bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrastructure and antigenicity of the unique cell wall pimple of the Candida opaque phenotype
Authors: Anderson J , Mihalik R , Soll D R
Published: January 2017

Cells of Candida albicans WO-1 switch frequently and reversibly between two colony-forming phenotypes, white and opaque. In the white form, budding cells appear similar to those of most other strains of C. albicans, but in the opaque form, budding cells are larger, are bean shaped, and possess pimples on the wall. These pimples exhibit a unique and complex morphology. With scanning electron microscopy, a central pit can be discerned, and in many cases, a bleb can be observed emerging from the pimple center. With transmission electron microscopy, channels are evident in some pimples and vesicles are apparent under the pimple in the cytoplasm, in the actual wall of the pimple, or emerging from the tip of the pimple. A large vacuole predominates in the opaque-cell cytoplasm. This vacuole is usually filled with spaghettilike membranous material and in a minority of cases is filled with vesicles, many of which exhibit a relatively uniform size. An antiserum to opaque cells recognizes three opaque-cell-specific antigens with molecular masses of approximately 14.5, 21, and 31 kilodaltons (kDa). Absorption with nonpermeabilized opaque cells demonstrated that only the 14.5-kDa antigen is on the cell surface; indirect immunogold labeling demonstrated that it is localized in or on the pimple. The possibility is suggested that the vacuole of opaque cells is the origin of membrane-bound vesicles which traverse the wall through specialized pimple structures and emerge from the pimple with an intact outer double membrane, a unique phenomenon in yeast cells. The opaque-cell-specific 14.5-kDa antigen either is in the pimple channel or is a component of the emerging vesicle. The functions of the unique opaque-cell pimple and emerging vesicle are not known.
Role of threonine residue 154 in ligand recognition of the tar chemoreceptor in Escherichia coli
Authors: Lee L , Imae Y
Published: January 2017

The Tar chemoreceptor of Escherichia coli mediates attractant responses to aspartate, maltose, and phenol, repellent responses to Ni2+ and Co2+, and thermoresponses. To understand the role of threonine residue 154, which is located in the ligand-binding domain of Tar, we replaced the residue with serine, isoleucine, and proline by site-directed mutagenesis. The replacements caused reductions in aspartate sensing but had only a small effect on maltose sensing and almost no effect on phenol sensing, repellent sensing, and thermosensing. These results indicate that Thr-154 of Tar is rather specifically involved in aspartate sensing. The reductions in the response threshold for aspartate by the replacements with serine, isoleucine, and proline were less than 1, about 2, and more than 5 orders of magnitude, respectively. When the corresponding threonine residue in the Tsr chemoreceptor was replaced with the same amino acids, roughly similar reductions in the response threshold for serine resulted. Thus, these threonine residues seem to have a common role in detecting the aspartate and serine attractant families. A mechanism by which these chemoreceptors detect the amino acid attractants is discussed.
Escherichia coli ribosomal protein L10 is rapidly degraded when synthesized in excess of ribosomal protein L7/L12
Authors: Petersen C
Published: January 2017

In Escherichia coli the genes encoding ribosomal proteins L10 and L7/12, rplJ and rplL, respectively, are cotranscribed and subject to translational coupling. Synthesis of both proteins is coordinately regulated at the translational level by binding of L10 or a complex of L10 and L7/L12 to a single target in the mRNA leader region upstream of rplJ. Unexpectedly, small deletions that inactivated the ribosome-binding site of the rplL gene carried on multicopy plasmids exerted a negative effect on expression of the upstream rplJ gene. This effect could be overcome by overproduction of L7/L12 in trans from another plasmid. This apparent stimulation resulted from stabilization of the overproduced L10 protein by L7/L12, presumably because free L10, in contrast to L10 complexed with L7/L12, is subject to rapid proteolytic decay. The contribution of this decay mechanism to the regulation of the rplJL operon is evaluated.
Purification and properties of NADH-ferredoxinNAP reductase, a component of naphthalene dioxygenase from Pseudomonas sp. strain NCIB 9816
Authors: Haigler B E , Gibson D T
Published: January 2017

Cells of Pseudomonas sp. strain NCIB 9816, after growth with naphthalene or salicylate, contain a multicomponent enzyme system that oxidizes naphthalene to cis-(1R,2S)-dihydroxy-1,2-dihydronaphthalene. We purified one of these components to homogeneity and found it to be an iron-sulfur flavoprotein that loses the flavin cofactor during purification. Dialysis against flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) showed that the enzyme bound 1 mol of FAD per mol of enzyme protein. The enzyme consisted of a single polypeptide with an apparent molecular weight of 36,300. The purified protein contained 1.8 g-atoms of iron and 2.0 g-atoms of acid-labile sulfur and showed absorption maxima at 278, 340, 420, and 460 nm, with a broad shoulder at 540 nm. The purified enzyme catalyzed the reduction of cytochrome c, dichlorophenolindophenol, Nitro Blue Tetrazolium, and ferricyanide. These activities were enhanced in the presence of added FAD. The ability of the enzyme to catalyze the reduction of the ferredoxin involved in naphthalene reduction and other electron acceptors indicates that it functions as an NAD(P)H-oxidoreductase in the naphthalene dioxygenase system. The results suggest that naphthalene dioxygenase requires two proteins with three redox groups to transfer electrons from NADH to the terminal oxygenase.
In vitro peptidoglycan synthesis by envelopes from Escherichia coli tolM mutants is inhibited by colicin M
Authors: Harkness R E , Braun V
Published: January 2017

