bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isoflurane, sevoflurane and desflurane use in cane toads (Rhinella marina)
Authors: Morrison Kaleigh E. , Strahl‐Heldreth Danielle , Clark‐Price Stuart C.
Published: September 2016

Anaesthetic chamber concentrations of isoflurane, sevoflurane and desflurane that resulted in loss of righting reflex within 15 minutes in 50 per cent of toads (Rhinella marina) exposed (ED50‐LRR<15MIN) were identified. The median and range ED50‐LRR<15MIN was 1.4 (0.9–1.4) per cent for isoflurane, 1.75 (1.1–1.9) per cent for sevoflurane and 4.4 (4.3–5.5) per cent for desflurane. Subsequently, toads were exposed to 1.5 times the ED50‐LRR<15MIN and times to loss and return of righting reflex were identified. All toads for all anaesthetics lost righting reflex. The median and range loss of righting reflex was 4:00 (3:00–5:30) minutes for isoflurane, 4:45 (3:30–7:00) minutes for sevoflurane, and 4:15 (4:00–5:30) minutes for desflurane and was not different between anaesthetics. Time to return of righting reflex was 175 (123–211) minutes for isoflurane, 192 (116–383) minutes for sevoflurane and 74 (52–220) minutes for desflurane. Time to return of righting reflex was significantly shorter for desflurane compared with isoflurane or sevoflurane. The use of isoflurane, sevoflurane or desflurane can be used to provide immobilisation to cane toads and potentially other anurans. Induction times are likely similar when using an anaesthetic chamber to provide anaesthesia. However recovery time may take twice as long when utilising isoflurane or sevoflurane over desflurane.
A vet with a vision
Authors: Ben‐Shlomo Gil
Published: September 2016

When he learned what being a veterinarian meant, Gil Ben‐Shlomo felt that the career had been invented especially for him. He has since specialised, and is now professor of ophthalmology at Iowa State University
Walking and type 2 diabetes risk using CANRISK scores among older adults
Authors: Johnson Steven T. , Eurich Dean T. , Lytvyak Ellina , Mladenovic Ana , Taylor Lorian M. , Johnson Jeffrey A. , Vallance Jeff K.
Published: September 2016

The objective of this study was to determine the association between pedometer-assessed steps and type 2 diabetes risk using the Public Health Agency of Canada-developed 16-item Canadian Diabetes Risk Questionnaire (CANRISK) among a large population-based sample of older adults across Alberta, Canada. To achieve our study objective, adults without type 2 diabetes (N = 689) aged 55 years and older provided demographic data and CANRISK scores through computer-assisted telephone interviews between September and November 2012. Respondents also wore a step pedometer over 3 consecutive days to estimate average daily steps. Logistic regression was used to assess the association between achieving 7500 steps/day and risk of diabetes (low vs. moderate and high). Overall, 41% were male, average age was 63.4 (SD 5.5) years, body mass index was 26.7 (SD 5.0) kg/m2, and participants averaged 5671 (SD 3529) steps/day. All respondents indicated they were capable of walking for at least 10 min unassisted. CANRISK scores ranged from 13–60, with 18% in the low-risk category (<21). After adjustment, those not achieving 7500 steps/day (n = 507) were more than twice as likely to belong to the higher risk categories for type 2 diabetes compared with those walking ≥7500 steps/day (n = 182) (73.6% vs. 26.4%; odds ratio: 2.37; 95% confidence interval: 1.58 – 3.57). Among older adults without diabetes, daily steps were strongly and inversely associated with diabetes risk using the CANRISK score. Walking remains an important modifiable risk factor target for type 2 diabetes and achieving at least 7500 steps/day may be a reasonable target for older adults.
Extremal pentagonal chains with respect to bond incident degree indices
Authors: Ali Akbar , Raza Zahid , Bhatti Akhlaq Ahmad
Published: September 2016

Numerous molecular structure descriptors, which may be used in theoretical chemistry, are the bond incident degree (BID) indices. This study is devoted to establish a general expression for calculating the BID indices of pentagonal chains and to find the extremal (maximal and minimal) values for a variety of BID indices over the certain collection of pentagonal chains with a fixed number of pentagons.
Dynamic of the Flemish Cap commercial stocks: use of a Gadget multispecies model to determine the relevance and synergies among predation, recruitment, and fishing
Authors: Pérez-Rodríguez A. , Howell D. , Casas M. , Saborido-Rey F. , Ávila-de Melo A.
Published: September 2016

Multispecies modeling is being increasingly accepted in stock assessment, especially in the context of an ecosystem approach to fisheries management (EAF). To achieve a future implementation of an EAF in the Flemish Cap, we present a multispecies model developed in Gadget, which covers the main commercial stocks over the period 1988–2012: cod (Gadus morhua), redfish (Sebastes spp.), and northern shrimp (Pandalus borealis). The model highlights the interdependent dynamic of these stocks and reveals strong interactions among recruitment, fishing, and predation (including cannibalism). These drivers have shown marked changes in their relative importance by species, age, and length over time, producing a transition from a traditional redfish- and cod-dominated system in the early 1990s to an intermediate shrimp and other fish species state by the late 1990s and in turn back to something close to the initial state by the late 2000s. The multispecies model developed in this paper shows that disregarding the species interactions would lead to serious underestimates of natural mortality and overestimations of the exploitable biomass and highlights the need to move beyond single-species management in this highly coupled ecosystem.
Spatial genetic structure in fourPinusspecies in the Sierra Madre Occidental, Durango, Mexico
Authors: Hernández-Velasco Javier , Hernández-Díaz José Ciro , Fladung Matthias , Cañadas-López Álvaro , Prieto-Ruíz José Ángel , Wehenkel Christian
Published: September 2016

