bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation of Galla Chinensis Oral Solution as well as Its Stability, Safety, and Antidiarrheal Activity Evaluation
Authors: Yang Yi , Luo Huihui , Song Xu , Yu Li , Xie Juan , Yang Jiajie , Jia Renyong , Lin Juchun , Zou Yuanfeng , Li Lixia , Yin Lizi , He Changliang , Liang Xiaoxia , Yue Guizhou , Yin Zhongqiong
Published: July 2017

Background of the Study. As a widely used traditional medicine, Galla Chinensis is rich in tannins. However, there are few detailed studies about pharmaceutical preparations of Galla Chinensis tannin extract (GTE). In the present experiments, for better application and to investigate the possibility that Galla Chinensis tannin extract can be used as an antidiarrheal drug, we prepared Galla Chinensis oral solution (GOS). Materials and Methods. GOS was prepared with GTE, and its physicochemical and microbiological stability was evaluated. The oral acute toxicity of GOS was calculated by the 50% lethal dose (LD50). The antidiarrheal activity was determined in a castor oil‐induced diarrhea model in mice through diarrhea symptoms, fluid accumulation ratio, and percentage of distance moved by charcoal meal. Results. The tannin content of GTE was 47.75%. GOS could endure a high temperature without a significant decrease of tannin content. After storage for six months, the tannin content of GOS was still more than 90%. GOS was determined to be nontoxic. Meanwhile, GOS showed significant antidiarrheal activity in a castor oil‐induced diarrhea model in mice (P < 0.01). Conclusion. The results suggested that GOS is an effective and stable antidiarrheal drug that can be used to complement other therapies.
Gas Seepage along the Edge of the Aquitaine Shelf (France): Origin and Local Fluxes
Authors: Ruffine Livio , Donval Jean-Pierre , Croguennec Claire , Bignon Laurent , Birot Dominique , Battani Anne , Bayon Germain , Caprais Jean-Claude , Lantéri Nadine , Levaché Denis , Dupré Stéphanie
Published: July 2017

During the scientific expedition GAZCOGNE2 at the Bay of Biscay nine gas seeps were sampled for the first time and their flux was measured using an in situ pressure-preservation sampler (PEGAZ, ©IFREMER). Overall, three sites were investigated to determine the nature and the origin of the gases bubbling at the seafloor and forming acoustic plumes into the water column, as this was the question raised from the first geologic study of the area. This has guided our study and accordingly corresponds to the main purpose of the present article. Thus, the molecular and isotopic (δD and δ13C) analyses revealed that the gas seeps were primarily composed of methane. Both methane and ethane are of microbial origin, and the former has been generated by microbial reduction of carbon dioxide. Heavier hydrocarbons accounted for less than 0.06% mol of the total amount. Despite the microbial origin of methane, the samples exhibit subtle differences with respect to the δ13CCH4 values, which varied between −72.7 and −66.1‰. It has been suggested that such a discrepancy was predominantly governed by the occurrence of anaerobic methane oxidation. The PEGAZ sampler also enabled us to estimate the local gas fluxes from the sampled streams. The resulting values are extremely heterogeneous between seeps, ranging from 35 to 368 mLn·min−1. Assuming a steady discharge, the mean calculated methane emission for the nine seeps is of 38 kmol·yr−1. Considering the extent of the seep area, this very local estimate suggests that the Aquitaine Shelf is a very appropriate place to study methane discharge and its fate on continental shelves.
Anti‐Inflammatory Effect of Piper attenuatum Methanol Extract in LPS‐Stimulated Inflammatory Responses
Authors: Kim You Jin , Deok Jeong , Kim Sunggyu , Yoon Deok Hyo , Sung Gi-Ho , Aravinthan Adithan , Lee Seungihm , Lee Mi-nam , Hong Suntaek , Kim Jong-Hoon , Son Young-Jin , Cho Jae Youl
Published: July 2017

Piper attenuatum is used as a traditional medicinal plant in India. One of the substances in P. attenuatum has been suggested to have anti‐inflammatory effects. However, there is insufficient research about the anti‐inflammatory mechanisms of action of P. attenuatum. The effects of P. attenuatum methanol extract (Pa‐ME) on the production of inflammatory mediators nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), the expression of proinflammatory genes, the translocation level of transcription factors, and intracellular signaling activities were investigated using macrophages. Pa‐ME suppressed the production of NO and PGE2 in lipopolysaccharide‐ (LPS‐), pam3CSK4‐, and poly(I:C)‐stimulated RAW264.7 cells without displaying cytotoxicity. The mRNA expression levels of inducible NO synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX‐2) were decreased by Pa‐ME. P‐ME reduced the translocation of p50/NF‐κB and AP‐1 (c‐Jun and c‐Fos), as well as the activity of their upstream enzymes Src, Syk, and TAK1. Immunoprecipitation analysis showed failure of binding between their substrates, phospho‐ (p‐) p85 and p‐MKK3/6. p‐p85 and p‐MKK3/6, which were induced by overexpression of Src, Syk, and TAK1, were also reduced by Pa‐ME. Therefore, these results suggest that Pa‐ME exerts its anti‐inflammatory effects by targeting Src and Syk in the NF‐κB signaling pathway and TAK1 in the AP‐1 signaling pathway.
A Real-Time Taxicab Recommendation System Using Big Trajectories Data
Authors: Chen Pengpeng , Lv Hongjin , Gao Shouwan , Niu Qiang , Xia Shixiong
Published: July 2017

