bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blood Pressure and Intracranial Aneurysms in Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease
Authors: Niemczyk Mariusz , Pilecki Tomasz , Gradzik Monika , Bujko Maciej , Niemczyk Stanisław , Pączek Leszek
Published: January 2015

Background/Aims: Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is correlated with an increased frequency of both intracranial aneurysms (ICANs), and arterial hypertension (AH). The aim of our study was to search for the association between blood pressure (BP) and ICANs in ADPKD patients. Methods: Sixty-eight adult, pre-dialysis phase ADPKD patients underwent both screening for ICANs with magnetic resonance angiography of the brain, and ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM). Results: ICANs were diagnosed in 10 patients (ICAN(+) group), while in 58 were not (ICAN(-) group). The nighttime maximum diastolic blood pressure (DBP), maximum increase in DBP from measurement to measurement (positive delta of DBP) at night, and the standard deviation of the daytime mean arterial pressure were significantly higher in ICAN(+) compared to ICAN(-) patients. Additionally, in a subgroup of patients after 45 years-of-age, ICAN(+) patients had significantly higher maximum 24-hour and daytime systolic blood pressure, maximum 24-hour, daytime, nighttime DBP, maximum daytime and nighttime positive delta of DBP compared to ICAN(-) cases. Conclusions: Development of ICANs in hypertensive ADPKD patients is accompanied with higher values of some BP parameters measured by ABPM. Hypertensive ADPKD patients with substantial fluctuations in BP assessed by ABPM, especially those after 45 years-of-age, should become candidates for screening for ICANs.
Cysteinyl 1 Receptor Antagonist Montelukast, Does Not Prevent Peritoneal Membrane Damage in Experimental Chronic Peritoneal Dialysis Model in Rats
Authors: Yucel Sibel Koçak , Arikan Hakki , Tugtepe Halil , Cakalagaoglu Fulya , Tuglular Serhan , Akoglu Emel , Ozener Cetin
Published: January 2015

Background/Aims: Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) induces structural changes in the peritoneal membrane such as fibrosis, vasculopathy and angioneogenesis with a reduction in ultrafiltration capacity. Leukotriene (LT) receptor antagonists have been found to be effective to prevent fibrosis in some nonperitoneal tissues. The aim of this study is to investigate the possible beneficial effect of montelukast, a LT receptor antagonist, on peritoneal membrane exposed to hypertonic peritoneal dialysis in uremic rats. Methods: Of the 48 male, 5/6 nephrectomized Wistar rats 29 remained alive and were included in the study. These studied rats were divided into 3 groups: Group I (n=7) was the control group, Group II (n=8) was treated with 20 ml hypertonic PDF intraperitoneally daily and Group III was treated with montelukast and similar PDF treatment protocol. The morphological and functional changes in the peritoneal membrane as well as cytokine expression were compared between groups. Results: Submesothelial thickness and the severity of the degree of hyaline vasculapathy were more prominent in group III when compared to group I. There were no significant differences between group II and other groups in terms of submesothelial thickness and the severity of the degree of hyaline vasculapathy. Increased expressions of TGF-β and VEGF in parietal peritoneal membrane were found in group II and group III when compared to group I. The amount of TGF-β and VEGF expression were similar in group II and group III. Conclusion: This study suggests that montelukast treatment does not prevent the peritoneal membrane from deleterious effects of hyperosmolar PDF in the uremic environment.
Low Plasma ApoE Levels Are Associated with Smaller Hippocampal Size in the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative Cohort
Authors: Teng Edmond , Chow Nicole , Hwang Kristy S. , Thompson Paul M. , Gylys Karen H. , Cole Gregory M. , Jack Jr. Clifford R. , Shaw Leslie M. , Trojanowski John Q. , Soares Holly D. , Weiner Michael W. , Apostolova Liana G. ,   for the Alzheimer''s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: January 2015

Apolipoprotein E (APOE) genotype is the strongest known genetic risk factor for sporadic Alzheimer's disease (AD), but the utility of plasma ApoE levels for assessing the severity of underlying neurodegenerative changes remains uncertain. Here, we examined cross-sectional associations between plasma ApoE levels and volumetric magnetic resonance imaging indices of the hippocampus from 541 participants [57 with normal cognition (NC), 375 with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and 109 with mild AD] who were enrolled in the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative. Across the NC and MCI groups, lower plasma ApoE levels were significantly correlated with smaller hippocampal size, as measured by either hippocampal volume or hippocampal radial distance. These associations were driven primarily by findings from carriers of an APOE ε4 allele and are consistent with prior reports that lower plasma ApoE levels correlate with greater global cortical Pittsburgh Compound B retention. In this high-risk group, plasma ApoE levels may represent a peripheral marker of underlying AD neuropathology in nondemented elderly individuals.
Use of Continuous Glucose Monitoring to Identify Glucose Dysregulation in Growth Hormone Insensitivity Syndrome
Authors: Perchard Reena , Say Jemma , Pitts James , Storr Helen L. , Amin Rakesh
Published: January 2015