In this study, we examined the spatial genetic structure (SGS) in extensively managed, but naturally regenerated forest stands of Pinus cembroides Zucc., Pinus discolor Bailey et Hawksworth, Pinus durangensis Martínez, and Pinus teocote Schiede ex Schltdl. & Cham. at local (within the stands) and large (among the stands) scales using amplified fragment length polymorphisms (AFLP), with respect to conservation and sustainable management of genetic resources of these species. Because these four pine species grow in different landscape structures, we expected to find differences in their SGS, although all of them are widely spread, wind pollinated, and often occur at high population densities. At the local scale, there was no evidence of significant SGS in the four species under study (except in 1 out of 18 seed stands), suggesting that the genetic variants of these species are almost always randomly distributed in space, probably due to high wind pollination and seed dispersal. At a larger scale, the significant SGS found may be the result of isolation by distance among populations. We recommend (i) establishing a tight network of seed stands, with a maximum distance of 3–11 km between seed stands, to prevent greater loss of local genetic structure, and (ii) using these seeds to establish reforestations within a maximal radius of 3–5 km from seed provenances.
Effective string theory inspired potential and meson masses in higher dimension
Authors: Roy Sabyasachi , Choudhury D.K.
Published: September 2016

Nambu–Goto action in classical bosonic string model for hadrons predicts quark-antiquark potential to be (Lüscher and Weisz. JHEP 07, 049 (2002). doi: 10.1088/1126-6708/2002/07/049 ) V(r) = −(γ/r) + σr + μ0. In this report we present studies of masses of heavy flavour mesons in higher dimension with our recently developed wave functions obtained following string inspired potential. We report the dimensional dependence of the masses of mesons. Our results suggest that as the meson mass increases with the number of extra spatial dimensions, it will attain the Planck scale (∼1019 GeV) asymptotically at an astronomically large spatial dimension (we call it Planck dimension) DPlanck ∼ 1011, which sets the limit of applicability of Schrodinger equation in large dimension.
Bianchi type I and V solutions in f(R, T) gravity with time-dependent deceleration parameter
Authors: Zubair M. , Ali Hassan Syed M. , Abbas G.
Published: September 2016

In this paper, our attention is to reconstruct an appropriate model for Bianchi type I and Bianchi V space–times in f(R, T) gravity with the help of special law of deceleration parameter in connection to f(R, T) gravity (where R is the Ricci scalar and T is the trace of energy–momentum tensor). We solve the modified Einstein field equations for anisotropic and homogeneous Bianchi type V space–time. The solution of field equations facilitates finding out the physical as well as kinematical quantities. We explore the behavior of null energy condition, energy density, and deceleration parameter to present cosmic picture.
IsNematocharax(Actinopterygii, Characiformes) a monotypic fish genus?
Authors: Barreto Silvia Britto , Nunes Lorena Andrade , da Silva André Teixeira , Jucá-Chagas Ricardo , Diniz Débora , Sampaio Iracilda , Schneider Horacio , Affonso Paulo Roberto Antunes de Mello
Published: September 2016

The combination of DNA barcodes and geometric morphometrics is useful to discriminate taxonomically controversial species, providing more precise estimates of biodiversity. Therefore, our goal was to assess the genetic and morphometric diversity in Nematocharax, a controversial monotypic and sexually dimorphic genus of Neotropical fish, based on sequencing of cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and morphometric analyses in seven populations of N. venustus from coastal rivers in Brazil. The average pairwise intrapopulation divergence in COI ranged from 0 to 2.2%, while the average pairwise interpopulation divergence varied from 0 to 7.5%. The neighbour-joining (NJ) tree resulted in five genetic groups (bootstrap ≥ 97%), which correspond to the five clusters delimited by the BIN System, GMYC, and bPTP, indicating that there might be at least five species (or OTUs) within Nematocharax. Morphometric differences among these genetic lineages were also identified. Apparently, sexual selection, restricted dispersal, and geographic isolation might have acted synergistically to cause the evolutionary split of populations. These data challenge the current view that Nematocharax is a monotypic genus inasmuch as evolutionarily significant units or even distinguished species were identified. Therefore, we recommend that the highly impacted coastal basins in northeastern Brazil should be prioritized in conservation plans.
Υ(nS) → Bc∗D decays with perturbative QCD approach
Authors: Yang Yueling , Sun Junfeng , Huang Jinshu , Li Haiyan , Lu Gongru , Chang Qin
Published: September 2016

The [Formula: see text] weak decays [Formula: see text] are investigated with perturbative QCD approach. It is found that the CKM-favored [Formula: see text] decays have branching ratio of [Formula: see text], which might be potentially accessible to the future LHC and SuperKEKB experiments.
Numerical Solution of Two-Dimensional Advection–Diffusion Equation Using Generalized Integral Representation Method
Authors: Tsedendorj Gantulga , Isshiki Hiroshi
Published: September 2016

