bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cross-talk between branched-chain amino acids and hepatic mitochondria is compromised in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Sunny Nishanth E. , Kalavalapalli Srilaxmi , Bril Fernando , Garrett Timothy J. , Nautiyal Manisha , Mathew Justin T. , Williams Caroline M. , Cusi Kenneth
Published: June 2015

Elevated plasma branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) in the setting of insulin resistance have been relevant in predicting type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) onset, but their role in the etiology of hepatic insulin resistance remains uncertain. We determined the link between BCAA and dysfunctional hepatic tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, which is a central feature of hepatic insulin resistance and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Plasma metabolites under basal fasting and euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamps (insulin stimulation) were measured in 94 human subjects with varying degrees of insulin sensitivity to identify their relationships with insulin resistance. Furthermore, the impact of elevated BCAA on hepatic TCA cycle was determined in a diet-induced mouse model of NAFLD, utilizing targeted metabolomics and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-based metabolic flux analysis. Insulin stimulation revealed robust relationships between human plasma BCAA and indices of insulin resistance, indicating chronic metabolic overload from BCAA. Human plasma BCAA and long-chain acylcarnitines also showed a positive correlation, suggesting modulation of mitochondrial metabolism by BCAA. Concurrently, mice with NAFLD failed to optimally induce hepatic mTORC1, plasma ketones, and hepatic long-chain acylcarnitines, following acute elevation of plasma BCAA. Furthermore, elevated BCAA failed to induce multiple fluxes through hepatic TCA cycle in mice with NAFLD. Our data suggest that BCAA are essential to mediate efficient channeling of carbon substrates for oxidation through mitochondrial TCA cycle. Impairment of BCAA-mediated upregulation of the TCA cycle could be a significant contributor to mitochondrial dysfunction in NAFLD.
Differential epigenetic and transcriptional response of the skeletal muscle carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1B (CPT1B) gene to lipid exposure with obesity
Authors: Maples Jill M. , Brault Jeffrey J. , Witczak Carol A. , Park Sanghee , Hubal Monica J. , Weber Todd M. , Houmard Joseph A. , Shewchuk Brian M.
Published: June 2015

The ability to increase fatty acid oxidation (FAO) in response to dietary lipid is impaired in the skeletal muscle of obese individuals, which is associated with a failure to coordinately upregulate genes involved with FAO. While the molecular mechanisms contributing to this metabolic inflexibility are not evident, a possible candidate is carnitine palmitoyltransferase-1B (CPT1B), which is a rate-limiting step in FAO. The present study was undertaken to determine if the differential response of skeletal muscle CPT1B gene transcription to lipid between lean and severely obese subjects is linked to epigenetic modifications (DNA methylation and histone acetylation) that impact transcriptional activation. In primary human skeletal muscle cultures the expression of CPT1B was blunted in severely obese women compared with their lean counterparts in response to lipid, which was accompanied by changes in CpG methylation, H3/H4 histone acetylation, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-δ and hepatocyte nuclear factor 4α transcription factor occupancy at the CPT1B promoter. Methylation of specific CpG sites in the CPT1B promoter that correlated with CPT1B transcript level blocked the binding of the transcription factor upstream stimulatory factor, suggesting a potential causal mechanism. These findings indicate that epigenetic modifications may play important roles in the regulation of CPT1B in response to a physiologically relevant lipid mixture in human skeletal muscle, a major site of fatty acid catabolism, and that differential DNA methylation may underlie the depressed expression of CPT1B in response to lipid, contributing to the metabolic inflexibility associated with severe obesity.
Erosion Potential Estimation by Network Measurement of Soil Properties in Coastal Areas after Clearcutting
Authors: Jien Shih-Hao , Lee Ming-Hsi , Hseu Zeng-Yei , Wang Hsiang-Hua
Published: June 2015

Invasive white leadtrees ( Leucaena leucocephala (Lam.) de Wit) are contributing to the destruction of coastal ecosystems and biodiversity in humid subtropical and tropical regions. Sudden clearcutting of invasive tress can lead to substantial soil loss, which subsequently reduces the efficiency when indigenous vegetation is restored. Soil samples ([Formula: see text]) were collected using the grid method to measure soil properties and to spatially analyze the soil erosion potential in the studied area after clearcutting of the invasive trees. Results indicated that the soil erosion rates ranged from 21 to 249 tons ha−1 yr−1, and the eroded soil depths ranged from 0.30 to 3.40 cm yr−1after clearcutting. The network measurements for determining the mortality ratio of the restored indigenous vegetation demonstrated that Ficus benjamina L., Macaranga tanarius, and Scaevola taccada (Gaertner) Roxb were likely to be susceptible to damage from the substantial amount of soil loss and low SOC content. During the period between clearcutting and establishing the next stand of plants for reforestation, the network measurements for determining the soil properties and estimating the spatial heterogeneity of soil erosion potential are regarded as a major issue of concern regarding the efficiency of subsequent restoration efforts.
Freeze-Out Parameters in Heavy-Ion Collisions at AGS, SPS, RHIC, and LHC Energies
Authors: Chatterjee Sandeep , Das Sabita , Kumar Lokesh , Mishra D. , Mohanty Bedangadas , Sahoo Raghunath , Sharma Natasha
Published: June 2015