An in vitro peptidoglycan synthesis reaction was employed to further characterize the role of the tolM product in colicin M-induced inhibition of peptidoglycan synthesis. It was found that the tolM product is not the colicin M target and that this gene product does not play a role in the interaction of the colicin with its target. Colicin M remained associated with envelopes prepared from colicin-treated tolM mutants. These findings suggested that the tolM product most likely is involved with the internalization of colicin M.
Evidence that UGA is read as a tryptophan codon rather than as a stop codon by Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Mycoplasma genitalium, and Mycoplasma gallisepticum
Authors: Inamine J M , Ho K C , Loechel S , Hu P C
Published: January 2017

Molecular cloning and sequencing showed that Mycoplasma gallisepticum, like Mycoplasma capricolum, contains both tRNA(UCA) and tRNA(CCA) genes, while Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Mycoplasma genitalium each appear to have only a tRNA(UCA) gene. Therefore, these mycoplasma species contain a tRNA with the anticodon UCA that can translate both UGA and UGG codons.
Cloning and DNA sequence of the gene coding for the major sigma factor from Myxococcus xanthus
Authors: Inouye S
Published: January 2017

The gene for a sigma factor (rpoD) was cloned from Myxococcus xanthus, a soil bacterium which differentiates to form fruiting bodies upon starvation for nutrients. The DNA sequence of the gene was determined, and an open reading frame encoding a polypeptide of 708 amino acid residues (Mr = 80,391) was identified. Except for the amino-terminal sequence consisting of 100 residues, the M. xanthus sigma factor (sigma-80) showed extensive similarity with Escherichia coli sigma-70 as well as Bacillus subtilis sigma-43. In particular, the carboxy-terminal sequence of 242 residues that is known to be required for promoter recognition and core recognition showed 78 and 72% amino acid sequence identity with the E. coli and B. subtilis sigma factors, respectively. The putative RpoD protein was detected at the position of an apparent molecular weight of 86,000 by Western blot (immunoblot) analysis by using antiserum against B. subtilis sigma-43, which agreed well with the position of a vegetative sigma factor of M. xanthus previously identified by Rudd and Zusman (K. Rudd and D. R. Zusman, J. Bacteriol. 151:89-105, 1982).
High Interlaboratory Reproducibility and Accuracy of Next-Generation-Sequencing-Based Bacterial Genotyping in a Ring Trial
Authors: Mellmann Alexander , Andersen Paal Skytt , Bletz Stefan , Friedrich Alexander W. , Kohl Thomas A. , Lilje Berit , Niemann Stefan , Prior Karola , Rossen John W. , Harmsen Dag
Published: January 2017

Today, next-generation whole-genome sequencing (WGS) is increasingly used to determine the genetic relationships of bacteria on a nearly whole-genome level for infection control purposes and molecular surveillance. Here, we conducted a multicenter ring trial comprising five laboratories to determine the reproducibility and accuracy of WGS-based typing. The participating laboratories sequenced 20 blind-coded
Staphylococcus aureus
DNA samples using 250-bp paired-end chemistry for library preparation in a single sequencing run on an Illumina MiSeq sequencer. The run acceptance criteria were sequencing outputs >5.6 Gb and Q30 read quality scores of >75%. Subsequently, spa typing, multilocus sequence typing (MLST), ribosomal MLST, and core genome MLST (cgMLST) were performed by the participants. Moreover, discrepancies in cgMLST target sequences in comparisons with the included and also published sequence of the quality control strain ATCC 25923 were resolved using Sanger sequencing. All five laboratories fulfilled the run acceptance criteria in a single sequencing run without any repetition. Of the 400 total possible typing results, 394 of the reported spa types, sequence types (STs), ribosomal STs (rSTs), and cgMLST cluster types were correct and identical among all laboratories; only six typing results were missing. An analysis of cgMLST allelic profiles corroborated this high reproducibility; only 3 of 183,927 (0.0016%) cgMLST allele calls were wrong. Sanger sequencing confirmed all 12 discrepancies of the ring trial results in comparison with the published sequence of ATCC 25923. In summary, this ring trial demonstrated the high reproducibility and accuracy of current next-generation sequencing-based bacterial typing for molecular surveillance when done with nearly completely locked-down methods.
Structural Insight into African Swine Fever Virus A179L-Mediated Inhibition of Apoptosis
Authors: Banjara Suresh , Caria Sofia , Dixon Linda K. , Hinds Mark G. , Kvansakul Marc
Published: January 2017

Programmed cell death is a tightly controlled process critical for the removal of damaged or infected cells. Pro- and antiapoptotic proteins of the Bcl-2 family are pivotal mediators of this process. African swine fever virus (ASFV) is a large DNA virus, the only member of the
Asfarviridae
family, and harbors A179L, a putative Bcl-2 like protein. A179L has been shown to bind to several proapoptotic Bcl-2 proteins; however, the hierarchy of binding and the structural basis for apoptosis inhibition are currently not understood. We systematically evaluated the ability of A179L to bind proapoptotic Bcl-2 family members and show that A179L is the first antiapoptotic Bcl-2 protein to bind to all major death-inducing mammalian Bcl-2 proteins. We then defined the structural basis for apoptosis inhibition of A179L by determining the crystal structures of A179L bound to both Bid and Bax BH3 motifs. Our findings provide a mechanistic understanding for the potent antiapoptotic activity of A179L by identifying it as the first panprodeath Bcl-2 binder and serve as a platform for more-detailed investigations into the role of A179L during ASFV infection.