Generalized integral representation method (GIRM) is designed to numerically solve initial and boundary value problems for differential equations. In this work, we develop numerical schemes based on 1- and 2-step GIRMs for evaluation of the two-dimensional problem of advective diffusion in an infinite domain. Accurate approximate solutions are obtained in both cases of GIRM and compared to the exact ones. The derivation of GIRM is straightforward and implementation is simple.
Predominant effect of connecting atom and position of substituents on azomethine nitrogens’ basicity in phthalocyanines
Authors: Cidlina Antonin , Svec Jan , Ludvová Lucie , Kuneš Jiří , Zimcik Petr , Novakova Veronika
Published: September 2016

The basicity of azomethine nitrogens was studied on a series of phthalocyanines (Pcs) that differed in a position of substituent, [Formula: see text] peripherally ([Formula: see text]-series) and non-peripherally substituted Pcs ([Formula: see text]-series), and in a type of substituent (alkylsulfanyl, alkyloxy or alkyl). Appropriate 3,6- or 4,5-disubstituted phthalonitriles were prepared either by nucleophilic substitution or by Negishi coupling. Target zinc Pcs were synthesized by Linstead method. The basicity was studied by the mean of absorption and1H NMR spectroscopies in chloroform upon titration with trifluoroacetic acid. Equilibrium constants (log [Formula: see text]) indicated significant difference within the series. Basicity decreased as follows: [Formula: see text]-alkyloxy ≫ [Formula: see text]-alkylsulfanyl > [Formula: see text]-alkyloxy > [Formula: see text]-alkyl > [Formula: see text]-alkylsulfanyl ∼ [Formula: see text]-alkyl with log [Formula: see text] higher than 7 down to 2.6 M[Formula: see text]. Increased basicity of [Formula: see text]-alkyloxy and [Formula: see text]-alkylsulfanyl Pcs is caused by the stabilization of trapped hydrogen at azomethine nitrogen via hydrogen bonding and van der Waals interactions, respectively. The basicity of [Formula: see text]-series clearly correlated with the electronic effects of substituents.1H NMR studies confirmed the possibility of the weak bonding interactions in [Formula: see text]-alkyloxy and [Formula: see text]-alkylsulfanyl Pcs, however, the position of the1H NMR signal of azomethine-NH proton was even more influenced by the electronic effects of present substituents than by the weak interactions.
Synthesis and self-assembly properties of fullerene/porphyrin-phthalocyanine and fullerene/bis-phthalocyanine triads
Authors: Ho Khanh Hy Le , Jousselme Bruno , Campidelli Stéphane
Published: September 2016

In this work, we report on the synthesis and characterization of two fulleropyrrolidines bearing porphyrin/phthalocyanine and bis-phthalocyanine tweezers. The self-assembly properties in different solvents have been investigated by AFM and SEM. When deposited on surface from dichloromethane solutions, the fullerene derivatives formed aggregates of ca. 4–8 nm in height while hollow nanospheres with diameters of ca. 300–1000 nm are obtained from crystallization attempts.
Highly soluble tetrasubstituted lanthanide bis-phthalocyanines; synthesis, characterization, electrical properties and aggregation studies
Authors: Bilgiçli Ahmet T. , Günsel Armağan , Kandaz Mehmet , Altındal Ahmet , Cömert Hüseyin
Published: September 2016

We report the synthesis, characterization and electrical properties of lanthanide metal based bis-phthalocyanines, {M[Pc-(β-HHT)4]2} (HHT:1-hydroxyhexane-3-ylthio){ M [Formula: see text] Lu[Formula: see text] (2), Eu[Formula: see text] (3), and Yb[Formula: see text] (4)}. The interaction of bis-phthalocyanines with Ag[Formula: see text] and Pd[Formula: see text] metal ions were investigated by UV-vis spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy. Thin films of bis-phthalocyanine molecules were prepared by spin-coating method. The surface morphology of thin films were performed with Atomic Force Microscopy as further investigate. The electrical transport properties of ITO/Pc/Al devices were investigated. At low voltages all the films showed an ohmic conduction, whereas at higher voltage levels the conduction is dominated by space charged limited conduction with exponential distribution of trapping levels. Measurements of current density as a function of inverse temperature at constant applied voltage yielded a hole mobility values, μp[Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] m2.sn[Formula: see text].V[Formula: see text] for lanthanium phthalocyanines. From the analysis of frequency, ω, dependence of electrical conductivity, σac. it was found that the [Formula: see text] obeys the power law given by σac = Aωs, in which the frequency exponent “s” decreases with temperature.
The Rise of New Eurasianism: China’s “Belt and Road” Initiative and Its Implications for Euro-Atlanticism
Authors: Yilmaz Serafettin , Changming Liu
Published: September 2016

This article attempts to cast an analytic light on China’s “One Belt and One Road” (OBOR) initiative and investigates the prospects for a new China-led Eurasian integration discourse as an alternative to the U.S.-led Euro-Atlanticism. To this end, it compares China’s development-oriented strategy in Europe with the security-driven Atlanticist model and examines how the new governance framework relates to present-day international relations. It holds that the Eurasia-centered OBOR signifies a paradigm that is fundamentally different from the Atlanticist strategy that has come to define the European geopolitical landscape since the end of World War II. The OBOR aims to de-emphasize security arrangements and ensure sustainable development and prosperity by introducing an omnidirectional connectivity and cooperation agenda in the Eurasian strategic context. It is recognized, however, that although the new Eurasian discourse of inclusive development does not aim to directly challenge the United States’ highly-institutionalized security presence in Europe, mindful of its larger paradigmatic implications, the United States is likely to view the OBOR unfavorably and seek to reinforce material and ideational fundamentals of the Atlantic alliance.
The Paris Agreement and Global Climate Governance: China’s Role and Contribution
Authors: Xiaosheng Gao
Published: September 2016