We review the chemical and kinetic freeze-out conditions in high energy heavy-ion collisions for AGS, SPS, RHIC, and LHC energies. Chemical freeze-out parameters are obtained using produced particle yields in central collisions while the corresponding kinetic freeze-out parameters are obtained using transverse momentum distributions of produced particles. For chemical freeze-out, different freeze-out scenarios are discussed such as single and double/flavor dependent freeze-out surfaces. Kinetic freeze-out parameters are obtained by doing hydrodynamic inspired blast wave fit to the transverse momentum distributions. The beam energy and centrality dependence of transverse energy per charged particle multiplicity are studied to address the constant energy per particle freeze-out criteria in heavy-ion collisions.
Reactive Oxygen Species in Planarian Regeneration: An Upstream Necessity for Correct Patterning and Brain Formation
Authors: Pirotte Nicky , Stevens An-Sofie , Fraguas Susanna , Plusquin Michelle , Van Roten Andromeda , Van Belleghem Frank , Paesen Rik , Ameloot Marcel , Cebrià Francesc , Artois Tom , Smeets Karen
Published: June 2015

Recent research highlighted the impact of ROS as upstream regulators of tissue regeneration. We investigated their role and targeted processes during the regeneration of different body structures using the planarian Schmidtea mediterranea, an organism capable of regenerating its entire body, including its brain. The amputation of head and tail compartments induces a ROS burst at the wound site independently of the orientation. Inhibition of ROS production by diphenyleneiodonium (DPI) or apocynin (APO) causes regeneration defaults at both the anterior and posterior wound sites, resulting in reduced regeneration sites (blastemas) and improper tissue homeostasis. ROS signaling is necessary for early differentiation and inhibition of the ROS burst results in defects on the regeneration of the nervous system and on the patterning process. Stem cell proliferation was not affected, as indicated by histone H3-P immunostaining, fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS), in situ hybridization of smedwi-1, and transcript levels of proliferation-related genes. We showed for the first time that ROS modulate both anterior and posterior regeneration in a context where regeneration is not limited to certain body structures. Our results indicate that ROS are key players in neuroregeneration through interference with the differentiation and patterning processes.
Effects of Low Volume Fraction of Polyvinyl Alcohol Fibers on the Mechanical Properties of Oil Palm Shell Lightweight Concrete
Authors: Yew Ming Kun , Bin Mahmud Hilmi , Ang Bee Chin , Yew Ming Chian
Published: June 2015

This paper presents the effects of low volume fraction(Vf)of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fibers on the mechanical properties of oil palm shell (OPS) high strength lightweight concrete mixtures. The slump, density, compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, flexural strength, and modulus of elasticity under various curing conditions have been measured and evaluated. The results indicate that an increase in PVA fibers decreases the workability of the concrete and decreases the density slightly. The 28-day compressive strength of oil palm shell fiber-reinforced concrete (OPSFRC) high strength lightweight concrete (HSLWC) subject to continuous moist curing was within the range of 43–49 MPa. The average modulus of elasticity (E) value is found to be 16.1 GPa for all mixes, which is higher than that reported in previous studies and is within the range of normal weight concrete. Hence, the findings of this study revealed that the PVA fibers can be used as an alternative material to enhance the properties of OPS HSLWC for building and construction applications.
Water Quality Modeling in Reservoirs Using Multivariate Linear Regression and Two Neural Network Models
Authors: Chen Wei-Bo , Liu Wen-Cheng
Published: June 2015

In this study, two artificial neural network models (i.e., a radial basis function neural network, RBFN, and an adaptive neurofuzzy inference system approach, ANFIS) and a multilinear regression (MLR) model were developed to simulate the DO, TP, Chla, and SD in the Mingder Reservoir of central Taiwan. The input variables of the neural network and the MLR models were determined using linear regression. The performances were evaluated using the RBFN, ANFIS, and MLR models based on statistical errors, including the mean absolute error, the root mean square error, and the correlation coefficient, computed from the measured and the model-simulated DO, TP, Chla, and SD values. The results indicate that the performance of the ANFIS model is superior to those of the MLR and RBFN models. The study results show that the neural network using the ANFIS model is suitable for simulating the water quality variables with reasonable accuracy, suggesting that the ANFIS model can be used as a valuable tool for reservoir management in Taiwan.
Microstructure and Thermal Properties of Polypropylene/Clay Nanocomposites with TiCl4/MgCl2/Clay Compound Catalyst
Authors: Wang Limei , He Aihua
Published: June 2015

Polypropylene (PP)/clay nanocomposites were synthesized by in situ intercalative polymerization with TiCl4/MgCl2/clay compound catalyst. Microstructure and thermal properties of PP/clay nanocomposites were studied in detail. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra indicated that PP/clay nanocomposites were successfully prepared. Both wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) examination proved that clay layers are homogeneously distributed in PP matrix. XRD patterns also showed that the α phase was the dominate crystal phase of PP in the nanocomposites. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) examinations confirmed that thermal stability of PP/clay nanocomposites was markedly superior to pure PP. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) scans showed that the melt temperature and the crystallinity of nanocomposites were slightly lower than those of pure PP due to crystals imperfections.
A Multidimensional Analytical Approach for Identifying and Locating Large Utility Pipes in Underground Infrastructure
Authors: Tavakoli Taba Seyedamir , Rahnamayie Zekavat Payam , Alipour Esgandani Golnaz , Wang Xiangyu , Bernold Leonhard
Published: June 2015