IMPORTANCE
Numerous viruses have acquired strategies to subvert apoptosis by encoding proteins capable of sequestering proapoptotic host proteins. African swine fever virus (ASFV), a large DNA virus and the only member of the
Asfarviridae
family, encodes the protein A179L, which functions to prevent apoptosis. We show that A179L is unusual among antiapoptotic Bcl-2 proteins in being able to physically bind to all core death-inducing mammalian Bcl-2 proteins. Currently, little is known regarding the molecular interactions between A179L and the proapoptotic Bcl-2 members. Using the crystal structures of A179L bound to two of the identified proapoptotic Bcl-2 proteins, Bid and Bax, we now provide a three-dimensional (3D) view of how A179L sequesters host proapoptotic proteins, which is crucial for subverting premature host cell apoptosis.
Association of cannabis use with the development of elevated anxiety symptoms in the general population: a meta-analysis
Authors: Twomey Conal D
Published: January 2017

Background

The directionality and magnitude of the association of cannabis use with elevated anxiety symptoms in the general population is unclear. The aim of this meta-analysis was to investigate the association of cannabis use with the development of elevated anxiety symptoms in the general population.

Methods

A ‘random effects’ meta-analysis of prospective longitudinal studies was undertaken in line with Meta-analysis Of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (MOOSE) guidelines. Six databases were systematically searched up until 20 May 2016: PsycINFO, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL Plus, Social Science Citation Index and System for Information on Grey Literature in Europe (SIGLE). Searching ceased on 20 May 2016. The exposure was cannabis use (or use frequency), measured at baseline and the outcome was anxiety, using diagnosis or cut-off points on standardised scales measuring symptoms.

Results

The main analysis (k=10; N=58 538) demonstrated an association of cannabis use with anxiety, with a very small OR of 1.15 (95% CI 1.03 to 1.29). Restricting the analysis to high-quality studies (k=5) decreased the OR considerably (OR=1.04; 95% CI 0.91 to 1.19), as did adjusting for publication bias (OR=1.08; 95% CI 0.94 to 1.23). Studies with a baseline in the last 10 years yielded a lower pooled OR than studies with an earlier baseline and studies set in the Americas yielded a markedly higher pooled OR than European studies and Australasian studies.

Conclusions

The findings indicate that cannabis use is no more than a minor risk factor for the development of elevated anxiety symptoms in the general population. They may inform the debate surrounding the legalisation of cannabis.
Dose-dependent decrease in mortality with no cognitive or muscle function improvements due to dietary EGCG supplementation in aged mice
Authors: Pence Brandt D. , Bhattacharya Tushar K. , Park Pul , Rytych Jennifer L. , Allen Jacob M. , Sun Yi , McCusker Robert H. , Kelley Keith W. , Johnson Rodney W. , Rhodes Justin S. , Woods Jeffrey A.
Published: January 2017

We have previously shown that a diet containing epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and beta-alanine is not effective in improving either cognitive or muscle function in aged (18 month) mice (Gibbons et al., Behav. Brain Res., 2014, 272:131–140; Pence et al., Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab., 2016, 41(2): 181–190). However, this diet reduced oxidative stress in the brain, and previous studies using longer term interventions and other doses have documented beneficial effects in cognitive and muscle function, especially with EGCG. Here we hypothesized that a different dose of EGCG or longer feeding period would be more efficacious in improving cognition. Aged (21–25 mo) Balb/cByJ male mice underwent 63 days of feeding with EGCG at 0, 0.091, or 3.67 mg/g AIN-93M diet and were then subjected to a battery of cognitive and muscle function tests. EGCG feeding at either of the 2 doses did not alter preference for novel versus familiar arm in the Y-maze test (p = 0.29) and did not affect learning in the active avoidance test (p = 0.76). Similarly, EGCG did not affect preference for novel versus familiar mice in a social discrimination test (p = 0.17). Likewise, there was no effect of EGCG on muscle function by grip strength (p = 0.16), rotarod (p = 0.18), or treadmill test to exhaustion (p = 0.25). EGCG reduced mortality in a dose-dependent fashion (p = 0.05, log-rank test for trend), with 91% of high EGCG, 72% of low EGCG, and 55% of control mice surviving to the end of the study. In conclusion, EGCG improves survival in aged mice but does not affect cognitive or muscle function.
Branes and integrable lattice models
Authors: Yagi Junya
Published: January 2017

This is a brief review of my work on the correspondence between four-dimensional [Formula: see text] supersymmetric field theories realized by brane tilings and two-dimensional integrable lattice models. I explain how to construct integrable lattice models from extended operators in partially topological quantum field theories, and elucidate the correspondence as an application of this construction.
Phosphodiesterase 5 inhibition ameliorates angiotensin II-dependent hypertension and renal vascular dysfunction
Authors: Thieme Manuel , Sivritas Sema H. , Mergia Evanthia , Potthoff Sebastian A. , Yang Guang , Hering Lydia , Grave Katharina , Hoch Henning , Rump Lars C. , Stegbauer Johannes
Published: January 2017

