bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Atorvastatin improves systolic function, but does not prevent the development of dilated cardiomyopathy in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats
Authors: Quidgley Jose , Cruz Nildris , Crespo Maria J.
Published: April 2014

Background:

Therapy with HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins) has been associated with a significant reduction in the number of major cardiovascular (CV) events in diabetic patients. The mechanisms by which these drugs improve cardiac status remain unclear. We assessed the effects of atorvastatin (10 mg/kg/day) on CV function in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats.

Methods:

Age-matched, nondiabetic rats were used as controls. Echocardiographic parameters, systolic blood pressure (SBP), endothelial-dependent relaxation, cardiac and vascular oxidative stress, perivascular fibrosis, and cholesterol levels were evaluated after a 4-week atorvastatin treatment period.

Results:

In diabetic rats, SBP was higher than in controls. Atorvastatin decreased SBP in diabetic rats by 14% ( n = 10, p < 0.05), and significantly increased stroke volume, ejection fraction, and cardiac output index. Whereas atorvastatin reduced left ventricular end systolic volume (LVESV) by 50% ( p < 0.05), it failed to reduce left ventricular end diastolic volume (LVEDV). Total cholesterol was higher in diabetic rats than in controls and atorvastatin was ineffective in reducing cholesterol levels. The statin, however, decreased perivascular fibrosis and media thickness, and the markers of oxidative stress malondialdehyde (MDA) and 4-hidroxyalkenals (4-HAE) in aortic homogenates from diabetic rats. In addition, atorvastatin improved endothelial function by increasing the EMAX value of the acetylcholine-induced relaxation from 53.7 ± 4.1% in untreated diabetic to 82.1 ± 7.0% in treated diabetic rats ( n = 10, p < 0.05). L-NAME fully abolished this improvement, suggesting that the increased vascular relaxation with atorvastatin is NO-dependent.

Conclusions:

Whereas atorvastatin does not reverse ventricular dilatation, it does have a positive hemodynamic effect on the CV system of diabetic rats. This hemodynamic benefit is independent of cholesterol levels, and is observed concomitantly with reduced oxidative stress, vascular remodeling, and improved endothelial function. Together, these results suggest that atorvastatin decreases the workload on the heart and improves systolic performance in type 1 diabetic rats by reducing oxidative stress, vascular tone, and systemic vascular resistance.
Neuromuscular Fatigue Alters Postural Control and Sagittal Plane Hip Biomechanics in Active Females With Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Frank Barnett S. , Gilsdorf Christine M. , Goerger Benjamin M. , Prentice William E. , Padua Darin A.
Published: April 2014

Background:

Females with history of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury and subsequent ligament reconstruction are at high risk for future ACL injury. Fatigue may influence the increased risk of future injury in females by altering lower extremity biomechanics and postural control.

Hypothesis:

Fatigue will promote lower extremity biomechanics and postural control deficits associated with ACL injury.

Study Design:

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods:

Fourteen physically active females with ACL reconstruction (mean age, 19.64 ± 1.5 years; mean height, 163.52 ± 6.18 cm; mean mass, 62.6 ± 13.97 kg) volunteered for this study. Postural control and lower extremity biomechanics were assessed in the surgical limb during single-leg balance and jump-landing tasks before and after a fatigue protocol. Main outcome measures were 3-dimensional hip and knee joint angles at initial contact, peak angles, joint angular displacements and peak net joint moments, anterior tibial shear force, and vertical ground reaction force during the first 50% of the loading phase of the jump-landing task. During the single-leg stance task, the main outcome measure was center of pressure sway speed.

Results:

Initial contact hip flexion angle decreased ( t = −2.82, P = 0.01; prefatigue, 40.98° ± 9.79°; postfatigue, 36.75° ± 8.61°) from pre- to postfatigue. Hip flexion displacement ( t = 2.23, P = 0.04; prefatigue, 45.19° ± 14.1°; postfatigue, 47.48° ± 14.21°) and center of pressure sway speed ( t = 3.95, P < 0.05; prefatigue, 5.18 ± 0.96 cm/s; postfatigue, 6.20 ± 1.72 cm/s) increased from pre- to postfatigue. There was a trending increase in hip flexion moment ( t = 2.14, P = 0.05; prefatigue, 1.66 ± 0.68 Nm/kg/m; postfatigue, 1.91 ± 0.62 Nm/kg/m) from pre- to postfatigue.

Conclusion:

Fatigue may induce lower extremity biomechanics and postural control deficits that may be associated with ACL injury in physically active females with ACL reconstruction.

