived of oxygen and nutrients, which elicits a cascade of events that provokes cell death. This ischaemic insult is typically coupled with reperfusion, either spontaneous or therapeutically imposed, wherein blood supply is restored to the previously ischaemic tissue. While this intervention limits ischaemic injury, it triggers a new cascade of events that is also harmful, viz. reperfusion injury. In recent years, novel insights have emerged regarding mechanisms of ischaemia–reperfusion injury, and some hold promise as targets of therapeutic relevance. Here, we review a select number of these pathways, focusing on recent discoveries and highlighting prospects for therapeutic manipulation for clinical benefit.
Analysis of the Core Exit Temperature and the Peak Cladding Temperature During a SBLOCA: Application to a Scaled-Up Model
Authors: Querol Andrea , Gallardo Sergio , Verdú Gumersindo
Published: July 2015

During loss-of-coolant accidents (LOCAs), operators may start accident management (AM) actions when the core exit temperature (CET) measured by thermocouples exceeds a certain value. However, a significant time delay and temperature discrepancy in the superheat detection were observed in several facilities. This work is focused on clarifying CET thermocouple responses versus peak cladding temperature (PCT) and studying if the same physical phenomena are reproduced in two TRACE5 models with different geometry (a large-scale test facility (LSTF) and a scaled-up LSTF) during a pressure vessel (PV) upper head small break LOCA (SBLOCA). Results obtained show that the delay between the core uncover and the CET excursion is reproduced in both cases.
The Role of Stress in Understanding Differences in Sedentary Behavior in Hispanic/Latino Adults: Results From the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos Sociocultural Ancillary Study
Authors: Vásquez Elizabeth , Strizich Garrett , Gallo Linda , Marshall Simon J. , Merchant Gina C. , Murillo Rosenda , Penedo Frank J. , Salazar Christian , Sotres-Alvarez Daniela , Shaw Benjamin A. , Isasi Carmen R.
Published: July 2015

Background:

Chronic stress and/or lifetime traumatic stress can create a self-reinforcing cycle of unhealthy behaviors, such as overeating and sedentary behavior, that can lead to further increases in stress. This study examined the relationship between stress and sedentary behavior in a sample of Hispanic/Latino adults (N = 4244) from the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos Sociocultural Ancillary Study.

Methods:

Stress was measured as the number of ongoing difficulties lasting 6 months or more and as lifetime exposure to traumatic events. Sedentary behavior was measured by self-report and with accelerometer. Multivariable regression models examined associations of stress measures with time spent in sedentary behaviors adjusting by potential confounders.

Results:

Those who reported more than one chronic stressor spent, on average, 8 to 10 additional minutes per day in objectively measured sedentary activities (P < .05), whereas those with more than one lifetime traumatic stressor spent (after we adjusted for confounders) 10 to 14 additional minutes in sedentary activities (P < .01) compared with those who did not report any stressors. Statistical interactions between the 2 stress measures and age or sex were not significant.

Conclusion:

Interventions aimed at reducing sedentary behaviors might consider incorporating stress reduction into their approaches.
Coaching Dads: Understanding Managerial Implications of Fathering Through Sport
Authors: Graham Jeffrey A. , Dixon Marlene A. , Hazen-Swann Nancy
Published: July 2015

Youth sport organizations traditionally have focused their concern on training parents in sport and coaching skills, but have largely ignored their parent role. However, an increasing body of work exploring the phenomenon of fathering through sport has highlighted the need for youth sport organizations to become aware of and understand the dual roles of father and coach/volunteer and the potential impact on the participant and the sport organization of using sport as a site and mechanism for fathering (Kay, 2009; Messner, 2009). The purpose of this article is to examine recent literature about the ways—both positive and negative—that fathers use sport as a way to fulfill fatherhood responsibilities and the implications for sport management scholars and practitioners, particularly in voluntary youth sport organizations.
Reserve stem cells: Differentiated cells reprogram to fuel repair, metaplasia, and neoplasia in the adult gastrointestinal tract
Authors: Mills Jason C. , Sansom Owen J.
Published: July 2015

Mechanisms of cellular reprogramming fuel cancer development and progression in the gastrointestinal tract.
Awake, but not hyperactive
Authors: Gough Nancy R.
Published: July 2015

Neurons that control wakefulness release both stimulating and inhibiting signals to prevent hyperactivity.
Phylogeny and Comparative Genomics Unveil Independent Diversification Trajectories of
qnrB
and Genetic Platforms within Particular Citrobacter Species
Authors: Ribeiro Teresa G. , Novais Ângela , Branquinho Raquel , Machado Elisabete , Peixe Luísa
Published: July 2015