Changes in renal hemodynamics have a major impact on blood pressure (BP). Angiotensin (Ang) II has been shown to induce vascular dysfunction by interacting with phosphodiesterase (PDE)1 and PDE5. The predominant PDE isoform responsible for renal vascular dysfunction in hypertension is unknown. Here, we measured the effects of PDE5 (sildenafil) or PDE1 (vinpocetine) inhibition on renal blood flow (RBF), BP, and renal vascular function in normotensive and hypertensive mice. During acute short-term Ang II infusion, sildenafil decreased BP and increased RBF in C57BL/6 (WT) mice. In contrast, vinpocetine showed no effect on RBF and BP. Additionally, renal cGMP levels were significantly increased after acute sildenafil but not after vinpocetine infusion, indicating a predominant role of PDE5 in renal vasculature. Furthermore, chronic Ang II infusion (500 ng·kg−1·min−1) increased BP and led to impaired NO-dependent vasodilation in kidneys of WT mice. Additional treatment with sildenafil (100 mg·kg−1·day−1) attenuated Ang II-dependent hypertension and improved NO-mediated vasodilation. During chronic Ang II infusion, urinary nitrite excretion, a marker for renal NO generation, was increased in WT mice, whereas renal cGMP generation was decreased and restored after sildenafil treatment, suggesting a preserved cGMP signaling after PDE5 inhibition. To investigate the dependency of PDE5 effects on NO/cGMP signaling, we next analyzed eNOS-KO mice, a mouse model characterized by low vascular NO/cGMP levels. In eNOS-KO mice, chronic Ang II infusion increased BP but did not impair NO-mediated vasodilation. Moreover, sildenafil did not influence BP or vascular function in eNOS-KO mice. These results highlight PDE5 as a key regulator of renal hemodynamics in hypertension.
A Third Surgically Managed Ectopic Pregnancy after Two Salpingectomies Involving the Opposite Tube
Authors: Iwahashi Naoyuki , Deguchi Yoko , Horiuchi Yuko , Ino Kazuhiko , Furukawa Kenichi
Published: January 2017

Recurrent ectopic pregnancy in a remnant fallopian tube after ipsilateral salpingectomy is clinically rare. We report the extremely rare case of a third recurrent ectopic pregnancy after two previous salpingectomy procedures involving the opposite tube. A 26-year-old woman, gravida 3 para 0, experienced three ectopic pregnancies brought about by natural conception, all of which were treated surgically (right partial salpingectomy, right remnant tube resection, and left total salpingectomy). During the two salpingectomy procedures involving the right tube, the patency of the intact left tube was intraoperatively confirmed with indigo carmine. The most appropriate surgical intervention should be discussed when managing recurrent ectopic pregnancies. It might be necessary to perform total salpingectomy to reduce the risk of future recurrence on the remaining tube.
A New Digital to Analog Converter Based on Low-Offset Bandgap Reference
Authors: Qiu Jinpeng , Liu Tong , Chen Xubin , Shang Yongheng , Mo Jiongjiong , Wang Zhiyu , Chen Hua , Liu Jiarui , Lv Jingjing , Yu Faxin
Published: January 2017

This paper presents a new 12-bit digital to analog converter (DAC) circuit based on a low-offset bandgap reference (BGR) circuit with two cascade transistor structure and two self-contained feedback low-offset operational amplifiers to reduce the effects of offset operational amplifier voltage effect on the reference voltage, PMOS current-mirror mismatch, and its channel modulation. A Start-Up circuit with self-bias current architecture and multipoint voltage monitoring is employed to keep the BGR circuit working properly. Finally, a dual-resistor ladder DAC-Core circuit is used to generate an accuracy DAC output signal to the buffer operational amplifier. The proposed circuit was fabricated in CSMC 0.5 μm 5 V 1P4M process. The measured differential nonlinearity (DNL) of the output voltages is less than 0.45 LSB and integral nonlinearity (INL) less than 1.5 LSB at room temperature, consuming only 3.5 mW from a 5 V supply voltage. The DNL and INL at −55°C and 125°C are presented as well together with the discussion of possibility of improving the DNL and INL accuracy in future design.
Microwave Irradiation Assisted Preparation of Chitosan Composite Microsphere for Dye Adsorption
Authors: Chen Xiaoyu , He Lindun
Published: January 2017

Chitosan-activated carbon composite microspheres were prepared by emulsion cross-linking method and its adsorption properties for methyl orange were studied. Chitosan solution was mixed with activated carbon powder and then chitosan was cross-linked by epichlorohydrin under microwave irradiation. SEM photos show that the composite microspheres have diameters of 200–400 μm and activated carbon powder dispersed on the surface of composite microsphere. FTIR spectrum indicates chitosan is successfully cross-linked. Microwave irradiation can effectively shorten the cross-linking time. Composite microspheres have enhanced dye adsorption capacity for methyl orange compared to chitosan microspheres. Kinetic studies showed that the adsorption followed a pseudo-second-order model. Isotherm studies show that the isotherm adsorption equilibrium is better described by Freundlich isotherm. Regeneration results show that adsorption capacity of composite microsphere decreased about 5.51% after being reused for three times. These results indicated that chitosan-activated carbon composite microsphere has potential application in the removal of dye from wastewaters.
Determinants of Focused Antenatal Care Uptake among Women in Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya
Authors: Gitonga Eliphas
Published: January 2017

Background. The health status of women is an important indicator of the overall economic health and well-being of a country. Maternal health is closely linked with the survival of newborns. For every woman who dies, about thirty others suffer lifelong injuries. Focused antenatal care is one of the interventions to reduce maternal morbidity and mortality. It recommends four targeted visits during pregnancy within which essential services are offered. The aim of the study was to assess the determinants of uptake of focused antenatal care among women in Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya. Methods. This was a descriptive cross-sectional survey. Stratified sampling was used to select the health facilities while systematic sampling was used to select the respondents. Chi square, Fisher’s exact test, and logistic regression were used to analyse the data. Results. The level of uptake of focused antenatal care was slightly more than half (52%). The determinants of uptake of focused antenatal care are level of education, type of employment, household income, parity, and marital status of the pregnant women. Conclusion. Despite high attendance of at least one antenatal visit in Kenya, the uptake of focused antenatal care is proportionally low.
Parathyroid Hormone Levels in the Prediction of Ischemic Stroke Risk
Authors: Çelik Güner , Doğan Ali , Dener Şefik , Öztürk Şerefnur , Kulaksızoğlu Sevsen , Ekmekçi Hakan
Published: January 2017