The United Nations Climate Change Conference held in Paris in late 2015 is regarded as a milestone in the progress of global climate governance. Adopting the approach of “Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs) plus Periodic Review”, the Paris Climate Agreement reached at the conference has rejuvenated the multilateral negotiation process and established a hybrid governance structure as the basic framework of the post-2020 climate regime. The Agreement also sends a clear and strong signal regarding the sustainable transformation of the world economy. Through low-carbon economic transformation and international climate diplomacy, China played a leadership role in achieving the Paris Agreement, which ushered in a new era for the international community to combat climate change. The future of global climate governance will depend on the follow-up measures of all contracting parties, and China should continue to show climate leadership in the post-Paris era.
The last glaciation in Caithness, Scotland: revised till stratigraphy and ice-flow paths indicate multiple ice flow phases
Authors: Hall Adrian M. , Riding James B.
Published: September 2016

This paper reviews existing information on the last glaciation of Caithness and presents new evidence for additional till units and for long distance ice-flow paths based on till palynomorphs, indicator erratics and striae. Early, radial expansion of Northern Highland ice probably occurred at 31 – 29 ka. After ice withdrawal from the north coast, Moray Firth ice returned before a second withdrawal. Thereafter Moray Firth ice advanced to limits close to the Atlantic shelf edge between 21 and 18 ka. Deglaciation of hill summits was completed by 18.4 – 17.8 ka but the low ground south of Wick only became ice free after 16.5 ka.

Recognition of these multiple ice-flow events is consistent with the dynamic behaviour of the last ice sheet exhibited in mathematical simulations. The event sequence differs, however, from nineteenth century and recent two-stage flow set reconstructions as each main flow set is shown to represent multiple events following similar paths but under different ice sheet configurations. Various configurations allow ice to flow northwards across Caithness and so remove any requirement for the Fennoscandian Ice Sheet to directly block and divert the outflow of ice from the Moray Firth during the last glaciation.
Metagenomics and the Human Virome in Asymptomatic Individuals
Authors: Rascovan Nicolás , Duraisamy Raja , Desnues Christelle
Published: September 2016

High-throughput sequencing technologies have revolutionized how we think about viruses. Investigators can now go beyond pathogenic viruses and have access to the thousands of viruses that inhabit our bodies without causing clinical symptoms. By studying their interactions with each other, with other microbes, and with host genetics and immune systems, we can learn how they affect health and disease. This article reviews current knowledge of the composition and diversity of the human virome in physiologically healthy individuals. It focuses on recent results from metagenomics studies and discusses the contribution of bacteriophages and eukaryotic viruses to human health.
cAMP-dependent recruitment of acidic organelles for Ca2+ signaling in the salivary gland
Authors: Imbery John F. , Bhattacharya Sumit , Khuder Sura , Weiss Amanda , Goswamee Priyodarshan , Iqbal Azwar K. , Giovannucci David R.
Published: September 2016

Autonomic neural activation of intracellular Ca2+ release in parotid acinar cells induces the secretion of the fluid and protein components of primary saliva critical for maintaining overall oral homeostasis. In the current study, we profiled the role of acidic organelles in shaping the Ca2+ signals of parotid acini using a variety of imaging and pharmacological approaches. Results demonstrate that zymogen granules predominate as an apically polarized population of acidic organelles that contributes to the initial Ca2+ release. Moreover, we provide evidence that indicates a role for the intracellular messenger NAADP in the release of Ca2+ from acidic organelles following elevation of cAMP. Our data are consistent with the “trigger” hypothesis where localized release of Ca2+ sensitizes canonical intracellular Ca2+ channels to enhance signals from the endoplasmic reticulum. Release from acidic stores may be important for initiating saliva secretion at low levels of stimulation and a potential therapeutic target to augment secretory activity in hypofunctioning salivary glands.
Intracellular ascorbate tightens the endothelial permeability barrier through Epac1 and the tubulin cytoskeleton
Authors: Parker William H. , Rhea Elizabeth Meredith , Qu Zhi-Chao , Hecker Morgan R. , May James M.
Published: September 2016

Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, both tightens the endothelial permeability barrier in basal cells and also prevents barrier leak induced by inflammatory agents. Barrier tightening by ascorbate in basal endothelial cells requires nitric oxide derived from activation of nitric oxide synthase. Although ascorbate did not affect cyclic AMP levels in our previous study, there remains a question of whether it might activate downstream cyclic AMP-dependent pathways. In this work, we found in both primary and immortalized cultured endothelial cells that ascorbate tightened the endothelial permeability barrier by ∼30%. In human umbilical vein endothelial cells, this occurred at what are likely physiologic intracellular ascorbate concentrations. In so doing, ascorbate decreased measures of oxidative stress and also flattened the cells to increase cell-to-cell contact. Inhibition of downstream cyclic AMP-dependent proteins via protein kinase A did not prevent ascorbate from tightening the endothelial permeability barrier, whereas inhibition of Epac1 did block the ascorbate effect. Although Epac1 was required, its mediator Rap1 was not activated. Furthermore, ascorbate acutely stabilized microtubules during depolymerization induced by colchicine and nocodazole. Over several days in culture, ascorbate also increased the amount of stable acetylated α-tubulin. Microtubule stabilization was further suggested by the finding that ascorbate increased the amount of Epac1 bound to α-tubulin. These results suggest that physiologic ascorbate concentrations tighten the endothelial permeability barrier in unstimulated cells by stabilizing microtubules in a manner downstream of cyclic AMP that might be due both to increasing nitric oxide availability and to scavenging of reactive oxygen or nitrogen species.
Hypercapnic ventilatory response is decreased in a mouse model of excessive erythrocytosis
Authors: Laouafa Sofien , Elliot-Portal Elizabeth , Revollo Susana , Schneider Gasser Edith M. , Joseph Vincent , Voituron Nicolas , Gassmann Max , Soliz Jorge
Published: September 2016