To gain insights into the diversification trajectories of
qnrB
genes, a phylogenetic and comparative genomics analysis of these genes and their surrounding genetic sequences was performed. For this purpose,
Citrobacter
sp. isolates (
n
= 21) and genome or plasmid sequences (
n
= 56) available in public databases harboring complete or truncated
qnrB
genes were analyzed.
Citrobacter
species identification was performed by phylogenetic analysis of different genotypic markers. The clonal relatedness among isolates, the location of
qnrB
genes, and the genetic surroundings of
qnrB
genes were investigated by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE), S1-/I-CeuI-PFGE and hybridization, and PCR mapping and sequencing, respectively. Identification of
Citrobacter
isolates was achieved using
leuS
and
recN
gene sequences, and isolates characterized in this study were diverse and harbored chromosomal
qnrB
genes. Phylogenetic analysis of all known
qnrB
genes revealed seven main clusters and two branches, with most of them included in two clusters. Specific platforms (comprising
pspF
and
sapA
and varying in synteny and/or identity of other genes and intergenic regions) were associated with each one of these
qnrB
clusters, and the reliable identification of all
Citrobacter
isolates revealed that each platform evolved in different recognizable (
Citrobacter freundii
,
C. braakii
,
C. werkmanii
, and
C. pasteurii
) and putatively new species. A high identity was observed between some of the platforms identified in the chromosome of
Citrobacter
spp. and in different plasmids of
Enterobacteriaceae
. Our data corroborate
Citrobacter
as the origin of
qnrB
and further suggest divergent evolution of closely related
qnrB
genes/platforms in particular
Citrobacter
spp., which were delineated using particular genotypic markers.
Mucin Binding Reduces Colistin Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Huang Johnny X. , Blaskovich Mark A. T. , Pelingon Ruby , Ramu Soumya , Kavanagh Angela , Elliott Alysha G. , Butler Mark S. , Montgomery A. Bruce , Cooper Matthew A.
Published: July 2015

Colistin has found increasing use in treating drug-resistant bacterial lung infections, but potential interactions with pulmonary biomolecules have not been investigated. We postulated that colistin, like aminoglycoside antibiotics, may bind to secretory mucin in sputum or epithelial mucin that lines airways, reducing free drug levels. To test this hypothesis, we measured binding of colistin and other antibiotics to porcine mucin, a family of densely glycosylated proteins used as a surrogate for human sputum and airway mucin. Antibiotics were incubated in dialysis tubing with or without mucin, and concentrations of unbound antibiotics able to penetrate the dialysis tubing were measured over time using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The percentage of antibiotic measured in the dialysate after 4 h in the presence of mucin, relative to the amount without mucin, was 15% for colistin, 16% for polymyxin B, 19% for tobramycin, 52% for ciprofloxacin, and 78% for daptomycin. Antibiotics with the strongest mucin binding had an overall polybasic positive charge, whereas those with comparatively little binding were less basic. When comparing MICs measured with or without added mucin, colistin and polymyxin B showed >100-fold increases in MICs for multiple Gram-negative bacteria. Preclinical evaluation of mucin binding should become a standard procedure when considering the potential pulmonary use of new or existing antibiotics, particularly those with a polybasic overall charge. In the airways, mucin binding may reduce the antibacterial efficacy of inhaled or intravenously administered colistin, and the presence of sub-MIC effective antibiotic concentrations could result in the development of antibiotic resistance.
Sulfamethoxazole Susceptibility of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Isolates from HIV-Infected Ugandan Adults with Tuberculosis Taking Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole Prophylaxis
Authors: Ogwang Sam , Good Caryn E. , Okware Brenda , Nsereko Mary , Jacobs Michael R. , Boom W. Henry , Bark Charles M.
Published: July 2015

Additional drugs are needed for the treatment of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (TB). Sulfamethoxazole has been shown to have
in vitro
activity against
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
; however, there is concern about resistance given the widespread use of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole prophylaxis among HIV-infected patients in sub-Saharan Africa. Thirty-eight of 40
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
isolates (95%) from pretreatment sputum samples from Ugandan adults with pulmonary TB, including HIV-infected patients taking trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole prophylaxis, were susceptible with MICs of ≤38.4 μg/ml.
Residues Distal to the Active Site Contribute to Enhanced Catalytic Activity of Variant and Hybrid β-Lactamases Derived from CTX-M-14 and CTX-M-15
Authors: He Dandan , Chiou Jiachi , Zeng Zhenling , Liu Lanping , Chen Xiaojie , Zeng Li , Chan Edward Wai Chi , Liu Jian-Hua , Chen Sheng
Published: July 2015