Objective. It was examined whether PTH and 25-dihydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels, together or separately, are indicators of the risk of stroke. Materials and Methods. This prospective study was performed at two centers. In the study, 100 patients diagnosed with acute ischemic stroke and 100 control individuals in the same age range were examined. In addition to neurological examination, cranial imaging, extensive routine blood chemistry, PTH, and 25(OH)D levels were evaluated in all cases. Stroke risk factors were determined. Logistic regression was used for statistical analysis. Results. A total of 60 patients and 79 control individuals were included in the study. Different estimation models were designed in order to examine the relationship between PTH and 25(OH)D levels with stroke. According to modeling results, it was determined that the most effective predictor for risk of stroke was 25(OH)D levels, followed by hypertension and PTH levels, respectively. Conclusion. PTH and 25(OH)D levels together can make important contributions to determination of stroke risk, and further investigations are needed to understand this relationship more fully.
Rare Occurrence of a Poorly Differentiated Neuroendocrine Tumor of the Bladder
Authors: Dowd Katherine , Rotenberry Charles , Russell Douglas , Wachtel Mitchell , de Riese Werner
Published: January 2017

Neuroendocrine tumors rarely occur in the urinary bladder. They can be carcinomatous, subdivided into small cell and large cell pathology. Small cell carcinoma of the bladder is a rarity that may present at an advanced pathologic stage. No treatment regimens have been standardized for local or metastatic disease. Review of the recent literature shows equivalent survival data for localized disease treated with chemoradiotherapy combined with either bladder sparing surgery or radical cystectomy. Patients with significant comorbidities are an additional challenge. We report a case of poorly differentiated neuroendocrine tumor of the bladder, which could not be classified as small or large cell carcinoma, complicated by significant comorbidities. After management with transurethral resection of the tumor, adjuvant chemotherapy, and radiation, the patient is alive and asymptomatic nearly 1 year after initial TURBT with no evidence of disease recurrence.
Autoantibodies to NR2A Peptide of the Glutamate/NMDA Receptor in Patients with Seizure Disorders in Neuropsychiatric Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Yang Yan , Yuan Chao , Shen Shu-qun , Wang Xue-er , Mei Qing-hua , Jiang Wen-qing , Huang Qin
Published: January 2017

Objective. Seizure disorders are one of the most disabling, life-threatening, and the least understood syndromes associated with neuropsychiatric SLE (NPSLE). N-Methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors are a subgroup of the glutamate receptor family, whose NR2A subunit was found on neuronal cells (anti-NR2A) in NPSLE patients with different types of epilepsy. The present study was conducted to determine the serum levels of anti-NR2A antibodies in a large group of SLE patients, to investigate the possible correlation between the presence of the NR2A specific antibodies and NPSLE-related seizure disorders.Methods and Results. The study population consisted of 107 SLE patients and 43 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. 73 SLE patients had active disease. 36 of these had NPSLE. NMDA levels were measured by ELISA. Clinical and serological parameters were assessed according to routine procedures. The levels of anti-NR2A antibodies were significantly higher in NPSLE patients, compared with non-NPSLE patients and healthy controls. Furthermore, the levels of NPSLE in patients with seizure disorders were shown to be higher than in those with cognitive dysfunction and other CNS symptoms, however, without significance. Increase in serum anti-NR2A antibodies levels correlated to anti-dsDNA antibody and SLEDAI as well as complement levels.Conclusion. We suggest that anti-NR2A antibodies play a role in the pathogenesis of NPSLE with seizure disorders.
Psychopathology Related to Energy Drinks: A Psychosis Case Report
Authors: Hernandez-Huerta Daniel , Martin-Larregola Maria , Gomez-Arnau Jorge , Correas-Lauffer Javier , Dolengevich-Segal Helen
Published: January 2017

Energy drinks (ED) are nonalcoholic beverages that have caffeine as their most common active substance. The rapid expansion of ED consumption has created concern in the scientific community as well as in the public opinion. We report a psychotic episode probably triggered by ED abuse in a young adult without previous psychotic disorders. We have reviewed the literature regarding the relationship between caffeine, energy drinks, and psychopathology. Few articles have been published about mental health effects of energy drinks and caffeine abuse. Nevertheless, this relationship has been suggested, specifically with anxiety disorders, manic episodes, suicide attempts, psychotic decompensation, and substance use disorder. ED consumption could represent a global public health problem because of the potential severe adverse effects in mental and physical health. To our knowledge, this article is probably the first case of psychosis related to ED abuse in an individual without previous psychotic disorders.
Lévy Distributions for One-Dimensional Analysis of the Bose–Einstein Correlations
Authors: Okorokov V. A.
Published: January 2017

A general study of relations between the parameters of two centrally symmetric Lévy distributions, often used for one-dimensional investigation of Bose–Einstein correlations, is given for the first time. These relations of the strength of correlations and of the radius of the emission region take into account possible various finite ranges of the Lorentz invariant four-momentum difference for two centrally symmetric Lévy distributions. In particular, special cases of the relations are investigated for Cauchy and normal (Gaussian) distributions. The mathematical formalism is verified using the recent measurements given that a generalized centrally symmetric Lévy distribution is used. The reasonable agreement is observed between estimations and experimental results for all available types of strong interaction processes and collision energies.
A Rare Tumor with a Very Rare Initial Presentation: Thymic Carcinoma as Bone Marrow Metastasis
Authors: Sharma Sonam , Dawson Leelavathi
Published: January 2017

