bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A multicentre, randomised controlled study of enteric-coated mycophenolate sodium for the treatment of relapsed or resistant proliferative lupus nephritis: an Asian experience
Authors: Anutrakulchai Sirirat , Panaput Thanachai , Wongchinsri Jeerapat , Chaishayanon Somchai , Satirapoj Bancha , Traitanon Opas , Pima Warabhorn , Rukrung Chutima , Thinkhamrop Bandit , Avihingsanon Yingyos
Published: January 2016

Objective

The optimal treatment of relapse or resistant lupus nephritis (LN) is still unclear. Mycophenolate might be an alternative therapy to avoid toxicities of cyclophosphamide (CYC). This study was aimed to compare enteric-coated mycophenolate sodium (EC-MPS) versus intravenous CYC as an induction therapy.

Methods

The study was a 12-month period of multicentre, open-labelled randomised controlled trial. Fifty-nine patients who had relapsed (36%) or who were resistant to previous CYC treatment (64%) and all who were biopsy-proven class III/IV, were randomised into CYC (n=32) and EC-MPS groups (n=27). The CYC group received intravenous CYC 0.5–1 g/m2monthly and the EC-MPS group was treated with EC-MPS 1440 mg/day for first 6 months. After induction therapy, both groups received EC-MPS 720 mg/day until the end of study at 12 months.

Results

The study was prematurely terminated due to high rate of serious adverse events in CYC arm. Death and serious infections were observed more in the CYC group (15.6% in CYC and 3.5% in EC-MPS; p=0.04). The early discontinuation rates, mainly from serious infections, were significantly higher in CYC group (percentage differences of 16.9; 95% CI 1.3 to 32.4). At the 12th month, both arms were comparable in terms of complete and partial remission rates (68% CYC and 71% EC-MPS) and times to remission (96 days CYC and 97 days EC-MPS). Composites of unfavourable outcomes (death, doubling of serum creatinine, non-remission and intolerance to treatment) were 46.9% and 37% in CYC and EC-MPS (risk difference=9.84; p=0.44).

Conclusions

EC-MPS may have comparable efficacy, but was better tolerated than CYC. EC-MPS should be an alternative choice of treatment for difficult-to-treat LN, particularly in CYC-experienced LN patients. Due to an early termination of the study, further clinical implementation could be cautiously used.

Trial registration number

Clinicaltrials.gov ID#NCT01015456.
Use of deslorelin implants for contraception in slender tailed meerkats (Suricata suricatta)
Authors: Kubiak Marie , Saunders Richard
Published: January 2016

Deslorelin acetate implants are advocated for contraception in many mammalian species, including meerkats (Suricata suricatta), but little objective data exists on efficacy of this method. This study followed two groups of meerkats, one contracepted using deslorelin implants, one without contraception, to assess the efficacy of this treatment on breeding cessation. The contracepted group produced no further litters whilst the control group continued to breed. Following group expansion, the control group was subsequently contracepted with deslorelin implants for management reasons, resulting in suppression of further conception though one already pregnant female successfully carried her litter to term. Deslorelin implants appear a safe and effective form of contraception for meerkats.
Optimization of Beauveria bassiana in a spray formulation against Choristoneura fumiferana
Authors: Hicks B.J.
Published: January 2016

Most mycoinsecticides require a carrier of natural or synthetic oils for them to be effective when sprayed on forest-defoliating caterpillars such as the eastern spruce budworm (Choristoneura fumiferana (Clemens)). Two isolates of Beauveria bassiana conidia were formulated in natural (vegetable) and synthetic (mineral) oils and tested against late instar larvae of the budworm. Topical application showed the ARSEF 1850 isolate to be more effective than a commercially available strain. Additional laboratory spray trials using a hand-held spinning disc sprayer showed that the ARSEF 1850 natural oil formulation significantly increased mortality when compared with controls. The use of oil-formulated B. bassiana conidia should be considered for future budworm management under the integrated pest management of this pest in North America.
Antigenic and genetic characterization of Bordetella pertussis recovered from Quebec, Canada, 2002–2014: detection of a genetic shift
Authors: Shuel Michelle , Lefebvre Brigitte , Whyte Kathleen , Hayden Kristy , De Serres Gaston , Brousseau Nicholas , Tsang Raymond S.W.
Published: January 2016

Despite vaccination, cyclical peaks of Bordetella pertussis incidence rates are still observed in Canada and other developed countries, making pertussis one of the most prevalent vaccine preventable bacterial diseases. In the postacellular vaccine era, evolution of bacterial strains has resulted in strains with altered vaccine antigens. Previous Canadian studies have focused on isolates mainly from the provinces of Ontario and Alberta, with only small numbers of isolates from other provinces. Therefore, in this study, we examined a larger sample (n = 52) of isolates from Quebec, Canada, between 2002 and 2014. Isolates were characterized by serotype, sequence type, and prevalence of pertactin deficiency. The Quebec isolates shared characteristics similar to other Canadian isolates and to isolates circulating globally. Although pertactin-deficient isolates were not present, a significant shift in sequence type was observed in more recent years. This study highlights the importance of continually monitoring disease-causing isolates to track evolutionary trends and gain a better understanding of the molecular epidemiology of pertussis in Canada.
Rotation as an origin of high energy particle collisions
Authors: Zaslavskii O. B.
Published: January 2016