Carpooling is becoming a more and more significant traffic choice, because it can provide additional service options, ease traffic congestion, and reduce total vehicle exhaust emissions. Although some recommendation systems have proposed taxicab carpooling services recently, they cannot fully utilize and understand the known information and essence of carpooling. This study proposes a novel recommendation algorithm, which provides either a vacant or an occupied taxicab in response to a passenger’s request, called VOT. VOT recommends the closest vacant taxicab to passengers. Otherwise, VOT infers destinations of occupied taxicabs by similarity comparison and clustering algorithms and then recommends the occupied taxicab heading to a close destination to passengers. Using an efficient large data-processing framework, Spark, we greatly improve the efficiency of large data processing. This study evaluates VOT with a real-world dataset that contains 14747 taxicabs’ GPS data. Results show that the ratio of range (between forecasted and actual destinations) of less than 900 M can reach 90.29%. The total mileage to deliver all passengers is significantly reduced (47.84% on average). Specifically, the reduced total mileage of nonrush hours outperforms other systems by 35%. VOT and others have similar performances in actual detour ratio, even better in rush hours.
TiO2 Nanotubes with Different Ag Loading to Enhance Visible-Light Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Le Thi Ngoc Tu , Ton Nu Quynh Trang , Tran Van Man , Dang Nam Nguyen , Vu Thi Hanh Thu
Published: July 2017

An improved photocatalytic activity of semiconductor materials using incorporation of the noble metals such as Ag, Au, and Pt is a promising technology. In this study, Ag nanoparticle-TiO2 nanotube structures (Ag-TNTs) have been investigated as a photocatalyst in different irradiation conditions using different characterization techniques. The results indicate that Ag nanoparticles dispersed uniformly on the TNTs’ surface without any change in TNTs’ morphology. In addition, Ag-TNTs exhibited lower photoactivity than the TNTs under UV irradiation. In contrast, Ag-TNTs increased the photoactivity in comparison with TNTs and the photocatalytic performance under sunlight irradiation. These phenomena could be contributed to the appearance of Ag nanoparticles on the nanotube surface.
Bioactive Potential of 3D-Printed Oleo-Gum-Resin Disks:B. papyrifera,C. myrrha, andS. benzoinLoading Nanooxides—TiO2, P25, Cu2O, and MoO3
Authors: Horst Diogo José , Tebcherani Sergio Mazurek , Kubaski Evaldo Toniolo , de Almeida Vieira Rogério
Published: July 2017

This experimental study investigates the bioactive potential of filaments produced via hot melt extrusion (HME) and intended for fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing purposes. The oleo-gum-resins from benzoin, myrrha, and olibanum in pure state and also charged with 10% of metal oxide nanoparticles, TiO2, P25, Cu2O, and MoO3, were characterized by ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis (EDXMA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Disks were 3D-printed into model geometries (10 × 5 mm) and the disk-diffusion methodology was used for the evaluation of antimicrobial and antifungal activity of materials in study against the clinical isolates:Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, andCandida albicans. Due to their intrinsic properties, disks containing resins in pure state mostly prevent surface-associated growth; meanwhile, disks loaded with 10% oxides prevent planktonic growth of microorganisms in the susceptibility assay. The microscopy analysis showed that part of nanoparticles was encapsulated by the biopolymeric matrix of resins, in most cases remaining disorderly dispersed over the surface of resins. Thermal analysis shows that plant resins have peculiar characteristics, with a thermal behavior similar to commercial available semicrystalline polymers, although their structure consists of a mix of organic compounds.
Interaction of Solid Lipid Nanoparticles and Specific Proteins of the Corona Studied by Surface Plasmon Resonance
Authors: Di Ianni Mauricio E. , Islan Germán A. , Chain Cecilia Y. , Castro Guillermo R. , Talevi Alan , Vela María E.
Published: July 2017

The applications of pharmaceutical and medical nanosystems are among the most intensively investigated fields in nanotechnology. A relevant point to be considered in the design and development of nanovehicles intended for medical use is the formation of the “protein corona” around the nanoparticle, that is, a complex biomolecular layer formed when the nanovehicle is exposed to biological fluids. The chemical nature of the protein corona determines the biological identity of the nanoparticle and influences, among others, the recognition of the nanocarrier by the mononuclear phagocytic system and, thus, its clearance from the blood. Recent works suggest that Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR), extensively employed for the analysis of biomolecular interactions, can shed light on the formation of the protein corona and its interaction with the surroundings. The synthesis and characterization of solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) coated with polymers of different chemical nature (e.g., polyvinyl alcohol, chitosans) are reported. The proof-of-concept for the use of SPR technique in characterizing protein-nanoparticle interactions of surface-immobilized proteins (immunoglobulin G and bovine serum albumin, both involved in the formation of the corona) subjected to flowing SLN is demonstrated for non-chitosan-coated nanoparticles. All assayed nanosystems show more preference for IgG than for BSA, such preference being more pronounced in the case of polyvinyl-alcohol-coated SLN.
Nonvitamin, Nonmineral Dietary Supplement Use among Adults with Fibromyalgia: United States, 2007–2012
Authors: Feinberg Termeh , Lilly Christa , Innes Kim
Published: July 2017

