bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simultaneous Quantitative Determination of Synthetic Cathinone Enantiomers in Urine and Plasma Using GC-NCI-MS
Authors: Alremeithi Rashed , Meetani Mohammed A. , Alaidaros Anas A. , Lanjawi Adnan , Alsumaiti Khalid
Published: April 2018

Development and validation of sensitive and selective method for enantioseparation and quantitation of synthetic cathinones is reported using GC-MS triple quadrupole mass spectrometry with negative chemical ionization (NCI) mode. Indirect chiral separation of thirty-six synthetic cathinone compounds has been achieved by using an optically pure chiral derivatizing agent (CDA) called (S)-(−)-N-(trifluoroacetyl)pyrrolidine-2-carbonyl chloride (L-TPC), which converts cathinone enantiomers into diastereoisomers that can be separated on achiral columns. As a result of using Ultra Inert 60 m column and performing slow heating rate (2°C/min) on the GC oven, an observed enhancement in enantiomer peak resolution has been achieved. An internal standard, (+)-cathinone, was used for quantitation of synthetic cathinones. Method validation in terms of linearities and sensitivity in terms of limits of detection (LODs), limits of quantitation (LOQs), recoveries, and reproducibilities has been obtained for fourteen selected compounds that examined simultaneously as a mixture after being spiked in urine and plasma. It was found that the LOD of the fourteen synthetic cathinones in urine was in the range of 0.26–0.76 µg/L, and in plasma, it was in the range of 0.26–0.34 µg/L. While the LOQ of the mixture in urine was in the range of 0.86–2.34 µg/L, and in plasma, it was in the range of 0.89–1.12 µg/L. Unlike the electron impact (EI) ion source, NCI showed better sensitivity by two orders of magnitude by comparing the obtained results with the recently published reports for quantitative analysis and enantioseparation of synthetic cathinones.
Method for Wearable Kinematic Gait Analysis Using a Harmonic Oscillator Applied to the Center of Mass
Authors: Fusca Marcello , Perego Paolo , Andreoni Giuseppe
Published: April 2018

A model based on a harmonic oscillator describing human walking and balance with the sinusoidal trajectory of the center of mass of a subject during gait is presented. This model allows overcoming the traditional drift due to the double integration of raw acceleration data. The protocol uses a single 3D accelerometer worn at the pelvis level. The system computes the spatiotemporal gait and balance parameters when the subject is walking with or without aids. An incremental methodological approach is proposed and followed in the implementation and accuracy assessment. Eleven healthy subjects have participated to the study performing 6 trials over a fixed linear walking path at a self-selected speed. For reference, the protocol has imposed the execution of 52 steps whose length has been fixed at 60 cm. Different processing methods have been implemented and tested. The model identifies steps, walking time, and stepping frequency with an excellent reliability (absolute percentage accuracy error < 5%). When the information about the expected step length is given to the model, the percentage error in the measure of walking distance and speed is 3.25%. Without this input, this error rises to 4.95%, while for the anthropometric method is 3.68%.
Multimodality Surgical Approach in Management of Laryngotracheal Stenosis
Authors: Ansari Ashfaque , Thomas Annju
Published: April 2018

Introduction. Postintubation laryngotracheal stenosis requires a precise diagnosis and an experienced operator in both endoscopic and surgical treatment. This report presents surgically treated cases of laryngotracheal stenosis secondary to long-term intubation/tracheostomy with review of the literature. Materials and Methods. In this retrospective study, we present 5 cases (a 23-year-old male, 13-year-old male, 22-year-old male, 19-year-old male, and 33-year-old female) of postintubation/tracheostomy laryngotracheal (glottic/subglottic) stenosis in the years 2016 and 2017. Each patient was managed differently. Intubation characteristics, localization of stenosis, surgical technique and material, postoperative complications, and survival of patients were recorded. Results. The site of stenosis was in the subglottis in 4 patients and glottis in 1 patient. The mean length of the stenosis was greater in the postintubation group. Postintubation stenosis had a mean duration of intubation of 6.8 days, compared to 206.25 days of cannulation following tracheostomies. Each patient underwent an average of 2 procedures during their treatment course. One patient underwent open surgical anastomosis because of recurrent subglottic stenosis after multiple treatments. Phonation improved immediately in almost all except in the patient who underwent only endoscopic dilatation. Discussion. The reasons for laryngeal stenosis and its delayed diagnosis have been reviewed from the literature. Suture tension should be appropriate, and placement of the suture knot outside the trachea minimizes formation of granulation tissue. The published reports suggest that resection by endoscopy with laser and open technique resection and primary anastomosis are the best treatment modality so far as the long-term results are concerned. Conclusion. Resection of stenotic segment by open surgical anastomosis and laser-assisted resection is a safe option for the treatment of subglottic stenosis following intubation without the need for repeated dilation. Endoscopic dilation can be reserved for unfit patients.
Malignant Gliomas as Second Neoplasms in Pediatric Cancer Survivors: Neuropathological Study
Authors: Izycka-Swieszewska Ewa , Bien Ewa , Stefanowicz Joanna , Szurowska Edyta , Szutowicz-Zielinska Ewa , Koczkowska Magdalena , Sigorski Dawid , Kloc Wojciech , Rogowski Wojciech , Adamkiewicz-Drozynska Elzbieta
Published: April 2018