Clinical Relevance:

Rehabilitation and maintenance programs should incorporate activities that aim to improve muscular endurance and improve the neuromuscular system’s tolerance to fatiguing exercise in efforts to maintain stability and safe landing technique during subsequent physical activity.
Omohyoid Muscle Syndrome in a Mixed Martial Arts Athlete
Authors: Lee Alexander D. , Yu Alexander , Young Shayne B. , Battaglia Patrick J. , Ho C. John
Published: April 2014

Omohyoid muscle syndrome is a rare cause of an X-shaped bulging lateral neck mass that occurs on swallowing. This is a diagnostic case report of a 22-year-old mixed martial arts athlete who acquired this condition.
Superselective splenic artery embolization for the management of splenic laceration following colonoscopy
Authors: Brennan Ian M , Faintuch Salomao , Sacks Barry
Published: April 2014

Splenic injury is a rare complication following colonoscopy with fewer than 100 reported cases worldwide to date. We describe a case of splenic laceration presenting 5 days following diagnostic colonoscopy. Although hemodynamically stable, active contrast extravasation on contrast-enhanced multidetector computed tomography predicted likely failure of conservative management. Splenic artery angiography confirmed active extravasation from the lower splenic pole and the patient was successfully treated with super selective coil embolization of a lower pole splenic artery branch. This is the eighth reported case of endovascular treatment of splenic injury following colonoscopy. To our knowledge, however, superselective splenic artery embolization has not been previously reported to treat this rare endoscopic complication.
Challenging conversations with terminally ill patients and their loved ones: Strategies to improve giving information in palliative care
Authors: Benkel Inger , Wijk Helle , Molander Ulla
Published: April 2014

Objective:

The aim of the study was to explore the skills and strategies employed by professionals when having difficult conversations to provide information to loved ones as part of palliative care.

Method:

A qualitative design was chosen with in-depth interviews with nurses, assistant nurses and doctors a Hospital in Sweden and were analysed using content analysis.

Results:

The interviews produced examples of strategies used by professionals when imparting difficult information to patient and loved ones. The results fell into three areas: ‘Who is giving information’, ‘Structuring the conversation’ and ‘Different ways to convey a difficult message’.

Conclusion:

Using conversational skills and strategies in combination with a carefully planned structure appeared to facilitate difficult conversations with patients and loved ones. Further research is required, related to the specific circumstances in which the conversation takes place.
Looking after yourself: Clinical understandings of chronic-care self-management strategies in rural and urban contexts of the United Kingdom and Australia
Authors: Carr Susan Mary , Paliadelis Penny , Lhussier Monique , Forster Natalie , Eaton Simon , Parmenter Glenda , Death Catharine
Published: April 2014

Objectives:

This article reports on the outcomes of two similar projects undertaken during 2011–2012 in Australia (Rural Northern New South Wales) and the United Kingdom (Urban Northern United Kingdom) that sought to identify the strategies that health professionals employ to actively involve patients with chronic conditions in the planning and delivery of their care. In particular, this study explored understandings and contexts of care that impacted on the participants’ practices. This study was informed by the global shift to partnership approaches in health policy and the growing imperative to deliver patient or client-centred care.

Methods:

An ethnomethodological design was used, as ethnomethodology does not dictate a set of research methods or procedures, but rather is congruent with any method that seeks to explore what people do in their routine everyday lives. Focus groups and interviews were employed to explore the strategies used by a range of primary health-care providers, such as general practitioners, nurses, social workers, diabetes educators, dieticians and occupational therapists, to support clients to effectively manage their own chronic conditions.

Results:

Data from both studies were synthesised and analysed thematically, with the themes reflecting the context, similarities and differences of the two studies that the participants felt had either facilitated or blocked their efforts to support their clients to adopt self-care strategies.

Conclusion:

Supporting patients/clients to engage in actively self-managing their health-care needs requires changes to clients’ and clinicians’ traditional perspectives on their roles. The barriers and enablers to supporting clients to manage their own health needs were similar across both locations and included tensions in role identity and functions, the discourse of health-care professionals as ‘experts’ who deliver care and their level of confidence in being facilitators who ‘educate’ clients to effectively manage their health-care needs, rather than only the ‘providers’ of care.
Vernadsky’s philosophical legacy: A perspective from the Anthropocene
Authors: Guillaume Bertrand
Published: April 2014

Vernadsky is rightly associated with the seminal contemporary concept of the ‘Biosphere’, which acknowledges that the world we belong to is a functionally integrated, global phenomenon. Beyond this fundamental idea (that ecology should be thought of at the planetary scale, presaging the concept of Earth System Science), Vernadsky also anticipated the idea of the so-called Anthropocene, i.e. the recent geological era dominated by the global environmental impact of human expansion and activities. Yet, this two-fold legacy of Vernadsky seems still underestimated when it comes to its philosophical implications. In this paper, I explore more particularly three philosophical implications of the planetary and cosmic view that Vernadsky had of the role of ecological/biological organization (including that of humankind) in the great chemical cycles of the Earth, with regard to epistemology, ethics and (in a more speculative way) metaphysics.
Research Impact Unpacked? A Social Science Agenda for Critically Analyzing the Discourse of Impact and Informing Practice
Authors: Pardoe Simon
Published: April 2014