Background. Fibromyalgia (FMS) is a pain condition affecting 2–6% of US adults; effective treatment remains limited. Determinants of nonvitamin, nonmineral dietary supplement (NVNM) use among adults with FMS are not well‐studied. We investigated the relation of NVNM use to FMS, and trends, in two nationally representative samples of US adults ≥18 years. Methods. Data were drawn from 2007 and 2012 National Health Interview Surveys (N’s = 20127 and 30672, resp.). Logistic regression was used to examine associations of FMS to NVNM use (past 12 months) and evaluate potential modifying influences of gender and comorbidities. Multivariate models adjusted for sampling design, demographic, lifestyle, and health‐related factors. Results. FMS was significantly higher in 2012 than in 2007 (1.7% versus 1.3%), whereas NVNM use decreased (57% versus 41%; p < 0.0001). Adults reporting diagnosis were more likely to use NVNMs within 12 months, 30 days, or ever relative to adults without; positive associations remained significant after controlling for demographics, lifestyle characteristics, medical history, and other confounders (ranges: 2007 and 2012 AORs = 2.3–2.7; 1.5–1.6, resp.; p’s < 0.0001). Conclusion. In this cross‐sectional study of two national samples, NVNM use was strongly and positively associated with FMS, highlighting the need for further study.
5G-VRSec: Secure Video Reporting Service in 5G Enabled Vehicular Networks
Authors: Yoo Sang Guun
Published: July 2017

Despite an imminent arrival of the 5G communication technology, there are only a few research works done using such technology in the field of vehicular networks. One of the pioneers in proposing a service for 5G enabled vehicular networks is the Eiza-Ni-Shi Scheme. In such scheme, the authors present an innovative system model for 5G vehicular networks that enables a secure real-time video reporting service with privacy awareness. Even though the proposed service is very important since it aims to improve the road safety, it cannot be considered secure enough. This work found that the scheme has serious security flaws and functionality limitations. First, it is vulnerable to Department of Motor Vehicles and Law Enforcement Agency impersonation attacks, it allows forged video upload, there is no separation of responsibilities between Law Enforcement Agency and trusted authority, and it is susceptible to privileged insider attack. In addition, it does not contemplate the management of multiple geographic/administrative regions (multiple trusted authorities) which is important in real implementations. In this situation, the present work proposes an extended scheme that eliminates the identified security flaws and implements new features that make the implementation across several geographic/administrative regions possible.
Resource Allocation in Heterogeneous Buffered Cognitive Radio Networks
Authors: Awoyemi B. S. , Maharaj B. T. , Alfa A. S.
Published: July 2017

Resources available for operation in cognitive radio networks (CRN) are generally limited, making it imperative for efficient resource allocation (RA) models to be designed for them. However, in most RA designs, a significant limiting factor to the RA’s productivity has hitherto been mostly ignored, the fact that different users or user categories do have different delay tolerance profiles. To address this, in this paper, an appropriate RA model for heterogeneous CRN with delay considerations is developed and analysed. In the model, the demands of users are first categorised and then, based on the distances of users from the controlling secondary user base station and with the assumption that the users are mobile, the user demands are placed in different queues having different service capacities and the resulting network is analysed using queueing theory. Furthermore, to achieve optimality in the RA process, an important concept is introduced whereby some demands from one queue are moved to another queue where they have a better chance of enhanced service, thereby giving rise to the possibility of an improvement in the overall performance of the network. The performance results obtained from the analysis, particularly the blocking probability and network throughput, show that the queueing model incorporated into the RA process can help in achieving optimality for the heterogeneous CRN with buffered data.
Recurrent Wheezing and Cough Caused by Double Aortic Arch, Not Asthma
Authors: Zhang Qiao , Fu Zhou , Dai Jihong , Geng Gang , Fu Wenlong , Tian Daiyin
Published: July 2017

Introduction. Double aortic arch is a congenital vascular abnormality in which the connected segments and their branches course between and compress the trachea and esophagus, often resulting in invariable airway compression. Case Presentation. A 4-year-old boy with a history of recurrent wheezing was admitted to our hospital for evaluation of asthma based on his past medical history, persistent cough, wheezing, and airway hyperresponsiveness by lung function test. Double aortic arch was diagnosed with computed tomography angiogram. After surgery, the respiratory infection improved strikingly. Early diagnosis and treatment may prevent chronic, irreversible complications. Conclusion. We present a case of double aortic arch masquerading as asthma.
Surgical Hip Dislocation for Management of Acetabular Osteochondroma in an Adult
Authors: Nehme Alexandre H. , Haidamous Georges F. , Abdelnour Hicham G. , BouMounsif Jad N. , Wehbe Joseph W. , Moucharafieh Ramzi C.
Published: July 2017

The purpose of this study is to report a rare case of acetabular osteochondroma with a unique clinical presentation occurring in an adult with normally developed hips. The distinctive size and location of the lesion required an open approach with surgical dislocation of the hip for complete resection.
Ambición
Authors: Mandiola Marcela
Published: July 2017

(ver video)La ‘ambición’ como punto nodal del amplio discurso de los negocios y la práctica del mercado, legitima y sostiene prácticas grupales e individuales que pueden ser consideradas contradictorias. Esta contradicción surge porque se promueven conductas y acciones que redundarían en prácticas perjudiciales para la sociedad. La ambición está anclada a una serie de supuestos que la significan del mismo modo que articulan el discurso neoliberal, su correspondiente sociedad de mercado e incluso forman parte relevante de los contenidos producidos y reproducidos por la educación en negocios. Este artículo enfatiza el rol de la educación en negocios en la construcción de la ambición, plantea la necesidad de problematizar esta práctica y de develar sus claroscuros.
SGLT-2 Inhibition: A Potential New Treatment for Diabetic Kidney Disease?
Authors: Toto Robert D.
Published: July 2017