We consider collision of two particles in rotating spacetimes without horizons. If the metric coefficient responsible for rotation of spacetime is big enough, the energy of collisions in the center of mass frame can be as large as one likes. This can happen in the ergoregion only. The results are model-independent and apply both to relativistic stars and wormholes.
Spin Hall effect of light in inhomogeneous nonlinear medium
Authors: Li Hehe , Li Xinzhong
Published: January 2016

In this paper, we investigate the spin Hall effect of a polarized Gaussian beam (GB) in a smoothly inhomogeneous isotropic and nonlinear medium using the method of the eikonal-based complex geometrical optics which describes the phase front and cross-section of a light beam using the quadratic expansion of a complex-valued eikonal. The linear complex-valued eikonal terms are introduced to describe the polarization-dependent transverse shifts of the beam in inhomogeneous nonlinear medium which is called the spin Hall effect of beam. We know that the spin Hall effect of beam is affected by the nonlinearity of medium and include two parts, one originates from the coupling between the spin angular momentum and the extrinsic orbital angular momentum due to the curve trajectory of the center of gravity of the polarized GB and the other from the coupling between the spin angular momentum and the intrinsic orbital angular momentum due to the rotation of the beam with respect to the central ray.
The gas-sensing and structure properties of Fe-doped In2O3 nanotubes by electrospinning technique
Authors: Zhou Jing , Shen Hongzhi , Feng Guanlin , Xu Dapeng
Published: January 2016

Fe-doped In2O3 nanotubes were successfully synthesized by electrospinning technique followed by subsequent heat treatment. The as-prepared samples appeared as an apparently open-end one-dimensional (1D) and tubular-like morphology with the diameter of approximately 150 nm and the wall thickness about 20 nm. The diffraction peak of the obtained nanotubes shifts toward bigger angle direction with the increase of the Fe content. Comparing to the In2O3 nanotubes, the Fe-doped In2O3 nanotubes exhibit better sensing characteristics toward ethanol gases, including higher sensing response, lower operating temperature and higher selectivity. Enhanced sensing properties are attributed to 1D hollow nanostructures and the role of doping Fe element.
Classical thermodynamics from quasi-probabilities
Authors: Pennini F. , Plastino A. , Rocca M. C.
Published: January 2016

The basic idea of a microscopic understanding of thermodynamics is to derive its main features from a microscopic probability distribution. In such a vein, we investigate the thermal statistics of quasi-probabilities’s semiclassical analogs in phase space for the important case of quadratic Hamiltonians, focusing attention in the three more important instances, i.e. those of Wigner, [Formula: see text]- and Husimi distributions. Introduction of an effective temperature permits one to obtain a unified thermodynamic description that encompasses and unifies the three different quasi-probability distributions. This unified description turns out to be classical.
Entanglement in a spin ring with anisotropic interactions
Authors: Gaudiano Marcos , Osenda Omar
Published: January 2016

The relationship between entanglement and anisotropy is studied in small spin chains with periodic boundary conditions. The Hamiltonian of the spin chains is given by a slight modification of the dipolar Hamiltonian. The effect of the anisotropy is analyzed using the concurrence shared by spin pairs, but the study is not restricted to nearest-neighbor (NN) entanglement. It is shown that, under rather general conditions, the inclusion of anisotropic terms diminishes the entanglement shared between the spins of the chain irrespective of its range or its magnetic character.
CASE REPORT: SUSPECTED BOTULISM IN A BLACK-FACED SPOONBILL (PLATALEA MINOR)
Authors: Yin Ji-Hang , Yen Hao-Che , Chang Wen-Fa , Mao Chi-Jiun , Chan Fang-Tse , Liao Jiunn-Wang
Published: January 2016

Numerous cases of black-faced spoonbills (Platalea minor) showing signs of limberneck and flaccid paralysis of the legs and wings were suspected to be suffering from botulism by veterinarians in Tainan County, Taiwan from February to March in 2015. Most of the sick birds completely recovered and were successfully released following treatment with antiserum to botulinum toxin type C. However, 10 remaining spoonbills still suffered from curled claws and stood on the tarsometatarsal joints. They were transferred to the Endemic Species Research Institute for further treatment. One of the birds showed elevated levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), creatine kinase (CK) and uric acid, along with swollen kidneys observed in radiographs. The bird eventually died, allowing for further examination. At necropsy, fungal plaques and caseous nodules were also present in the lungs, pleura and adjacent air sacs. Microscopically, Aspergillus spp. were evident in the plaques and caseous nodules. In addition, mural endocarditis in the aortic intima associated with the aspergillosis was also present. Thus, the final diagnosis was suspected botulism with respiratory and systemic aspergillosis.
Seismic Behavior of X-Shaped Drawer Bracing System (DBS) and X-Braced Frames with Heavy Central Core
Authors: Payandehjoo Barash , Sabouri-Ghomi Saeid , Ebadi Parviz
Published: January 2016