This study presents a unique series of malignant supratentorial gliomas in children previously cured from non-CNS primary cancer. On neuroimaging these tumors were not specific, so the patients were suspected of cerebral recurrence of their primary neoplasm: leukemia in four children and sarcoma in one child. Histologically, the group contained four glioblastomas and one anaplastic astrocytoma. Three patients underwent neurosurgical resection, while the other two underwent stereotactic diagnostic biopsy only. Despite combined oncological treatment, four children died during 20 months, and only one glioblastoma patient continued to live for another twelve years. Microscopically, the neoplasms consisted of small cells with some morphologic features of astrocytic lineage, having scanty or prominent processes. Microvascular proliferation and focal or diffuse necrosis were encountered in four cases. The GFAP reactivity in neoplastic cells was low or nil, together with the expression of Olig2, vimentin, and nestin. In two cases a subpopulation of synaptophysin-positive cells was present. Molecular immunohistochemical profiling revealed the expression of phosphorylated forms of PI3Kp110 and AKT, in parallel to a strong PTEN and p53 positivity. The tumors were of IDH1R132H-wild type and immunoreactive for ATRX, HER3, and EGFR. Secondary malignant gliomas in pediatric cancer survivors pose a diagnostic challenge. The present study shows that these tumors are of IDH wild type, PI3K/AKT-activated, having no PTEN and EGFR mutations. Therefore, the biopsy of brain tumors in such patients is crucial both for accurate diagnosis and material preservation for molecular typing.
Effect of Supplementation withn-3 Fatty Acids Extracted from Microalgae on Inflammation Biomarkers from Two Different Strains of Mice
Authors: Gutiérrez-Pliego L. E. , Martínez-Carrillo B. E. , Reséndiz-Albor A. A. , Arciniega-Martínez I. M. , Escoto-Herrera J. A. , Rosales-Gómez C. A. , Valdés-Ramos R.
Published: April 2018

Background. Diabetes mellitus is considered a chronic noncommunicable disease in which inflammation plays a main role in the progression of the disease and it is known thatn-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties. One of the most recent approaches is the study of the fatty acids of microalgae as a substitute for fish oil and a source rich in fatty acids EPA and DHA.Objective.To analyze the effect of supplementation withn-3 fatty acids extracted from microalgae on the inflammatory markers from two different strains of mice.Methods. Mice of two strains, db/db and CD1, were supplemented withn-3 fatty acids extracted from microalgae in lyophilized form and added to food; the experiment was carried out from week 8 to 16 of life. Flow cytometry was performed to determine the percentage of TCD4+ cells producing Th1 and Th2 cytokines.Results.Supplementation with microalgae fatty acids decreased the percentage of TCD4+ cells producing IFN-γand TNF-αand increased the ones producing IL-17A and IL-12 in both strains; on the other hand, supplementation decreased percentage of TCD4+ cells producing IL-4 and increased the ones producing TGF-β.Conclusions. Microalgaen-3 fatty acids could be a useful tool in the treatment of diabetes as well as in the prevention of the appearance of health complications caused by inflammatory states.
Antioxidative Potential of a Streptomyces sp. MUM292 Isolated from Mangrove Soil
Authors: Tan Loh Teng-Hern , Chan Kok-Gan , Chan Chim Kei , Khan Tahir Mehmood , Lee Learn-Han , Goh Bey-Hing
Published: April 2018

Mangrove derived microorganisms constitute a rich bioresource for bioprospecting of bioactive natural products. This study explored the antioxidant potentials of Streptomyces bacteria derived from mangrove soil. Based on 16S rRNA phylogenetic analysis, strain MUM292 was identified as the genus Streptomyces. Strain MUM292 showed the highest 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity of 99.54% with S. griseoruber NBRC12873T. Furthermore, strain MUM292 was also characterized and showed phenotypic characteristics consistent with Streptomyces bacteria. Fermentation and extraction were performed to obtain the MUM292 extract containing the secondary metabolites of strain MUM292. The extract displayed promising antioxidant activities, including DPPH, ABTS, and superoxide radical scavenging and also metal-chelating activities. The process of lipid peroxidation in lipid-rich product was also retarded by MUM292 extract and resulted in reduced MDA production. The potential bioactive constituents of MUM292 extract were investigated using GC-MS and preliminary detection showed the presence of pyrazine, pyrrole, cyclic dipeptides, and phenolic compound in MUM292 extract. This work demonstrates that Streptomyces MUM292 can be a potential antioxidant resource for food and pharmaceutical industries.
The Effect of Geometrical Parameters on Resonance Characteristics of Acoustic Metamaterials with Negative Effective Modulus
Authors: Yan Xiao-Le , Hao Li-Mei , Men Mei-Ling , Chen Zhi
Published: April 2018

There has been an explosion of interest in acoustic metamaterial in the last ten years. The tunable negative acoustic metamaterial is an important issue for designing metamaterials. The acoustic metamaterial is restricted by the narrow bandgap of sound waves for the local resonance of metamaterial unit cells. By shifting the sizes of the unit cell, the acoustic metamaterial could potentially overcome the limit of the narrow resonance frequency. In this research, we focus on the resonant behavior of split hollow sphere (SHS) in the waveguide. Firstly, we analyze the resonance characteristics of SHS and get an analytical formula for the effect of geometrical parameters on the resonance frequency. Furthermore, the resonance frequency of SHS is verified with finite-element method analysis based on COMSOL Multiphysics simulation. The results are in good agreement with theory model. It is observed that there is a blue shift of the resonance frequency with the gradual increase of the neck radius of SHS, a V-type response curve with the increase of inner radius of SHS, and a red shift with the increase of outer radius of SHS. Using the method of estimate of resonance, we could get a precisely controllable unit structure with negative effective modulus and offer a way to optimize the realization of double negative acoustic metamaterial.
Can Preoperative Examination Help Choose the Best Surgical Procedure in Gastric Cancer?
Authors: Zhang Jia-Le , Wang Zhen-Ning , Xu Hui-Mian , Zhu Zhi , Huang Bao-Jun
Published: April 2018