The population growth, technological improvements, and the need for repairing old or installing new utilities result in a high demand for trenching and drilling activities. However, penetrating the subsurface incurs the risk of damaging existing underground facilities because they were not properly documented, if at all. Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) constitutes a well-established technology that uses electromagnetic waves to identify objects underground by detecting their reflections. The work presented in this paper focuses on the timing and other characteristics of radar pulses reflected from the buried utilities. It is hypothesised that integrating the knowledge of construction practice, geophysical principles, and electromagnetic wave propagation behaviour in various soil conditions will improve the reliability and accuracy of GPR. This paper presents the results of field experiments that studied the effects of large void such as sinkholes or drainage pipes in several undergrounds. It provides important insights into the features and patterns that can be used to improve current methods.
Properties of Full Jet in High-Energy Heavy-Ion Collisions from Parton Scatterings
Authors: Ma Guo-Liang , Nie Mao-Wu
Published: June 2015

The properties of fully reconstructed jet are investigated in p + p and Pb + Pb collisions atsNN= 2.76 TeV within a multiphase transport (AMPT) model with both partonic scatterings and hadronic rescatterings. A large transverse momentum (pT) asymmetry of dijet or photon-jet arises from the strong interactions between jet and partonic matter. Theξ-dependent jet fragmentation function in Pb + Pb collisions is decomposed into two contributions from different jet hadronization mechanisms, that is, fragmentation versus coalescence. The medium modification of differential jet shape displays that the jet energy is redistributed towards a larger radius owing to jet-medium interactions in heavy-ion collisions. Jet triangular azimuthal anisotropy coefficient,v3jet, which shows a smaller magnitude than the elliptic coefficientv2jet, decreases more quickly with increasing jetpT, which can be attributed to a path-length effect of jet energy loss. All of these properties of full jet are consistent with the jet energy loss mechanism in a stronglyinteracting partonic matter in high-energy heavy-ion collisions.
Androgen Receptor Splice Variants Dimerize to Transactivate Target Genes
Authors: Xu Duo , Zhan Yang , Qi Yanfeng , Cao Bo , Bai Shanshan , Xu Wei , Gambhir Sanjiv S. , Lee Peng , Sartor Oliver , Flemington Erik K. , Zhang Haitao , Hu Chang-Deng , Dong Yan
Published: June 2015

Constitutively active androgen receptor splice variants (AR-V) lacking the ligand-binding domain have been implicated in the pathogenesis of castration-resistant prostate cancer and in mediating resistance to newer drugs that target the androgen axis. AR-V regulates expression of both canonical AR targets and a unique set of cancer-specific targets that are enriched for cell-cycle functions. However, little is known about how AR-V controls gene expression. Here, we report that two major AR-Vs, termed AR-V7 and ARv567es, not only homodimerize and heterodimerize with each other but also heterodimerize with full-length androgen receptor (AR-FL) in an androgen-independent manner. We found that heterodimerization of AR-V and AR-FL was mediated by N- and C-terminal interactions and by the DNA-binding domain of each molecule, whereas AR-V homodimerization was mediated only by DNA-binding domain interactions. Notably, AR-V dimerization was required to transactivate target genes and to confer castration-resistant cell growth. Our results clarify the mechanism by which AR-Vs mediate gene regulation and provide a pivotal pathway for rational drug design to disrupt AR-V signaling as a rational strategy for the effective treatment of advanced prostate cancer. Cancer Res; 75(17); 3663–71. ©2015 AACR.
Refining the Mantle Cell Lymphoma Paradigm: Impact of Novel Therapies on Current Practice
Authors: Avivi Irit , Goy Andre
Published: June 2015

Although mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a rare subtype of non–Hodgkin lymphoma, proactive research efforts fueled by challenges in the management of MCL have led to an increase in median overall survival (OS) of 2.5 years in the mid 1990s to beyond 5 years nowadays. This improvement is due mostly to the use of dose-intensive strategies, particularly cytarabine-containing regimens [with or without high-dose therapy (HDT) followed by autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) consolidation], which are associated with deeper remission (and higher molecular complete response rate), as well as better salvage therapies. Along this line, MCL became the first lymphoma for which four novel agents have been approved in the relapsed/refractory setting: temsirolimus, lenalidomide, ibrutinib, and bortezomib (the last agent approved both in relapsed/refractory disease and in first-line combination therapy). In addition, the use of rituximab maintenance has helped reduce relapse rates and improve outcome. However, in routine practice (i.e., outside clinical trials), the outcome of MCL remains overall unchanged with standard immunochemotherapy, and even after HDT-ASCT, most patients still relapse and frequently develop chemoresistance. The persistent lack of consensus for the treatment of MCL explains the rather impressive variability in management of these patients. The integration of newer therapies, either in combination with immunochemotherapy or as consolidation/maintenance postinduction, offers new opportunities for patients with MCL. This review highlights how such developments can help refine the current MCL paradigm. Clin Cancer Res; 21(17); 3853–61. ©2015 AACR.
Does Diabetes Have an Influence on Regional Deformation Parameters in Patients with Normal Systolic Function during Off-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting?
Authors: Barisin Ana , Sonicki Zdenko , Vincelj Josip , Sutlic Zeljko , Barisin Stjepan
Published: June 2015

Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the recovery of regional myocardial function of the left-ventricular septal wall and the septal site of the mitral valve (MV) annulus by tissue Doppler imaging (TDI). Methods: In 63 (32 diabetic and 31 control) patients having off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCABG), including the left internal mammary artery (LIMA) and the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD), TDI measurements were performed before operation (baseline), 5 min after LIMA-LAD revascularization (early reperfusion) and after completion of all anastomoses (after revascularization). Results: Compared to the patients with diabetes, the controls had higher peak systolic velocities of the mid septal segments in the early reperfusion measurement (p = 0.002). After revascularization, values of peak systolic strain at the basal (-10.13 vs. -13.36%, p = 0.044) and mid septal segments (-8.25 vs. -12.69%, p = 0.009) were decreased in the diabetic patients compared to the controls. There was no difference between the groups with respect to the velocities acquired at the septal site of the MV annulus. Conclusions: This study demonstrates an insufficient recovery of regional myocardial function in patients with type II diabetes undergoing OPCABG.
Long-Term Risk of Progressive Chronic Kidney Disease in Patients with Severe Acute Kidney Injury Requiring Dialysis after Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery
Authors: Lim Cynthia C. , Tan Chieh Suai , Chia Cynthia M.L. , Tan Ann Kheng , Choo Jason C.J. , Kaushik Manish , Tan Han Khim
Published: June 2015

Aim: Few studies have evaluated patients after cardiac surgery for subsequent chronic kidney disease (CKD) which increases cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to ascertain the long-term renal outcome in adult patients with severe acute kidney injury (AKI) after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Methods: This is a single-center retrospective cohort study of consecutive adult patients who received acute dialysis for AKI after CABG between February 8, 2009 and January 30, 2011. Data on pre- and intra-operative factors were retrieved from electronic medical records. The primary endpoint was CKD progression as defined by dialysis dependence or doubling of serum creatinine from the pre-operative level. Secondary endpoints included in-hospital mortality and renal function at 3 months and 1 year. Results: Fifty-five patients required acute dialysis after CABG. The median age was 67 years (IQR: 61, 75), and 70.9% were male. Median pre-operative serum creatinine was 157 µmol/l (IQR: 122, 203). A total of 19 patients (34.5%) died. The median follow-up time for hospital survivors was 44.2 months (IQR: 25.0, 49.4) after surgery. Among the 36 survivors, 14 patients (38.9%) reached the primary endpoint. Patients with CKD progression had higher pre-operative serum creatinine [median 214 µmol/l (IQR: 159, 399) vs. 155 µmol/l (112, 187), p = 0.015] and lower eGFR [median 20.4 ml/min/1.73 m2 (IQR: 11.9, 38.2) vs. 39.9 ml/min/1.73 m2 (25.9, 55.5), p = 0.027] compared to those who did not have CKD progression. Conclusion: Patients with severe AKI after CABG are at high risk of long-term renal dysfunction and should be monitored regularly for deterioration.
Atorvastatin Attenuates Bone Loss and Aortic Valve Atheroma in LDLR-/- Mice
Authors: Rajamannan Nalini M.
Published: June 2015

Atherosclerosis and osteoporosis are the leading causes of mortality and morbidity. The objective of this study was to test this hypothesis in experimental hypercholesterolemia to determine whether statins play a protective role in this process. LDLR-/- mice (n = 60) were allocated to the following groups: group I (n = 20), normal diet; group II (n = 20), 0.25% (w/w) cholesterol diet (w/w), and group III (n = 20), 0.25% (w/w) cholesterol diet + atorvastatin for 48 weeks. Examination of aortic valves (AVA) and femurs for atherosclerosis and calcification markers included micro-CT, special stains, and calcein incorporation. The cholesterol diet induced bone formation in calcified AVA and an increase in macrophage infiltration. Hyperlipidemic bones expressed an increase in osteoclast cells and a decrease in bone formation. Atorvastatin reduced atherosclerosis and bone mineralization in AVA and increased mineralization within femur bones (p < 0.05). Atherosclerosis is present in hyperlipidemic bones and valves as characterized by macrophage and osteoclast infiltration, and it is attenuated by atorvastatin, which may have implications for therapy in the future.
Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (Wegener's Granulomatosis) Complicated with Ruptured Posteromedial Papillary Muscle in the Absence of Coronary Angiographic Findings
Authors: Kawada Sachiko , Kuriyama Mitsuhito , Tanabe Atsushi , Kioka Yukio
Published: June 2015

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) is a systemic necrotizing vasculitis, associated with antineutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibody-associated systemic vasculitis, and it can affect many organ systems via the inflammation of small-to-medium-sized vessels. Cardiac involvements in GPA are relatively rare. We report a 75-year-old woman who was diagnosed with GPA and rapid progressive glomerulonephritis that resulted in a partial posteromedial papillary muscle rupture, but with no coronary angiographic findings. The surgical and pathological findings with regard to the ruptured papillary muscle revealed necrotic muscle and acute ischemic change. The mechanism of papillary muscle rupture in GPA is coronary vasculitis leading to myocardial infarction. The ischemic change is not always detected on coronary angiography, so assessment using an echocardiogram is important.
Electric-Pulse Current Stimulation Increases If Current in mShox2 Genetically Modified Canine Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Feng Yuanyuan , Luo Shouming , Tong Shifei , Zhong Li , Zhang Changhai , Yang Pan , Song Zhiyuan
Published: June 2015