The impact of cerebral erythropoietin (Epo) in the regulation of the hypercapnic ventilatory response (HcVR) is controversial. While we reported that cerebral Epo does not affect the central chemosensitivity in C57Bl6 mice receiving an intracisternal injection of sEpoR (the endogenous antagonist of Epo), a recent study in transgenic mice with constitutive high levels of human Epo in brain and circulation (Tg6) and in brain only (Tg21), showed that Epo blunts the HcVR, maybe by interacting with central and peripheral chemoreceptors. High Epo serum levels in Tg6 mice lead to excessive erythrocytosis (hematocrit ~80–90%), the main symptom of chronic mountain sickness (CMS). These latter results support the hypothesis that reduced central chemosensitivity accounts for the hypoventilation observed in CMS patients. To solve this intriguing divergence, we reevaluate HcVR in Tg6 and Tg21 mouse lines, by assessing the metabolic rate [O consumption (V̇) and CO production (V̇)], a key factor modulating ventilation, the effect of which was not considered in the previous study. Our results showed that the decreased HcVR observed in Tg6 mice (~70% reduction; < 0.01) was due to a significant decrease in the metabolism (~40%; < 0.0001) rather than Epo’s effect on CO chemosensitivity. Additional analysis in Tg21 mice did not reveal differences of HcVR or metabolism. We concluded that cerebral Epo does not modulate the central chemosensitivity system, and that a metabolic effect upon CO inhalation is responsible for decreased HcVR observed in Tg6 animals. As CMS patients also show decreased HcVR, our findings might help to better understand respiratory disorders at high altitude.
The Gomez equations and renal hemodynamic function in kidney disease research
Authors: Bjornstad Petter , Škrtić Marko , Lytvyn Yuliya , Maahs David M. , Johnson Richard. J. , Cherney David Z. I.
Published: September 2016

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) remains the leading cause of end-stage renal disease. A major challenge in preventing DKD is the difficulty in identifying high-risk patients at a preclinical stage. Existing methods that are used to assess renal function, including albuminuria and eGFR, do not give detailed insight into the location of the renal hemodynamic effects of pharmacological agents at the segmental level. To gain additional information about the intrarenal circulation in vivo in humans, equations were developed by Gomez et al. in the 1950s. These equations used measurements of glomerular filtration rate, renal blood flow, effective renal plasma flow, renal vascular resistance, hematocrit, and serum protein to calculate afferent and efferent arteriolar resistances, glomerular hydrostatic pressure, and filtration pressure. The Gomez equations are, however, indirect and based on physiological assumptions derived from animal models, which may not hold true in human pathophysiology, including the assumption of a normal gross filtration coefficient and not considering changes in intratubular pressure that may affect the pressure gradient across the glomerular capillaries. Nevertheless, the equations have the potential to improve researchers' ability to identify early preclinical changes in renal hemodynamic function in patients with a variety of conditions, including DKD, thereby offering potential in mechanistic human research studies. In this review, we focus on the application of Gomez' equations and summarize the potential and limitations of these techniques in DKD research. We also summarize illustrative data derived from Gomez' equations in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes and hypertension.
Reversible Fetal Renal Impairment following Angiotensin Receptor Blocking Treatment during Third Trimester of Pregnancy: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Saar Tal , Levitt Lorinne , Amsalem Hagai
Published: September 2016

Background. Late pregnancy usage of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-I) and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARB) may cause severe oligohydramnios due to fetal renal impairment. Affected neonates will often suffer from fatal, renal, and respiratory failure.Case. A 39-year-old multigravida admitted due to anhydramnios secondary to valsartan (ARB) exposure at 30 weeks’ gestation. Following secession of treatment amniotic fluid volume returned to normal. Delivery was induced at 34 weeks’ gestation following premature rupture of membranes and maternal fever. During the two-year follow-up, no signs of renal insufficiency were noted.Conclusions. This description of reversible fetal renal damage due to ARB intake during pregnancy is the first to show no adverse renal function in a two-year follow-up period. This case may help clinicians counsel patients with pregnancies complicated by exposure to these drugs.
Reversal of a Suspected Paradoxical Reaction to Zopiclone with Flumazenil
Authors: Jordahn Zarah , Andersen Cheme , Roust Aaberg Anne Marie , Christian Pott Frank
Published: September 2016

We describe the care for an elderly woman who was admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) to receive noninvasive ventilation for acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. After administration of the sleeping pill zopiclone, a nonbenzodiazepine receptor agonist (NBRA), the patient became agitated and was confused, a possible paradoxical reaction to benzodiazepines. These symptoms were immediately resolved after treatment with flumazenil, usually used to reverse the adverse effects of benzodiazepines or NBRAs and to reverse paradoxical reactions to benzodiazepines. This case indicates that zopiclone induced behavioral changes resembling a paradoxical reaction to benzodiazepines and these symptoms may be treated with flumazenil.
An Atypical Presentation of Sporadic Jejunal Burkitt’s Lymphoma
Authors: Naik Pratik , Wang James , Brazeau Michael J. , Rosario Domingo
Published: September 2016