Tumors of thymus gland are rare and account for 0.2% to 1.5% of all the neoplasms. They constitute a heterogeneous group that has an unknown etiology and a complex as well as varied biology. This has led to difficulty in their histological classification and in predicting their prognostic and survival markers. Among them, thymic carcinoma is the most aggressive thymic epithelial tumor exhibiting cytological malignant features and a diversity of clinicopathological characteristics that can cause diagnostic dilemmas, misdiagnosis, and therapeutic challenge. We herein describe a case of a 60-year-old man who while undergoing evaluation for the cause of pancytopenia was discovered having bone marrow metastasis from an asymptomatic thymic carcinoma. Bone marrow metastasis is an extremely rare initial presentation of thymic carcinoma with only few cases reported in the literature.
A Rare Presentation of Isolated CNS Posttransplantation Lymphoproliferative Disorder
Authors: Morris Jaime , Smith Casey , Streicher Andrew , Magnuson Allison , Newman Susan , Bertoli Robert
Published: January 2017

Posttransplantation lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) is a recognized and extremely morbid complication of solid organ transplantation, but central nervous system involvement, particularly in isolation, is rare. There are no standardized treatment strategies for PTLD, though commonly used strategies include reduction of immunosuppression, chemotherapy, rituximab, radiation, and surgery. We present a case of an unusual morphologic variant of primary central nervous system PTLD with successful response to rituximab and cranial radiation. A 69-year-old Asian male, who underwent postrenal transplant nine years earlier, presented with a one-month history of new onset seizure activity. His evaluation revealed multiple brain lesions on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), as well as serologic and cerebrospinal fluid studies which were positive for Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) infection. Ultimately, he underwent craniotomy with tissue biopsy with the final pathology report showing posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorder, polymorphic type. The patient was managed with reduction in immunosuppression, rituximab therapy, and cranial radiation treatments. He had demonstrated marked improvement in his neurologic function and was ultimately discharged to inpatient rehabilitation facility.
MitoTEMPO Prevents Oxalate Induced Injury in NRK‐52E Cells via Inhibiting Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Modulating Oxidative Stress
Authors: Zhang Jiaqiao , Wang Qing , Xu Chuou , Lu Yuchao , Hu Henglong , Qin Baolong , Wang Yufeng , He Deng , Li Cong , Yu Xiao , Wang Shaogang , Liu Jihong
Published: January 2017

As one of the major risks for urolithiasis, hyperoxaluria can be caused by genetic defect or dietary intake. And high oxalate induced renal epithelial cells injury is related to oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. Here, we investigated whether MitoTEMPO, a mitochondria‐targeted antioxidant, could protect against oxalate mediated injury in NRK‐52E cells via inhibiting mitochondrial dysfunction and modulating oxidative stress. MitoSOX Red was used to determine mitochondrial ROS (mtROS) production. Mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm) and quantification of ATP synthesis were measured to evaluate mitochondrial function. The protein expression of Nox4, Nox2, and p22 was also detected to explore the effect of oxalate and MitoTEMPO on NADPH oxidase. Our results revealed that pretreatment with MitoTEMPO significantly inhibited oxalate induced lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) release and decreased oxalate induced mtROS generation. Further, MitoTEMPO pretreatment restored disruption of Δψm and decreased ATP synthesis mediated by oxalate. In addition, MitoTEMPO altered the protein expression of Nox4 and p22 and decreased the protein expression of IL‐6 and osteopontin (OPN) induced by oxalate. We concluded that MitoTEMPO may be a new candidate to protect against oxalate induced kidney injury as well as urolithiasis.
Improving the Quality of Mixed Recycled Coarse Aggregates from Construction and Demolition Waste Using Heavy Media Separation with Fe3O4 Suspension
Authors: Kang Heonchan , Kee Seong-Hoon
Published: January 2017

The primary objectives of this study are to investigate the feasibility of a heavy media separation process with magnetite (Fe3O4) suspension for upgrading the quality of mixed recycled coarse aggregates from construction and demolition waste (CDW) in Korea and to determine a range of effective operating density of Fe3O4 suspension for producing high-quality RCA acceptable to structural concrete applications. For the purposes, six 200 kg recycled coarse aggregates (RCAs) samples were collected from a conventional recycling plant in Korea. Subsequently, the samples were processed by a heavy media separation process using Fe3O4 suspensions with various densities from 2.65 g/cm3 to 2.40 g/cm3 with an interval of 0.05 g/cm3. Next, a series of tests was performed in the laboratory to evaluate properties of finished sink and float products from the HMS processes, including oven-dry density, absorption capacity, and physical durability. Furthermore, compressive strength of concrete cylinders (150 mm by 300 mm) made of the finished sink products from Fe3O4 suspensions with three different densities (2.4, 2.5, and 2.6 g/cm3) was tested in this study. As a result, it was demonstrated that the HMS process using Fe3O4 suspension with a density ranging between 2.40 and 2.65 g/cm3 was effective for upgrading mixed CDW RCAs in Korea to high-quality RCAs acceptable for structural concrete applications.
Objective Estimates of Physical Activity and Sedentary Time among Young Adults
Authors: Unick Jessica L. , Lang Wei , Tate Deborah F. , Bond Dale S. , Espeland Mark A. , Wing Rena R.
Published: January 2017