A variety of CTX-M-type extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs), including hybrid ones, have been reported in China that are uncommon elsewhere. To better characterize the substrate profiles and enzymatic mechanisms of these enzymes, we performed comparative kinetic analyses of both parental and hybrid CTX-M enzymes, including CTX-M-15, -132, -123, -64, -14 and -55, that are known to confer variable levels of β-lactam resistance in the host strains. All tested enzymes were susceptible to serine β-lactamase inhibitors, with sulbactam exhibiting the weakest inhibitory effects. CTX-M-55, which differs from CTX-M-15 by one substitution, A
77
V, displayed enhanced catalytic activity (

k
cat

/

K
m

) against expanded-spectrum cephalosporins (ESCs). CTX-M-55 exhibits higher structure stability, most likely by forming hydrophobic interactions between A
77
V and various key residues in different helices, thereby stabilizing the core architecture of the helix cluster, and indirectly contributes to a more stable active site conformation, which in turn shows higher catalytic efficiency and is more tolerant to temperature change. Analyses of the hybrids and their parental prototypes showed that evolution from CTX-M-15 to CTX-M-132, CTX-M-123, and CTX-M-64, characterized by gradual enhancement of catalytic activity to ESCs, was attributed to introduction of different substitutions to amino acids distal to the active site of CTX-M-15. Similarly, the increased hydrolytic activities against cephalosporins and sensitivity to β-lactamase inhibitors, clavulanic acid and sulbactam, of CTX-M-64 were partly due to the amino acids that were different from CTX-M-14 and located at both the C and N termini of CTX-M-64. These data indicate that residues distal to the active site of CTX-Ms contributed to their enhanced catalytic activities to ESCs.
Multifaceted Role of Heme during Severe Plasmodium falciparum Infections in India
Authors: Dalko Esther , Das Bidyut , Herbert Fabien , Fesel Constantin , Pathak Sulabha , Tripathy Rina , Cazenave Pierre-André , Ravindran Balachandran , Sharma Shobhona , Pied Sylviane
Published: July 2015

Several immunomodulatory factors are involved in malaria pathogenesis. Among them, heme has been shown to play a role in the pathophysiology of severe malaria in rodents, but its role in human severe malaria remains unclear. Circulating levels of total heme and its main scavenger, hemopexin, along with cytokine/chemokine levels and biological parameters, including hemoglobin and creatinine levels, as well as transaminase activities, were measured in the plasma of 237Plasmodium falciparum-infected patients living in the state of Odisha, India, where malaria is endemic. All patients were categorized into well-defined groups of mild malaria, cerebral malaria (CM), or severe noncerebral malaria, which included acute renal failure (ARF) and hepatopathy. Our results show a significant increase in total plasma heme levels with malaria severity, especially for CM and malarial ARF. Spearman rank correlation and canonical correlation analyses have shown a correlation between total heme, hemopexin, interleukin-10, tumor necrosis factor alpha, gamma interferon-induced protein 10 (IP-10), and monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (MCP-1) levels. In addition, canonical correlations revealed that heme, along with IP-10, was associated with the CM pathophysiology, whereas both IP-10 and MCP-1 together with heme discriminated ARF. Altogether, our data indicate that heme, in association with cytokines and chemokines, is involved in the pathophysiology of both CM and ARF but through different mechanisms.
A Periplasmic Complex of the Nitrite Reductase NirS, the Chaperone DnaK, and the Flagellum Protein FliC Is Essential for Flagellum Assembly and Motility in Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Borrero-de Acuña José Manuel , Molinari Gabriella , Rohde Manfred , Dammeyer Thorben , Wissing Josef , Jänsch Lothar , Arias Sagrario , Jahn Martina , Schobert Max , Timmis Kenneth N. , Jahn Dieter
Published: July 2015

Pseudomonas aeruginosa
is a ubiquitously occurring environmental bacterium and opportunistic pathogen responsible for various acute and chronic infections. Obviously, anaerobic energy generation via denitrification contributes to its ecological success. To investigate the structural basis for the interconnection of the denitrification machinery to other essential cellular processes, we have sought to identify the protein interaction partners of the denitrification enzyme nitrite reductase NirS in the periplasm. We employed NirS as an affinity-purifiable bait to identify interacting proteins
in
vivo
. Results obtained revealed that both the flagellar structural protein FliC and the protein chaperone DnaK form a complex with NirS in the periplasm. The interacting domains of NirS and FliC were tentatively identified. The NirS-interacting stretch of amino acids lies within its cytochrome
c
domain. Motility assays and ultrastructure analyses revealed that a
nirS
mutant was defective in the formation of flagella and correspondingly in swimming motility. In contrast, the
fliC
mutant revealed an intact denitrification pathway. However, deletion of the
nirF
gene, coding for a heme
d
1
biosynthetic enzyme, which leads to catalytically inactive NirS, did not abolish swimming ability. This pointed to a structural function for the NirS protein. FliC and NirS were found colocalized with DnaK at the cell surface of
P. aeruginosa
. A function of the detected periplasmic NirS-DnaK-FliC complex in flagellum formation and motility was concluded and discussed.