Background/Aims: Monogenic forms of growth hormone insensitivity (GHI) and its treatment with recombinant insulin-like growth factor-1 (rIGF-1) are both associated with glucose dysregulation. We used the information provided by continuous glucose monitoring systems (CGMS) for the clinical management of two children with monogenic GHI prior to the commencement of therapy as well as during the years when they received rIGF-1 treatment and continued to do so after the cessation of therapy. Methods: We evaluated the extent of hyper- and hypoglycaemia with CGMS. Results: In one patient, before treatment CGMS identified self-limiting nocturnal hypoglycaemia. Initiation of rIGF-1 treatment resulted in severe and persistent hypoglycaemia with an absence of spontaneous recovery. Corrective dietary measures were instituted. In a second patient, who had a poor growth response to rIGF-1 therapy, CGMS identified significant fluctuations in daytime glucose levels whilst on treatment with evidence of postprandial hyperglycaemia and both rebound and nocturnal hypoglycaemia. Given the lack of improved growth and the documented glucose dysregulation, treatment was stopped and repeat measurements with CGMS 1 month afterwards showed complete resolution. Conclusions: We have demonstrated that CGMS is an effective tool to assess glucose dysregulation in patients with GHI and alters clinical management.
Alkaline Phosphatase in Healthy Children: Reference Intervals and Prevalence of Elevated Levels
Authors: Ridefelt Peter , Gustafsson Jan , Aldrimer Mattias , Hellberg Dan
Published: January 2015

Background: Transient hyperphosphatasemia (TH) is an often unnoticed benign entity, primarily affecting children below 5 years of age. However, the prevalence among healthy children is unknown. We used data from a Swedish pediatric reference interval project to estimate the prevalence of high alkaline phosphatase (ALP) among healthy children and to calculate pediatric reference intervals. Methods: Blood was collected from 699 subjectively healthy children aged 6 months to 18 years. After exclusion of subjects with high ALP, age- and gender-specific reference intervals were calculated. Results: Six children had ALP levels >16.7 µkat/l (>1,000 U/l), including 4 females and 2 males aged 7-22 months. The prevalence in the age group from 6 months to 2 years was 6.2% (6/97). None of the older children had levels of ALP >16.7 µkat/l. The study did not include the follow-up of these apparently healthy children. Consequently, conditions others than TH explaining the elevated ALP could not be excluded. However, general chemistry analyses, such as liver enzymes, calcium, intact PTH and vitamin D, were essentially normal in these children. Conclusions: The prevalence of high ALP among subjectively healthy children was approximately 2.4% below 5 years of age and 6.2% below 2 years. Reference intervals vary with age and gender.
Cortical Ischemic Lesion Burden Measured by DIR Is Related to Carotid Artery Disease Severity
Authors: Landi Doriana , Maggio Paola , Lupoi Domenico , Palazzo Paola , Altamura Claudia , Falato Emma , Altavilla Riccardo , Vollaro Stefano , Coniglio Angela Daniela , Tibuzzi Francesco , Passarelli Francesco , Silvestrini Mauro , Pasqualetti Patrizio , Vernieri Fabrizio
Published: January 2015

Background: Over time, exposure to cerebrovascular risk factors and carotid artery disease may cause multiple asymptomatic brain cortical and subcortical microinfarcts, which are commonly found at brain autopsy. So far, lack of convenient neuroimaging tools limited the investigation of grey matter ischemic damage in vivo. We applied the Double Inversion Recovery (DIR) sequence to explore the impact of carotid artery disease on intracortical ischemic lesion load in vivo, taking into account the impact of demographic characteristics and vascular risk factors. Methods: DIR was acquired in 62 patients with common cerebrovascular risk factors stratified in three groups according to carotid artery disease severity. Intracortical lesions scored on DIR (DIRlns) were classified by vascular territory, lobe and hemisphere. White matter hyperintensities (WMHs) volume was also quantified on Fluid Attenuated Inversion Recovery sequence (FLAIR). Results: Among demographic characteristics and cerebrovascular risk variables explored, General Linear Model indicated that age and carotid artery disease were significantly associated to DIRlns. After correcting for age, DIRlns load was found to be significantly dependent on carotid artery stenosis severity (F(2, 58) = 5.56, p = 0.006). A linear positive correlation between DIRlns and WMHs was found after correcting for age (p = 0.003). Conclusions: Carotid disease severity is associated with DIRlns accrual. Microembolism and impaired cerebral hemodynamics may act as physiopathological mechanisms underlying cortical ischemic damage. The role of other factors, such as small vessel disease and the possible interaction with carotid disease, remains to be further explored.
Reappraisal of the Inferior Right Hepatic Vein Preserving Liver Resection
Authors: Takahashi Michiro , Hasegawa Kiyoshi , Aoki Taku , Seyama Yasuji , Makuuchi Masatoshi , Kokudo Norihiro
Published: January 2015

Background: To resect tumors infiltrating to the right hepatic vein at its root, right hemihepatectomy or that following portal vein embolization (PVE) is applied. If the IRHV is sizable, the IRHV preserving liver resection can be another option. Methods: Between 1994 and 2007, the IRHV preserving liver resection was performed in 21 patients (IRHV group). The short-term outcomes after surgery of them p. Results: There were no mortality and no significant difference between the IRHV and RH groups concerning the blood loss, the morbidity rates and the duration of hospital stay. The median operation time was shorter in the IRHV group than in the RH group (393 vs. 480 min, p = 0.0409). The median weight of resected specimen of the IRHV group was 293 g (range: 20-982), which was significantly lighter than that of the RH group (median: 680 g [250-4,300], p < 0.001). The median percentage of resected volume to standard liver volume was significantly smaller in the IRHV group than in the RH group (25.8 vs. 52.2%, p < 0.001). Conclusion: The IRHV preserving liver resection remains a safe and useful procedure.
Growth and Differentiation Factor-5 Contributes to the Structural and Functional Maintenance of the Intervertebral Disc
Authors: Feng Chencheng , Liu Huan , Yang Yang , Huang Bo , Zhou Yue
Published: January 2015