Aim. Gastrectomy with lymph node dissection is standard treatment in gastric cancer. This study aimed to explore whether preoperative investigation finds could predict lymph node metastatic scope in gastric carcinoma so that the optimal surgical procedure could be selected. Materials and Methods. Radical gastrectomy patients (n=378) were separated into two groups according to the lymph node metastatic scope. Univariate and multivariate analyses of preoperative examination results were performed to identify the predictors of metastatic scope. ROC curves were constructed, and the area under the curve (AUC) was calculated to estimate diagnostic values. Results. Serum CEA (OR: 3.73; 95% CI: 1.84–7.56; P≤0.001), tumor size (OR: 2.07; 95% CI: 1.08–3.98; P=0.03), and CT examination results (OR: 17.81; 95% CI: 9.18–34.55; P≤0.001) were identified as independent predictors. The AUC proved that they possessed significant diagnostic value. When CT examination was negative, the combination of serum CEA and tumor size showed high specificity (95.3%; 164/172), negative predictive value (92.7%; 164/177), and accuracy (89.0%; 170/191). Conclusions. Preoperative serum CEA, tumor size, and CT examination are independent predictors of lymph node metastatic scope and can be used for selecting the appropriate lymphadenectomy pattern in gastric cancer patients.
Granuloma Annulare in the Setting of Secukinumab
Authors: Clark Matthew L. , Tobin Courtney A. , Sutton Angela , Missall Tricia Ann
Published: April 2018

Granuloma annulare (GA) is a common benign inflammatory skin condition classically presenting as skin-colored to erythematous dermal papules and annular plaques. Histologically, GA displays a dermal granulomatous infiltrate with palisaded histiocytes surrounding focally altered collagen. The exactly etiology of GA remains unknown, but it has been associated with trauma, various infections, diabetes mellitus, malignancy, thyroid disease, dyslipidemia, and several medications. In 2017, a case of GA developing in a patient treated with the interleukin 17A antagonist secukinumab was reported. Here we report a second case of GA in association with secukinumab use.
Can Diaphragm Dysfunction Be Reliably Evaluated with Pocket-Sized Ultrasound Devices in Intensive Care Unit?
Authors: Gursel Gul , Inci Kamil , Alasgarova Zenfira
Published: April 2018

Background. Diaphragm dysfunction (DD) is frequently seen in critically ill patients, and ultrasound could be a useful tool to detect it and to predict extubation success or failure in mechanically ventilated patients. Besides, it would also be useful in differential diagnosis of dyspnea and respiratory failure. The aim of this study is to evaluate usefulness and accuracy of pocket-sized ultrasound devices (PSDs) in assessment of DD in intensive care unit (ICU) patients in comparison with standard ultrasound devices (SD).Methods. In this prospective observational study, we compared the performance of PSD and SD in visualization of diaphragm, detection of paradoxical movement, measurement of tidal and maximal thickness, tidal and maximal excursion, and calculation of thickening fraction (TF) of the diaphragm. We used Bland and Altman test for agreement and bias analysis and intraclass correlation analysis to evaluate interobserver variability.Results. Thirty-nine patients were included in the study. In 93% of the patients, diaphragm was visualized with PSD. There was very good agreement between the measurements of the devices, and there was no proportional bias in the measurements of tidal inspiratory and expiratory thickness, tidal TF, tidal excursion, and maximal inspiratory thickness. In interobserver reliability analysis of all measurements for both devices, ICC coefficients were higher than 0.8. Total diaphragm examination times of the devices were similar (p>0.05).Conclusion. These results suggest that PSD can be useful in ICU patients for evaluating DD. But further studies are required to determine the exact place of these devices in evaluation of DD in ICU patients.
Clinimetrics of the 9- and 19-Item Wearing-Off Questionnaire: A Systematic Review
Authors: Mantese Carlos E. , Schumacher-Schuh Artur , Rieder Carlos R. M.
Published: April 2018

The treatment of Parkinson’s disease (PD) with dopaminergic therapy improves functionality and quality of life. However, as the disease progresses, the wearing-off phenomenon develops, which necessitates complex posology adjustment or adjuvant therapy. This phenomenon may not be well recognized, especially if it is mild or involves nonmotor symptoms. Questionnaires were developed to improve the recognition of the wearing-off phenomenon. The questionnaires consist of a list of symptoms that patients must check if they have and if the symptoms improve with medication. A recent review by the Movement Disorder Society suggested the 19-item (WOQ-19) and 9-item (WOQ-9) questionnaires as screening tools for the wearing-off phenomenon. However, there has not been a systematic review to assess the questionnaires’ clinimetric properties, such as sensitivity, specificity, test-retest reliability, and responsiveness. We conducted an extensive search for studies using these two tools. We identified 3 studies using WOQ-19 and 5 studies using WOQ-9. Both questionnaires seem to have good sensitivity (0.81–1). WOQ-19 has variable specificity (0.39–0.8), depending on the number of positive items, while WOQ-9 lacks specificity (0.1–0.69). Only one study using WOQ-19 reported test-retest, and only two studies reported responsiveness. Thus, this report describes the first independent systematic review to exam quantitatively the clinimetric properties of these two questionnaires.
On Solvability Theorems of Second-Order Ordinary Differential Equations with Delay
Authors: Yeh Nai-Sher
Published: April 2018