Objective: We aimed to investigate the role of mShox2 in generating If pacemaker current in vitro by means of electric-pulse current stimulation (EPCS) of canine mesenchymal stem cells (cMSCs). Methods: mShox2 genetically modified cMSCs were prepared with pLentis-mShox2 red fluorescent protein. After EPCS induction, we examined the kinetic characteristics of generated inward current by means of a patch clamp. We then evaluated the expression of pacemaker-related genes, such as Nkx2.5, Tbx3, HCN4, Cx43 and Cx45, by means of qRT-PCR and Western blotting. The morphological changes and the cardiomyogenic differentiation marker cTnT were investigated at the same time. Results: The time- and voltage-dependent inward current recorded after mShox2 infection was confirmed to be If current. After EPCS induction, the detection rate of this If current was increased. The current amplitude and density were increased, and the channel activation curve shifted to the right. The pacemaker markers Tbx3, HCN4 and Cx45 were significantly upregulated, but the working myocardium markers Nkx2.5 and Cx43 were downregulated after mShox2 infection, and were more remarkable after EPCS induction. The cells became larger and assumed spindle and spider-like morphologies. cTnT was also detected in the experimental cells. Conclusions: Our results suggest that EPCS promotes the differentiation of mShox2 genetically modified cMSCs into pacemaker-like cells, which generates more If current.
Identifying Characteristics in Abusive Head Trauma: A Single-Institution Experience
Authors: Westrick Ashly C. , Moore Marjorie , Monk Steve , Greeno Amber , Shannon Chevis
Published: June 2015

Abusive head trauma (AHT) is a significant cause of childhood morbidity and mortality. The purpose of this study was to better understand the trends centered on AHT patients treated at Vanderbilt Children's Hospital. A retrospective study of 139 children undergoing treatment and management for traumatic brain injury due to abuse between January 2006 and April 2013 at Vanderbilt Children's Hospital was conducted. Caucasian males made up 61% and the youngest sibling represented 86.3% of our cohort. The median age was 5 months with injuries occurring during summertime and on weekdays, 31 and 63%, respectively. Seventy-nine percent were diagnosed with subdural hematomas, and 42% had a Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) of 8 or less. A total of 25 patients, median age 8.6 months, died during our study period. The results of this study describe the AHT population at Vanderbilt Children's Hospital. Future studies should prospectively assess this population to better understand social factors involved in AHT.
Liver Transplantation for Patients with Cholestatic Liver Diseases
Authors: Schöning Wenzel , Schmeding Maximilian , Ulmer Florian , Andert Anne , Neumann Ulf
Published: June 2015

Background: Cholestatic liver diseases (CD) account for 11% of all liver transplantations (LT) in the Eurotransplant region. Despite the excellent long-term outcome that is considerably superior to all other indications for LT, transplant surgeons and physicians face nowadays - in the era of MELD (Model of End-Stage Liver Disease)-based allocation, organ shortage, and extended allocation policies - more and more challenges in this patient cohort, especially since there is no curative medical treatment for these entities. Methods: Based on a literature review and personal experience in liver transplantation for CD, we show the status quo of indication, allocation, and outcome as well as potential strategies to overcome long waiting times and organ shortage. Results: Concerning graft and patient survival, CD remain the ‘best indications' for LT. Since the implementation of MELD-based allocation results in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) could be preserved on good levels only by the implementation and revision of standard exceptions. Recurrence of PSC after LT remains a challenge for transplant surgeons and physicians. New data has kindled a debate on biliary reconstruction in LT for PSC. Promising data on living donor LT motivate to push the boundaries in this direction. Conclusion: CD are excellent indications for liver transplantation since excellent long-term outcomes are achievable when the transplant is performed at the right time. The decisions concerning evaluation, listing, and allocation should be made by an interdisciplinary team of gastroenterologists and transplant surgeons.
ЗАСТОСУВАННЯ ТОКСОПЛАЗМІНУ ДЛЯ ПРОТИРЕЦИДИВНОГО ЛІКУВАННЯ ХВОРИХ НА ТОКСОПЛАЗМОЗ
Authors: Ліпковська І.В. , Сидяченко А.І. , Сидяченко В.А.
Published: June 2015

Висвітлено суть застосування токсоплазміну з метою специфічної десенсибілізації хворих на рецидивну форму хронічного токсоплазмозу. Патогенетично обґрунтоване поєднання токсоплазміну з антиоксидантами та етіотропним лікуванням.

Враховуючи те, що токсоплазмоз є найчастішим СНІД-індикаторним захворюванням, внутрішньошкірна проба (ВШП) з токсоплазміном може бути рекомендована для встановлення інфікування Т. gondii імунодефіцитних осіб, що особливо важливо в умовах стрімкого зростання захворюваності ВІЛ-інфекцією в південному регіоні України.
ЗАГАЛЬНІ ОСОБЛИВОСТІ ДИНАМІКИ ПРИЧИН СМЕРТІ СЕРЕД РІЗНИХ ВЕРСТВ ДОРОСЛОГО НАСЕЛЕННЯ ЛЬВІВСЬКОЇ ОБЛАСТІ
Authors: ЯЩЕНКО Ю.Б. , СЕМЕНЮК О.А. , ГРЖИБОВСЬКИЙ Я.Л.
Published: June 2015

Мета: проаналізувати втрати дорослого населення Львівської області.

Матеріали і методи. У ході дослідження використані бібліосемантичний та статистичний методи. Первинним матеріалом були дані офіційної статистики – форми статистичного обліку за період 2008–2012 років.