Burkitt’s lymphoma is a very aggressive type of B-cell NHL with replication approaching 100%. Primary gastrointestinal lymphoma is rare. In our case, a 24-year-old male initially presented with symptomatic anemia. He was initially evaluated with colonoscopy and EGD, both of which were unremarkable. A capsule endoscopy was then performed to further evaluate his significant anemia which revealed friable inflamed ulcerated mass in the jejunum. A push enteroscopy was then performed to obtain tissue from the jejunal mass. Biopsy results and immunohistochemical stains were consistent with Burkitt’s lymphoma. PET/CT scan revealed only jejunal involvement. Treatment consisted of bowel resection prior to chemotherapy due to concern for perforation with chemotherapy. Patient achieved complete remission after the treatment.
Levator Ani Necrosis: An Exceptional Complication Occurring after “High Intensity Focused Ultrasound” of the Prostate
Authors: Badawy Danny , El Rassy Elie , Aoun Fouad , Van Velthoven Roland
Published: September 2016

High intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a minimally invasive treatment option that might be considered in the management of localized prostate cancer. It is a well-tolerated treatment with few minor urologic complications and no major toxicities. In this paper, we report to our knowledge the first case of levator ani necrosis in a patient treated with HIFU, manifesting as sturdy perineal pain, which took years of NSAID intake and serial MRIs to demonstrate partial improvement. Therefore, we regard HIFU as a serious potential treatment option that still requires longer follow-up data before its approval in the personalized treatment panel of prostate cancer.
Oral Neurothekeoma of the Right Buccal Mucosa
Authors: Tham Alex C. , Chilagondanahalli Nandini L. , Bundele Manish M. , Kanagalingam Jeevendra
Published: September 2016

Oral neurothekeoma or nerve sheath myxoma is a rare benign oral tumour of nerve sheath origin. Historically, this tumour has been subclassified as myxoid (classic), mixed, or the cellular type, depending on the amount of myxoid stroma and cellularity. We present a case of oral neurothekeoma (mixed type) of the buccal mucosa. The tumour was completely excised. No recurrence was detected in the last 3 years after local excision.
Skin Findings in a Patient with Sjogren’s Syndrome
Authors: Boddu Prajwal , Mohammed Abdul S. , Khandelwal Sonali
Published: September 2016

Hypergammaglobulinemic purpura (HGP) is a syndrome constellating recurrent purpura, hypergammaglobulinemia, positive rheumatoid factor (RF), anti-Ro/La antibodies, and elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). We present a case of a 29-year-old female who was diagnosed with Sjogren’s syndrome four years prior to presenting with rash on her lower extremities for a period of 6 months. Skin biopsy at the initial visit was consistent with leukocytoclastic vasculitis and was initiated on treatment for it. Her rash evolved into 2–5 mm scattered purpurae while she was on the treatment and a repeat biopsy showed extravasation of RBCs, a sparse mononuclear infiltrate with deposition of plasma cells, and no evidence of leukocytoclastic vasculitis, thus showing a transition from neutrophilic to mononuclear inflammatory vascular disease which is a rare occurrence. Hypergammaglobulinemic purpura sometimes turns out to be a challenging disease to manage and requires an integrated effort from the primary care doctors, rheumatologist, and dermatologist.
Targeting Antitumor Immune Response for Enhancing the Efficacy of Photodynamic Therapy of Cancer: Recent Advances and Future Perspectives
Authors: Yang Yamin , Hu Yue , Wang Hongjun
Published: September 2016

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a minimally invasive therapeutic strategy for cancer treatment, which can destroy local tumor cells and induce systemic antitumor immune response, whereas, focusing on improving direct cytotoxicity to tumor cells treated by PDT, there is growing interest in developing approaches to further explore the immune stimulatory properties of PDT. In this review we summarize the current knowledge of the innate and adaptive immune responses induced by PDT against tumors, providing evidence showing PDT facilitated‐antitumor immunity. Various immunotherapeutic approaches on different cells are reviewed for their effectiveness in improving the treatment efficiency in concert with PDT. Future perspectives are discussed for further enhancing PDT efficiency via intracellular targetable drug delivery as well as optimized experimental model development associated with the study of antitumor immune response.
Adaptive Finite-Time Stabilization of High-Order Nonlinear Systems with Dynamic and Parametric Uncertainties
Authors: Jiang Meng-Meng , Xie Xue-Jun
Published: September 2016

Under the weaker assumption on nonlinear functions, the adaptive finite-time stabilization of more general high-order nonlinear systems with dynamic and parametric uncertainties is solved in this paper. To solve this problem, finite-time input-to-state stability (FTISS) is used to characterize the unmeasured dynamic uncertainty. By skillfully combining Lyapunov function, sign function, backstepping, and finite-time input-to-state stability approaches, an adaptive state feedback controller is designed to guarantee high-order nonlinear systems are globally finite-time stable.
Effect of Tongxinluo on Podocyte Apoptosis via Inhibition of Oxidative Stress and P38 Pathway in Diabetic Rats
Authors: Cui Fangqiang , Gao Yanbin , Zhao Wenjing , Zou Dawei , Zhu Zhiyao , Wu Xiaoming , Tian Nianxiu , Wang Xiaolei , Liu Jing , Tong Yu
Published: September 2016