IMPORTANCE
Physiological functions in Gram-negative bacteria are connected with the cellular compartment of the periplasm and its membranes. Central enzymatic steps of anaerobic energy generation and the motility mediated by flagellar activity use these cellular structures in addition to multiple other processes. Almost nothing is known about the protein network functionally connecting these processes in the periplasm. Here, we demonstrate the existence of a ternary complex consisting of the denitrifying enzyme NirS, the chaperone DnaK, and the flagellar protein FliC in the periplasm of the pathogenic bacterium
P. aeruginosa
. The dependence of flagellum formation and motility on the presence of an intact NirS was shown, structurally connecting both cellular processes, which are important for biofilm formation and pathogenicity of the bacterium.
Mycobacterium smegmatis HelY Is an RNA-Activated ATPase/dATPase and 3′-to-5′ Helicase That Unwinds 3′-Tailed RNA Duplexes and RNA:DNA Hybrids
Authors: Uson Maria Loressa , Ordonez Heather , Shuman Stewart
Published: July 2015

Mycobacteria have a large and distinctive ensemble of DNA helicases that function in DNA replication, repair, and recombination. Little is known about the roster of RNA helicases in mycobacteria or their roles in RNA transactions. The 912-amino-acid
Mycobacterium smegmatis
HelY (MSMEG_3885) protein is a bacterial homolog of the Mtr4 and Ski2 helicases that regulate RNA 3′ processing and turnover by the eukaryal exosome. Here we characterize HelY as an RNA-stimulated ATPase/dATPase and an ATP/dATP-dependent 3′-to-5′ helicase. HelY requires a 3′ single-strand RNA tail (a loading RNA strand) to displace the complementary strand of a tailed RNA:RNA or RNA:DNA duplex. The findings that HelY ATPase is unresponsive to a DNA polynucleotide cofactor and that HelY is unable to unwind a 3′-tailed duplex in which the loading strand is DNA distinguish HelY from other mycobacterial nucleoside triphosphatases/helicases characterized previously. The biochemical properties of HelY, which resemble those of Mtr4/Ski2, hint at a role for HelY in mycobacterial RNA catabolism.

IMPORTANCE
RNA helicases play crucial roles in transcription, RNA processing, and translation by virtue of their ability to alter RNA secondary structure or remodel RNA-protein interactions. In eukarya, the RNA helicases Mtr4 and Ski2 regulate RNA 3′ resection by the exosome.
Mycobacterium smegmatis
HelY, a bacterial homolog of Mtr4/Ski2, is characterized here as a unidirectional helicase, powered by RNA-dependent ATP/dATP hydrolysis, that tracks 3′ to 5′ along a loading RNA strand to displace the complementary strand of a tailed RNA:RNA or RNA:DNA duplex. The biochemical properties of HelY suggest a role in bacterial RNA transactions. HelY homologs are present in pathogenic mycobacteria (e.g.,
M. tuberculosis
and
M. leprae
) and are widely prevalent in
Actinobacteria
and
Cyanobacteria
but occur sporadically elsewhere in the bacterial domain.
Structural Features Reminiscent of ATP-Driven Protein Translocases Are Essential for the Function of a Type III Secretion-Associated ATPase
Authors: Kato Junya , Lefebre Matthew , Galán Jorge E.
Published: July 2015

Many bacterial pathogens and symbionts utilize type III secretion systems to interact with their hosts. These machines have evolved to deliver bacterial effector proteins into eukaryotic target cells to modulate a variety of cellular functions. One of the most conserved components of these systems is an ATPase, which plays an essential role in the recognition and unfolding of proteins destined for secretion by the type III pathway. Here we show that structural features reminiscent of other ATP-driven protein translocases are essential for the function of InvC, the ATPase associated with a
Salmonella enterica
serovar Typhimurium type III secretion system. Mutational and functional analyses showed that a two-helix-finger motif and a conserved loop located at the entrance of and within the predicted pore formed by the hexameric ATPase are essential for InvC function. These findings provide mechanistic insight into the function of this highly conserved component of type III secretion machines.

IMPORTANCE
Type III secretion machines are essential for the virulence or symbiotic relationships of many bacteria. These machines have evolved to deliver bacterial effector proteins into host cells to modulate cellular functions, thus facilitating bacterial colonization and replication. An essential component of these machines is a highly conserved ATPase, which is necessary for the recognition and secretion of proteins destined to be delivered by the type III secretion pathway. Using modeling and structure and function analyses, we have identified structural features of one of these ATPases from
Salmonella enterica
serovar Typhimurium that help to explain important aspects of its function.
Mutations That Stimulate
flhDC
Expression in Escherichia coli K-12
Authors: Fahrner Karen A. , Berg Howard C.
Published: July 2015

Motility is a beneficial attribute that enables cells to access and explore new environments and to escape detrimental ones. The organelle of motility in
Escherichia coli
is the flagellum, and its production is initiated by the activating transcription factors FlhD and FlhC. The expression of these factors by the
flhDC
operon is highly regulated and influenced by environmental conditions. The
flhDC
promoter is recognized by σ
70
and is dependent on the transcriptional activator cyclic AMP (cAMP)-cAMP receptor protein complex (cAMP-CRP). A number of K-12 strains exhibit limited motility due to low expression levels of
flhDC
. We report here a large number of mutations that stimulate
flhDC
expression in such strains. They include single nucleotide changes in the −10 element of the promoter, in the promoter spacer, and in the cAMP-CRP binding region. In addition, we show that insertion sequence (IS) elements or a kanamycin gene located hundreds of base pairs upstream of the promoter can effectively enhance transcription, suggesting that the topology of a large upstream region plays a significant role in the regulation of
flhDC
expression. None of the mutations eliminated the requirement for cAMP-CRP for activation. However, several mutations allowed expression in the absence of the nucleoid organizing protein, H-NS, which is normally required for
flhDC
expression.