Результати. У структурі померлих Львівської області в усі роки спостереження частка осіб працездатного віку чоловічої статі у чотири рази перевищує таку жіночої з практично однаковим темпом зменшення; очікувано переважає доля осіб старше працездатного віку. Структура причин смерті сільського та міського населення області збігалася за роки вивчення: перші три місця належали хворобам системи кровообігу, злоякісним новоутворенням, зовнішнім причинам. Основними причинами втрати осіб пенсійного віку за всі роки вивчення є хвороби системи кровообігу, злоякісні новоутворення та хвороби органів дихання.

Висновки. Встановлені відмінності в рівнях та причинах смертності різних категорій населення слід враховувати при розробці комплексних заходів зниження смертності населення.
КЛЮЧОВІ СЛОВА: смертність дорослого населення, динаміка, причини.
РОЗВИТОК ОРІЄНТАЦІЇ СИСТЕМ ОХОРОНИ ЗДОРОВ’Я НА ПАЦІЄНТІВ
Authors: ШИШАЦЬКА Н.Ф.
Published: June 2015

Мета: вивчити та проаналізувати сучасні підходи до розвитку пацієнтоорієнтованих систем охорони здоров’я.

Матеріали і методи. У ході виконання роботи використані наступні методи наукових досліджень: бібліосемантичний, контент-аналізу, структурно-логічного аналізу. Основою дослідження став системний підхід. Матеріалами дослідження були основні міжнародні документи із забезпечення прав пацієнтів у системах охорони здоров’я.

Результати. Основними принципами системи охорони здоров’я, орієнтованої на пацієнтів, є: відповідність чинному законодавству; спрямованість на потреби пацієнтів, у тому числі інформування про їхні права та виключення усіх видів дискримінації; інтеграції різного виду медичних послуг; дотримання кодексу етичних норм; ефективна система контролю якості; можливість залучення громадян до організації медичної допомоги; взаємодія між постачальником і отримувачем медичних послуг; відповідність управління сучасним вимогам; високий рівень кваліфікації фахівців; доступність та якість медичних послуг.

Висновки. Вказані принципи охоплюють практично все, що може бути передбачено в роботі системи охорони здоров’я, яка орієнтована на пацієнтів, однак на даному етапі розвитку вітчизняної системи охорони здоров’я впровадження цих принципів є складною проблемою.

КЛЮЧОВІ СЛОВА: система охорони здоров’я, що орієнтована на пацієнта, принцип.
ПОРІВНЯЛЬНА ОЦІНКА ДІ НАТРІЄВО СОЛІ 4-(2-ОКСО-3-МЕТИЛ-2Н- [1 ,2,4]ТРИАЗИНО[2,3-С]ХІНАЗОЛІН-6-ІЛ) БУТАНОВО КИСЛОТИ ТА БЕМІТИЛУ НА МЕТАБОЛІЧНІ ПРОЦЕСИ В СКЕЛЕТНИХ М ’ ЯЗАХ ЩУРІВ В УМОВАХ ТРИВАЛИХ ФІЗИЧНИХ НАВАНТАЖЕНЬ
Authors: Почелова О. В. , Степанюк Г. І. , Заічко Н. В. , Степанюк Н. Г.
Published: June 2015

РЕЗЮМЕ. Встановлено, що 14-денне внутрішньоочеревинне введення щурам натрієво солі 4-(2-оксо-3-метил-
2Н-[1,2,4]триазино[2,3-с]хіназолін-6-іл) бутаново кислоти (сполука 03К-38, 4,8 мг/кг), як і бемітилу (34 мг/кг), перед
дозованим фізичним навантаженням (біг у третбані) сприяло послабленню в скелетних м’язах тварин енергодефіциту
(збільшувався рівень АТФ при одночасному зменшенні вмісту АДФ та АМФ). Це корелювало із зростанням величини
показника енергетичного заряду м’язів. Разом з цим у робочих м’язах спостерігалось зростання вмісту глікогену та
глюкози, нормалізація рівнів МДА та відновленого глутатіону. Зазначені зміни метаболічних процесів в скелетних
м’язах на тлі ді досліджуваних речовин супроводжувались вірогідним зростанням тривалості бігу щурів до відмови.
КЛЮЧОВІ СЛОВА: бемітил, похідне бутаново кислоти, актопротекторна дія.
Cinacalcet, Fibroblast Growth Factor-23, and Cardiovascular Disease in Hemodialysis
Authors: Moe Sharon M. , Chertow Glenn M. , Parfrey Patrick S. , Kubo Yumi , Block Geoffrey A. , Correa-Rotter Ricardo , Drüeke Tilman B. , Herzog Charles A. , London Gerard M. , Mahaffey Kenneth W. , Wheeler David C. , Stolina Maria , Dehmel Bastian , Goodman William G. , Floege Jürgen
Published: June 2015

Background—

Patients with kidney disease have disordered bone and mineral metabolism, including elevated serum concentrations of fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF23). These elevated concentrations are associated with cardiovascular and all-cause mortality. The objective was to determine the effects of the calcimimetic cinacalcet (versus placebo) on reducing serum FGF23 and whether changes in FGF23 are associated with death and cardiovascular events.