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is a widely recognized contributor to low back pain (LBP). The Prevention or reversal of IDD is a potential treatment for LBP. Unfortunately, current treatments for IDD are aimed at relieving symptoms rather than regenerating disc structure or function. Recently, the injection of growth factors and mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplantation have been shown to be promising biological therapies for IDD. Growth factors stimulate the proliferation of and matrix synthesis by intervertebral disc (IVD) cells, leading to the regeneration of degenerative discs. Growth factors, hypoxia and co-culture with nucleus pulposus (NP) cells induce MSCs to differentiate toward an NP-like phenotype, which can increase the number of functional cells in the IVD or enhance the function of endogenous disc cells to facilitate IVD regeneration. Therefore, the emerging roles of growth factors in IVD regeneration have piqued the interest of researchers. Growth factors including transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), fibroblast growth factor (FGF), insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and growth and differentiation factor-5 (GDF-5), among others, have been demonstrated to enhance anabolism in IVD cells and to induce NP-like differentiation of MSCs. However, the injection of TGF, IGF and FGF into human IVDs may induce unwanted blood vessel ingrowth, which accelerates the process of IDD, the injection of GDF-5 may not have the same effect. This finding suggests that GDF-5 is a preferable growth factor for use in IDD treatment compared with TGF, IGF and FGF. The GDF-5 gene is one of the few growth factor genes that have been found to be associated with IDD thus far; moreover, the GDF-5 gene defects lead to collagen and proteoglycan abnormalities in discs in mice, suggesting that GDF-5 contributes to the structural and functional maintenance of the IVD. This review is focused on the functions of GDF-5 in the IVD and on the association between GDF-5 and a genetic predisposition to IDD. The effects of GDF-5 on IVD regeneration and on MSC differentiation are also discussed. GDF-5 plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of IDD and is a promising therapeutic agent for IDD. Additionally, stem cell transplantation has been shown to be a promising biological therapy for IDD.
Reproductive Toxicity to Male Mice of Nose Only Exposure to Water- Pipe Smoke
Authors: Ali Badreldin H. , Adham Sirin A. , Al Balushi Khalid A. , Shalaby Asem , Waly Mostafa I. , Manoj Priyadarsin , Beegam Sumaya , Yuvaraju Priya , Nemmar Abderrahim
Published: January 2015

Background/Aims: Water-pipe smoking (WPS) is popular in the Middle East and is starting to gain popularity in several Western countries as well. It is widely and erroneously perceived to be less harmful than other forms of tobacco use. The reproductive adverse effects of cigarette smoking have been studied before with conflicting results, but data on the possible adverse reproductive effects of WPS are lacking. Here, we assessed the effects of nose-only exposure to mainstream WPS generated by commercially available honey-flavored "moasel" tobacco in mice. Methods: The duration of the session was 30 min/day for one month. Control mice were exposed to air. Twenty- four h after the last exposure, mice were killed and the testes and plasma removed for analysis. In testicular homogenates total protein, alkaline phosphatase activity, several indices of oxidative damage and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor 2 (VEGFR2) were quantified. The plasma concentrations of leptin, testosterone, estrogen and luteinizing hormone (LH) were also measured. Histological analysis of testes and lungs was also conducted. Results: WPS caused statistically significant decreases in the plasma concentrations of leptin, testosterone, and LH, and in the concentrations of total protein and the antioxidant indices measured. A statistically non - significant decrease in VEGFR2 protein in the WPS - exposed mice compared to the control mice was also found. The body and testicular weights of mice exposed to WPS, as well as their testicular alkaline phosphatase activity and light microscopic histology, and plasma estrogen concentration were all not significantly affected by WPS. Conclusion: Further studies on the functional implications of these findings in mice exposed to WPS for longer durations are warranted.
A Novel Role for the Calcium Sensing Receptor in Rat Diabetic Encephalopathy
Authors: Dong Shiyun , Li Gang , Zheng Dan , Wu Jichao , Sun Dianjun , Yang Fan , Yu Xiangjing , Li Ting , Sun Aili , Liu Jiaqi , Zhong Xin , Xu Changqing , Lu Fanghao , Zhang Weihua
Published: January 2015

Background: Diabetic encephalopathy is a common complication of diabetes, and it may be involved in altering intracellular calcium concentrations ([Ca2+]i) at its onset. The calcium sensing receptor (CaSR) is a G-protein coupled receptor, however, the functional involvement of CaSR in diabetic encephalopathy remains unclear. Methods: In this study, diabetic rats were modeled by STZ (50 mg/kg). At the end of 4, 8 and 12 weeks, the CaSR expression in hippocampus was analyzed by Western blot. In neonatal rat hippocampal neurons, the [Ca2+]i was detected by laser scanning confocal microscopy, the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in mitochondria, the level of NO and the mitochondrial transmembrane potential were measured by MitoSOX, DAF-FM and JC-1, respectively. Results: Our results showed in hippocampal neurons treated with high glucose, CaSR regulated [Ca2+]i through the PLC-IP3 pathway. CaSR expression was decreased and was involved in the changes in [Ca2+]i. Mitochondrial membrane potential, NO release and expression of p-eNOS decreased, while the production of ROS in mitochondria increased. Conclusion: Down-regulation of CaSR expression was accompanied by neuronal injury, calcium disturbance, increased ROS production and decreased release of NO. Up-regulation of CaSR expression attenuated these changes through a positive compensatory protective mechanism to inhibit and delay diabetic encephalopathy in rats.
Adenosine Deaminase Inhibitor EHNA Exhibits a Potent Anticancer Effect Against Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma
Authors: Nakajima Yasuhiro , Kanno Takeshi , Nagaya Toshio , Kuribayashi Kozo , Nakano Takashi , Gotoh Akinobu , Nishizaki Tomoyuki
Published: January 2015