For eachx0∈[0,2π)andk∈N, we obtain some existence theorems of periodic solutions to the two-point boundary value problemu′′(x)+k2u(x-x0)+g(x,u(x-x0))=h(x)in(0,2π)withu(0)-u(2π)=u′(0)-u′(2π)=0wheng:(0,2π)×R→Ris a Caratheodory function which grows linearly inuasu→∞, andh∈L1(0,2π)may satisfy a generalized Landesman-Lazer condition(1+sign(β))∫02πh(x)v(x)dx<∫v(x)>0gβ+(x)vx1-βdx+∫v(x)<0gβ-(x)vx1-βdxfor allv∈N(L)\{0}. HereN(L)denotes the subspace ofL1(0,2π)spanned bysin⁡kxandcos⁡kx,-1<β≤0,gβ+(x)=lim  infu→∞(gx,uu/u1-β), andgβ-(x)=lim  infu→-∞(gx,uu/u1-β).
A Vibration Model of Ball Bearings with a Localized Defect Based on the Hertzian Contact Stress Distribution
Authors: Kong Fanzhao , Huang Wentao , Jiang Yunchuan , Wang Weijie , Zhao Xuezeng
Published: April 2018

To study the vibration mechanism of ball bearings with localized defects, a vibration model of a ball bearing based on the Hertzian contact stress distribution is proposed to predict the contact force and vibration response caused by a localized defect. The calculation of the ball‐raceway contact force when the ball passes over the defect is key to establishing a defect vibration model. Hertzian contact theory indicates that the contact area between the ball and the raceway is an elliptical contact surface; therefore, a new approach is used to calculate the ball‐raceway contact force in the defect area based on the stress distribution and the contact area. The relative motion between the inner ring, the outer ring, and the balls is considered in the proposed model, and the Runge‐Kutta algorithm is used to solve the vibration equations. In addition, vibration experiments of a bearing with an outer ring defect under different loads are performed. The numerical signals and experimental signals are compared in the time and frequency domains, and good correspondence between the numerical and experimental results is observed. Comparisons between the traditional model and the proposed model reveal that the proposed model provides more reasonable results.
Erector Spinae Plane Block for Elective Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy in the Ambulatory Surgical Setting
Authors: Hannig Kjartan Eskjaer , Jessen Christian , Soni Uday Kant , Børglum Jens , Bendtsen Thomas Fichtner
Published: April 2018

Postoperative pain after laparoscopic cholecystectomy can be severe. Despite multimodal analgesia regimes, administration of high doses of opioids is often necessary. This can further lead to several adverse effects such as drowsiness and respiratory impairment as well as postoperative nausea and vomiting. This will hinder early mobilization and discharge of the patient from the day surgery setting and is suboptimal in an Early Recovery after Surgery setting. The ultrasound-guided Erector Spinae Plane (ESP) block is a novel truncal interfascial block technique providing analgesia of the thoracic or abdominal segmental innervation depending on the level of administration. Local anesthetic penetrates anteriorly presumably through the costotransverse foramina to the paravertebral space. We demonstrate the analgesic efficacy of the ESP block in a case series of three patients scheduled for ambulatory laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
Prostaglandin E2Inhibits Prostate Cancer Progression by Countervailing Tumor Microenvironment-Induced Impairment of Dendritic Cell Migration through LXRα/CCR7 Pathway
Authors: Youlin Kuang , Weiyang He , Simin Liang , Xin Gou
Published: April 2018

Migration and homing of dendritic cells (DCs) to lymphoid organs are quite crucial for T cell-induced immune response against tumor. However, tumor microenvironment can make some tumor cells escape immune response by impairing DC migration. Prostaglandin E2(PGE2) plays important roles in initiating and terminating inflammatory responses. In this study, we investigated whether PGE2could inhibit murine prostate cancer progression by countervailing tumor microenvironment-induced impairment of dendritic cell migration. We found that murine prostate cancer cell line RM-1-conditioned medium impaired chemotactic movement of marrow-derived DCs and splenic cDCs toward CC chemokine receptor-7 (CCR7) ligand CCL19 in vitro and migration to draining lymph gland in vivo. Meanwhile, it also induced LXRαactivation and CCR7 inhibition on maturing DCs. However, the treatment of PGE2rescued this impairment of DC migration with upregulation of CCR7 and inhibition of LXRα. Further, it was observed that PGE2also increased MMP9 expression and activated Notch1 signaling on DCs. In RM-1-bearing mouse model, PGE2treatment was identified to inhibit tumor growth and induce more tumor-infiltrating T cells and CD11c dendritic cells in tumor sites. Therefore, our findings may demonstrate a new perspective for therapeutic interventions on prostate cancer immunoescape.
Passivity of Memristive BAM Neural Networks with Probabilistic and Mixed Time-Varying Delays
Authors: Wang Weiping , Wang Meiqi , Luo Xiong , Li Lixiang , Zhao Wenbing
Published: April 2018