Methods and Results—

This was a secondary analysis of a randomized clinical trial comparing cinacalcet to placebo in addition to conventional therapy (phosphate binders/vitamin D) in patients receiving hemodialysis with secondary hyperparathyroidism (intact parathyroid hormone ≥300 pg/mL). The primary study end point was time to death or a first nonfatal cardiovascular event (myocardial infarction, hospitalization for angina, heart failure, or a peripheral vascular event). This analysis included 2985 patients (77% of randomized) with serum samples at baseline and 2602 patients (67%) with samples at both baseline and week 20. The results demonstrated that a significantly larger proportion of patients randomized to cinacalcet had ≥30% (68% versus 28%) reductions in FGF23. Among patients randomized to cinacalcet, a ≥30% reduction in FGF23 between baseline and week 20 was associated with a nominally significant reduction in the primary composite end point (relative hazard, 0.82; 95% confidence interval, 0.69–0.98), cardiovascular mortality (relative hazard, 0.66; 95% confidence interval, 0.50–0.87), sudden cardiac death (relative hazard, 0.57; 95% confidence interval, 0.37–0.86), and heart failure (relative hazard, 0.69; 95% confidence interval, 0.48–0.99).

Conclusions—

Treatment with cinacalcet significantly lowers serum FGF23. Treatment-induced reductions in serum FGF23 are associated with lower rates of cardiovascular death and major cardiovascular events.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00345839.
Microglia Participate in Neurogenic Regulation of Hypertension
Authors: Shen Xiao Z. , Li You , Li Liang , Shah Kandarp H. , Bernstein Kenneth E. , Lyden Patrick , Shi Peng
Published: June 2015

Hypertension is associated with neuroinflammation and increased sympathetic tone. Interference with neuroinflammation by an anti-inflammatory reagent or overexpression of interleukin-10 in the brain was found to attenuate hypertension. However, the cellular mechanism of neuroinflammation, as well as its impact on neurogenic regulation of blood pressure, is unclear. Here, we found that hypertension, induced by either angiotensin II or
l
-N
G
-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester, is accompanied by microglial activation as manifested by microgliosis and proinflammatory cytokine upregulation. Targeted depletion of microglia significantly attenuated neuroinflammation, glutamate receptor expression in the paraventricular nucleus, plasma vasopressin level, kidney norepinephrine concentration, and blood pressure. Furthermore, when microglia were preactivated and transferred into the brains of normotensive mice, there was a significantly prolonged pressor response to intracerebroventricular injection of angiotensin II, and inactivation of microglia eliminated these effects. These data demonstrate that microglia, the resident immune cells in the brain, are the major cellular factors in mediating neuroinflammation and modulating neuronal excitation, which contributes to the elevated blood pressure.
What Determines Small Champions’ Export Performance? Evidence from Korea Firm-Level Data
Authors: Kim Young Gui , Suh Jeongmeen
Published: June 2015

Small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) often have different export behavior than bigger firms, in spite of their high productivity. To understand the behavior of these small champions, we develop a theoretical framework that analyzes the factors that affect firm export performance, from the decision to start exporting (the extensive export margin) and how much they will export (the intensive export margin). When we use Korean firm-level data to test our model, we find that productivity plays an important role in the firm export entry decision, and fixed export costs are important determinants of fractions of export intensity. We use our empirical results to explore the policy implications of policy interventions focused on SME export.
Public Knowledge and Perception of Toads and Frogs in Three Areas of Subtropical Southeast China
Authors: Jimenez Juliana Nates , Lindemann-Matthies Petra
Published: June 2015

This study investigated people’s perceptions and knowledge of toads and frogs in three areas of Southeast China: rural Gutian Shan, semi-rural Xin Gan Shan, and the city of Quzhou. In 2010, 672 randomly selected laypersons (between eight and 80 years old) were interviewed with the help of a standardized questionnaire and a picture test. Study participants named a variety of toads and frogs. The naming of a species and its actual identification on paper was positively correlated. Overall, toads and frogs were thought to be rather beautiful. The more amphibian species participants correctly identified, the more they considered them beautiful. Amphibians were considered important for pest control, medicinal purposes, and consumption. With increasing age, more toads and frogs were named and also correctly identified. The urban study population named and identified more species correctly than the rural one, and women identified more species correctly than men.
Support for Children’s Protagonism
Authors: Larkins Cath , Thomas Nigel , Carter Bernie , Farrelly Nicola , Judd Dawn , Lloyd Jane
Published: June 2015

With notable exceptions, there is a lack of critique in existing approaches to children’s rights based research. Where children’s rights research is also co-research with children, a critical approach requires that children are enabled to challenge assumptions about, and definitions of, rights, as well as to lead the process and to try to bring about change. This paper argues that creative methods and structured intergenerational dialogue can support critical children rights research “from below”. We illustrate this approach using research by disabled children and young people, who reflected on their own experiences and the provisions of three international conventions (uncrc, uncrpd and icescr). Effectively engaging with existing international conventions meant matching children’s claims to rights in their everyday contexts with existing rights provisions. This framework was then used to analyse qualitative research with other disabled children and their families. The young co-researchers are now using the findings in their protagonism for social change.
Intercultural Theology as a Three-Way Conversation
Authors: van den Toren Benno
Published: June 2015

Intercultural theology intends to engage in dialogue with theological expressions from different parts of the Global Church, but often works with western assumptions about what dialogue partners and texts are considered academically credible and what the proper focus of the academic study of such voices should be. This article argues, first, that intercultural theology can only move beyond the western dominance of its own discourse and become truly intercultural if it takes into account the theological voices that are expressed in non-academic texts, oral traditions, and practices; second, that intercultural theology can only engage in true dialogue and truly theological dialogue if it becomes a three-way conversation characterised by joint attention to God as He has revealed Himself in the canonical Scriptures as the object — or subject — that brings the conversation partners together.
Two new species of Piper section Ottonia (Piperaceae) from southeastern Brazil
Authors: Silva Micheline Carvalho , GUIMARÃES ELSIE FRANKLIN , PEREIRA LUCIANO ARAUJO , SARNAGLIA (JUNIOR) VALDERES BENTO
Published: June 2015