Background/Aims: Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is an aggressive malignant tumor and an effective therapy has been little provided as yet. The present study investigated the possibility for the adenosine deaminase (ADA) inhibitor EHNA as a target of MPM treatment. Methods: MTT assay, TUNEL staining, monitoring of intracellular adenosine concentrations, and Western blotting were carried out in cultured human MPM cell lines without and with knocking-down ADA. The in vivo effect of EHNA was assessed in mice inoculated with NCI-H2052 MPM cells. Results: EHNA induced apoptosis of human MPM cell lines in a concentration (0.01-1 mM)- and treatment time (24-48 h)-dependent manner, but such effect was not obtained with another ADA inhibitor pentostatin. EHNA increased intracellular adenosine concentrations in a treatment time (3-9 h)-dependent manner. EHNA-induced apoptosis of MPM cells was mimicked by knocking-down ADA, and the effect was neutralized by the adenosine kinase inhibitor ABT-702. EHNA clearly suppressed tumor growth in mice inoculated with NCI-H2052 MPM cells. Conclusion: The results of the present study show that EHNA induces apoptosis of MPM cells by increasing intracellular adenosine concentrations, to convert to AMP, and effectively prevents MPM cell proliferation. This suggests that EHNA may be useful for treatment of the tragic neoplasm MPM.
Attenuation of Glomerular Endothelial Cells from High Glucose-Induced Injury by Blockade of MAD2B
Authors: Wang Yu-Mei , Hao Yu , Meng Xian-Fang , He Fang-Fang , Chen Shan , Gao Pan , Tang Hui , Su Hua , Zhang Chun
Published: January 2015

Background/Aims: To assess the role of mitotic arrest-deficient 2-like protein 2 (MAD2B) in high glucose-induced injury in mouse glomerular endothelial cells (GEnCs). Methods: GEnCs were cultured in vitro, and MAD2B protein levels were measured by Western blot in cells stimulated with high glucose (30 mM) for various periods of time. MAD2B and scrambled shRNA were introduced into GEnCs by liposomal transfection. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, nitric oxide (NO) production, and monolayer permeability were then measured in cells grown in the following conditions: control, high glucose treatment, MAD2B shRNA transfection with high glucose treatment, and scrambled shRNA transfection with high glucose treatment. Results: High glucose increased the protein levels of MAD2B in GEnCs. Compared with control cells, apoptosis was increased by high glucose treatment, which was attenuated by transfection with MAD2B shRNA transfection. Cells treated with high glucose produced less NO than control cells, whereas MAD2B shRNA transfection increased NO production. Cell monolayer permeability was enhanced in high glucose treated cells, but MAD2B shRNA transfection reduced permeability. Conclusion: High glucose levels induced the expression of MAD2B in GEnCs, whereas suppressing its expression reduced high glucose-induced endothelial cell apoptosis and high permeability, and promoted cell proliferation and NO production.
Association of CD40 -1C/T Polymorphism in the 5′-Untranslated Region with Chronic HBV Infection
Authors: Zhou Cheng , Jin Xiaoli , Tang Jie , Fei Jiaqian , Gu Chunxia , Chen Xi
Published: January 2015

Background: CD40 is an important costimulatory molecule in both celluar and humoral immune responses, involved in the pathogenic processes of chronic inflammatory diseases. Few studies were performed on the association of CD40 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. In this study, we studied whether the CD40-1C/T polymorphism had any effect on the progression of chronic HBV infection in Chinese population. Methods: CD40 -1C/T polymorphism in the 5′-untranslated region was analyzed by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) in 453 chronic HBV carriers, who were divided into asymptomatic HBV carriers (ASC), moderate chronic hepatitis B group (MCHB) and severe chronic hepatitis B group (SCHB). 202 healthy individuals in the same region were enrolled in this study as the controls. The CD40 expression on B lymphocytes was detected by flow cytometry. The concentrations of soluble CD40 (sCD40) in sera were assayed by a commercial ELISA kit. Results: Our results showed the frequencies of TT genotype and T allele of CD40-1C/T polymorphism were higher significantly in ASC than those in controls (P< 0.05), while this result was not found in either MCHB or SCHB. On the surface of B lymphocytes, the CD40 expression levels in the individuals with TT genotype were significantly lower than those with CC and CT genotypes in either ASC group or healthy controls (P<0.001). The sCD40 levels in the sera of ASC, MCHB and SCHB groups were significantly higher than the controls (P<0.001). Conclusions: The CD40 -1C/T polymorphism may contribute to the susceptibility of asymptomatic HBV carriers through its effect on cell-surface CD40 expression, which indicated CD40 signaling was involved in immune tolerance of chronic HBV infection.
Leptin Rapidly Induces the Expression of Metabolic and Myokine Genes in C2C12 Muscle Cells to Regulate Nutrient Partition and Oxidation
Authors: Nozhenko Yuriy , Rodríguez Ana M. , Palou Andreu
Published: January 2015