In this work, seismic performance of conventional X-braced frames is enhanced by using Drawer Bracing Systems (DBS). DBS is an innovative structure, which increases ductility and energy absorption capacity of the X-braces through elimination of the harmful effects of local and global buckling and by converting the induced axial forces inside diagonal arms to flexural moments. Two half-scale specimens are tested under cyclic loading and the seismic performance of an X-shaped DBS is compared to that of an X-braced frame. Both braced frames are designed for equal nominal base shears and have similar frame sizes and dimensions. Test results confirm that converting the axial force to flexural moments in rational dissipative elements inside braces helps prevent the global and local buckling of braces in X-shaped DBS. Consequently, ductility and energy absorption capacity of the Concentrically Braced Frames (CBFs) is increased remarkably.
Fractional Topological Insulators: A Pedagogical Review
Authors: Stern Ady
Published: January 2016

Fractional topological insulators (FTIs) are electronic systems that carry fractionally charged excitations, conserve charge, and are symmetric to reversal of time. In this review, we introduce the basic essential concepts of the field and then survey theoretical understanding of FTIs in two and three dimensions. In between, we discuss the case of “two and a half dimensions,” the FTIs that may form on the two-dimensional surface of an unfractionalized three-dimensional topological insulator. We focus on electronic systems and emphasize properties of edges and surfaces, most notably the stability of gapless edge modes to perturbations.
Information Processing in Living Systems
Authors: Tkačik Gašper , Bialek William
Published: January 2016

Life depends as much on the flow of information as on the flow of energy. Here we review the many efforts to make this intuition precise. Starting with the building blocks of information theory, we explore examples where it has been possible to measure, directly, the flow of information in biological networks, or more generally where information-theoretic ideas have been used to guide the analysis of experiments. Systems of interest range from single molecules (the sequence diversity in families of proteins) to groups of organisms (the distribution of velocities in flocks of birds), and all scales in between. Many of these analyses are motivated by the idea that biological systems may have evolved to optimize the gathering and representation of information, and we review the experimental evidence for this optimization, again across a wide range of scales.
Language and Speech in Autism
Authors: Gernsbacher Morton Ann , Morson Emily M. , Grace Elizabeth J.
Published: January 2016

Autism is a developmental disability characterized by atypical social interaction, interests or body movements, and communication. Our review examines the empirical status of three communication phenomena believed to be unique to autism: pronoun reversal (using the pronoun you when the pronoun I is intended, and vice versa), echolalia (repeating what someone has said), and a reduced or even reversed production-comprehension lag (a reduction or reversal of the well-established finding that speakers produce less sophisticated language than they can comprehend). Each of these three phenomena has been claimed to be unique to autism; therefore, each has been proposed to be diagnostic of autism, and each has been interpreted in autism-centric ways (psychoanalytic interpretations of pronoun reversal, behaviorist interpretations of echolalia, and clinical lore about the production-comprehension lag). However, as our review demonstrates, none of these three phenomena is in fact unique to autism; none can or should serve as diagnostic of autism, and all call into question unwarranted assumptions about autistic persons and their language development and use.
Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Zuk Anna , Bonventre Joseph V.
Published: January 2016

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a global public health concern associated with high morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Other than dialysis, no therapeutic interventions reliably improve survival, limit injury, or speed recovery. Despite recognized shortcomings of in vivo animal models, the underlying pathophysiology of AKI and its consequence, chronic kidney disease (CKD), is rich with biological targets. We review recent findings relating to the renal vasculature and cellular stress responses, primarily the intersection of the unfolded protein response, mitochondrial dysfunction, autophagy, and the innate immune response. Maladaptive repair mechanisms that persist following the acute phase promote inflammation and fibrosis in the chronic phase. Here macrophages, growth-arrested tubular epithelial cells, the endothelium, and surrounding pericytes are key players in the progression to chronic disease. Better understanding of these complex interacting pathophysiological mechanisms, their relative importance in humans, and the utility of biomarkers will lead to therapeutic strategies to prevent and treat AKI or impede progression to CKD or end-stage renal disease (ESRD).
Vitamin D and Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Wang Thomas J.
Published: January 2016

Vitamin D is best known for its influence on skeletal health. There is growing recognition, however, that vitamin D has nonskeletal actions, which could have important implications for understanding the consequences of vitamin D deficiency. In epidemiologic studies, vitamin D deficiency has been consistently associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular disease and hypertension. Disruption of vitamin D signaling in animal models promotes hypertension, cardiac hypertrophy, and atherosclerosis. This evidence has led to the initiation of prospective randomized trials of vitamin D supplementation in individuals at risk for cardiovascular disease. The results of these trials should help to guide strategies for screening and management of vitamin D deficiency in the clinic and at the population level.
Nutritional stress exacerbates hepatic steatosis induced by deletion of the histidine nucleotide-binding (Hint2) mitochondrial protein
Authors: Martin Juliette , Balmer Maria L. , Rajendran Saranya , Maurhofer Olivier , Dufour Jean-François , St-Pierre Marie V.
Published: January 2016