IMPORTANCE
The
flhDC
operon of
Escherichia coli
encodes transcription factors that initiate flagellar synthesis, an energetically costly process that is highly regulated. Few deregulating mutations have been reported thus far. This paper describes new single nucleotide mutations that stimulate
flhDC
expression, including a number that map to the promoter spacer region. In addition, this work shows that insertion sequence elements or a kanamycin gene located far upstream from the promoter or repressor binding sites also stimulate transcription, indicating a role of regional topology in the regulation of
flhDC
expression.
Rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney injury in dengue fever
Authors: Mishra Arvind , Singh Varun Kumar , Nanda Satyan
Published: July 2015

Rhabdomyolysis is a rare but potentially lethal complication of severe dengue fever. We present a case of 21-year-old man with fever, bodyache and black coloured and decreasing amount of urine. He was positive for NS1(non-structural protein-1) antigen and IgM antibody for dengue. Platelet count was below 20×109/L and kidney function test was deranged. Urine was positive for myoglobin. The patient was managed emergently on conservative lines and improved in 10 days. Rhabdomyolysis should always be kept in mind in a patient with severe dengue, as its early detection and prompt management can prevent further progression to acute renal failure.
Small bowel diaphragm disease mimicking malignancy
Authors: Sarantitis Ioannis , Gerrard Adam Daniel , Teasdale Rebecca , Pettit Stephen
Published: July 2015

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can produce diaphragm disease where multiple strictures develop in the small bowel. This typically presents with anaemia and symptoms of small bowel obstruction. The strictures develop as a result of circumferential mucosal ulceration with subsequent contraction of rings of scar tissue. We report a case of a 47-year-old woman with a 6-month history of NSAIDs abuse who presented with subacute small bowel obstruction 1 year after stopping NSAIDs. CT and MRI showed multiple ileal strictures with florid locoregional lymphadenopathy. A malignant diagnosis such as lymphoma was considered likely as florid mesenteric lymphadenopathy has not been previously reported in diaphragm disease. Laparotomy with small bowel resection was therefore performed. Histology showed diaphragm disease with the enlarged mesenteric nodes having reactive features. Gross locoregional lymphadenopathy should not deter a diagnosis of diaphragm disease in cases of multiple small bowel strictures where there is a strong history of NSAIDs use.
Trazodone in the elderly: risk of extrapyramidal acute events
Authors: Sotto Mayor Joana , Pacheco Ana Paula , Esperança Sofia , Oliveira e Silva Antonio
Published: July 2015

Trazodone is a second-generation atypical antidepressant exercising selective inhibitory action on the transport of serotonin. It also has an antagonist effect, similar to nefazodone, on the 5HT1 and 5HT2 receptors, probably due to the therapeutic effects of such substances. It is very effective in the treatment of depression, in anxiety and insomnia. Its known side effects mainly occur with prolonged use of daily doses of 150–200 mg. The ability to enhance drowsiness may be associated with some risk in elderly patients. This clinical case illustrates an acute extrapyramidal event induced by a low dose of trazodone.
Sentinel lymph node biopsy following a rotational flap
Authors: Brys Adam K , Schneider Michelle M , Selim M Angelica , Mosca Paul J
Published: July 2015

Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) is a critical component of melanoma management. Extensive prior surgery at the site of a primary melanoma is considered a relative contraindication for SLNB. While evidence suggests that SLNB may be performed accurately even in those patients who have undergone prior wide local excision, it is less clear whether patients who have undergone more extensive surgical procedures, particularly flap reconstructions, can benefit from this procedure. We report a case of a patient who had undergone surgical removal of a primary melanoma and subsequent reconstruction with a rotational flap in whom a SLNB was performed successfully, which revealed nodal metastasis, suggesting that SLNB may remain an appropriate option in carefully selected patients who have previously undergone extensive surgery at site of primary disease.
Statin use in adults at high risk of cardiovascular disease mortality: cross-sectional analysis of baseline data from The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA)
Authors: Murphy Catriona , Bennett Kathleen , Fahey Tom , Shelley Emer , Graham Ian , Kenny Rose Anne
Published: July 2015

Objectives

This study aims to examine the extent to which statins are used by adults at high risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) compared to European clinical guidelines. The high-risk groups examined are those with (1) known CVD, (2) known diabetes and (3) a high or very high risk (≥5%) of CVD mortality based on Systematic COronary Risk Evaluation (SCORE).