U.K. policy is to embed “knowledge transfer as a permanent core activity in universities.” In this article, I propose an agenda for analyzing and informing the evolving practices of communicating university research insight across institutions, and for analyzing critically the ways in which “research impact” is being demanded, represented, and guided in current policy discourse. As an example, I analyze the U.K. Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) “Step-by-step guide to maximising impact,” using the concept of “recontextualization.” The analysis illustrates that the availability of relevant social science research does not ensure its use, even by the research funding council. It suggests that while a rationalist, common sense representation of communication may be functional in making research impact appear achievable within existing funding, it may be potentially counter-productive in terms of ensuring that research contributes to society. A recent project is cited to illustrate some of the intellectual challenges that are not indicated in the ESRC guide, and which demonstrate the value of social science insight.
The Effect of Consciousness-Raising Listening Prompts on the Development of the Speech Act of Apology in an Iranian EFL Context
Authors: Zangoei Ali , Nourmohammadi Esmaeel , Derakhshan Ali
Published: April 2014

In line with the previous bodies of research, the present study in interlanguage pragmatics (ILP) proved that some aspects of pragmatics were amenable to instruction even in foreign language (FL) contexts. However, there are still controversies over the best convenient teaching techniques and appropriate materials. Moreover, production-oriented approaches to teaching pragmatics caused scant practical studies over the perception of the frequent speech acts such as apology conducted to date. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the relative effectiveness of consciousness-raising (C-R) listening prompts on the development of the speech act of apology on 64 (34 male and 30 female ranging in age from 17 to 27) upper-intermediate Persian learners of English who were randomly assigned to two groups of 32. While the experimental group took advantages of listening prompts with C-R or input enhancement activities, the control group received the same listening prompts without any C-R activities. The two groups were then exposed to 20 conversation extracts during 10 sessions of instruction including different apology situations taken from Interchange Series, Tactics for Listening Series, American Headway, and Top Notch. The results of the multiple-choice discourse completion task (MDCT) indicated that learners in the experimental group benefited more from C-R activities via listening prompts and outperformed the control group. In addition, the results revealed that male and female learners’ development in this pragmatic aspect of language did differ significantly. The findings throw light on practical as well as pedagogical implications of ILP and provide suggestions for English as a second language/English as a foreign language (ESL/EFL) teachers and materials developers.
“Who Are These Foreigners Anyway?” The Content of the Term Foreigner and Its Impact on Prejudice
Authors: Asbrock Frank , Lemmer Gunnar , Becker Julia C. , Koller Jeffrey , Wagner Ulrich
Published: April 2014

The term foreigners is often used in prejudice research to analyze prejudice toward immigrants, but it is not specified which groups respondents have in mind. In the present study, we analyzed the content of the term foreigner and its impact on prejudice toward foreigners in a German national probability sample ( N = 1,763). Results indicated that most respondents think of people with a Turkish migration background, but regional differences between East and West Germany occurred. In addition, the different individual meanings connected with the term foreigner go along with different levels of prejudice against foreigners: Differences in prejudice toward foreigners between East and West Germany are partially due to different groups associated with the term foreigner. Theoretical and practical implications for quantitative prejudice research are discussed.
Information Value Distance and Crisis Management Planning
Authors: Herbane Brahim
Published: April 2014

Organizational learning during and post-crisis is well established in the management literature but consideration of learning for crisis and the sources of information perceived to be useful for crisis management planning have not previously been examined. This study evaluates data from 215 U.K.-based small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) about the perceived value of 11 sources of information between planning (i.e., firms with a crisis management plan) and non-planning respondents. For planning firms, the information sources considered to be useful are exclusively experience-based, and when information sources become less idiosyncratic and episodic, planning firms’ evaluations of their value begin to approximate the ratings given by non-planning firms. Furthermore, the concepts of relative value distance and value distance from threshold are original features of this study and offer new ways to evaluate the value of information sources for organizations wishing to provide information and support to improve business resilience and business continuity.
Feasibility of HIV Universal Voluntary Counseling and Testing in a Thai General Practice Clinic
Authors: Khawcharoenporn Thana , Apisarnthanarak Anucha , Chunloy Krongtip , Smith Kimberly
Published: April 2014

An HIV transmission prevention program incorporating universal voluntary counseling and testing (UVCT) was conducted in a general practice (GP) clinic of a Thai hospital. Of the 494 participating patients, 356 (72%) accepted HIV-UVCT. Independent factors associated with HIV-UVCT acceptance included participating in the program after office hours (4-8 pm; P < .001), living with domestic partner with no marriage ( P = .01), and having primary school education or less ( P = .02). The main reasons for declining HIV-UVCT were time constraint (38%) and perceiving self as no risk (35%). Among the 356 patients undergoing HIV-UVCT, having moderate to high HIV risk ( P < .001) and male sex ( P = .01) were independently associated with low HIV risk perception. By HIV-UVCT, the rate of new HIV infection was 4 (1.1%) of 356 patients. Of these 4 newly diagnosed HIV-infected patients, 3 (75%) were homosexual men. The findings suggest feasibility of HIV-UVCT in our GP clinic and factors to be considered for improving the program.
Characterization of the Supinator Tubercle for Lateral Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Anakwenze Oke A. , Khanna Krishn , Levine William N. , Ahmad Christopher S.
Published: April 2014

Background:

Lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LUCL) reconstruction requires proper understanding and identification of anatomic structures about the lateral elbow. The insertion site of the LUCL is based on the supinator tubercle.