Background. This study examines factors associated with physical activity (PA) and sedentary behaviors (SB) in young adults (18–35 years) and compares objective and subjective assessment measures of PA and SB.Methods. 595 young adults (27.7±4.4years;25.5±2.6 kg/m2) enrolled in the Study of Novel Approaches to Weight Gain Prevention (SNAP) trial. Hours/day spent in SB (<1.5 METs) and minutes/week spent in bout-related moderate-to-vigorous intensity PA (MVPA; ≥3 METs and ≥10 min) were assessed using self-report and objective measures. Demographic factors associated with SB and MVPA were also explored (i.e., age, gender, BMI, ethnicity, work and relationship status, and number of children).Results. Objective MVPA (263±246 min/wk) was greater than self-report estimates (208±198 min/wk;p<0.001) and differed by156±198 min/wk at the individual level (i.e., the absolute difference). Females, overweight participants, African Americans, and those with children participated in the least amount of MVPA. Objective estimates of SB (9.1±1.8 hr/day; 64.5% of wear time) were lower than subjective estimates (10.1±3.5 hr/day;p<0.001), differing by2.6±2.5 hr/day for each participant.Conclusion. Young adults interested in weight gain prevention engage in both high levels of MVPA and SB, with participants self-reporting fewer MVPA minutes and more SB compared to objective estimates. This study is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01183689).
Chemopreventive Effects of Germinated Rough Rice Crude Extract in Inhibiting Azoxymethane-Induced Aberrant Crypt Foci Formation in Sprague-Dawley Rats
Authors: Saki Elnaz , Saiful Yazan Latifah , Mohd Ali Razana , Ahmad Zalinah
Published: January 2017

Chemoprevention has become an important area in cancer research due to low success rate of current therapeutic modalities. Diet plays a vital role in the etiology of cancer. This research was carried out to study the chemopreventive properties of germinated rough rice (GRR) crude extract in Sprague-Dawley rats induced with azoxymethane. Germination of rough rice causes significant changes in several chemical compositions of presently bioactive compounds. These compounds may prevent or postpone the inception of cancer. Fifty male Sprague-Dawley rats (6 weeks of age) were randomly divided into 5 groups which were (G1) induced with azoxymethane (AOM) and not given GRR (positive control), (G2) induced with AOM and given 2000 mg/kg GRR, (G3) induced with AOM and given 1000 mg/kg GRR, (G4) induced with AOM and given 500 mg/kg GRR, and (G5) not induced with AOM and not given GRR crude extract (negative control). To induce colon cancer, rats received two IP injections of AOM in saline (15 mg/kg) for two subsequent weeks. Organs were removed and weighed. Aberrant crypt foci (ACF) were evaluated histopathologically. β-Catenin expressions were determined by Western blot. Treatment with 2000 mg/kg GRR crude extract not only resulted in the greatest reduction in the size and number of ACF but also displayed the highest percentage of nondysplastic ACF. Treatment with 2000 mg/kg GRR also gave the lowest level of expression in β-catenin. Thus, GRR could be a promising dietary supplement for prevention of CRC.
Electroacupuncture Regulates Hippocampal Synaptic Plasticity via miR-134-Mediated LIMK1 Function in Rats with Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Liu Weilin , Wu Jie , Huang Jia , Zhuo Peiyuan , Lin Yunjiao , Wang Lulu , Lin Ruhui , Chen Lidian , Tao Jing
Published: January 2017

MircoRNAs (miRs) have been implicated in learning and memory, by regulating LIM domain kinase (LIMK1) to induce synaptic-dendritic plasticity. The study aimed to investigate whether miRNAs/LIMK1 signaling was involved in electroacupuncture- (EA-) mediated synaptic-dendritic plasticity in a rat model of middle cerebral artery occlusion induced cognitive deficit (MICD). Compared to untreatment or non-acupoint-EA treatment, EA at DU20 and DU24 acupoints could shorten escape latency and increase the frequency of crossing platform in Morris water maze test. T2-weighted imaging showed that the MICD rat brain lesions were located in cortex, hippocampus, corpus striatum, and thalamus regions and injured volumes were reduced after EA. Furthermore, we found that the density of dendritic spine and the number of synapses in the hippocampal CA1 pyramidal cells were obviously reduced at Day 14 after MICD. However, synaptic-dendritic loss could be rescued after EA. Moreover, the synaptic-dendritic plasticity was associated with increases of the total LIMK1 and phospho-LIMK1 levels in hippocampal CA1 region, wherein EA decreased the expression of miR-134, negatively regulating LIMK1 to enhance synaptic-dendritic plasticity. Therefore, miR-134-mediated LIMK1 was involved in EA-induced hippocampal synaptic plasticity, which served as a contributor to improving learning and memory during the recovery stage of ischemic stroke.
No Association between Radiation Dose from Pediatric CT Scans and Risk of Subsequent Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: Berrington de Gonzalez Amy , Journy Neige , Lee Choonsik , Morton Lindsay M. , Harbron Richard W. , Stewart Douglas R. , Parker Louise , Craft Alan W. , McHugh Kieran , Little Mark P. , Pearce Mark S.
Published: January 2017

Background: We examined the relationship between estimated radiation dose from CT scans and subsequent Hodgkin lymphoma in the UK pediatric CT scans cohort.

Methods: A retrospective, record linkage cohort included patients ages 0 to 21 years who underwent CT scans between 1980 and 2002 and were followed up for cancer or death until 2008. Poisson regression analysis was used to evaluate the relationship between estimated radiation dose (lagged by 2 years) and incident Hodgkin lymphoma diagnosed at least 2 years after the first CT scan.