Design

This study is cross-sectional in design using data from the first wave (2009–2011) of The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA).

Setting and participants

The sample (n=3372) is representative of community living adults aged 50–64 years in Ireland.

Results

Statins were used by 68.6% (95% CI 61.5% to 75.8%) of those with known CVD, 57.4% (95% CI 49.1% to 65.7%) of those with known diabetes and by 19.7% (95% CI 13.0% to 26.3%) of adults with a SCORE risk ≥5%. Over a third (38.5%, 95% CI 31.0% to 46.0%) of those with known CVD, 46.8% (95% CI 38.4% to 55.1%) of those with known diabetes and 85.2% (95% CI 79.3% to 91.1%) of those with a SCORE risk ≥5% were at or above the low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) target of 2.5 mmol/L specified in the 2007 European guidelines.

Conclusions

Despite strong evidence and clinical guidelines recommending the use of statins for secondary prevention, a gap exists between guidelines and practice in this cohort. It is also of concern that a low proportion of adults with a SCORE risk ≥5% were taking statins. A policy response that strengthens secondary prevention, and improves risk assessment and shared decision-making in the primary prevention of CVD is required.
Observational study of sleep, respiratory mechanics and quality of life in patients with non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis: a protocol study
Authors: Faria Júnior Newton Santos , Oliveira Luis Vicente Franco , Perez Eduardo Araújo , de Oliveira Ezequiel Fernandes , Apostolico Nadua , Pereira Nixon Alves , dos Santos Israel dos Reis , Urbano Jessica Julioti , Souza Ismael Dias , Polonio Igor Bastos , Romaldini José Gustavo Barian , Pereira Déborah Madeu , Alves Vera Lúcia dos Santos , Souza Ângela Honda , Nascimento Oliver Augusto , Jardim José Roberto , Stirbulov Roberto
Published: July 2015

Introduction

Bronchiectasis is a chronic disorder characterised by permanent and irreversible abnormal dilation of the bronchi and bronchioles, primarily caused by repeated cycles of pulmonary infections and inflammation, which lead to reduced mucociliary clearance and to the excessive production of sputum. Patients with non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis may be predisposed to hypoxemia during sleep, or to symptoms that may lead to arousals and thereby reduce the quality of life, because of the irreversible dilation of the bronchi and the presence of secretions and airflow obstruction.

Methods and analysis

For this cross-sectional observational study, patients with a clinical diagnosis of non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis will be recruited from the Bronchiectasis Clinic of the Pneumology Department of the Santa Casa de Misericordia Hospital and the Federal University of São Paulo (São Paulo, Brazil). Patients of either sex will be included if high-resolution CT of the thorax and classic sweat test confirms they have non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis, are between 18 and 80 years old, use long-acting bronchodilators, are clinically stable for a least 1 month, agree to participate in the study and they sign a statement of informed consent. The first part of the study will involve a clinical evaluation, maximal respiratory pressures, spirometry and the Saint George's Respiratory Questionnaire. The Sleep Laboratory of the Master's and Doctoral Postgraduate Program in Rehabilitation Sciences of the Nove de Julho University (São Paulo, Brazil) will perform the polysomnographic studies, Berlin Questionnaire, Epworth Sleepiness Scale, waist and neck circumferences, modified Mallampati classification and tonsil index.

Ethics and dissemination

This protocol has been approved by the Human Research Ethics Committees of Santa Casa de Misericordia Hospital (process number 178/2012) and Human Research Ethics Committee of Nove de Julho University (process number 370474/2010). All participants will sign a statement of informed consent. The study findings will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at conferences.
Development of abnormal strobili inLycopodium annotinumas an example of the reversion phenomenon in lower vascular plants
Authors: Gola Edyta M. , Dolzblasz Alicja , Otręba Piotr , Śliwińska-Wyrzychowska Anna
Published: July 2015

The formation of strobili, which are groups of sporangia-bearing sporophylls on shoot apices, terminates the axis growth in the majority of lycopods. Here, we present an interesting developmental aberration in Lycopodium annotinum L. The structure of abnormal strobili was histologically analyzed using the anatomical sections. Additionally, the expression patterns of LAMB1 and LAMB2, which are known to be specific to L. annotinum sporogenous and vegetative tissues, respectively, were comparatively analyzed in normal and abnormal strobili. Histological analyses revealed that the morphological and anatomical changes in abnormal strobili were related to the resumption of the vegetative growth of the strobilus apex after the production of several sporophylls and sporangia. The identity of both distinct zones of abnormal strobili, i.e., the basal sporangial part and the apical proliferative part, was confirmed by expression patterns of LAMB1 and LAMB2, indicating that microphylls in the apical proliferative zone were of the vegetative type. The results strongly suggest a change of meristem fate and activity in the process of abnormal strobilus formation. The abnormal strobili in L. annotinum could be a specific example of reversion in lower vascular plants. This phenomenon in lycopods is discussed in a developmental context.
On the volume and the number of lattice points of some semialgebraic sets
Authors: Vui Ha Huy , Loc Tran Gia
Published: July 2015