Background: Skeletal muscle can experience pronounced metabolic adaptations in response to extrinsic stimuli, and expresses leptin receptor (OB-Rb). We aimed to further the understanding of leptin effects on muscle cells, by studying the expression of key energy metabolism genes in C2C12 myotubes. Methods: We performed a dose-time-dependent study with physiological concentrations of leptin: 5, 10 and 50ng/ml, for 0, 30', 3h, 6h, 12h and 24h, also monitoring time-course changes in non-treated cells. mRNA levels were analyzed by RT-qPCR and peroxisome proliferator activated receptor γ coactivator 1α (PGC1α) protein levels by western blot. Results: The most significant effects were observed with 50ng/ml leptin. In the short-term (30' and/or 3h), leptin significantly induced the expression of PGC1α, muscle carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1 (mCPT1), uncoupling protein 3 (UCP3), OB-Rb, Insulin receptor (InsR) and interleukins 6 and 15 (IL6, IL15). There was a decrease in mRNA levels of pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4 (PDK4) and mCPT1 in the long-term (24h). PGC1α protein levels were increased (24h). Conclusion: Leptin rapidly induces the expression of genes important for its own response and the control of metabolic fuels, with the rapid responses of the genes encoding the master regulator PGC1α, mCPT1, UCP3, PDK4 and the signaling secretory molecule IL6 particularly interesting.
The Role of Ephrins-B1 and -B2 During Fetal Rat Lung Development
Authors: Peixoto Francisca O. , Pereira-Terra Patrícia , Moura Rute S. , Carvalho-Dias Emanuel , Correia-Pinto Jorge , Nogueira-Silva Cristina
Published: January 2015

Background/ Aims: The knowledge of the molecular network that governs fetal lung branching is an essential step towards the discovery of novel therapeutic targets against pulmonary pathologies. Lung consists of two highly branched systems: airways and vasculature. Ephrins and its receptors, Eph, have been implicated in cardiovascular development, angiogenesis and vascular remodeling. This study aims to clarify the role of these factors during lung morphogenesis. Methods: Ephrins-B1, -B2 and receptor EphB4 expression pattern was assessed in fetal rat lungs between 15.5 and 21.5 days post-conception, by immunohistochemistry. Fetal rat lungs were harvested at 13.5 dpc, cultured during 4 days and treated with increasing doses of ephrins-B1 and -B2 and the activity of key signaling pathways was assessed. Results: Ephrin-B1 presents mesenchymal expression, whereas ephrin-B2 and its receptor EphB4 were expressed by the epithelium. Both ephrins stimulated pulmonary branching. Moreover, while ephrin-B1 did not affect the pathways studied, ephrin-B2 supplementation decreased activity of JNK, ERK and STAT. This study characterizes the expression pattern of ephrins-B1, -B2 and EphB4 receptor throughout rat lung development. Conclusion: Our data highlight a possible role of ephrins as molecular stimulators of lung morphogenesis. Moreover, it supports the idea that classical vascular factors might play a role as airway growth promoters.
Comparison of Levofloxacin- and Moxifloxacin-Based Triple Therapies with Standard Treatment in Eradication of Helicobacter Pylori as First-Line Therapy
Authors: Rakici Halil , Ayaz Teslime , Akdogan Remzi Adnan , Bedir Recep
Published: January 2015

Aim: It is recommended that treatments that include clarithromycin should be avoided in eradication of Helicobacter pylori (HP) in cases where clarithromycin resistance is higher than 20%. We aimed to compare levofloxacin- and moxifloxacin-based triple therapies with standard treatment and with each other in eradication of helicobacter pylori as first-line therapy. Materials and Methods: Patients were randomized prospectively as three groups. There were 102 patients in the levofloxacin group, 101 patients in the moxifloxacin group, and 103 patients in the standard treatment group. The patients received levofloxacin 500 mg daily, amoxicillin 1 g b.i.d. and lansoprazole 30 mg b.i.d. for ten days (LAL) in the levofloxacin group; moxifloxacin 400 mg daily, amoxicillin 1 g b.i.d. and lansoprazole 30 mg b.i.d. (MAL) in the moxifloxacin group; and clarithromycin 500 mg b.i.d., amoxicillin 1 g b.i.d. and lansoprazole 30 mg b.i.d. (CAL) in the standard treatment group. At post-treatment week 6, HP was checked by using stool antigen test. Results: In the eradication of Helicobacter pylori, the success rate as determined by per protocol (PP) analysis was 92% in the LAL group, 91.8% in the MAL group, and 82.4% in the CAL group. A statistically significant difference was found in the LAL and MAL groups compared to the CAL group (p < 0.05). There was no difference between the LAL and MAL groups. Conclusions: It was determined that levofloxacin- and moxifloxacin-based triple therapies were more effective than the standard treatment in first-line setting in the eradication of Helicobacter pylori. In addition, no difference was found between levofloxacin- and moxifloxacin-based triple therapies. Currently observed high efficacy may be evaluated in treatment. Although quinolon resistance is not considered a major problem, it appears to be a factor that may reduce treatment success over a period of time.
One-Year Survival and Renal Function Recovery of Acute Kidney Injury Patients with Chronic Heart Failure
Authors: Zhang Wen , Wen Dan , Zou Yan-Fang , Shen Ping-Yan , Xu Yao-Wen , Shi Hao , Xu Jing , Chen Xiao-nong , Chen Nan
Published: January 2015