Diabetic nephropathy is the leading cause of kidney failure. Treatments with drugs that block the renin-angiotensin system have proven beneficial in slowing kidney disease progression among those with diabetes; their benefit is limited and they do not stop disease progression. Despite multiple clinical trials of various interventions including dual blockade of the renin-angiotensin system over the past 15 years, no new therapies have emerged to slow kidney disease progression in diabetes. SGLT-2 inhibitors are a new class of antiglycemic drugs that have been shown to lower blood glucose by inhibition of the sodium-glucose transporter 2 in the proximal tubule of the kidney. Several of these inhibitors have been marketed for treatment of hyperglycemia in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. In a recent double-blind randomized and placebo-controlled trial of cardiovascular outcomes, an SGLT-2 inhibitor-based intervention using empagliflozin was shown to be superior to placebo-based regimen for reducing the risk of major cardiovascular events among people with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease. In a pre-specified secondary analysis of renal outcomes from this trial, Wanner et al. [N Engl J Med 2016;375:323-334] recently reported that empagliflozin administration was also associated with significant reductions in the progression of kidney disease including the rate of decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), progression of albuminuria and initiation of renal replacement therapy. While the results of this trial are striking and impressive, the majority of those enrolled in the trial did not have evidence of diabetic kidney disease as assessed by eGFR or albuminuria. Thus, whether or not they represent a breakthrough in the treatment of diabetic nephropathy remains to be determined. Several ongoing clinical trials are in the planning stages to evaluate SGLT-2 inhibition in a population of patients with overt kidney disease. These trials will help to substantiate, or not, the potential for this class of drugs to be added to the armamentarium of therapeutic strategies to prevent progression of kidney disease in diabetes.
A Rare Presentation of Immunoglobulin A Nephropathy: Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Oruc Meric , Durak Haydar , Yalin Serkan Feyyaz , Seyahi Nurhan , Altıparmak Mehmet Rıza , Trabulus Sinan
Published: July 2017

Background: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is known as an uncommon presentation in immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN). The aim of our study was to analyze the clinical data and biopsy findings in IgAN patients presenting with AKI. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of all subjects who had biopsy-proven IgAN and presented with AKI during June 2002 September 2015. The following data were obtained from medical records. Results: A total of 15 patients of 123 patients (12.2%) with primary IgAN admitted with AKI. Patients were generally male (73.3%), with a median age of 38 (interquartile range; IQR, 2,944) years. The serum creatinine at admission was above the normal range (median 2.3 [IQR, 2.14.7] mg/dL]). On histology, cellular/fibrocellular crescents were present in 6 patients. In most cases (53.3%), pathologic abnormalities associated with acute tubular injury/necrosis were defined. Red blood cell casts in tubules were present in 6 cases (40%). In all cases, interstitial mixed inflammatory cell infiltration was observed. In 4 cases, admixed eosinophils were also found. In 3 patients, biopsy specimens showed acute thrombotic microangiopathy lesions (20%). Median follow-up time was 13 (IQR, 346) months. Six patients (40%) progressed to end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Among patients diagnosed with primary IgAN and presenting without AKI, only 4 patients progressed to ESRD. The proportion of patients who progressed to ESRD presenting with AKI was significantly higher than the patients presenting without AKI (p = 0.000). Conclusions: In conclusion, AKI complicates IgAN more often.
Pigmented Epithelioid Melanocytoma of the Cheek, Orbit, and Intracranial Cavity: A Case Report
Authors: Johnson Erik R. , Korchak Michael E. , Goodglick Todd A. , Johal Jasbir S. , Dufresne Craig R. , Sabet Sina J.
Published: July 2017

Pigmented epithelioid melanocytoma (PEM) of the skin has been rarely reported in ophthalmology. The purpose of this case report is to present a young male born with a progressive, hyperpigmented lesion involving the orbit and intracranial cavity diagnosed as PEM. The case is unique given the young age and the size, multifocality, and growth of this tumor. Identification of this lesion is paramount due to its low-grade malignant potential.
Disappearance of Bone Marrow Fibrosis in a Patient with Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Treated with Dasatinib
Authors: Vigna Ernesto , Martino Bruno , Bacci Francesco , Recchia Anna Grazia , Mendicino Francesco , Morelli Rosellina , Mauro Francesca Romana , Musolino Caterina , Greco Rosa , Lucia Eugenio , Sabattini Elena , Morabito Fortunato , Gentile Massimo
Published: July 2017

We report a case of a chronic myeloid leukemia patient showing progressive bone marrow fibrosis and anemia during imatinib therapy. Given the loss of major molecular response, we switched treatment to dasatinib 100 mg daily, observing a reduction in BCR-ABL transcript, a significant improvement of anemia, and a gradual disappearance of fibrosis. After 7 years of dasatinib therapy the patient maintains a complete cytogenetic response and a deep molecular response; the last bone biopsy confirmed the absence of fibrosis.
The Role of Tumoral FOXP3 on Cell Proliferation, Migration, and Invasion in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Zhang Lu , Xu Jianghao , Zhang Xuan , Zhang Yi , Wang Lu , Huang Xiaoxu , Xu Zekuan
Published: July 2017