The histidine nucleotide-binding protein, Hint2, is a mitochondrial phosphoramidase expressed in liver, brown fat, pancreas, and muscle. The livers of Hint2 knockout ( Hint2−/−) mice accumulate triglycerides and show a pattern of mitochondrial protein lysine hyperacetylation. The extent and nature of the lysine acetylation changes and the response of Hint2−/−mice to nutritional challenges that elicit a modification of protein acetylation have not been investigated. To compare the adaptation of Hint2−/−and control ( Hint2+/+) mice with episodes of fasting and high-fat diet (HFD), we subjected animals to either feeding ad libitum or fasting for 24 h, and to either a HFD or control diet for 8 wk. Triglyceride content was higher in Hint2−/−than in Hint2+/+livers, whereas plasma triglycerides were fourfold lower. Malonyl-CoA levels were increased twofold in Hint2−/−livers. After 24 h fasting, Hint2−/−displayed a decrease in body temperature, commensurate with a decrease in mass of brown fat and downregulation of uncoupling protein 1. HFD-treated Hint2−/−livers showed more steatosis, and plasma insulin and cholesterol were higher than in Hint+/+mice. Several proteins identified as substrates of sirtuin 3 and 5 and active in intermediary and ketone metabolism were hyperacetylated in liver and brown fat mitochondria after both HFD and fasting regimens. Glutamate dehydrogenase activity was downregulated in fed and fasted livers, and this was attributed to an increase in acetylation and ADP-ribosylation. The absence of Hint2 deregulates the posttranslational modification of several mitochondrial proteins, which impedes the adaptation to episodes of nutritional stress.
Protective effect of agaro-oligosaccharides on gut dysbiosis and colon tumorigenesis in high-fat diet-fed mice
Authors: Higashimura Yasuki , Naito Yuji , Takagi Tomohisa , Uchiyama Kazuhiko , Mizushima Katsura , Ushiroda Chihiro , Ohnogi Hiromu , Kudo Yoko , Yasui Madoka , Inui Seina , Hisada Takayoshi , Honda Akira , Matsuzaki Yasushi , Yoshikawa Toshikazu
Published: January 2016

High-fat diet (HFD)-induced alteration in the gut microbial composition, known as dysbiosis, is increasingly recognized as a major risk factor for various diseases, including colon cancer. This report describes a comprehensive investigation of the effect of agaro-oligosaccharides (AGO) on HFD-induced gut dysbiosis, including alterations in short-chain fatty acid contents and bile acid metabolism in mice. C57BL/6N mice were fed a control diet or HFD, with or without AGO. Terminal restriction fragment-length polymorphism (T-RFLP) analysis produced their fecal microbiota profiles. Profiles of cecal organic acids and serum bile acids were determined, respectively, using HPLC and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry systems. T-RFLP analyses showed that an HFD changed the gut microbiota significantly. Changes in the microbiota composition induced by an HFD were characterized by a decrease in the order Lactobacillales and by an increase in the Clostridium subcluster XIVa. These changes of the microbiota community generated by HFD treatment were suppressed by AGO supplementation. As supported by the data of the proportion of Lactobacillales order, the concentration of lactic acid increased in the HFD + AGO group. Data from the serum bile acid profile showed that the level of deoxycholic acid, a carcinogenic secondary bile acid produced by gut bacteria, was increased in HFD-receiving mice. The upregulation tended to be suppressed by AGO supplementation. Finally, results show that AGO supplementation suppressed the azoxymethane-induced generation of aberrant crypt foci in the colon derived from HFD-treated mice. Our results suggest that oral intake of AGO prevents HFD-induced gut dysbiosis, thereby inhibiting colon carcinogenesis.
Role of CO2 in the cerebral hyperemic response to incremental normoxic and hyperoxic exercise
Authors: Smith K. J. , Wildfong K. W. , Hoiland R. L. , Harper M. , Lewis N. C. , Pool A. , Smith S. L. , Kuca T. , Foster G. E. , Ainslie P. N.
Published: January 2016

Cerebral blood flow (CBF) is temporally related to exercise-induced changes in partial pressure of end-tidal carbon dioxide (PetCO2); hyperoxia is known to enhance this relationship. We examined the hypothesis that preventing PetCO2 from rising (isocapnia) during submaximal exercise with and without hyperoxia [end-tidal Po2 (PetO2) = 300 mmHg] would attenuate the increases in CBF. Additionally, we aimed to identify the magnitude that breathing, per se, influences the CBF response to normoxic and hyperoxic exercise. In 14 participants, CBF (intra- and extracranial) measurements were measured during exercise [20, 40, 60, and 80% of maximum workload (Wmax)] and during rest while ventilation (V̇e) was volitionally increased to mimic volumes achieved during exercise (isocapnic hyperpnea). While V̇e was uncontrolled during poikilocapnic exercise, during isocapnic exercise and isocapnic hyperpnea, V̇e was increased to prevent PetCO2 from rising above resting values (∼40 mmHg). Although PetCO2 differed by 2 ± 3 mmHg during normoxic poikilocapnic and isocapnic exercise, except for a greater poikilocapnic compared with isocapnic increase in blood velocity in the posterior cerebral artery at 60% Wmax, the between condition increases in intracranial (∼12-15%) and extracranial (15–20%) blood flow were similar at each workload. The poikilocapnic hyperoxic increases in both intra- and extracranial blood-flow (∼17–29%) were greater compared with poikilocapnic normoxia (∼8–20%) at intensities >40% Wmax ( P < 0.01). During both normoxic and hyperoxic conditions, isocapnia normalized both the intracranial and extracranial blood-flow differences. Isocapnic hyperpnea did not alter CBF. Our findings demonstrate a differential effect of PetCO2 on CBF during exercise influenced by the prevailing PetO2.
PlanHab: the combined and separate effects of 16 days of bed rest and normobaric hypoxic confinement on circulating lipids and indices of insulin sensitivity in healthy men
Authors: Simpson Elizabeth J. , Debevec Tadej , Eiken Ola , Mekjavic Igor , Macdonald Ian A.
Published: January 2016