This paper is concerned with the passivity problem of memristive bidirectional associative memory neural networks (MBAMNNs) with probabilistic and mixed time-varying delays. By applying random variables with Bernoulli distribution, the information of probability time-varying delays is taken into account. Furthermore, we consider the probability distribution of the variation and the extent of the delays; therefore, the results derived are less conservative than in the existing papers. In particular, the leakage delays as well as distributed delays are all taken into consideration. Based on appropriate Lyapunov-Krasovskii functionals (LKFs) and some useful inequalities, several conditions for passive performance are established in linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). Finally, numerical examples are given to demonstrate the feasibility of the presented theories, and the results reveal that the probabilistic and mixed time-varying delays have an unstable influence on the system and should not be ignored.
Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Cultured in Serum from Heart Failure Patients Are More Resistant to Simulated Chronic and Acute Stress
Authors: Nazari-Shafti Timo Z. , Xu Zhiyi , Bader Andreas Matthäus , Henke Georg , Klose Kristin , Falk Volkmar , Stamm Christof
Published: April 2018

Despite regulatory issues surrounding the use of animal-derived cell culture supplements, most clinical cardiac cell therapy trials using mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) still rely on fetal bovine serum (FBS) for cell expansion before transplantation. We sought to investigate the effect of human serum from heart failure patients (HFS) on cord blood MSCs (CB-MSCs) during short-term culture under regular conditions and during simulated acute and chronic stress. Cell survival, proliferation, metabolic activity, and apoptosis were quantified, and gene expression profiles of selected apoptosis and cell cycle regulators were determined. Compared to FBS, HFS and serum from healthy donors (CS) showed similar effects by substantially increasing cell survival during chronic and acute stress and by increasing cell yields 5 days after acute stress. Shortly after the termination of acute stress, both HFS and CS resulted in a marked decrease in apoptotic cells. Transcriptome analysis suggested a decrease in TNF-mediated induction of caspases and decreased activation of mitochondrial apoptosis. Our data confirm that human serum from both healthy donors and heart failure patients results in increased cell yields and increased resistance to cellular stress signals. Therefore, we consider autologous serum a valid alternative to FBS in cell-based therapies addressing severe heart disease.
Phenotypic Variation in a Four-Generation Family with Aniridia Carrying a NovelPAX6Mutation
Authors: Wang Grace M. , Prasov Lev , Al-Hasani Hayder , Marrs Colin E. R. , Tolia Sahil , Wiinikka-Buesser Laurel , Richards Julia E. , Bohnsack Brenda L.
Published: April 2018

Aniridia is a congenital disease that affects almost all eye structures and is primarily caused by loss-of-function mutations in thePAX6gene. The degree of vision loss in aniridia varies and is dependent on the extent of foveal, iris, and optic nerve hypoplasia and the presence of glaucoma, cataracts, and corneal opacification. Here, we describe a 4-generation family in which 7 individuals across 2 generations carry a novel disease-causing frameshift mutation (NM_000280.4(PAX6):c.565TC>T) inPAX6.This mutation results in an early stop codon in exon 8, which is predicted to cause nonsense-mediated decay of the truncated mRNA and a functionally nullPAX6allele. Family members with aniridia showed differences in multiple eye phenotypes including iris and optic nerve hypoplasia, congenital and acquired corneal opacification, glaucoma, and strabismus. Visual acuity ranged from 20/100 to less than 20/800. Patients who required surgical intervention for glaucoma or corneal opacification had worse visual outcomes. Our results show that family members carrying a novelPAX6frameshift mutation have variable expressivity, leading to different ocular comorbidities and visual outcomes.
An Extremely Rapid Case of Pneumonitis with the Use of Nivolumab for Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Costa Rubens Barros , Benson Al , Yaghmai Vahid , Costa Ricardo L. B. , Zhou Haijun , Behdad Amir , Kaplan Jason B. , Sadim Maureen , Talamantes Sarah , Kalyan Aparna
Published: April 2018

Pancreatic cancer is the fourth most common cancer death in the United States despite comprising a small percentage of the total number of cancer cases. The estimated 5-year overall survival (OS) for patients with distant metastatic disease is approximately 3%. New treatment options are an unmet need and remain an area of active investigation. A 53-year-old male with metastatic pancreatic cancer presented to the hospital with acute-on-chronic respiratory failure approximately 24 hours after receiving a novel therapeutic combination. Chest imaging showed marked changes as concerning for pneumonitis. Infectious workup was negative. The patient had initial clinical improvement after receiving initial intravenous steroids and oxygen support but eventually deteriorated later opting for supportive measures only. With infection ruled out, drug-induced pneumonitis was felt to be the likely cause of the radiologic and clinical changes. The rapidity of onset of symptoms is the aspect being highlighted in this case.
Biochemical and Ultrastructural Cardiac Changes Induced by High-Fat Diet in Female and Male Prepubertal Rabbits
Authors: Sibouakaz Dina , Othmani-Mecif Khira , Fernane Amirouche , Taghlit Abdennour , Benazzoug Yasmina
Published: April 2018