Based on studies of Piperaceae from Brazil, two new species are described that belong to Piper section Ottonia from the state of Espírito Santo. Piper bicorne is recognized by membranaceous, densely glandulosous leaves, and a bifid prophyll. Piper aghaense is recognized by lanceolate leaves with a cordate to lobate base with one side overlapping the petiole. We present descriptions, illustrations and comments about the ecology and conservation of these species.
Spatial Assimilation in U.S. Cities and Communities? Emerging Patterns of Hispanic Segregation from Blacks and Whites
Authors: Lichter Daniel T. , Parisi Domenico , Taquino Michael C.
Published: June 2015

This article provides a geographically inclusive empirical framework for studying changing U.S. patterns of Hispanic segregation. Whether Hispanics have joined the American mainstream depends in part on whether they translate upward mobility into residence patterns that mirror the rest of the nation. Based on block and place data from the 1990–2010 decennial censuses, our results provide evidence of increasing spatial assimilation among Hispanics, both nationally and in new immigrant destinations. Segregation from whites declined across the urban size-of-place hierarchy and in new destinations. Hispanics are also less segregated from whites than from blacks, but declines in Hispanic-black segregation have exceeded declines in Hispanic-white segregation. This result is consistent with the notion of U.S. Hispanics as a racialized population—one in which members sometimes lack the freedom to join whites in better communities. Hispanic income was significantly associated with less segregation from whites, but income inequality alone does not explain overall Hispanic segregation, which remains high. The segmented assimilation of Hispanics that we observe supports two seemingly contradictory theories: both the idea that spatial assimilation can come from economic and cultural assimilation and the notion that economic mobility is no guarantee of residential integration.
Plea-negotiations, prosecutors and discretion: An argument for legal reform
Authors: Flynn Asher
Published: June 2015

Unlike the cynicism and accountability concerns applied to the use of discretion by police and judicial officers, prosecutorial discretion in plea-negotiations operates essentially free from external scrutiny or transparency. Globally, there is a scarcity of data and research on plea-negotiations, meaning we do not have the capacity to accurately measure their frequency, the contexts in which agreements are reached or to identify patterns in the types of offenders/offences most commonly involved. Additionally, in almost all Australian jurisdictions, plea-negotiations are not recognised as a legitimate legal process in statute, despite empirical evidence from the legal community suggesting their overtly encouraged and common use. Drawing from research in which 51 Victorian prosecutors were observed engaging in plea-negotiation practices over several months, and 54 interviews were conducted with prosecutors, defence counsel, judicial officers and policy advisors, this article intends to reignite discussions of the nontransparency of plea-negotiations in Australia, including highlighting the need for increased criminological research in this underexamined field. The article contends that all Australian jurisdictions should define plea-negotiations in legislation and record data on how often plea-negotiations occur, similarly to the current process of recording guilty pleas. Without such reform, plea-negotiations will remain nontransparent and misunderstood, as there will be no adequate mechanism to understand or examine how negotiations operate in practice or what their true impacts might be.
Sin and Punishment: The Ethics of Divine Justice and Retribution in Ancient Near Eastern and Old Testament Texts
Authors: Berlejung Angelika
Published: June 2015

This article gives a short survey of concepts of “sin and sanction,” the “crisis of Wisdom,” and divine justice in ancient Mesopotamian texts and in the Old Testament. A concluding summary provides a comparison of these two ancient Near Eastern cultures’ understandings of the ethics of divine justice.
Retribution in Deuteronomy: Theology and Ethics
Authors: McConville J. Gordon
Published: June 2015

Retribution in Deuteronomy is bound up with the character of God, known from dealings in history with Israel and other nations. Retribution is applied according to a certain rightness of things, or “justice and righteousness,” rooted in the person of God, so that God’s love and compassion have the final determining word.
Divine Retribution in Romans
Authors: Jervis L. Ann
Published: June 2015

Theories that in Christ’s death God punishes, makes amends for, or does battle with sin have long used Romans as evidence. This essay investigates how much evidence for such theories is actually found in Romans. The essay also organizes our thinking around various themes related to divine retribution.
Adolescent Alcohol Use Patterns From 25 European Countries
Authors: Bräker Astrid-Britta , Göbel Kristin , Scheithauer Herbert , Soellner Renate
Published: June 2015

This study’s purpose is to describe European adolescents’ alcohol use patterns by grouping adolescents regarding their current alcohol use by cluster analysis (CA). Discriminant and latent profile analyses (LPA) evaluate and validate the solution that will be described further by ANOVAs. From 25 European countries, 57,771 students (49.4% male, 13.87 years) are grouped using hierarchical and k-means clustering. Alcohol use is measured by frequency of drinking occasions during the previous month and number of beverages consumed on the last drinking occasion. CA suggests four drinking patterns: mild (73.6%), episodic (20.0%), frequent (3.8%), and heavy episodic use (2.5%). Discriminant analysis attests a classification reliability of 94%, and confirmatory LPA replicates the cluster solution with a satisfying model fit. Three of the found patterns fulfill criteria for heavy drinking and underline the importance of individualized indicated prevention by promoting responsible use.