PlanHab is a planetary habitat simulation study. The atmosphere within future space habitats is anticipated to have reduced Po2, but information is scarce as to how physiological systems may respond to combined exposure to moderate hypoxia and reduced gravity. This study investigated, using a randomized-crossover design, how insulin sensitivity, glucose tolerance, and circulating lipids were affected by 16 days of horizontal bed rest in normobaric normoxia [NBR: FiO2= 0.209; PiO2= 133.1 (0.3) mmHg], horizontal bed rest in normobaric hypoxia [HBR: FiO2= 0.141 (0.004); PiO2= 90.0 (0.4) mmHg], and confinement in normobaric hypoxia combined with daily moderate intensity exercise (HAMB). A mixed-meal tolerance test, with arterialized-venous blood sampling, was performed in 11 healthy, nonobese men (25-45 yr) before (V1) and on the morning of day 17 of each intervention (V2). Postprandial glucose and c-peptide response were increased at V2 of both bed rest interventions ( P < 0.05 in each case), with c-peptide:insulin ratio higher at V2 in HAMB and HBR, both in the fed and fasted state ( P < 0.005 in each case). Fasting total cholesterol was reduced at V2 in HAMB [−0.47 (0.36) mmol/l; P < 0.005] and HBR [−0.55 (0.41) mmol/l; P < 0.005]. Fasting HDL was lower at V2 in all interventions, with the reduction observed in HBR [−0.30 (0.21) mmol/l] greater than that measured in HAMB [−0.13 (0.14) mmol/l; P < 0.005] and NBR [−0.17 (0.15) mmol/l; P < 0.05]. Hypoxia did not alter the adverse effects of bed rest on insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance but appeared to increase insulin clearance. The negative effect of bed rest on HDL was compounded in hypoxia, which may have implications for long-term health of those living in future space habitats.
Regional heterogeneity in the reactivity of equine small pulmonary blood vessels
Authors: Stack Alice , Derksen Frederik J. , Williams Kurt J. , Robinson N. Edward , Jackson William F.
Published: January 2016

Regional differences in large equine pulmonary artery reactivity exist. It is not known if this heterogeneity extends into small vessels. The hypothesis that there is regional heterogeneity in small pulmonary artery and vein reactivity to sympathomimetics (phenylephrine and isoproterenol) and a parasympathomimetic (methacholine) was tested using wire myography on small vessels from caudodorsal (CD) and cranioventral (CV) lung of 12 horses [9 mares, 3 geldings, 8.67 ± 0.81 (age ± SE) yr, of various breeds that had never raced]. To study relaxation, vessels were precontracted with U46619 (10−6M). Methacholine mechanism of action was investigated using l-nitroarginine methylester (l-NAME, 100 μM) and indomethacin (10 μM). Phenylephrine did not contract any vessels. Isoproterenol relaxed CD arteries more than CV arteries (maximum relaxation 28.18% and 48.67%; Log IC50± SE −7.975 ± 0.1327 and −8.033 ± 0.1635 for CD and CV, respectively, P < 0.0001), but not veins. Methacholine caused contraction of CD arteries (maximum contraction 245.4%, Log EC50± SE −6.475 ± 0.3341), and relaxation of CV arteries (maximum relaxation 40.14%, Log IC50± SE −6.791 ± 0.1954) and all veins (maximum relaxation 50.62%, Log IC50 ± SE −6.932 ± 0.1986) in a nonregion-dependent manner. l-NAME ( n = 8, P < 0.0001) and indomethacin ( n = 7, P < 0.0001) inhibited methacholine-induced relaxation of CV arteries, whereas indomethacin augmented CD artery contraction ( n = 8, P < 0.0001). Our data demonstrate significant regional heterogeneity in small blood vessel reactivity when comparing the CD to the CV region of the equine lung.
Nonthrombotic Pulmonary Embolism: A Potential Complication of Polyacrylamide Hydrogel Cosmetic Injection
Authors: Inayat Faisal , Cheema Ahmad R. , Virk Hafeez Ul Hasan , Yoon Daniel J. , Farooq Salman , Manan Abdul
Published: January 2016

Context.Polyacrylamide hydrogel (PAAG) has gained importance as a synthetic soft tissue filling agent. It has been commonly employed by physicians in Europe for facial contouring and soft tissue augmentation. Previously, PAAG is considered nontoxic and well tolerated with a few mild procedural complications.Case Presentation.A 26-year-old female was hospitalized for dry cough, worsening dyspnea, and chest discomfort after 3 hours of multiple PAAG injections in buttocks. The patient’s condition deteriorated and rapidly advanced to acute respiratory failure. Therein, the diagnosis of nonthrombotic pulmonary embolism (NTPE) was established on standard set of investigations. She was intubated; corticosteroid and empiric antibiotic therapy was initiated resulting in improvement of her condition. Subsequently, extubation was done, and she was discharged from the hospital after an uneventful recovery. On 1-month follow-up, the patient had no previous symptoms.Conclusion.This report implicates clinicians to maintain a high index of suspicion for NTPE in patients presenting with respiratory symptoms following PAAG usage.
Eyes Open on Sleep and Wake: In Vivo to In Silico Neural Networks
Authors: Vanvinckenroye Amaury , Vandewalle Gilles , Phillips Christophe , Chellappa Sarah L.
Published: January 2016