Early weight gain induced by high-fat diet has been identified as a predictor for cardiac disease, one of the most serious public health problems. Our goal is to study the influence of a HFD on biochemical, oxidant stress parameters, and the cardiac ultrastructure in both male and female prepubertal models. Experiments were carried on 24 prepubertal New Zealand white rabbits, randomly assigned to male and female control (MC and FC, resp.) or HFD (MHFD and FHFD, resp.) groups (n=6) for 3 months. Body and heart weights and some biochemical and oxidative stress parameters such as lipids, calcium, CKMB, MDA, uric acid, ascorbic acid, and AOA are evaluated in plasma and the left ventricle. Under HFD effect, plasma parameters, such as lipids (TL, PL, and LDL-C), MDA, and CK-MB, increase more significantly in male than in female groups, when AA decreases. Some cardiac parameters such as TG and UA increase, when AA and AOA decrease; these variations are more significant in FHFD. In both male and female rabbits, HFD caused changes in heart ultrastructure, junctional complexes, mitochondria size and form, and so on. Early HFD feeding induced overweight, oxidative stress, and metabolic alterations in plasma and the heart of prepubertal rabbits, whereas lipotoxicity has especially a negative impact on male plasma but affects more the female heart ultrastructure.
Incidental Finding of the Anomalous Origin of Left Main Coronary Artery from Pulmonary Artery in an Adult Presenting with Arrhythmia-Induced Myocardial Ischemia
Authors: Patil Shantanu , Shah Mahek , Patel Brijesh , Garg Lohit , Jacobs Larry , Islam Nauman , Martinez Matthew
Published: April 2018

Anomalous origin of the left main coronary artery from the pulmonary artery (ALCAPA) is a rare congenital coronary anomaly with high mortality. It is associated with cardiovascular complications and is usually diagnosed soon after birth. Those who survive into adulthood can present with signs of myocardial infarction, heart failure, mitral regurgitation, severe pulmonary hypertension, or sudden cardiac death. We present a 53-year-old female presenting with atrial fibrillation and found to have an incidental diagnosis of ALCAPA who refused surgical correction. We also review the epidemiology, diagnosis, age-based clinical presentations, and treatment options for ALCAPA.
Depression and Associated Factors among Adult Inpatients at Public Hospitals of Harari Regional State, Eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Tilahun Haile , Awoke Nefsu , Geda Biftu , Mesfin Firehiwot
Published: April 2018

Introduction. Globally, depression is one of the three leading causes of disease and it will be the second leading cause of world disability by 2030. The prevalence of depression in Sub-Saharan Africa ranges from 15 to 30%. In Ethiopia, depression was found to be the seventh leading cause of disease burden and its prevalence has been increased in hospital compared to community setting because hospital environment itself is stressful. Yet, no study was done in Eastern Ethiopia, where substance use like Khat is very rampant. Objective. To assess depression and associated factors among adult inpatients at public hospitals of Harari Regional State, Eastern Ethiopia, from February 01 to 28, 2017. Methodology. Hospital based cross-sectional study design was employed on 492 admitted adult patients in Harari region hospitals. Consecutive sampling method was used to include study population. The data were collected by interviewee and analyzed by SPSS version 20.0. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were employed. p value of 0.05 or less was considered to be statistically significant. Result. A total of 489 patients were interviewed with response rate of 99.4%. Having duration of 1-2 weeks in the hospital [AOR = 2.02, 95% CI: (1.28, 3.19)], being diagnosed with chronic morbidity [AOR = 4.06, 95% CI: (2.23, 7.40)], being users of psychoactive drugs [AOR = 2.24, 95% CI: (1.18, 4.24)], and having been admitted to surgical ward [AOR = 0.50, 95% CI: (0.31, 0.81)] were significantly associated with depression. Conclusion and Recommendation. Prevalence of depression among admitted inpatients was high. Therefore, increasing the awareness of benefits of early diagnosis of patients to prevent major form of depression and strengthening the clinical set-up and establishing good referral linkage with mental health institutions was considered to be cost-effective method to reduce its prevalence.
Infectious Aortitis: A Life-Threatening Endovascular Complication of Nontyphoidal Salmonella Bacteremia
Authors: Hakim Seifeldin , Davila Francisco , Amin Mitual , Hader Ismail , Cappell Mitchell S.
Published: April 2018

A 65-year-old Japanese man living in the United States presented with pyrexia and chills associated with intermittent lower abdominal and back pain for 5 days. He denied recent travel, rash, diarrhea, or rectal bleeding. Physical examination revealed spiking pyrexia, and routine laboratory tests revealed mild leukocytosis and neutrophilia. Abdominal CT with contrast showed findings highly compatible with aortitis. Comprehensive autoimmune evaluation was negative. Salmonella enterica serotype Enteritidis was isolated from blood cultures. IV antibiotics were administered, but the patient continued to experience low-grade pyrexia and mild leukocytosis, and follow-up abdominal CT showed progressive aortic inflammation. The patient therefore underwent resection of the affected aortic segment with in-situ graft replacement and lifelong suppressive antibiotics. The patient is asymptomatic with no complications at 18 weeks of follow-up. This case report illustrates that patients with infectious aortitis from nontyphoidal Salmonella may (1) present with nonspecific and nonlocalizing symptoms and signs except for sepsis; (2) have diagnostic blood cultures and abdominal CT findings; and (3) typically require aggressive, prolonged IV antibiotic therapy and surgery for potential cure of this life-threatening infection.
Cardiovascular Risk Factors in a Suburban Community in Nigeria
Authors: Dokunmu Titilope Modupe , Yakubu Omolara Faith , Adebayo Abiodun Humphrey , Olasehinde Grace Iyabo , Chinedu Shalom Nwodo
Published: April 2018