Purpose:

To characterize the supinator tubercle relative to other surrounding anatomic landmarks.

Study Design:

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods:

Computed tomography (CT) scans of 10 adult elbows were retrospectively reviewed. These CT scans were converted into patient-specific 3-dimensional computer models. Using a user-defined coordinate system, an ulnar Cartesian coordinate system was defined with anatomic landmarks as reference points to standardize the position of each model. The length of the supinator crest was measured. Following this, the crest was examined for a distinct raised bony tuberosity that would be consistent with the supinator tubercle. If no distinctly raised tubercle was noted, the most prominent appearing location of the crest distal to the radial notch was considered the tubercle. The distance from the proximal radial head junction to the supinator tubercle was recorded. Finally, the distance from the supinator crest at the radial head junction to the posterior cortex in the sagittal plane was measured.

Results:

The supinator tubercle was found to be prominent in 5 of 10 ulnar models. The supinator crest was 43.59 ± 13.28 mm long, and the supinator tubercle lateral extrusion was 5.60 ± 0.90 mm. The distance between the radial head junction and the supinator tubercle was found to be 15 ± 2.37 mm, and the distance from the supinator crest at the radial head junction to the posterior cortex was 10.25 ± 2.07 mm.

Conclusion:

The supinator tubercle is frequently not prominent or easily recognizable. Its relationship to other structures is of value. The proximal border of the radial head, residing 15 mm proximal to the most predictable location of the supinator tubercle, is a useful landmark when drilling tunnels during LUCL reconstructions.

Clinical Relevance:

Results of this study may aid proper anatomic LUCL reconstruction.
From Words to Networks and Back
Authors: Light Ryan
Published: April 2014

Digital text has revolutionized how we consume and produce information, and also provides seemingly limitless sources of data from Twitter feeds to online historical archives. Such new data challenge traditional boundaries between quantitative and qualitative research, and exciting horizons have emerged. New analytic approaches are warranted, however, given the typically unstructured, respondent-generated format of such data. In this article, I examine how sociologists have handled text data prior to digitization. Building on recent advancements in computational linguistics and computational social science, I then offer a network-based model and approach for analyzing similarities and locating emergent, general themes in digitized text. I provide a case in point by analyzing the United States’ presidential inaugural addresses. This analysis illustrates how sociologists can take advantage of both the breadth of new digital sources of data and the richness that such qualitative material provides. Indeed, the digitization of texts represents a possible and stimulating sea change in how we tell socio-cultural and historical stories. The greatest potential in these regards rests at the nexus of new computational methods and in-depth, qualitative strategies.
Comparison and Accuracy of Carotid Plaque Analysis Between Two- and Three-Dimensional Ultrasound Imaging
Authors: Kingstone Lysa Legault , Shabana Wael , Thornhill Rebecca , White Megan , Lam Joanna , Currie Geoff
Published: April 2014

Plaque characterization using traditional two-dimensional (2D) imaging and/or three-dimensional (3D) ultrasonographic (US) techniques is a new method for evaluating artery wall morphology and plaque risk stratification. The purpose of this study was to assess and compare 2D and 3D US, measuring the interobservation differences for specific plaque-imaging analyses. Phantoms that simulated various types of atherosclerotic plaque pathology were imaged and findings reported by three experienced sonographers. Interobservation agreement and subanalyses were created. For each type of plaque pathology, agreement was moderate; however, conformity increased with the application of 3D US versus 2D US alone. Agreement was best for the identification of fissures, ulcerations, and irregular plaque surface. Advanced sonographic techniques for carotid plaque imaging provide a reproducible method in the analysis and morphologic assessment of simulated carotid atheromatous lesions, with superior interobserver variability. Three-dimensional US improves visualization of some pathologies and may provide additional information in the evaluation and risk stratification of vulnerable carotid plaque.
Analysis of solidification microstructure and hot ductility of Fe–22Mn–0·7C TWIP steel
Authors: Lan P. , Song L. , Du C. , Zhang J.
Published: April 2014

The characteristics and evolution of the solidification microstructure of a Fe–0·7C–22Mn (wt-) TWIP steel was experimentally analysed. The primary dendrite arm space was about 1–2 mm while the diameter of equiaxed grains was about 2–4 mm. Decreasing the Mn concentration was proved beneficial to grains refinement and interdendrite soundness improvement. The tensile strength and yield strength of the concerning TWIP steel were found to be higher than that of C–Mn HSLA steel under as cast conditions above 1073 K, according to the comparison of hot tensile experiment results. It is inferred the solution strengthening effect should be the main explanation for that. The hot ductility of this TWIP steel was observed to be not very favourable, since most of the reduction rates of area were lower than 40. Obvious drop of the hot ductility within the temperature range from 1073 to 1223 K of this Fe–0·7C–22Mn TWIP steel was determined. Intragranular MnS inclusions and grain boundaries sliding at elevated temperatures should be the main reason, according to the experimental results of optical microscope (OM), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Besides, both strength and ductility increased linearly as logarithmic strain rate increased, attributed to the combined effect of strain hardening, dynamic strain aging and dynamic recrystallisation.
The impact of depression and ghrelin on body weight in migraineurs
Authors: Turan Bulent , Siva Zeynep Osar , Uluduz Derya , Konukoglu Dildar , Erenler Feyza , Saip Sabahattin , Goksan Baki , Siva Aksel
Published: April 2014

Background

Comorbidity of migraine with anxiety and depression may play a role in the link between migraine and obesity. We examined the moderating and mediating roles of ghrelin in the relationship between depression (and anxiety) and body weight in newly diagnosed migraineurs.