Objective: To describe and analyze the clinical characteristics of acute kidney injury (AKI) patients with preexisting chronic heart failure (CHF) and to identify the prognostic factors of the 1-year outcome. Methods: A total of 120 patients with preexisting CHF who developed AKI between January 2005 and December 2010 were enrolled. CHF was diagnosed according to the European Society of Cardiology guidelines, and AKI was diagnosed using the RIFLE criteria. Clinical characteristics were recorded, and nonrecovery from kidney dysfunction as well as mortality were analyzed. Results: The median age of the patients was 70 years, and 58.33% were male. 60% of the patients had an advanced AKI stage (‘failure') and 90% were classified as NYHA class III/IV. The 1-year mortality rate was 35%. 25.83% of the patients progressed to end-stage renal disease after 1 year. Hypertension, anemia, coronary atherosclerotic heart disease and chronic kidney disease were common comorbidities. Multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS; OR, 35.950; 95% CI, 4.972-259.952), arrhythmia (OR, 13.461; 95% CI, 2.379-76.161), anemia (OR, 6.176; 95% CI, 1.172-32.544) and RIFLE category (OR, 5.353; 95% CI, 1.436-19.952) were identified as risk factors of 1-year mortality. For 1-year nonrecovery from kidney dysfunction, MODS (OR, 8.884; 95% CI, 2.535-31.135) and acute heart failure (OR, 3.281; 95% CI, 1.026-10.491) were independent risk factors. Conclusion: AKI patients with preexisting CHF were mainly elderly patients who had an advanced AKI stage and NYHA classification. Their 1-year mortality and nonrecovery from kidney dysfunction rates were high. Identifying risk factors may help to improve their outcome.
Multiple lines of evidence confirm that Hume’s Owl Strix butleri (A. O. Hume, 1878) is two species, with description of an unnamed species (Aves: Non-Passeriformes: Strigidae)
Authors: KIRWAN GUY M. , SCHWEIZER MANUEL , COPETE JOSÉ LUIS
Published: January 2015

Genetic and morphological analyses revealed that the type specimen of Hume’s Owl Strix butleri, the geographical provenance of which is open to doubt, differs significantly from all other specimens previously ascribed to this species. Despite the absence of vocal data definitively linked to the same population as the type specimen, we consider that two species-level taxa are involved, principally because the degree of molecular differentiation is close to that seen in other taxa of Strix traditionally recognised as species. Partially complicating this otherwise straightforward issue is the recent description of “Omani Owl S. omanensis” from northern Oman based solely on photographs and sound-recordings. We consider that there is clear evidence of at least some morphological congruence between the butleri type and the phenotype described as “omanensis”. As a result, we review the relative likelihood of three potential hypotheses: that “omanensis” is a synonym of butleri; that “omanensis” is a subspecies of butleri; or that “omanensis” and butleri both represent species taxa. Until such time as specimen material of “omanensis” becomes available for genetic and comparative morphological analyses, we recommend that this name be considered as a synonym of butleri, especially bearing in mind the possibility (not previously considered in detail) that the type of butleri could have originated in Arabia, specifically from Oman. We describe other populations heretofore ascribed to S. butleri as a new species.
A new species of Stenolemus Signoret (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Reduviidae: Emesinae) from India
Authors: MUKHERJEE PARAMITA , AMBROSE DUNSTON P. , HASSAN M. E. , BISWAS B.
Published: January 2015

A new species of Stenolemus Signoret, 1858, Stenolemus annulatus sp. nov. (Reduviidae: Emesinae) is described from India. This new species is closely related to S. susainathani Wygodzinsky from Nilgiri Hills, South India and S. larat Wygodzinsky from Moluccas, Larat, by sharing common characteristics such as the ratio of distance between eyes and their width, long antennal first segment, slightly elevated postocular region of head and sharply divided pronotum into three parts, but can be easily separated by the following diagnostic characteristics: pronotum with petiole about as long as forelobe and 1.3 times shorter than hindlobe, first antennal segment with five annulations, rostrum creamy white and luteous at apex, basal and lateral areas of second segment; hind lobe of pronotum with 1+1 submedian conical rounded projections; forecoxa shorter than hind lobe of pronotum, foretibia with one subbasal and one submedian annulation and hind femora reaching apex of forewings. A key to Indian species of the genus Stenolemus is given.
The larvae of West Palaearctic Eurylophella Tiensuu, 1935 (Ephemeroptera: Ephemerellidae), with description of a new species from Georgia
Authors: MARTYNOV ALEXANDER V. , PALATOV DMITRY M. , GODUNKO ROMAN J.
Published: January 2015

Eurylophella korneyevi sp. nov. (larva) is described from the Kintrishi River within the Caucasus region of Georgia, Autonomous Republic of Adzharia. In addition to morphological data, biological and distribution data are also presented. The new species can be differentiated from other Eurylophella species by the shape of submedian tubercles on abdominal tergites, the structure of the dorsal subdivisions of the lower lamella of gills IV, and the shape and relative development of occipital tubercles. Distinguishing features of E. korneyevi sp. nov., Eurylophella karelica Tiensuu, 1935 and Eurylophella iberica Keffermüller & Da Terra, 1978 are given. The possibility of using chaetotaxy in the taxonomy of the genus is analyzed in detail for the West Palaearctic species of Eurylophella.
Thrips arorai Bhatti (Thysanoptera, Thripidae): first description of the male
Authors: TYAGI KAOMUD , KUMAR VIKAS
Published: January 2015