The burden of hypertension, a silent killer, continues to increase in low- and middle-income countries. This study evaluated blood pressure (BP) in healthy adults to determine their risk of developing hypertension and to reduce associated morbidity of the disease. Overall, 182 subjects aged >16 years participated in the study. Systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) was measured after a resting period using mercury sphygmomanometer. Random blood glucose (RBG) concentration was also determined. Regression models were used to determine risk of high BP with p values < 0.05 indicating statistical difference. Prehypertension was present in 36.8% population and high BP in 31% individuals with hypertensive symptoms. DBP ≥ 90 mmHg was prevalent in the undiagnosed group, while diabetes comorbidity was detected in only 4 individuals. High BP or diabetes was not detected in those <20 year olds. Age > 35 years was an independent risk (likelihood ratio: 22.56, p<0.0001); this increases to 26.48 (p<0.0001) in the presence prediabetes and RBG > 100 mg/dl. Undiagnosed hypertension rate is high in the study area, and urgent interventions for large scale screening and management of the disease are required to reduce the burden of hypertension in Nigeria.
Hypermethylation of TRIM59 and KLF14 Influences Cell Death Signaling in Familial Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Wezyk Michalina , Spólnicka Magdalena , Pośpiech Ewelina , Pepłońska Beata , Zbieć-Piekarska Renata , Ilkowski Jan , Styczyńska Maria , Barczak Anna , Zboch Marzena , Filipek-Gliszczynska Anna , Skrzypczak Magdalena , Ginalski Krzysztof , Kabza Michał , Makałowska Izabela , Barcikowska-Kotowicz Maria , Branicki Wojciech , Żekanowski Cezary
Published: April 2018

Epigenetic mechanisms play an important role in the development and progression of various neurodegenerative diseases. Abnormal methylation of numerous genes responsible for regulation of transcription, DNA replication, and apoptosis has been linked to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathology. We have recently performed whole transcriptome profiling of familial early‐onset Alzheimer’s disease (fEOAD) patient‐derived fibroblasts. On this basis, we demonstrated a strong dysregulation of cell cycle checkpoints and DNA damage response (DDR) in both fibroblasts and reprogrammed neurons. Here, we show that the aging‐correlated hypermethylation of KLF14 and TRIM59 genes associates with abnormalities in DNA repair and cell cycle control in fEOAD. Based on the resulting transcriptome networks, we found that the hypermethylation of KLF14 might be associated with epigenetic regulation of the chromatin organization and mRNA processing followed by hypermethylation of TRIM59 likely associated with the G2/M cell cycle phase and p53 role in DNA repair with BRCA1 protein as the key player. We propose that the hypermethylation of KLF14 could constitute a superior epigenetic mechanism for TRIM59 hypermethylation. The methylation status of both genes affects genome stability and might contribute to proapoptotic signaling in AD. Since this study combines data obtained from various tissues from AD patients, it reinforces the view that the genetic methylation status in the blood may be a valuable predictor of molecular processes occurring in affected tissues. Further research is necessary to define a detailed role of TRIM59 and KLF4 in neurodegeneration of neurons.
Obesity Prevention: A Systematic Review of Setting-Based Interventions from Nordic Countries and the Netherlands
Authors: Panter Jacqueline , Tanggaard Andersen Pernille , Aro Arja R. , Samara Anastasia
Published: April 2018

Aim. Effective evidence-based interventions have an important role in obesity prevention. Our aim was to present a qualitative synthesis of setting-based health promotion interventions on obesity, from Nordic countries and the Netherlands. Methods. A systematic review of the literature was completed for studies in the community, schools, and worksite, with BMI as an outcome. A descriptive analysis was completed for all full-text articles meeting the inclusion criteria. Results. Thirty-three articles were identified: 7 whole of community, 3 worksite, and 23 school-based interventions. The studies were largely quasiexperimental in design (21/33), with follow-up from 4 months to 8 years. The explicit use of theory was not featured in many of the studies (20/33). No consistent direction for BMI change could be identified in the whole of community interventions (2/7 positive, 2/7 negative, and 3/7 no effect) and no effect for worksite (3/3 no effect) or many of the school-based interventions (1/23 negative, 4/23 positive, 15/23 no effect, 1/23 BMI significant increase only for control group and 3/23 no data available). Conclusions. There is a need to prioritise interventions with study designs of high quality, theory, and a participatory approach, for optimal implementation and evaluation of obesity prevention interventions.
Tectona grandis Capped Silver-Nanoparticle Material Effects on Microbial Strains Inducing Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion
Authors: Okeniyi Joshua Olusegun , Popoola Abimbola Patricia Idowu , Ojewumi Modupe Elizabeth , Okeniyi Elizabeth Toyin , Ikotun Jacob Olumuyiwa
Published: April 2018

This paper investigates Tectona grandis capped silver nanoparticle material effects on the microbial strains inducing microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC) of metals. Leaf-extract from Tectona grandis natural plant was used as a precursor for the synthesis of silver-nanoparticle material, which was characterised by a scanning electron microscopy having Energy Dispersion Spectroscopy (SEM + EDS) facility. Sensitivity and resistance studies by the synthesized Tectona grandis capped silver nanoparticle material on three Gram-positive and three Gram-negative, thus totalling six, MIC inducing microbial strains were then studied and compared with what was obtained from a control antibiotic chemical. Results showed that all the microbial strains studied were sensitive to the Tectona grandis capped silver nanoparticle materials whereas two strains of microbes, a Gram-positive and a Gram-negative strain, were resistant to the commercial antibiotic chemical. These results suggest positive prospects on Tectona grandis capped silver nanoparticle usage in corrosion control/protection applications on metallic materials for the microbial corrosion environment.
Potential Synergies ofβ-Hydroxybutyrate and Butyrate on the Modulation of Metabolism, Inflammation, Cognition, and General Health
Authors: Cavaleri Franco , Bashar Emran
Published: April 2018