Methods

Participants were 63 newly diagnosed migraine patients (using the ICHD-II criteria) and 42 healthy volunteers. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated by measuring height and weight. Ghrelin was assessed at fasting. Depression was assessed with the Hamilton Depression scale, and anxiety with the Hamilton Anxiety scale.

Results

The data did not support the mediating role of ghrelin in the relationship between depression (or anxiety) and BMI for either the migraine or the control group. The interaction between ghrelin and depression as well as anxiety was significant for the migraine group, but not for the control group. Depressed (or anxious) migraineurs had a positive association between ghrelin and BMI, whereas for the non-depressed (or non-anxious) migraineurs this association was negative.

Conclusions

Depression and anxiety moderated the effect of ghrelin on BMI for migraineurs. Management of anxiety and depression might be regarded as part of migraine treatment.
Role of malignant ascites on human mesothelial cells and their gene expression profiles
Authors: Matte Isabelle , Lane Denis , Bachvarov Dimcho , Rancourt Claudine , Piché Alain
Published: April 2014

Background

Malignant ascites is often present at diagnostic in women with advanced ovarian cancer (OC) and its presence is associated with a worse outcome. Human peritoneal mesothelial cells (HPMCs) are key components of malignant ascites. Although the interplay between HPMCs and OC cells is believed to be critical for tumor progression, it has not been well characterized. The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of ascites on HPMCs and clarify the role of HPMCs in OC progression.

Methods

Human OC ascites and benign peritoneal fluids were assessed for their ability to stimulate HPMC proliferation. Conditioned medium from ascites- and benign fluid-stimulated HPMCs were compared for their ability to attenuate apoptosis induced by TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL). We conducted a comparative analysis of global expression changes in ascites-stimulated HPMCs using Agilent oligonucleotide microarrays.

Results

As compared to benign peritoneal fluids, malignant ascites stimulated the proliferation of HPMCs. TRAIL-induced apoptosis was attenuated in OC cells exposed to conditioned medium from ascites-stimulated HPMCs as compared to OC cells exposed to conditioned medium from benign fluid-stimulated HPMCs. A total of 649 genes were differentially expressed in ascites-stimulated HPMCs. Based on a ratio of more than 1.5-fold and a P < 0.05, 484 genes were up-regulated and 165 genes were down-regulated in ascites-exposed HPMCs. Stimulation of HPMCs with OC ascites resulted in differential expression of genes mainly associated with the regulation of cell growth and proliferation, cell death, cell cycle and cell assembly and organization, compared to benign peritoneal fluids. Top networks up-regulated by OC ascites included Akt and NF-κB survival pathways whereas vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) pathway was down-regulated.

Conclusions

The results of this study not only provide evidence supporting the importance of the interplay between cancer cells and HPMCs but also define the role that the tumor environment plays in these interactions.
miR-125b induces cellular senescence in malignant melanoma
Authors: Nyholm Anne Marie , Lerche Catharina M , Manfé Valentina , Biskup Edyta , Johansen Peter , Morling Niels , Thomsen Birthe Mørk , Glud Martin , Gniadecki Robert
Published: April 2014

Background

Micro RNAs (miRs) have emerged as key regulators during oncogenesis. They have been found to regulate cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Mir-125b has been identified as an oncomir in various forms of tumours, but we have previously proposed that miR-125b is a suppressor of lymph node metastasis in cutaneous malignant melanoma. Our goal was therefore to further examine this theory.

Methods

We used in-situ-hybridization to visualise miR-125b expression in primary tumours and in lymph node metastasis. Then using a miRVector plasmid containing a miR-125b-1 insert we transfected melanoma cell line Mel-Juso and then investigated the effect of the presence of a stable overexpression of miR-125b on growth by western blotting, flow cytometry and β-galactosidase staining. The tumourogenicity of the transfected cells was tested using a murine model and the tumours were further examined with in-situ-hybridization.

Results

In primary human tumours and in lymph node metastases increased expression of miR-125b was found in single, large tumour cells with abundant cytoplasm. A stable overexpression of miR-125b in human melanoma cell line Mel-Juso resulted in a G0/G1 cell cycle block and emergence of large cells expressing senescence markers: senescence-associated beta-galactosidase, p21, p27 and p53. Mel-Juso cells overexpressing miR-125b were tumourigenic in mice, but the tumours exhibited higher level of cell senescence and decreased expression of proliferation markers, cyclin D1 and Ki67 than the control tumours.