Let f = (f1,…,fm) : ℝn→ ℝmbe a polynomial map; we consider the set Gf(r) = {x ∈ ℝn: |fi(x)| ≤ r, i = 1,…,m}. We show that if f satisfies the Mikhailov–Gindikin condition then:

(i) Volume Gf(r) ≍ rθ( ln r)n-k-1,

(ii) Cardinal [Formula: see text], as r → ∞,

where the exponents θ, k, θ′, k′ are determined explicitly in terms of the Newton polyhedra of f. Moreover, the polynomial maps satisfying the Mikhailov–Gindikin condition form an open subset of the set of polynomial maps having the same Newton polyhedron.
Electronic and optical properties of zinc-blende GeC by first principles study
Authors: Zhai Jinhui , Zhai Jinguang , Wan Ajun
Published: July 2015

The electronic and optical properties of zinc-blende (zb)[Formula: see text]GeC have been investigated using first principles calculations based on the density functional theory (DFT). The obtained band gap of zb–GeC is 2.30[Formula: see text]eV by means of Heyd–Scuseria–Ernzerhof (HSE) functional. We have discussed the energy-dependent optical functions including dielectric constants, refractive index, absorption, reflectivity, and energy-loss spectrum in detail. The results reveal that zb–GeC has a higher static dielectric constant compared with that of zb–SiC. The optical functions are mainly associated with the interband transitions from the occupied valence bands (VBs) Ge[Formula: see text][Formula: see text] and C[Formula: see text][Formula: see text] states to Ge[Formula: see text][Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and C[Formula: see text][Formula: see text] states of the unoccupied conduction bands (CBs).
Global existence and decay estimates for nonlinear wave equations with space-time dependent dissipative term
Authors: Watanabe Tomonari
Published: July 2015

We study the global existence and the derivation of decay estimates for nonlinear wave equations with a space-time dependent dissipative term posed in an exterior domain. The linear dissipative effect may vanish in a compact space region and, moreover, the nonlinear terms need not be in a divergence form. In order to establish higher-order energy estimates, we introduce an argument based on a suitable rescaling. The proposed method is useful to control certain derivatives of the dissipation coefficient.
Wave propagation for the compressible Navier–Stokes equations
Authors: Liu Tai-Ping , Noh Se Eun
Published: July 2015

We establish the pointwise description of solutions to the isentropic Navier–Stokes equations for compressible fluids in three spatial dimensions. First, we give an explicit construction of the Green function for the linearized system. The Green function consists of singular waves, which dominate the short-time behavior, while the low frequency waves, the dissipative Huygens, diffusion and Riesz waves representing the large-time behavior. The nonlinear terms are treated by a suitable combination of energy estimates and pointwise estimates using the Duhamel's principle for the Green function.
Chemoresistance, Cancer Stem Cells, and miRNA Influences: The Case for Neuroblastoma
Authors: Buhagiar Alfred , Ayers Duncan
Published: July 2015

Neuroblastoma is a type of cancer that develops most often in infants and children under the age of five years. Neuroblastoma originates within the peripheral sympathetic ganglia, with 30% of the cases developing within the adrenal medulla, although it can also occur within other regions of the body such as nerve tissue in the spinal cord, neck, chest, abdomen, and pelvis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate cellular pathways, differentiation, apoptosis, and stem cell maintenance. Such miRNAs regulate genes involved in cellular processes. Consequently, they are implicated in the regulation of a spectrum of signaling pathways within the cell. In essence, the role of miRNAs in the development of cancer is of utmost importance for the understanding of dysfunctional cellular pathways that lead to the conversion of normal cells into cancer cells. This review focuses on highlighting the recent, important implications of miRNAs within the context of neuroblastoma basic research efforts, particularly concerning miRNA influences on cancer stem cell pathology and chemoresistance pathology for this condition, together with development of translational medicine approaches for novel diagnostic tools and therapies for this neuroblastoma.
Evaluation of Anthropometric and Metabolic Parameters in Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Yildirim Yaşar , Yilmaz Süreyya , Güven Mehmet , Kılınç Faruk , Kara Ali Veysel , Yilmaz Zülfükar , Kırbaş Gökhan , Tuzcu Alpaslan Kemal , Yılmaz Aydın Fatma
Published: July 2015