Thrips arorai was described from two females collected on fern at Mussoorie, Uttar Pradesh, India (Bhatti 1980). Recently, a series of both sexes of this distinctive brown species with banded fore wings was collected on fern in Himachal Pradesh. Females were identified using published literature (Bhatti 1980, Palmer 1992), and the male is here described for the first time. In the key to males by Palmer, arorai will track to couplet fifty-seven.
The Mercersburg Christology and Reformed Ressourcement
Authors: Evans William B.
Published: January 2015

This article examines distinctive features of the christology associated with the Mercersburg Theology of John W. Nevin—its Irenaean framework, affirmation of the “fallen” and “generic” humanity of Christ, and its pneumatological emphasis. It also examines certain interpretive questions having to do with the place of christology within the larger Mercersburg system, whether the incarnation would have occurred apart from sin, and the fundamental character of the Mercersburg Theology. Finally, the implications of the Mercersburg christology for Reformed ressourcement are explored.
Sectarianism and the Search for Visible Catholicity: Lessons from John Nevin and Richard Hooker
Authors: Bradford Littlejohn W.
Published: January 2015

Although from its outset, Protestantism has defined the essence of the church primarily by its invisible attributes (for example, its hidden identity in Christ, to whom it is united by faith, Protestants have often felt compelled to give clearer visible definition to the church) to distinguish it from sects or false churches. Unfortunately, such a quest for visible criteria of catholicity has often tended to reproduce a sectarian mentality, in which these visible boundary markers become not signs, but grounds, of the church’s union with Christ. In this article, I analyze how this process unfolded in the thought of nineteenth-century Mercersburg theologian John Williamson Nevin. Beginning with a sharp critique of sectarianism, he sought more and more for visible criteria of church unity that would exclude sects, and ended by rejecting Protestant ecclesiology altogether. I then turn to sixteenth-century English theologian Richard Hooker for resources that might help us avoid this impasse: namely, a critique of sectarianism that maintains a clear distinction between the church’s justification and its sanctification. The church’s hidden unity with Christ falls under the former heading; its quest for historic forms of visible unity under the latter.
Yhwh Shammah: The City as Gateway to the Presence of Yhwh
Authors: Kim Soo J.
Published: January 2015

It is well-known that the book of Ezekiel has seriously concerned itself with Jerusalem's holiness and its defilement in the past and the new City's possible profanity in the future. Unlike common assumptions, however, the new City in Ezekiel 40–48 is not pre-designated either as holy or as profane but shows its liminal or dual characteristics in relation to the holy dedicated area ( terumah). In other words, Ezekiel 40–48 has three distinctive categories in space recognition, not only the two categories of holy and profane. The City fits in this third category as a transitional space and functions even as a gateway to the holy presence of Yhwh. This article pursues this unique dual characteristic of the City by examining three significant facets of the City described in Ezekiel 40–48: the identity of the City in terms of its holy dedicated area ( terumah), the structure and shape of the City in relation to the Temple, and the theological meaning of the name of the City, Yhwh Shammah.
An alternative vision of politics and violence: Introducing mimetic theory in international studies
Authors: Brighi Elisabetta , Cerella Antonio
Published: January 2015

This article aims at introducing René Girard’s mimetic theory in the field of International Studies, identifying some of the areas of research that it might usefully open up. First, the article explores mimetic theory and some of its basic concepts—mimetic desire, mimetic rivalry, the scapegoat mechanism, and the sacrificial crisis—in order to highlight the strong heuristic and analytical potential of Girard’s work. Second, the article considers Girard’s contribution in light of contemporary theories of International Relations to demonstrate its added value. Third, the article serves as a critical introduction to the various sections and contributions of the Special Issue.
Rethinking religious violence: Towards a mimetic approach to violence in international relations
Authors: Thomas Scott M
Published: January 2015

The purpose of this article is to use René Girard’s mimetic theory in order to rethink the thorny relationship between religion, culture and violence and to relate it to some of the key issues in international relations theory. In doing this, I will examine the concept of the ‘ambivalence of the sacred’, which underlies much scholarly research on religion and international relations – what factors, under which conditions, does religion contribute to peace or to violence. As I will show, mimetic theory questions, or at least reconfigures, the mainstream construction of the problem of religion and violence – the violent eruptions that disturb social peace and social cohesion – to critically examine the sources of the unveiled, hidden, violence and the scapegoat ideology that operates in domestic society and in foreign policy to maintain any society’s cultural and political order.
Quantification of urinary TIMP-2 and IGFBP-7: an adequate diagnostic test to predict acute kidney injury after cardiac surgery?
Authors: Wetz Anna J , Richardt Eva M , Wand Saskia , Kunze Nils , Schotola Hanna , Quintel Michael , Bräuer Anselm , Moerer Onnen
Published: January 2015

Introduction

Postoperative acute kidney injury (AKI) is a frequently observed complication after on-pump cardiac surgery (CS) and is associated with adverse patient outcomes. Early identification of patients at risk is essential for the prevention of AKI after CS. In this study, we analysed whether urinary tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 2 (TIMP-2) combined with urine insulin-like growth factor binding protein 7 (IGFBP-7) ([TIMP-2] × [IGFBP-7]) is an adequate diagnostic test to identify early AKI after on-pump CS.

Methods

In 42 patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery, we surveyed individual risk factors for AKI and defined AKI by applying the Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) classification during the day of surgery and the following 2 days after surgery. Concentrations of urinary TIMP-2 multiplied by IGFBP-7 were recorded at four time points: at baseline pre-surgery, at the end of surgery, 4 hours after cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) and at 8:00 am on the first postoperative day.