Conclusions

Our results confirm the theory that miR-125b functions as a tumour supressor in cutaneous malignant melanoma by regulating cellular senescence, which is one of the central mechanisms protecting against the development and progression of malignant melanoma.
Large-scale preparation of nanoporous TiO2 film on titanium substrate with improved photoelectrochemical performance
Authors: Tan Beihui , Zhang Yue , Long Mingce
Published: April 2014

Fabrication of three-dimensional TiO2 films on Ti substrates is one important strategy to obtain efficient electrodes for energy conversion and environmental applications. In this work, we found that hierarchical porous TiO2 film can be prepared by treating H2O2 pre-oxidized Ti substrate in TiCl3 solution followed by calcinations. The formation process is a combination of the corrosion of Ti substrate and the oxidation hydrolysis of TiCl3. According to the characterizations by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), the anatase phase TiO2 films show porous morphology with the smallest diameter of 20 nm and possess enhanced optical absorption properties. Using the porous film as a working electrode, we found that it displays efficient activity for photoelectrocatalytic decolorization of rhodamine B (RhB) and photocurrent generation, with a photocurrent density as high as 1.2 mA/cm2. It represents a potential method to fabricate large-area nanoporous TiO2 film on Ti substrate due to the scalability of such chemical oxidation process.
Prevalence of bluetongue virus infection and associated risk factors among cattle in North Kordufan State, Western Sudan
Authors: Adam Ibrahim A , Abdalla Mohamed A , Mohamed Mohamed EH , Aradaib Imadeldin E
Published: April 2014

Background

Bluetongue virus causes febrile disease in sheep and a fatal hemorrhagic infection in North American White-tailed deer. However, in cattle the disease is typically asymptomatic and no clinical overt disease is associated with bluetongue infection. Bluetongue virus activity has been detected in Khartoum, Sennar and South Darfur states of the Sudan. Currently, no information is available in regard to previous exposure of livestock to Bluetongue virus in North Kordufan State, the largest livestock producing region in the country. The present study was conducted to determine the prevalence of bluetongue antibodies and to identify the potential risk factors associated with the presence of bluetongue antibodies among cattle in North Kordufan State, Sudan. A total of 299 bovine blood samples were collected randomly from six localities in North Kordufan State and were tested by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for detection of BTV-specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies.

Results

The serological evidence of Bluetongue virus infection was observed in 58 out of 299 cows, accounting for a 19.4% prevalence rate among cattle in North Kordufan State. Older cattle (>2 years of age) had four times the odds to be infected with BTV compared to young cattle (OR = 4.309, CI = 1.941-9.567, p-value = 0.01). Application of preventive measures, such as spraying or dipping with insecticide protects cattle against Bluetongue infection. Application of vector control measures decreased the odds for bluetongue seropositivity by 7 times (OR = 7.408, CI = 3.111-17.637, p-value = 0.01).

Conclusions

The results of this study indicated that age and application of routine insecticides are influential risk factors for seroprevalence of Bluetongue in cattle. Surveillance of Bluetongue virus should be extended to include other susceptible animals and to study the distribution of the insect vectors in the region to better predict and respond to BTV outbreak in the State of North Kordufan, Sudan.
Measurement tools for the diagnosis of nasal septal deviation: A systematic review
Authors: Aziz Tehnia , Biron Vincent L , Ansari Kal , Flores-Mir Carlos
Published: April 2014

Objective

To perform a systematic review of measurement tools utilized for the diagnosis of nasal septal deviation (NSD).

Methods

Electronic database searches were performed using MEDLINE (from 1966 to second week of August 2013), EMBASE (from 1966 to second week of August 2013), Web of Science (from 1945 to second week of August 2013) and all Evidence Based Medicine Reviews Files (EBMR); Cochrane Database of Systematic Review (CDSR), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CCTR), Cochrane Methodology Register (CMR), Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects (DARE), American College of Physicians Journal Club (ACP Journal Club), Health Technology Assessments (HTA), NHS Economic Evaluation Database (NHSEED) till the second quarter of 2013. The search terms used in database searches were ‘nasal septum’, ‘deviation’, ‘diagnosis’, ‘nose deformities’ and ‘nose malformation’. The studies were reviewed using the updated Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS-2) tool.

Results

Online searches resulted in 23 abstracts after removal of duplicates that resulted from overlap of studies between the electronic databases. An additional 15 abstracts were excluded due to lack of relevance. A total of 8 studies were systematically reviewed.

Conclusions

Diagnostic modalities such as acoustic rhinometry, rhinomanometry and nasal spectral sound analysis may be useful in identifying NSD in anterior region of the nasal cavity, but these tests in isolation are of limited utility. Compared to anterior rhinoscopy, nasal endoscopy, and imaging the above mentioned index tests lack sensitivity and specificity in identifying the presence, location, and severity of NSD.
Removal of Arsenic (III, V) from aqueous solution by nanoscale zero-valent iron stabilized with starch and carboxymethyl cellulose
Authors: Mosaferi Mohammad , Nemati Sepideh , Khataee Alireza , Nasseri Simin , Hashemi Ahmad Asl
Published: April 2014

In this work, synthetic nanoscale zerovalent iron (NZVI) stabilized with two polymers, Starch and Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) were examined and compared for their ability in removing As (III) and As (V) from aqueous solutions as the most promising iron nanoparticles form for arsenic removal.