Functional and effective connectivity of cortical areas are essential for normal brain function under different behavioral states. Appropriate cortical activity during sleep and wakefulness is ensured by the balanced activity of excitatory and inhibitory circuits. Ultimately, fast, millisecond cortical rhythmic oscillations shape cortical function in time and space. On a much longer time scale, brain function also depends on prior sleep-wake history and circadian processes. However, much remains to be established on how the brain operates at the neuronal level in humans during sleep and wakefulness. A key limitation of human neuroscience is the difficulty in isolating neuronal excitation/inhibition drive in vivo. Therefore, computational models are noninvasive approaches of choice to indirectly access hidden neuronal states. In this review, we present a physiologically driven in silico approach, Dynamic Causal Modelling (DCM), as a means to comprehend brain function under different experimental paradigms. Importantly, DCM has allowed for the understanding of how brain dynamics underscore brain plasticity, cognition, and different states of consciousness. In a broader perspective, noninvasive computational approaches, such as DCM, may help to puzzle out the spatial and temporal dynamics of human brain function at different behavioural states.
Synthesis of New Energetic Materials and Ionic Liquids Derived from Metronidazole
Authors: Romero Miguel A.
Published: January 2016

Simple and efficient synthetic procedures were established for the preparation of new energetic covalent compounds, salts, and protonated ionic liquids based on the readily available antimicrobial agent metronidazole. Some of these materials exhibit the desirable properties of energetic materials and energetic ionic liquids, such as low vapor pressure, low melting point, good chemical and thermal stability, and high energetic content. For each of the relevant compounds prepared, thermal stability was determined by differential scanning calorimetry. Some of these compounds may be considered promising precursors of pharmaceuticals such as antimicrobial, antiparasitic, antifungal, antineoplastic agents, or enzyme inhibitors.
Gender Differences in the Neurobiology of Anxiety: Focus on Adult Hippocampal Neurogenesis
Authors: Marques Alessandra Aparecida , Bevilaqua Mário Cesar do Nascimento , da Fonseca Alberto Morais Pinto , Nardi Antonio Egidio , Thuret Sandrine , Dias Gisele Pereira
Published: January 2016

Although the literature reports a higher incidence of anxiety disorders in women, the majority of basic research has focused on male rodents, thus resulting in a lack of knowledge on the neurobiology of anxiety in females. Bridging this gap is crucial for the design of effective translational interventions in women. One of the key brain mechanisms likely to regulate anxious behavior is adult hippocampal neurogenesis (AHN). This review paper aims to discuss the evidence on the differences between male and female rodents with regard to anxiety-related behavior and physiology, with a special focus on AHN. The differences between male and female physiologies are greatly influenced by hormonal differences. Gonadal hormones and their fluctuations during the estrous cycle have often been identified as agents responsible for sexual dimorphism in behavior and AHN. During sexual maturity, hormone levels fluctuate cyclically in females more than in males, increasing the stress response and the susceptibility to anxiety. It is therefore of great importance that future research investigates anxiety and other neurophysiological aspects in the female model, so that results can be more accurately applicable to the female population.
Seamless Guidance System Combining GPS, BLE Beacon, and NFC Technologies
Authors: Cheng Rung-Shiang , Hong Wei-Jun , Wang Jheng-Syun , Lin Kawuu W.
Published: January 2016

Users rely increasingly on Location-Based Services (LBS) and automated navigation/guidance systems nowadays. However, while such services are easily implemented in outdoor environments using Global Positioning System (GPS) technology, a requirement still exists for accurate localization and guidance schemes in indoor settings. Accordingly, the present study proposes a system based on GPS, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) beacons, and Near Field Communication (NFC) technology. Through establishing graphic information and the design of algorithm, this study develops a guidance system for indoors and outdoors on smart phones, wishing to give user perfect smart life through this system. The proposed system is implemented on a smart phone and evaluated on a student campus environment. The experimental results confirm the ability of the proposed app to switch automatically from an outdoor mode to an indoor mode and to guide the user to requested target destination via the shortest possible route.
A New Small Drifter for Shallow Water Basins: Application to the Study of Surface Currents in the Muggia Bay (Italy)
Authors: Nasello Carmelo , Armenio Vincenzo
Published: January 2016

A new small drifter prototype for measuring current immediately below the free surface in a water basin is proposed in this paper. The drifter dimensions make it useful for shallow water applications. The drifter transmits its GPS location via GSM phone network. The drifter was used to study the trajectory of the surface current in the Muggia bay, the latter containing the industrial harbor of the city of Trieste (Italy). The analysis has been carried out under a wide variety of wind conditions. As regards the behavior of the drifter, the analysis has shown that it is well suited to detect the water current since its motion is marginally affected by the wind. The study has allowed detecting the main features of the surface circulation within the Muggia bay under different meteorological conditions. Also, the study has shown that the trajectory of the surface current within the bay is weakly affected by the Coriolis force.
Appraisals of Bangladeshi Medicinal Plants Used by Folk Medicine Practitioners in the Prevention and Management of Malignant Neoplastic Diseases
Authors: Kabidul Azam Md. Nur , Rahman Md. Mizanur , Biswas Samanta , Ahmed Md. Nasir
Published: January 2016