Background/Aims: There is little published data on the role of FOXP3 in gastric cancer. Methods: FOXP3 expression and localization in gastric cancer tissues and cells were examined by immunohistochemistry, RT-PCR, flow cytometry, western blot, and laser confocal microscopy. CCK8, plate clone, wound healing, and transwell insert assays were performed for gastric cancer cells. Potential molecules and signaling pathways were screened using high-throughput transcriptome sequencing. Results: FOXP3 expression in gastric cancer tissues was higher than that in para-carcinoma tissues. It was restricted to the cytoplasm of para-carcinoma tissues, but was observed in the cytoplasm or/and nuclei of gastric cancer tissues. FOXP3 expression was positively correlated with pathological grading, and was detected in gastric cancer and GES-1 cells, where it was expressed in the cytoplasm alone, or in both the cytoplasm and the nucleus. FOXP3 overexpression promoted cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, while FOXP3 knockdown suppressed these effects. Furthermore, RT-PCR and ELISA confirmed that FOXP3 upregulation resulted in increased TGF-β expression and secretion in gastric cancer cells. Conclusion: FOXP3 expression was associated with degree of gastric cancer differentiation. In addition, upregulated and ectopic tumoral FOXP3 can promote gastric cancer proliferation, migration, and invasion, partly through the TGF-β pathway.
Hypertension and VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor) Receptor Tyrosine Kinase Inhibition
Authors: Boursiquot Brian C. , Zabor Emily C. , Glezerman Ilya G. , Jaimes Edgar A.
Published: July 2017

VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors have become first-line therapy for metastatic renal cell carcinoma. Their use commonly leads to hypertension, but their effects on long-term renal function are not known. In addition, it has been suggested that the development of hypertension is linked to treatment efficacy. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of these drugs on long-term renal function, especially in those with renal dysfunction at baseline, and to examine the role of hypertension on these effects. Serum creatinine measurements were used to calculate the estimated glomerular filtration rate for 130 renal cell carcinoma patients who were treated with this class of tyrosine kinase inhibitors. New or worsening hypertension was defined by documented start or addition of antihypertensive medications. Overall, the use of tyrosine kinase inhibitors in patients with estimated glomerular filtration <60 or ≥60 mL/min per 1.73 m
2
was not associated with a decline in long-term renal function. During follow-up, 41 patients developed new or worsening hypertension within 30 days from first drug administration, and this was not linked to further reductions in glomerular filtration. These patients seemed to survive longer than those who did not develop hypertension within 30 days, although this was not statistically significant (
P
=0.07). Our findings suggest that the use of VEGF tyrosine kinase inhibitors does not adversely affect long-term renal function even in the setting of new-onset hypertension or reduced renal function at baseline.
Office Pulse Pressure Is a Predictor of Favorable Outcome in Young- to Middle-Aged Subjects With Stage 1 Hypertension
Authors: Saladini Francesca , Fania Claudio , Mos Lucio , Mazzer Adriano , Casiglia Edoardo , Palatini Paolo
Published: July 2017

The role of pulse pressure in young individuals remains controversial. The aim of the present study was to investigate the clinical significance of elevated pulse pressure in young- to middle-aged subjects screened for stage 1 hypertension. We examined 1241 subjects (mean age, 33.1±8.4 years) from the HARVEST (Hypertension Ambulatory Recording Venetia Study), during a median follow-up of 12.1 years. To evaluate the predictive value of pulse pressure and mean blood pressure for future hypertension needing treatment and for cardiovascular events, participants were grouped into pressure tertiles. Significant determinants of pulse pressure were male sex (
P
=0.029), younger age (
P
<0.001), physical activity (
P
=0.003), heart rate (
P
<0.001), systolic white-coat effect (
P
<0.001), and stroke volume (n=829;
P
<0.001). During follow-up, 65.1% of participants developed hypertension requiring pharmacological treatment and 5.1% experienced a cardiovascular event. Participants in the highest pulse pressure tertile had a reduced risk of incident hypertension compared with those of the bottom tertile (hazard ratio, 0.75; 95% confidence interval, 0.62–0.91;
P
=0.003). In contrast, participants in the top mean blood pressure tertile had an increase in risk (1.91; 1.57–2.33;
P
<0.001). In addition, participants in the highest pulse pressure tertile had a reduced risk of cardiovascular events (0.35; 0.17–0.73;
P
=0.005) and those in the top mean blood pressure tertile had an increase in risk (3.06; 1.32–7.09;
P
=0.009). Our data show that in subjects <45 years, only mean blood pressure is a predictor of adverse outcome whereas high pulse pressure even carries a reduced risk.
MicroRNA-210 Targets Ten-Eleven Translocation Methylcytosine Dioxygenase 1 and Suppresses Pregnancy-Mediated Adaptation of Large Conductance Ca
2+
-Activated K
+
Channel Expression and Function in Ovine Uterine Arteries
Authors: Hu Xiang-Qun , Dasgupta Chiranjib , Xiao Daliao , Huang Xiaohui , Yang Shumei , Zhang Lubo
Published: July 2017