Batch operations were conducted with different process parameters such as contact time, nanoparticles concentration, initial arsenic concentration and pH.

Results revealed that starch stabilized particles (S-nZVI) presented an outstanding ability to remove both arsenate and arsenite and displayed ~ 36.5% greater removal for As (V) and 30% for As (III) in comparison with CMC-stabilized nanoparticles (C-nZVI). However, from the particle stabilization viewpoint, there is a clear trade off to choosing the best stabilized nanoparticles form. Removal efficiency was enhanced with increasing the contact time and iron loading but reduced with increasing initial As (III, V) concentrations and pH. Almost complete removal of arsenic (up to 500 μg/L) was achieved in just 5 min when the S-nZVI mass concentration was 0.3 g/L and initial solution pH of 7 ± 0.1. The maximum removal efficiency of both arsenic species was obtained at pH = 5 ± 0.1 and starched nanoparticles was effective in slightly acidic and natural pH values. The adsorption kinetics fitted well with pseudo-second-order model and the adsorption data obeyed the Langmuir equation with a maximum adsorption capacity of 14 mg/g for arsenic (V), and 12.2 mg/g for arsenic (III).

It could be concluded that starch stabilized Fe0 nanoparticles showed remarkable potential for As (III, V) removal from aqueous solution e.g. contaminated water.
Optimal dynamic production and price for reliability-dependent imperfect production with inventory-level-dependent demand in uncertain environment
Authors: Hazari Samar , Maity Kalipada , Dey Jayanta Kumar , Kar Samarjit
Published: April 2014

An inventory system for reliability-dependent imperfect production is introduced in uncertain environment. The demand rate depends on the stock quantity displayed in the store as well as the sales price. With the goal to realize profit maximization, an optimization problem is addressed to seek for the optimal joint dynamic pricing and production policy which are obtained by solving the optimization problem by Euler-Lagrange equation of optimal control theory. Here, initial selling price, holding cost, and raw material cost are taken as uncertain variables, and using uncertain expectation mathematics, the uncertain variables are converted into crisp value. The numerical results demonstrate the advantages of the joint dynamic one and further show the effects of different system parameters on the optimal dynamic policy and the maximal total profit.
Modulation of de novo purine biosynthesis leads to activation of AMPK and results in improved glucose handling and insulin sensitivity
Authors: Sadasivan Satish Kumar , Vasamsetti Balamuralikrishna , Singh Jaideep , Siddaraju Nethra , Khan Khaiser Mehdi , Oommen Anup Mammen , Jagannath Madanalli R , Rao Raghavendra Pralhada
Published: April 2014

Background

AMP activated protein kinase (AMPK) regulates key metabolic reactions and plays a major role in glucose homeostasis. Activating the AMPK is considered as one of the potential therapeutic strategies in treating type-2 diabetes. However, targeting AMPK by small molecule mediated approach can be challenging owing to diverse isoforms of the enzyme and their varied combination in different tissues. In the current study we employ a novel strategy of achieving AMPK activation through increasing the levels of cellular AMP (an allosteric activator of AMPK) levels by activating the enzyme involved in AMP biosynthesis namely Adenylosuccinate lyase (ADSL).

Methods

Rat primary hepatocytes were cultured under metabolic overload conditions (500 μM palmitate) to induce insulin resistance. ADSL was overexpressed in these hepatocytes and its effect on hepatic glucose output, and triglyceride accumulation was checked. In addition to this, ADSL was overexpressed in high fat diet induced obese mice by hydrodynamic tail vein injection and its effect on fasting glucose, glucose tolerance and pyruvate tolerance were checked.

Results

Rat primary hepatocytes when cultured under metabolic overload conditions developed insulin resistance as measured in terms of failure of insulin to suppress the glucose output. Overexpressing the ADSL in these hepatocytes resulted in increased AMPK phosporylation and improved the insulin sensitivity and also resulted in reduced triglyceride accumulation and inflammatory cytokine levels. In addition to this, when ADSL was overexpressed in high fat diet induced obese mice, it resulted in reduced the fasting hyperglycemia (20% reduction), and increased glucose and pyruvate tolerance.

Conclusions

This study indicates that activating ADSL can be a potential mechanism to achieve the activation of AMPK in the cells. This leads to a novel idea of exploring the purine nucleotide metabolic pathway as a promising therapeutic target for diabetes and metabolic syndrome.
Blocking the janus-activated kinase pathway reduces tumor necrosis factor alpha-induced interleukin-18 bioactivity by caspase-1 inhibition
Authors: Marotte Hubert , Tsou Pei-Suen , Fedorova Tatiana , Pinney Adam J , Lewis Benjamin , Koch Alisa E
Published: April 2014

Introduction

Our objective was to examine the role of the janus-activated kinase (JAK) pathway in the modulation of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF)-induced-IL-18 bioactivity by reduction of caspase-1 function.