Aims. Sleep disorders have recently become a significant public health problem worldwide and have deleterious health consequences. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common type of sleep-related breathing disorders. We aimed to evaluate anthropometric measurements, glucose metabolism, and cortisol levels in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).Materials and Methods. A total of 50 patients with a body mass index ≥30 and major OSA symptoms were included in this study. Anthropometric measurements of the patients were recorded and blood samples were drawn for laboratory analysis. A 24-hour urine sample was also collected from each subject for measurement of 24-hour cortisol excretion. Patients were divided equally into 2 groups according to polysomnography results: control group with an apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) <5 (n=25) and OSA group with an AHI ≥5 (n=25).Results. Neck and waist circumference, fasting plasma glucose, HbA1c, late-night serum cortisol, morning serum cortisol after 1 mg dexamethasone suppression test, and 24-hour urinary cortisol levels were significantly higher in OSA patients compared to control subjects. Newly diagnosed DM was more frequent in patients with OSA than control subjects (32% versus 8%,p=0.034). There was a significant positive correlation between AHI and neck circumference, glucose, and late-night serum cortisol.Conclusions. Our study indicates that increased waist and neck circumferences constitute a risk for OSA regardless of obesity status. In addition, OSA has adverse effects on endocrine function and glucose metabolism.
A DCT Regularized Matrix Completion Algorithm for Energy Efficient Data Gathering in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Yi Kefu , Wan Jiangwen , Bao Tianyue , Yao Lei
Published: July 2015

This paper presents a novel matrix completion algorithm to enable energy efficient data gathering in wireless sensor networks. The algorithm takes full advantage of both the low-rankness and the DCT compactness features in the sensory data to improve the recovery accuracy. The time complexity of the algorithm is analyzed, which indicates it has a low computational cost. Moreover, the recovery error is carefully analyzed and a theoretical upper bound is derived. The error bound is then validated by experimental results. Extensive experiments are conducted on three datasets collected from two testbeds. Experimental results show that the proposed algorithm outperforms state-of-the-art methods for low sampling rate and achieves a good recovery accuracy even if the sampling rate is very low.
Active Control of Nonlinear Suspension System Using Modified Adaptive Supertwisting Controller
Authors: Rath Jagat J. , Veluvolu Kalyana C. , Defoort Michael
Published: July 2015

The suspension system is faced with nonlinearities from the spring, damper, and external excitations from the road surface. The objective of any control action provided to the suspension is to improve ride comfort while ensuring road holding for the vehicle. In this work, a robust higher order sliding mode algorithm combining the merits of the modified supertwisting algorithm and the adaptive supertwisting algorithm has been proposed for the nonlinear active suspension system. The proposed controller is robust to linearly growing perturbations and bounded uncertainties. Simulations have been performed for different classes of road excitations and the results are presented.
Perceptions about Eclampsia, Birth Preparedness, and Complications Readiness among Antenatal Clients Attending a Specialist Hospital in Kano, Nigeria
Authors: Lawan Umar Muhammad , Takai Idris Usman , Ishaq Hamza
Published: July 2015

Background.Eclampsia is a reliable indicator of poor birth preparedness and complications readiness. We determined perceptions about eclampsia, birth preparedness, and complications readiness among antenatal clients in Kano, Nigeria.Materials and Method.A cross-sectional design was used to study 250 randomly selected antenatal clients. Data was analyzed using SPSS 16.0.Result.The mean age of the respondents was 26.1 ± 6.4 years. The majority perceived that eclampsia is preventable through good ANC (76.4%) and hospital delivery (70.8%). Overall, 66.8% had good perception about eclampsia. Having at least secondary school education and multigravidity were associated with good perception about eclampsia on multivariate analysis. About a third (39.6%) of the mothers was less prepared. On binary logistic regression, good perception about eclampsia and multigravidity were associated with being very prepared for birth. Up to 37.6% were not ready for complications. Half (50.4%) knew at least three danger signs of pregnancy, and 30.0% donated blood or identified suitable blood donor. On multivariate analysis, having at least secondary school education, being very prepared for birth, and multigravidity emerged as the only predictors of the respondents’ readiness for complications.Conclusion and Recommendations.Health workers should emphasize the practicability of birth preparedness and complications readiness during ANC and in the communities, routinely review plans, and support clients meet-up challenging areas. The importance of girl-child education to at least secondary school should be buttressed.
Sarcomatoid Renal Cell Carcinoma Metastasis to the Penis
Authors: Liou Victor D. , Darwish Oussama M. , Henry Mary M. , Jun Ik C. , Siddiqui Sameer A.
Published: July 2015

Secondary cancers of the penis are extremely uncommon with less than 300 cases reported in the past 100 years. These cancers are most frequently a result of an aggressive or poorly managed primary prostate or bladder cancer and rarely a metastasis from a primary kidney tumor. Currently, there is no published literature which describes the spread of sarcomatoid renal cell carcinoma (SRCC) to the penis. In this report, we present a 55-year-old-man who presented with a large right-sided SRCC which metastasized to the base of his penis within 1 month of symptom onset. We also discuss the possible route of metastasis based on primary tumor size and location within the retroperitoneum.