Cancer is a group of diseases which is categorized to differentiate into diverse cell types and move around in the body to sites of organogenesis that is key to the process of tumor genesis. All types of cancer fall into the group of malignant neoplastic diseases. In Bangladesh, cancer is now one of the foremost killer diseases and its personal, social, and economic bearing are huge. Plant-derived natural compounds (vincristine, vinblastine, etoposide, paclitaxel, camptothecin, topotecan, and irinotecan) are useful for the treatment of cancer. Since there is no extensive ethnobotanical research study in Bangladesh regarding the traditional uses of medicinal plants against neoplasms, therefore, a randomized ethnopharmacological surveys were carried out in 3 districts of Bangladesh to learn more about the usage of anticancer medicinal plants and their chemical constituents having antineoplastic activity. Comprehensive interviews were conducted to the folk medicine practitioners and medicinal plants as pointed out by them were photographed, collected, deposited, and identified at the Bangladesh National Herbarium. The various plant parts have been used by the healers which included whole plant, leaves, fruits, barks, roots, and seeds. This study evaluated considerable potential for discovery of novel compounds with less side effects in the management and prevention of malignancy in cancer.
Torsional Behaviour and Finite Element Analysis of the Hybrid Laminated Composite Shafts: Comparison of VARTM with Vacuum Bagging Manufacturing Method
Authors: Taşdelen Mehmet Emin , Keleştemur Mehmet Halidun , Şevkat Ercan
Published: January 2016

Braided sleeve composite shafts are produced and their torsional behavior is investigated. The braided sleeves are slid over an Al tube to create very strong and rigid tubular form shafts and they are in the form of 2/2 twill biaxial fiber fabric that has been woven into a continuous sleeve. Carbon and glass fibers braided sleeves are used for the fabrication of the composite shafts. VARTM (vacuum assisted resin transfer molding) and Vacuum Bagging are the two different types of manufacturing methods used in the study. Torsional behaviors of the shafts are investigated experimentally in terms of fabrication methods and various composite materials parameters such as fiber types, layer thickness, and ply angles. Comparing the two methods in terms of the torque forces and strain angles, the shafts producing entirely carbon fiber show the highest torque capacities; however, considering the cost and performance criteria, the hybrid shaft made up of carbon and glass fibers is the optimum solution for average demanded properties. Additionally, FE (finite element) model of the shafts was created and analyzed by using ANSYS workbench environment. Results of finite element analysis are compared with the values of twisting angle and torque obtained by experimental tests.
Dietary Patterns and CKD Progression
Authors: Banerjee Tanushree , Liu Yang , Crews Deidra C.
Published: January 2016

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients and their clinicians seek ways to mitigate the risk of CKD progression and its associated complications. Emerging data suggest that dietary modifications may be beneficial adjuvant approaches to reducing the risk of adverse CKD outcomes. Summary: This review focuses on several different dietary patterns, including the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension and Mediterranean diets, and their kidney health benefits. We discuss how healthful dietary patterns are lower in dietary acid load and how improving diet quality may slow the progression of CKD. We also discuss some barriers that may impede socially disadvantaged individuals from following healthful diets. Key Points: Dietary patterns low in dietary acid load might slow the progression of CKD. Current evidence suggests that a reduction in dietary acid load could be beneficial in patients with CKD, but the supremacy of any particular diet is yet to be established. Additional randomized controlled dietary interventions among CKD patients are needed to inform evidence-based recommendations, which can be tailored to an individual's preferences and ability to access healthful foods.
A Participatory Design Approach to Develop a Web-Based Self-Care Program Supporting Early Rehabilitation among Patients after Total Laryngectomy
Authors: Cnossen Ingrid C. , van Uden-Kraan Cornelia F. , Eerenstein Simone E.J. , Rinkel Rico N.P.M. , Aalders IJke J. , van den Berg Klaske , de Goede Cees J.T. , van Stijgeren Ans J. , Cruijff-Bijl Yvonne , de Bree Remco , Leemans C. René , Verdonck-de Leeuw Irma M.
Published: January 2016

Aim: To develop a Web-based self-care program for patients after total laryngectomy according to a participatory design approach. Methods: We conducted a needs assessment with laryngectomees (n = 9) and their partners (n = 3) by means of a focus group interview. In 4 focus group sessions, a requirement plan was formulated by a team of health care professionals (n = 10) and translated into a prototype. An e-health application was built including illustrated information on functional changes after total laryngectomy as well as video demonstrations of skills and exercises. Usability of the prototype was tested by end users (n = 4) and expert users (n = 10). Interviews were held to elicit the intention to use and the desired implementation strategy. Results: Six main self-care topics were identified: (1) nutrition, (2) tracheostomy care, (3) voice prosthesis care, (4) speech rehabilitation, (5) smell rehabilitation, and (6) mobility of head, neck, and shoulder muscles. Expert users expressed concerns regarding tailored exercises, indicated a positive intent to implement the intervention in routine care, and expressed a need for guidance when implementing the intervention. End users and expert users appreciated the content completeness and multimedia-based information built into the application. Conclusion: The participatory design is a valuable approach to develop a self-care program to help meet users' needs.
Progressively Earlier Initiation of Renal Replacement Therapy for Acute Kidney Injury Is Unwarranted and Potentially Harmful
Authors: Clark Edward G. , Hiremath Swapnil
Published: January 2016