Gestational hypoxia inhibits large conductance Ca
2+
-activated K
+
(BK
Ca
) channel expression and function in uterine arterial adaptation to pregnancy. Given the findings that microRNA-210 (miR-210) is increased in hypoxia during gestation and preeclampsia, the present study sought to investigate the role of miR-210 in the regulation of BK
Ca
channel adaptation in the uterine artery. Gestational hypoxia significantly increased uterine vascular resistance and blood pressure in pregnant sheep and upregulated miR-210 in uterine arteries. MiR-210 bound to ovine ten-eleven translocation methylcytosine dioxygenase 1 mRNA 3′ untranslated region and decreased ten-eleven translocation methylcytosine dioxygenase 1 mRNA and protein abundance in uterine arteries of pregnant sheep, as well as abrogated steroid hormone–induced upregulation of ten-eleven translocation methylcytosine dioxygenase 1 expression in uterine arteries of nonpregnant animals. In accordance, miR-210 blocked pregnancy- and steroid hormone–induced upregulation of BK
Ca
channel β1 subunit expression in uterine arteries. Functionally, miR-210 suppressed BK
Ca
channel current density in uterine arterial myocytes of pregnant sheep and inhibited steroid hormone–induced increases in BK
Ca
channel currents in uterine arteries of nonpregnant animals. Blockade of endogenous miR-210 inhibited hypoxia-induced suppression of BK
Ca
channel activity. In addition, miR-210 decreased BK
Ca
channel–mediated relaxations and increased pressure-dependent myogenic tone of uterine arteries. Together, the results demonstrate that miR-210 plays an important role in the downregulation of ten-eleven translocation methylcytosine dioxygenase 1 and repression of BK
Ca
channel function in uterine arteries, revealing a novel mechanism of epigenetic regulation in the maladaptation of uterine hemodynamics in gestational hypoxia and preeclampsia.
Influence of Renal Impairment on Outcome for Thrombolysis-Treated Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Carr Susan J. , Wang Xia , Olavarria Veronica V. , Lavados Pablo M. , Rodriguez Jorge A. , Kim Jong S. , Lee Tsong-Hai , Lindley Richard I. , Pontes-Neto Octavio M. , Ricci Stefano , Sato Shoichiro , Sharma Vijay K. , Woodward Mark , Chalmers John , Anderson Craig S. , Robinson Thompson G.
Published: July 2017

Background and Purpose—

Renal dysfunction (RD) is associated with poor prognosis after stroke. We assessed the effects of RD on outcomes and interaction with low- versus standard-dose alteplase in a post hoc subgroup analysis of the ENCHANTED (Enhanced Control of Hypertension and Thrombolysis Stroke Study).

Methods—

A total of 3220 thrombolysis-eligible patients with acute ischemic stroke (mean age, 66.5 years; 37.8% women) were randomly assigned to low-dose (0.6 mg/kg) or standard-dose (0.9 mg/kg) intravenous alteplase within 4.5 hours of symptom onset. Six hundred and fifty-nine (19.8%) patients had moderate-to-severe RD (estimated glomerular filtration rate, <60 mL/min per 1.73 m
2
) at baseline. The impact of RD on death or disability (modified Rankin Scale scores, 2–6) at 90 days, and symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage, was assessed in logistic regression models.

Results—

Compared with patients with normal renal function (>90 mL/min per 1.73 m
2
), those with severe RD (<30 mL/min per 1.73 m
2
) had increased mortality (adjusted odds ratio, 2.07; 95% confidence interval, 0.89–4.82;
P
=0.04 for trend); every 10 mL/min per 1.73 m
2
lower estimated glomerular filtration rate was associated with an adjusted 9% increased odds of death from thrombolysis-treated acute ischemic stroke. There was no significant association with modified Rankin Scale scores 2 to 6 (adjusted odds ratio, 1.03; 95% confidence interval, 0.62–1.70;
P
=0.81 for trend), modified Rankin Scale 3 to 6 (adjusted odds ratio, 1.20; 95% confidence interval, 0.72–2.01;
P
=0.44 for trend), or symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage, or any heterogeneity in comparative treatment effects between low-dose and standard-dose alteplase by RD grades.

Conclusions—

RD is associated with increased mortality but not disability or symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage in thrombolysis-eligible and treated acute ischemic stroke patients. Uncertainty persists as to whether low-dose alteplase confers benefits over standard-dose alteplase in acute ischemic stroke patients with RD.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01422616.
The Apocalypse of Paul (nhc v,2) as a Valentinian Baptismal Liturgy of Ascent
Authors: Domeracki Michael S.
Published: July 2017

The Apocalypse of Paul (nhc v,2), a second-century Valentinian text, imagines Paul’s progression up to the tenth level of heaven. Not only is this a reference to the third-person account in 2 Corinthians, but also a clear indication of the baptismal liturgy in the Valentinian text as the audience joins Paul after the third heaven and ascends through the upper levels while reciting the visionary tale in the first person after their initiation. Ultimately, this paper shows how the second-century Valentinian memory of Paul is a coalescence of his mystical religiosity and authority and the imagistic ritual practices of the Valentinians. Methodologically, this paper follows a traditional historical and text critical approach, augmented with social memory theory and cognitive ritual studies. In this paper, it is argued that the Apocalypse of Paul integrates of the memory of Paul and his ascent according to 2 Corinthians with contemporary Valentinian ritual practices.
Iamblichus and the Talisman of Gnosis
Authors: Shaw Gregory
Published: July 2017

For Neoplatonic philosophers, the Delphic oracle had authoritatively characterized their two great teachers, Iamblichus and Porphyry. Later Platonists cited the Pythia’s oracular pronouncement, “The Syrian is full of god; the Phoenican a polymath” as revealed wisdom. The Syrian Iamblichus, “full of god,” was more highly regarded in Platonic circles than the learned Porphyry, but because Iamblichus’ theurgical Platonism vanished after the sixth century, we are left with only “learned” reports about theurgic divination. Contemporary scholars are polymaths; we are the children of Porphyry. So, when Porphyry asks for a precise definition of theurgic divination, it seems entirely reasonable, and it is hard for us to appreciate Iamblichus’ barbed response. He chastises Porphyry for presuming that divination can be discursively explained and says he needs a talisman (ἀλεξιοφάρµακον) to protect him from his discursive addiction. Divination, he says, can only be known through experiences that awaken the soul to an innate gnosis that precedes dualist thinking. This paper will explore that talismanic gnosis.
Ten years later: a new species of Aspilia (Asteraceae—Heliantheae) from Chapada dos Veadeiros, Goiás, Brazil
Authors: SILVA GUSTAVO HENRIQUE LIMA DA , TELES ARISTÔNIO M.
Published: July 2017