Results

In total, 38% of the patients experienced AKI. The results showed a median baseline [TIMP-2] × [IGFBP-7] concentration of 0.3 (ng/ml)2/1,000, decreasing at the end of surgery and then increasing at the next measurement point 4 hours after CPB and further on the first postoperative day. On the first postoperative day, patients with AKI had significantly higher concentrations of [TIMP-2] × [IGFBP-7]. On the day of surgery, the concentration did not significantly differ between patients classified as KDIGO 0 or KDIGO 1 or 2. Previously published cutoff points of 0.3 and 2 were not confirmed in our study cohort.

Conclusion

[TIMP-2] × [IGFBP-7] concentration can be used as a diagnostic test to identify patients at increased risk of AKI after CS on the first postoperative day. At earlier time points, no significant difference in [TIMP-2] × [IGFBP-7] concentration was found between patients classified as KDIGO 0 or KDIGO 1 or 2.

Trial registration

German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS) DRKS00005457. Registered 26 November 2013.
Rs1800625 in the receptor for advanced glycation end products gene predisposes to sepsis and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome in patients with major trauma
Authors: Zeng Ling , Du Juan , Gu Wei , Zhang An-qiang , Wang Hai-yan , Wen Da-lin , Qiu Lin , Yang Xue-tao , Sun Jian-hui , Zhang Mao , Hao Jiang , Jiang Jian-xin
Published: January 2015

Introduction

The receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) is a transmembrane receptor of the immunoglobulin superfamily, it plays pivotal roles in the pathogenesis of sepsis in several ways. Our previous study showed that rs1800625 (−429T/C) revealed a strong clinical relevance with sepsis morbidity rate and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) in patients with major trauma. In this study, we enlarged the sample size, added two validation populations and examined the expression of RAGE on the surface of peripheral leukocytes to ex vivo lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation in subjects with different genotypes.

Methods

Rs1800625 was genotyped using pyrosequencing in 837 Chinese Han patients with major trauma in Chongqing. We then validated the clinical relevance in 340 Zhejiang and 347 Yunnan patients. The expression of RAGE on the surface of peripheral blood mononuclear cells was measured by flow cytometric analysis.

Results

The results indicated that rs1800625 was significantly associated with sepsis morbidity rate and MODS in patients with major trauma in the Chongqing, Zhejiang and Yunnan districts. Patients with CC genotype had lower sepsis morbidity rate and MODS after major trauma. Furthermore, patients with CC genotype had significantly higher RAGE expression (P = 0.009).

Conclusions

The rs1800625 polymorphism is a functional single nucleotide polymorphism and confers host susceptibility to sepsis and MODS in patients with major trauma.
Editorial: Where’s the B in NHP?
Authors: Scholz Jean L , Cancro Michael P
Published: January 2015

Discussion on B and plasma cell subsets in healthy NHPs, revealing valuable reference values and previously unappreciated disparities in tissue representation.
An efficient seismic modeling in viscoelastic isotropic media
Authors: Yang Renhu , Mao Weijian , Chang Xu
Published: January 2015

Energy is absorbed and attenuated when seismic waves propagate in real earth media. Hence, the viscoelastic medium needs to be considered. There are many ways to construct the viscoelastic body, in which the generalized standard linear viscoelastic body is the most representative one. For viscoelastic wave propagation and imaging, it is very important to obtain a compact and efficient viscoelastic equation. Because of this, we derived a set of simplified viscoelastic equations in isotropic media on the basis of the standard linear solid body and the constitutive relation for a linear viscoelastic isotropic solid. The simplified equations were composed of the linear equations of momentum conservation, the stress-strain relations, and the memory variable equations. During the derivation of the equations, the Lamé differentiation matrix, which has a similar form to the stiffness matrix and indicates the relations between viscoelastic and elastic stiffness matrices, was introduced to simplify the memory variable equations. Analogous to the elastic equations, the simplified equations have symmetrically compact forms and are very useful for efficient viscoelastic modeling, migration, and inversion. Applied to a 2D simple model and the 2D SEG/EAGE salt model, the results show that our simplified equations are more efficient in computation than Carcione’s equations.
Relieving in-patient boredom in general hospitals: the evidence for intervention and practical ideas
Authors: Steele Rachel , Linsley Keith
Published: January 2015

Boredom is highly prevalent among general hospital in-patients. Self-help strategies suit some patients, but for others hospitals need to stimulate opportunities for them to experience meaningful relationships and roles and a sense of control. In-patients' well-being and levels of boredom may be affected by no-smoking policies, hospital design, access to natural light, nature scenes and indoor or outdoor gardens. Alleviating boredom in elderly patients with reduced cognitive function may be particularly challenging. Healthcare professionals may face the wider challenge of fully engaging with patients' psychosocial needs, given the biomedical model that privileges the ‘traditional medical history’ over the more holistic communication model. Engaging with patients' psychosocial needs is consistent with managing their experience of 'sickness' rather than focusing on the narrower concept of ‘disease’.
Hong Kong: recent development of mental health services
Authors: Chan Wai-chi , Lam Linda Chiu-wa , Chen Eric Yu-Hai
Published: January 2015

From a very deprived baseline, mental health services in Hong Kong have undergone some growth over the past decade. The number of inpatient beds for psychiatric treatment dropped by one-third, but the community mental health service expanded significantly. A number of low-resource phase-specific and age-specific treatment programmes were introduced, with promising initial results. However, there remain many challenges, including a serious shortage of well-trained mental health professionals. Much more investment in mental health workforce development is required to meet the service needs not only of today, but also of tomorrow.