Results: There were 65 incident cases of Hodgkin lymphoma in the cohort of 178,601 patients. Neither estimated red bone marrow dose nor mean lymphocyte dose from CT scans was clearly associated with an increased risk of Hodgkin lymphoma (RR for 20+ mGy vs. <5 mGy = 0.92 (0.38–2.22) Ptrend > 0.5 and 1.44 (0.60–3.48) Ptrend > 0.5), respectively.

Conclusions: Radiation exposure from pediatric CT scans 2 or more years before diagnosis was not associated with Hodgkin lymphoma in this large UK cohort.

Impact: These findings are consistent with the majority of previous studies, which do not support a link between ionizing radiation and Hodgkin lymphoma. The results contrast our previous positive findings in this cohort for brain tumors and leukemia, both of which are known to be strongly linked to radiation exposure during childhood. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 26(5); 804–6. ©2017 AACR.
Blocking Tumor-Educated MSC Paracrine Activity Halts Osteosarcoma Progression
Authors: Baglio S. Rubina , Lagerweij Tonny , Pérez-Lanzón Maria , Ho Xuan Dung , Léveillé Nicolas , Melo Sonia A. , Cleton-Jansen Anne-Marie , Jordanova Ekaterina S. , Roncuzzi Laura , Greco Michelina , van Eijndhoven Monique A.J. , Grisendi Giulia , Dominici Massimo , Bonafede Roberta , Lougheed Sinead M. , de Gruijl Tanja D. , Zini Nicoletta , Cervo Silvia , Steffan Agostino , Canzonieri Vincenzo , Martson Aare , Maasalu Katre , Köks Sulev , Wurdinger Tom , Baldini Nicola , Pegtel D. Michiel
Published: January 2017

Purpose: Human osteosarcoma is a genetically heterogeneous bone malignancy with poor prognosis despite the employment of aggressive chemotherapy regimens. Because druggable driver mutations have not been established, dissecting the interactions between osteosarcoma cells and supporting stroma may provide insights into novel therapeutic targets.

Experimental Design: By using a bioluminescent orthotopic xenograft mouse model of osteosarcoma, we evaluated the effect of tumor extracellular vesicle (EV)–educated mesenchymal stem cells (TEMSC) on osteosarcoma progression. Characterization and functional studies were designed to assess the mechanisms underlying MSC education. Independent series of tissue specimens were analyzed to corroborate the preclinical findings, and the composition of patient serum EVs was analyzed after isolation with size-exclusion chromatography.

Results: We show that EVs secreted by highly malignant osteosarcoma cells selectively incorporate a membrane-associated form of TGFβ, which induces proinflammatory IL6 production by MSCs. TEMSCs promote tumor growth, accompanied with intratumor STAT3 activation and lung metastasis formation, which was not observed with control MSCs. Importantly, intravenous administration of the anti-IL6 receptor antibody tocilizumab abrogated the tumor-promoting effects of TEMSCs. RNA-seq analysis of human osteosarcoma tissues revealed a distinct TGFβ-induced prometastatic gene signature. Tissue microarray immunostaining indicated active STAT3 signaling in human osteosarcoma, consistent with the observations in TEMSC-treated mice. Finally, we isolated pure populations of EVs from serum and demonstrated that circulating levels of EV-associated TGFβ are increased in osteosarcoma patients.

Conclusions: Collectively, our findings suggest that TEMSCs promote osteosarcoma progression and provide the basis for testing IL6- and TGFβ-blocking agents as new therapeutic options for osteosarcoma patients. Clin Cancer Res; 23(14); 3721–33. ©2017 AACR.
Migration of Surgical Clips into the Common Bile Duct after Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
Authors: Rawal Krishn Kant
Published: January 2017

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is currently the treatment of choice for symptomatic gallstones. Associated complications include bile duct injury, retained common bile duct (CBD) stones, and migration of surgical clips. Clip migration into the CBD can present with recurrent cholangitis over a period of time. Retained CBD stones can be another cause of recurrent cholangitis. A case of two surgical clips migrating into the common bile duct with few retained stones following LC is reported here. The patient had repeated episodes of fever, pain at epigastrium, jaundice, and pruritus 3 months after LC. Liver function tests revealed features of obstructive jaundice. Ultrasonography of the abdomen showed dilated CBD with few stones. In view of acute cholangitis, an urgent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography was done, which demonstrated few filling defects and 2 linear metallic densities in the CBD. A few retained stones along with 2 surgical clips were removed successfully from the CBD by endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography after papillotomy using a Dormia basket. The patient improved dramatically following the procedure.
Seminário: Escaneamento laser em três dimensões para bens arquitetônicos - características e possibilidades de uso
Authors: Khül Beatriz Mugayar
Published: January 2017

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Nos limites entre o real e o ficcional: A AIDS na obra de Caio Fernando Abreu
Authors: Silva Letícia Gonçalves Ozório
Published: January 2017

Na década de 1980, a descoberta do vírus HIV e a epidemia da AIDS causaram grande espanto na população mundial.  Os preconceitos, a exploração midiática e a falta de amparo científico sobre o assunto levaram a literatura brasileira daquela época a se manifestar de forma um tanto retraída. Nesse contexto, surge Caio Fernando Abreu, escritor gaúcho, com textos de caráter intimista que retratavam a doença de forma emocional e chocante, conquistando muitos leitores e marcando a literatura brasileira dessa época. Objetiva-se aqui reconhecer a produção literária intimista de Caio Fernando Abreu como retratista de um momento histórico, usando como base as crônicas “Cartas para além dos muros” (2006) e  o conto “Depois de Agosto” (2011), atentando para o caráter autoficcional da narrativa, e não autobiográfico como costuma ser classificada.