Ten years after the last description of a new species of Aspilia from Brazil, a new species of Brazilian Aspilia (Heliantheae, Asteraceae) is here described as A. pseudocalea, a species endemic to the State of Goiás, Brazil. This new species is recognized by its herbaceous habit, linear leaves, and a prominent glabrous, stramineous scar on the base of the cypsela that extends to near the middle of the fruit body. It is closely related to A. prostrata, but differs by the leaf shape, involucre size and number of series of involucral bracts, and geographical distribution. Illustrations, comments, distribution map, and conservation status are provided for the new species. Additionally, a diagnostic key to closely related species is provided.
Siliquamomum phamhoangii, a new species of Zingiberaceae from the Central Highlands, Vietnam
Authors: TRƯỜNG LƯU HỒNG , ĐĂNG TRẦN HỮU , TOÀN TRẦN NGỌC , HOAN NGUYỄN VĂN , BÌNH PHẠM NGỌC
Published: July 2017

Siliquamomum phamhoangii (Zingiberaceae) is described and illustrated as a new species from Kon Ka Kinh National Park in the Central Highlands, Vietnam. The new species is characterized by a combination of petiolate leaves, mostly yellow flowers, 3-lobed white calyx, ovate labellum, short anther crest and lateral staminodes connate to labellum in basal 1/3. A key to all known species of Siliquamomum species is given.
Erratum: Gómez-Montoya, N., Drechsler-Santos, E.R., Ferreira-Lopes, V., Tomšovský, M., Urcelay, C. & Robledo, G.L. (2017) New insights on Trametopsis Tomšovský (Polyporales Gäum) based on phylogenetic evidences and morphological analyses of neotropical species. Phytotaxa 311 (2): 155–167.
Authors: GÓMEZ-MONTOYA NATALY , DRECHSLER-SANTOS ELISANDRO RICARDO , FERREIRA-LOPES VALÉRIA , TOMŠOVSKÝ MICHAL , URCELAY CARLOS , ROBLEDO GERARDO LUCIO
Published: July 2017

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Geranium rubricum (Geraniaceae), a new species from ultramafic soils in the Red Hills, northern South Island, New Zealand
Authors: HEENAN PETER B , COURTNEY SHANNEL P
Published: July 2017

A new species, Geranium rubricum, is described from the Red Hills, northern South Island, New Zealand. Geranium rubricum is distinguished by its rhizomatous and compact growth habit, small and coriaceous leaves up to 10 mm in diameter, large sepals with uniformly sized appressed hairs, and large flowers up to 25 mm in diameter. G. rubricum is restricted to soils associated with ultramafic rock outcrops and scree slopes. It is known from seven small subpopulations in the Red Hills, and the conservation status is assessed using the New Zealand Threat Classification System as Nationally Endangered.
Persepolium (Polygoneae): A new genus in Polygonaceae based on conventional Maximum Parsimony and Three-taxon statement analyses of a comprehensive morphological dataset
Authors: YURTSEVA OLGA V. , E. SEVEROVA ELENA , V. MAVRODIEV EVGENY
Published: July 2017

Recent molecular studies revealed the polyphyletic nature of the broadly defined genus Polygonum. This paper includes a standard maximum parsimony (MP) and three-taxon statement analyses (3TA) as well as a taxonomic revision of Polygonum sect. Avicularia subsect. Spinescentia (Polygonaceae) as compared with two closely related taxa: genus Atraphaxis s.s., and genus Bactria. In total, 27 characters, including life history, habit, morphology of the shoots, leaf blades, ocreas, perianth, achene, ultrasculpture of perianth and achene surfaces, as well as pollen morphology, were analyzed, illustrated, and discussed in detail. Both the standard MP and 3TA confirm that monophyletic Polygonum subsect. Spinescentia is sister to the narrowly defined Atraphaxis. The genus Persepolium (Polygonum subsect. Spinescentia), with the circumscription of five species, is established as new to science as a result of this study. Possible transformations of perianth and thyrse morphology are discussed within the framework of the Principle of variable proportions by Troll in connection with a shift of pollination mode in the group of taxa studied.
Two new Oxalis (Oxalidaceae) species, including 5 varieties, from the Richtersveld of South Africa
Authors: L. DREYER LÉANNE , ROETS FRANCOIS , C. OBERLANDER KENNETH
Published: July 2017

Two new species of Oxalis (Oxalidaceae) from the Richtersveld are described, namely Oxalis canaliculata and O. magnifolia. These widespread species are morphologically distinct and easily identified, but both contain populations in which individuals consistently differ morphologically from typical varieties. The typical variety of Oxalis canaliculata is widespread throughout the Richtersveld, while O. canaliculata var. trifoliolata is known from a single population and O. canaliculata var. graniticola is known only from granite outcrops. Oxalis magnifolia includes the typical variety that is widespread and Oxalis magnifolia var. reduplicata, which is only known from two populations in close proximity to one another. Morphological characters, preliminary phylogenetic position based on data from the nuclear ITS region, habitat description and formal taxonomic descriptions are provided for all taxa. The diagnostic characters of the new species are compared to all phenotypically similar southern African species.
A new species of Duguetia (Annonaceae) from the Atlantic Forest of northeastern Brazil
Authors: BAZANTE MÁRCIO , ALVES MARCCUS
Published: July 2017