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) has been the leading cause of end‐stage renal disease (ESRD). Podocyte apoptosis is a main mechanism of progression of DN. It has been demonstrated that activated P38 and caspase‐3 induced by oxidative stress mainly account for increased podocyte apoptosis and proteinuria in DN. Meanwhile, Tongxinluo (TXL) can ameliorate renal structure disruption and dysfunction in DN patients in our clinical practice. However, the effect of TXL on podocyte apoptosis and P38 pathway remains unclear. To explore the effect of TXL on podocyte apoptosis and its molecular mechanism in DN, our in vivo and in vitro studies were performed. TXL attenuated oxidative stress in podocyte in DN in our in vivo and in vitro studies. Moreover, TXL inhibited the activation of P38 and caspase‐3. Bcl‐2 and Bax expression was partially restored by TXL treatment in our in vivo and in vitro studies. More importantly, TXL decreased podocyte apoptosis in diabetic rats and high glucose cultured podocyte. In conclusion, TXL protects podocyte from apoptosis in DN, partially through its antioxidant effect and inhibiting of the activation of P38 and caspase‐3.
Dementia Improvement after Plasma Exchange for Familial Hypercholesterolemia
Authors: Orehek Allen J.
Published: September 2016

Worldwide dementia related memory issues affect a great number of patients and families. In this case, a “senior moment” was noted at age fifty and issues with memory and mind progressed resulting in early retirement from work. The patient described here was given a diagnosis of “Pre-Alzheimer’s disease” and presented for further accurate evaluation, diagnosis, and management. The medical management resulted in an improvement in the patients memory and cognitive ability.
Successful Intravascular Ultrasound-Guided Transradial Coronary Intervention with a 4Fr Guiding Catheter
Authors: Nakano Yasuhiro , Sadamatsu Kenji
Published: September 2016

Minimizing the catheter size can reduce vascular access complications and contrast dye usage in coronary angiography. The small diameter of the 4Fr guiding catheter has limited the use of several angioplasty devices such as intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) in the past. However, the combination of a novel IVUS catheter and a 0.010 guidewire makes it possible to perform IVUS-guided percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with a 4Fr guiding catheter. We herein report the case of a 51-year-old man with silent myocardial ischemia who underwent IVUS-guided transradial PCI with a 4Fr guiding catheter.
An Exploratory Study Using Cortisol to Describe the Response of Incarcerated Women IPV Survivors to MAMBRA Intervention
Authors: Taylor Janette Y. , Holston Ezra C.
Published: September 2016

Objective. To determine if incarcerated women survivors of IPV had a physiological response to the Music and Account-Making for Behavioral-Related Adaptation (MAMBRA) intervention, as measured by cortisol levels.Methods. A single-group repeated measures designed exploratory study was used to pilot-test MAMBRA. A convenience sample (n=33) was recruited in a Midwestern women’s correctional facility. Serving as their own control, participants provided demographics and pre-/post-MAMBRA salivary samples while attending four MAMBRA sessions. Baseline data were compared to participants’ data collected over the remaining 3 MAMBRA sessions. Data were analyzed with descriptive and univariate statistics with an alpha of .05 and post-hoc power of .65.Results. Participants were predominantly White (52%), single (80%), and early middle-aged (x-AGE=38.7±9.4), with a history of physical/nonphysical spousal abuse. Using a subsample (n=26), salivary cortisol decreased between the pre-/post-MAMBRA over the sessions (F(3,75)=4.59,p<.01).Conclusion. Participants had a physiological response to the MAMBRA intervention as evidenced by the decreased cortisol between the pre-/post-MAMBRA. This is the first step in examining MAMBRA’s clinical utility as an intervention for female IPV survivors. Future longitudinal studies will examine MAMBRA’s effectiveness given this change in cortisol.
Compositional Changes for Reduction of Polymerisation-Induced Shrinkage in Holographic Photopolymers
Authors: Cody D. , Moothanchery M. , Mihaylova E. , Toal V. , Mintova S. , Naydenova I.
Published: September 2016

Polymerisation-induced shrinkage is one of the main reasons why many photopolymer materials are not used for certain applications including holographic optical elements and holographic data storage. Here, two compositional changes for the reduction of shrinkage in an acrylamide-based photopolymer are reported. A holographic interferometric technique was used to study changes in the dynamics of the shrinkage processes occurring in the modified photopolymer during holographic recording in real time. Firstly, the effect of the replacement of the acrylamide monomer in the photopolymer composition with a larger monomer molecule, diacetone acrylamide, on polymerisation-induced shrinkage has been studied. A reduction in relative shrinkage of 10–15% is obtained using this compositional change. The second method tested for shrinkage reduction involved the incorporation of BEA-type zeolite nanoparticles in the acrylamide-based photopolymer. A reduction in relative shrinkage of 13% was observed for acrylamide photopolymer layers doped with 2.5% wt. BEA zeolites in comparison to the undoped photopolymer.
Prevalence ofChlamydia trachomatisamong Childbearing Age Women in India: A Systematic Review
Authors: Betha Kalpana , Robertson Jamie M. , Tang Gong , Haggerty Catherine L.
Published: September 2016