Methods

Caspase-1 expression in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) synovial fibroblasts treated with TNF was assessed by qRT-PCR and Western blot. Interleukin (IL)-18 was assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in cell lysates and conditioned media and detected by immunofluorescence (IF) staining in RA synovial fibroblasts. The critical pathways for TNF-induced caspase-1 expression were determined by using chemical inhibitors of signaling followed by TNF stimulation. IL-18 bioactivity was assessed using human myelomonocytic KG-1 cells.

Results

TNF induced RA synovial fibroblast caspase-1 expression at the protein level in a time-dependant manner (P < 0.05). Blocking the JAK pathway reduced TNF-induced-caspase-1 expression at the transcriptional and protein levels by approximately 60% and 40%, respectively (P < 0.05). Blocking the JAK pathway reduced TNF-induced-caspase-1 expression at the transcriptional, protein, and activity levels by approximately 60%, 40%, and 53%, respectively (P < 0.05). We then confirmed by IF that TNF-induced IL-18 and investigated roles of the ERK1/2 and JAK pathways. Blocking the JAK pathway, TNF induced intracytoplasmic granular IL-18 expression suggesting a defect of caspase-1. Finally, blocking the JAK pathway, we observed a reduction of IL-18 bioactivity by 52% in RA synovial fibroblasts (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

These results provide a new way to regulate TNF-induced-IL-18 bioactivity by blocking capase-1. These data present a novel role for JAK inhibition in RA patients and emphasize JAK inhibition use as a new therapeutic option in RA management.
Biomarkers and acute brain injuries: interest and limits
Authors: Mrozek Ségolène , Dumurgier Julien , Citerio Giuseppe , Mebazaa Alexandre , Geeraerts Thomas
Published: April 2014

For patients presenting with acute brain injury (such as traumatic brain injury, subarachnoid haemorrhage and stroke), the diagnosis and identification of intracerebral lesions and evaluation of the severity, prognosis and treatment efficacy can be challenging. The complexity and heterogeneity of lesions after brain injury are most probably responsible for this difficulty. Patients with apparently comparable brain lesions on imaging may have different neurological outcomes or responses to therapy. In recent years, plasmatic and cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers have emerged as possible tools to distinguish between the different pathophysiological processes. This review aims to summarise the plasmatic and cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers evaluated in subarachnoid haemorrhage, traumatic brain injury and stroke, and to clarify their related interests and limits for diagnosis and prognosis. For subarachnoid haemorrhage, particular interest has been focused on the biomarkers used to predict vasospasm and cerebral ischaemia. The efficacy of biomarkers in predicting the severity and outcome of traumatic brain injury has been stressed. The very early diagnostic performance of biomarkers and their ability to discriminate ischaemic from haemorrhagic stroke were studied.
Ventriculoarterial decoupling in human septic shock
Authors: Guarracino Fabio , Ferro Baldassare , Morelli Andrea , Bertini Pietro , Baldassarri Rubia , Pinsky Michael R
Published: April 2014

Introduction

Septic shock is the most severe manifestation of sepsis. It is characterized as a hypotensive cardiovascular state associated with multiorgan dysfunction and metabolic disturbances. Management of septic shock is targeted at preserving adequate organ perfusion pressure without precipitating pulmonary edema or massive volume overload. Cardiac dysfunction often occurs in septic shock patients and can significantly affect outcomes. One physiologic approach to detect the interaction between the heart and the circulation when both are affected is to examine ventriculoarterial coupling, which is defined by the ratio of arterial elastance (Ea) to left ventricular end-systolic elastance (Ees). In this study, we analyzed ventriculoarterial coupling in a cohort of patients admitted to ICUs who presented with vs without septic shock.

Methods

In this retrospective cross-sectional opportunity study, we measured routine hemodynamics using indwelling arterial and pulmonary arterial catheters and transthoracic echocardiograms in 25 septic patients (group S) and 25 non–septic shock patients (group C) upon ICU admission. Ees was measured by echocardiography using a single-beat (EesSB) method. Ea was calculated as 0.9 systolic arterial pressure/stroke volume, and then the Ea/EesSB ratio was calculated (normal value <1.36).

Results

In group S, 21 patients had an Ea/EesSB ratio >1.36 (uncoupled). The four patients with Ea/EesSB ratios ≤1.36 had higher EesSB values than patients with Ea/EesSB ratios >1.36 (P = 0.007), although Ea measurements were similar in both groups (P = 0.4). In group C, five patients had uncoupled Ea/EesSB ratios. No correlation was found between EesSB and left ventricular ejection fraction and between Ea/EesSB ratio and mixed venous oxygen saturation in septic shock patients.

Conclusions

Upon admission to the ICU, patients in septic shock often display significant ventriculoarterial decoupling that is associated with impaired left ventricular performance. Because Ea/Ees decoupling alters cardiovascular efficiency and cardiac energetic requirements independently of Ea or Ees, we speculate that septic patients with ventriculoarterial uncoupling may benefit from therapy aimed at normalizing the Ea/Ees ratio.