Duguetia Saint-Hilaire (1825: 35) comprises 94 species, 89 of which occur in the Neotropics, and the remaining four in Africa (Maas et al. 2003, Maas & Westra, 2010). It is placed in Duguetieae with Duckeanthus Fries (1934: 106), Fusaea Safford (1914: 64), Letestudoxa Pellegrin (1920: 654) and Pseudartabotrys Pellegrin (1920: 656), all in Annonoideae (Chatrou et al. 2012). Duguetia is one of the best represented genera of Annonaceae in the Brazilian flora and is recognized by the stellate and/or lepidote trichomes and aggregate fruits (Maas et al. 2003).
Simultaneous Real-Time Analysis of Bulk and Bottom Cure of Ultraviolet-Curable Inks Using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Boonen Hennie A.L. , Koskamp Janou A. , Theiss Wolfgang , Iedema Piet D. , Willemse Robin X.E.
Published: July 2017

The curing characteristics of an ultraviolet (UV) ink layer are of utmost importance for the development of UV inks. Measuring either bulk or bottom cure in itself is not new and has been the subject of many articles. In this article, two methods are described based on Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectrometry to measure in real time and simultaneously the bulk and bottom cure of a thin UV ink layer. The procedure consists of applying a thin (10–12 µm) layer of UV-curing ink on an attenuated total reflection (ATR) crystal. The bottom cure is measured with ATR. The bulk cure is measured simultaneously with a reflection analysis (method 1) or a transmission analysis (method 2). With both methods, the bulk and bottom cure can be determined. To overcome problems with the interference in the ATR reflection setup, it is recommended to use the ATR transmission setup.
Microwave-Induced Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (MIP OES) and Standard Dilution Analysis to Determine Trace Elements in Pharmaceutical Samples
Authors: Althoff Amanda G. , Williams Charles B. , McSweeney Tina , Gonçalves Daniel A. , Donati George L.
Published: July 2017

In this work, we evaluate the application of microwave-induced plasma optical emission spectrometry (MIP OES) to determine of Al, Cr, Co, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni and Zn in children’s cough syrup, eye drops, and oral antiseptic using standard dilution analysis (SDA). The SDA method is simple, with only two calibration solutions prepared per sample. The first solution (S1), composed of 50% sample +50% of a standard solution, is introduced into the plasma and the analytical signals are monitored in a time-resolved fashion. Then, the second solution (S2), composed of 50% sample +50% blank, is poured into the vial containing S1. As the solutions mix, the analytical signals gradually drop to a stable baseline. The calibration curve is computed by plotting the ratio of the analyte signal (SA) over the internal standard signal (which is also part of S1) (SIS) on the y-axis, versus the inverse of the IS concentration on the x-axis (i.e., SA/SIS versus 1/CIS). In this study, SDA results were compared with values obtained with the traditional methods of external calibration (EC), internal standardization (IS), and standard additions (SA) in MIP OES determinations. The precision (represented as percent RSD) for SDA showed values in the range of 2.50–8.00% for all samples, while conventional calibration methods showed RSDs in the range of 6.40–32.50% for EC, 8.30–21.80% for IS, and 5.20–17.40% for SA. The LODs calculated for SDA are below the maximum limits allowed by the major pharmaceutical regulatory agencies, and presents superior precision and accuracy compared to the traditional calibration methods. Considering its simplicity and efficiency, SDA is an important new tool for accurate analyses of pharmaceuticals.
Effects of Role-Playing Scenarios on the Self-efficacy of Students in Resisting Against Substance Addiction: A Pilot Study
Authors: Karatay Gülnaz , Gürarslan Baş Nazan
Published: July 2017

During the first phases of adolescent development, young people have little self-efficacy and resistance against substance use. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the effectiveness of role-playing scenarios on the self-efficacy of students in resisting substance use. A pre test and post test study design was used with a single group. The study was carried out with 245 secondary school students. The scenario-based training, developed by the researchers, was presented by the school counselors once a week for 4 weeks. For this purpose, a booklet of scenarios was prepared for the teachers. The role-playing scenarios were intended to improve adolescents’ abilities to say “no” to substance offers, to prevent them from becoming addicted to certain substances, and to call for help if needed. The data of the study were collected using the Personal Information Form and the Self-Efficacy for Adolescences Protecting Substance Abuse Scale . The obtained data were assessed using percentages, chi-square, t test, and F test in the SPSS software. Results showed that, after the training, the mean score in the Self-Efficacy for Adolescences Protecting Substance Abuse Scale increased significantly (103.20 ± 20.00) compared with before the training (92.11 ± 17.08) ( P < .05). Short-term outcomes of the class-based scenario training were observed to be effective in the development of students’ self-efficacy to resist the temptations of substance use.
Controversies Surrounding Critical Care Nutrition: An Appraisal of Permissive Underfeeding, Protein, and Outcomes
Authors: Patel Jayshil J. , Martindale Robert G. , McClave Stephen A.
Published: July 2017

Over the past few years, numerous studies have called into question the optimal dose, timing, composition, and advancement rate of nutrition during the early acute phase of critical illness. These studies suggest permissive underfeeding with slow advancement may be more beneficial than aggressive full feeding. These counterintuitive results were possibly explained by enhanced autophagy, less hyperglycemia, or prevention of refeeding syndrome. This review underscores the controversies surrounding permissive underfeeding, aims to answer whether permissive underfeeding is appropriate for all critically ill patients, describes the impact of optimal protein delivery on critical care outcomes, discusses nutrition risk, and cogitates on the impact of nutrition on critical care outcomes.