Background. Infection withChlamydia trachomatis(CT) can lead to reproductive sequelae. Information on the general population of childbearing age women in India is sparse. We reviewed the literature on CT prevalence within the general population of reproductive aged women in order to improve the efforts of public health screening programs and interventions.Objective. To conduct a literature review to determine the prevalence ofChlamydia trachomatisamong childbearing age women in India.Search Strategy. Ovid Medline and PubMed databases were searched for articles from January 1, 2003, through December 31, 2014. Search terms included “Chlamydia trachomatis”, “CT”, “prevalence”, “India”, and “sexually transmitted infections”.Selection Criteria. Studies on prevalence data for CT among women of childbearing age (15–45) living in India were included.Data Collection and Analysis. Articles that met the inclusion criteria were extracted by two readers and discrepancies solved through discussion.Results. Reported prevalence of active CT infection among lower risk groups ranged from 0.1% to 1.1% and in higher risk group from 2.7% to 28.5%.Conclusion.CT prevalence among women in India is comparable to other countries. Screening programs to prevent adverse outcomes among Indian women of childbearing age and their offspring are warranted.
Idiopathic Transverse Myelitis Mimicking an Intramedullary Spinal Cord Tumor
Authors: Fanous Andrew A. , Olszewski Nathan P. , Lipinski Lindsay J. , Qiu Jingxin , Fabiano Andrew J.
Published: September 2016

The differential diagnoses for spinal cord lesions include spinal tumors and inflammatory processes. The distinction between these pathologies can be difficult if solely based on imaging. We report for the first time to our knowledge a case of idiopathic transverse myelitis (ITM) mimicking a discrete cervical spinal lesion in a 66-year-old man who presented with gait instability and neck pain. The patient’s symptoms failed to resolve after an initial course of steroid therapy. Surgical biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of ITM. Subsequent treatment with dexamethasone resulted in complete resolution of the symptoms as well as the intramedullary enhancement. ITM is most common in the cervical and thoracic spine, spanning 3-4 spinal segments. It usually occupies more than 50% of the cross-sectional area of the spinal cord and tends to be central, uniform, and symmetric. It exhibits patchy and peripheral contrast enhancement. These criteria are useful guidelines that help distinguish ITM from neoplastic spinal lesions. A decision to perform biopsy must take into consideration the patient’s clinical symptoms, the rate of progression of neurological deficits, and the imaging characteristics of the lesion. Surgical biopsy for questionable lesions should be reserved for patients with progressive neurological deficits refractory to empirical medical therapy.
Leiomyosarcoma Ex Pleomorphic Adenoma of the Parotid Gland: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Coulter Michael , Liu Jingxuan , Marzouk Mark
Published: September 2016

There is only one previously reported incident in the English literature of sarcoma ex pleomorphic adenoma of the parotid and there are only 8 cases of primary parotid leiomyosarcoma. In our case, a 79-year-old female patient presented to our care with left preauricular pain, swelling, and facial weakness. After CT imaging, she underwent left total parotidectomy. A spindle cell lesion was identified intraoperatively and the facial nerve was sacrificed. Subsequent analysis of the lesion yielded a diagnosis of leiomyosarcoma ex pleomorphic adenoma. After 30 fractions of radiation therapy, scans were negative for tumor. However, 18 months after first experiencing symptoms, she was found to have metastases to the brainstem and lung. When diagnosing sarcoma ex pleomorphic adenoma of the parotid gland, it is important to perform thorough immunohistochemical staining and exclude a previous history of sarcoma or other sources of metastases. Complete resection is critical due to the tumor’s local aggressiveness and metastatic potential. Although these tumors are not very responsive to chemotherapy or radiation, adjuvant treatment is commonly used when margins are unclear.
Potential Role of Hyperglycemia in Fetoplacental Endothelial Dysfunction in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Zhou Jian , Ni Xiaotian , Huang Xiaojie , Yao Julei , He Qizhi , Wang Kai , Duan Tao
Published: September 2016

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is associated with structural and functional alterations in various tissues including endothelial dysfunction. The aim of this study was to explore the effects of hyperglycemia on fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2)- and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-stimulated placental angiogenesis and the underlying molecular signaling mechanisms. Methods: The density of fetal placental capillaries was examined using immunohistochemistry. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) derived from GDM (dHUVECs) and normal healthy patients (nHUVECs) were used as cell models in this study. Cell proliferation, migration and tube formation were measured with an MTS assay, a transwell system and a matrigel assay, respectively. The activation of ERK1/2 was analyzed with Western blot. The specific inhibitor of extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2) PD98059 was used to elucidate the involved signaling pathway. Results: GDM did not alter the capillary density of the fetus-placenta. Both the GDM and hyperglycemic conditions inhibited the proliferation of the FGF2- but not the VEGF-stimulated HUVECs and the basal migratory capacity. Hyperglycemic condition significantly inhibited tube formation and ex vivo angiogenesis. Moreover, hyperglycemia inhibited the FGF2- but not the VEGF-induced activation of ERK1/2. PD98059 significantly inhibited the FGF2-activated ERK1/2 phosphorylation and the FGF2-stimulated cell proliferation in HUVECs. Conclusion: Both GDM and hyperglycemia may impair placental angiogenesis by reducing HUVEC proliferation, migration and tube formation. Hyperglycemia-inhibited cell proliferation stimulated by FGF2 probably contributed to the suppression of the MEK1/2/ERK1/2 pathways in the HUVECs.