Background: The optimal timing of renal replacement therapy (RRT) initiation for acute kidney injury (AKI) is unknown. There is debate as to whether starting RRT earlier for AKI is superior to starting it only after ‘conventional', life-threatening indications are present. Summary: In recent years, there has been an ongoing trend in clinical practice to initiate RRT for AKI long before indications appear. Observational studies show many patients now begin RRT for AKI in the absence of ‘conventional' indications. While this shift may have been prompted by observational studies suggesting improved outcomes with earlier RRT, there was not sufficient justification for a change in clinical practice: many recent, observational studies suggest that early RRT may not beneficial or may be even harmful. Moreover, none of 3 underpowered RCTs reported to date found ‘early' RRT initiation beneficial. Lowering the threshold for RRT initiation inevitably leads to more patients receiving unnecessary treatment and this is a matter of concern, considering the fact that complications are potentially fatal and RRT is very costly. While we await definitive studies, calls to shift clinical practice back toward the initiation of RRT for ‘conventional', life‐threatening indications only, should be heeded. Key Messages: ‘Earlier' initiation of RRT for AKI is already occurring in clinical practice but is not justified on the basis of the studies to date. Lowering the threshold for initiation leads to more patients receiving unnecessary RRT. RRT has potentially fatal complications and is expensive. While we await definitive trials, RRT should be started only after ‘conventional', life-threatening indications occur and not earlier.
Sunlight Has Cardiovascular Benefits Independently of Vitamin D
Authors: Weller Richard B.
Published: January 2016

Background: High blood pressure (BP) is the leading risk factor for disability adjusted life years lost globally. Epidemiological data show a correlation between increased sun exposure and reduced population BP and cardiovascular mortality. Individuals with high serum vitamin D levels are at reduced risk of hypertension, cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome, yet multiple trial data show that oral vitamin D supplementation has no effect on these endpoints. Sunlight is a risk factor for skin cancers, but no link has been shown with increased all-cause mortality. Cohort studies from Scandinavia show a dose-dependent fall in mortality with increased sun-seeking behaviour. Skin contains significant stores of nitrogen oxides, which can be converted to NO by UV radiation and exported to the systemic circulation. Human studies show that this pathway can cause arterial vasodilatation and reduced BP. Murine studies suggest the same mechanism may reduce metabolic syndrome. Summary: Sunlight has beneficial effects on cardiovascular risk factors independently of vitamin D. Key Messages: All-cause mortality should be the primary determinant of public health messages. Sunlight is a risk factor for skin cancer, but sun avoidance may carry more of a cost than benefit for overall good health.
Con-Current versus Counter-Current Dialysate Flow during CVVHD. A Comparative Study for Creatinine and Urea Removal
Authors: Baldwin Ian , Baldwin Marie , Fealy Nigel , Neri Mauro , Garzotto Francesco , Kim Jeong Chul , Giuliani Anna , Basso Flavio , Nalesso Federico , Brendolan Alessandra , Ronco Claudio
Published: January 2016

Background: Dialysate fluid connection to the membrane in continuous dialysis may affect solute clearance. Although circuit connections are routinely made counter-current to blood flow in intermittent dialysis, no study has assessed the effect of this dialysate fluid flow direction on removal of small solutes creatinine and urea during treatment using continuous veno-venous haemodialysis (CVVHD). Aims: To assess if dialysate flow direction during CVVHD affects small solute removal. Methods: This ethics-approved study recruited a convenience sample of 26 adult ICU patients requiring continuous dialysis to assess urea and creatinine removal for con-current vs. counter-current dialysate flow direction. The circuit was adjusted from continuous veno-venous haemodiafiltration to CVVHD 20 min prior to sampling with no fluid removal. Blood (b) and spent dialysate fluid (f) were taken in both concurrent and counter-current fluid flow at 1 (T1) and 4 (T4) hours with a new treatment. Blood flow was 200 ml/min. Dialysate flow 33 ml/min. Removal of urea and creatinine was expressed as the diafiltrate/plasma concentration ratio: Uf/b and Cf/b respectively. Data lacking normal distribution are presented as median with 25th and 75th interquartile ranges (IQR), otherwise as mean with SD and assessed with the independent t test for paired data. p < 0.5 was considered significant. Results: Fifteen male patients were included with a median (IQR) age of 67 years (52-75), and APACHE ΙΙ score 17 (14-19) with all patients meeting RIFLE criteria ‘F'. At both times, the counter-current dialysate flow was associated with higher mean (SD) diafiltrate/plasma concentration ratios: T1 0.87 (0.16) vs. 0.77 (0.10), p = 0.006; T2 0.96 (0.16) vs. 0.76 (0.09), p < 0.001 for creatinine and T1 0.98 (0.09) vs. 0.81 (0.09), p < 0.001; T2 0.99 (0.07) vs. 0.82 (0.08), p < 0.001 for urea. Conclusion: Counter-current dialysate flow during CVVHD for ICU patients is associated with an approximately 20% increase in removal of small solutes creatinine and urea. Video Journal Club ‘Cappuccino with Claudio Ronco' at http://www.karger.com/?doi=441270.