The low-carbohydrate high-fat diet (LCHFD), also known as the ketogenic diet, has cycled in and out of popularity for decades as a therapeutic program to treat metabolic syndrome, weight mismanagement, and drug-resistant disorders as complex as epilepsy, cancer, dementia, and depression. Despite the benefits of this diet, health care professionals still question its safety due to the elevated serum ketones it induces and the limited dietary fiber. To compound the controversy, patient compliance with the program is poor due to the restrictive nature of the diet and symptoms related to energy deficit and gastrointestinal adversity during the introductory and energy substrate transition phase of the diet. The studies presented here demonstrate safety and efficacy of the diet including the scientific support and rationale for the administration of exogenous ketone bodies and ketone sources as a complement to the restrictive dietary protocol or as an alternative to the diet. This review also highlights the synergy provided by exogenous ketone,β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), accompanied by the short chain fatty acid, butyrate (BA) in the context of cellular and physiological outcomes. More work is needed to unveil the molecular mechanisms by which this program provides health benefits.
An Analytical and Approximate Solution for Nonlinear Volterra Partial Integro-Differential Equations with a Weakly Singular Kernel Using the Fractional Differential Transform Method
Authors: Ghoochani-Shirvan Rezvan , Saberi-Nadjafi Jafar , Gachpazan Morteza
Published: April 2018

An analytical-approximate method is proposed for a type of nonlinear Volterra partial integro-differential equations with a weakly singular kernel. This method is based on the fractional differential transform method (FDTM). The approximate solutions of these equations are calculated in the form of a finite series with easily computable terms. The analytic solution is represented by an infinite series. We state and prove a theorem regarding an integral equation with a weak kernel by using the fractional differential transform method. The result of the theorem will be used to solve a weakly singular Volterra integral equation later on.
Remarkable Presentation: Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma Arising from Chronic Hyperthyroidism
Authors: Zalzal Habib G. , Chung Jeffson , Perini Jessica A.
Published: April 2018

Background. Undifferentiated anaplastic carcinoma rarely develops from chronic hyperthyroidism. Although acute hyperthyroidism can develop prior to anaplastic transformation, chronic hyperthyroidism was thought to be a protective measure against thyroid malignancy. Methods. A 79-year-old female presented acutely to the hospital with dyspnea. She had been taking methimazole for chronic hyperthyroidism due to toxic thyroid nodules, previously biopsied as benign. Upon admission, imaging showed tracheal compression, requiring a total thyroidectomy with tracheostomy for airway management. Results. Pathology demonstrated undifferentiated anaplastic thyroid carcinoma. The patient passed away shortly after hospital discharge. Despite treatment with methimazole for many years, abrupt enlargement of her toxic multinodular goiter was consistent with malignant transformation. Chronic hyperthyroidism and toxic nodules are rarely associated with thyroid malignancy, with only one previous report documenting association with anaplastic thyroid carcinoma. Conclusion. Progressive thyroid enlargement and acute worsening of previously controlled hyperthyroidism should promote concern for disease regardless of baseline thyroid function.
Therapeutic Effects of Medicinal Plants on Cutaneous Wound Healing in Humans: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lordani Tarcisio Vitor Augusto , de Lara Celia Eliane , Ferreira Fabiana Borges Padilha , de Souza Terron Monich Mariana , Mesquita da Silva Claudinei , Felicetti Lordani Claudia Regina , Giacomini Bueno Fernanda , Vieira Teixeira Jorge Juarez , Lonardoni Maria Valdrinez Campana
Published: April 2018

The pharmaceutical industry has made great strides in providing drugs that are able to stimulate the healing process, but only 1–3% of all drugs that are listed in Western pharmacopoeias are intended for use on the skin or cutaneous wounds. Of these, at least one-third are obtained from plants. We sought to review the therapeutic effects of medicinal plants on human skin lesions. For this systematic review, we searched the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases to identify clinical trials that were published from 1997 to 2017. We reviewed studies that described the use of medicinal plants for the treatment of skin lesions in humans. Ten studies were selected, eight of which were published from 2007 to 2016, with a total of 503 patients. Among the plant species that were used for the treatment of human skin lesions, 12 belonged to 11 families and were included in the analysis. All of the plant species that were studied presented high therapeutic potential for the treatment of cutaneous lesions.
Reconstruction of Acute Patellar Tendon Rupture after Patellectomy
Authors: Fujimura Kenjiro , Sakuraba Koji , Kamura Satoshi , Miyazaki Kiyoshi , Kobara Nobuo , Terada Kazumasa , Miyahara Hisaaki
Published: April 2018

Acute rupture of the knee extensor mechanism after patellectomy is extremely rare. We present the case of a patient with acute patellar tendon rupture who had undergone patellectomy 53 years before. Twelve days after the injury, the ruptured patellar tendon was repaired with end-to-end suture. Postoperatively, we splinted the knee for 6 weeks but permitted the patient to walk without limiting weight bearing at 1 week postoperatively. At one-year follow-up, the patient is able to move his knee almost full range of motion and the Lysholm knee score is 81. The patient is satisfied with the outcome. This is the first report to treat acute rupture of the patellar tendon in a patient who had undergone patellectomy. Although careful rehabilitation is required, end-to-end suture might be an adequate surgical procedure for acute rupture of the knee extensor mechanism after patellectomy.