bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Melatonin‐mediated inhibition of Cav3.2 T‐type Ca2+ channels induces sensory neuronal hypoexcitability through the novel protein kinase C‐eta isoform
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Ji Heyi , Wang Jiangong , Sun Yufang , Qian Zhiyuan , Jiang Xinghong , Snutch Terrance P. , Sun Yangang , Tao Jin 
Published: February 2018

AbstractRecent studies implicate melatonin in the antinociceptive activity of sensory neurons. However, the underlying mechanisms are still largely unknown. Here, we identify a critical role of melatonin in functionally regulating Cav3.2 T‐type Ca2+ channels (T‐type channel) in trigeminal ganglion (TG) neurons. Melatonin inhibited T‐type channels in small TG neurons via the melatonin receptor 2 (MT2 receptor) and a pertussis toxin‐sensitive G‐protein pathway. Immunoprecipitation analyses revealed that the intracellular subunit of the MT2 receptor coprecipitated with Gαo. Both shRNA‐mediated knockdown of Gαo and intracellular application of QEHA peptide abolished the inhibitory effects of melatonin. Protein kinase C (PKC) antagonists abolished the melatonin‐induced T‐type channel response, whereas inhibition of conventional PKC isoforms elicited no effect. Furthermore, application of melatonin increased membrane abundance of PKC‐eta (PKCη) while antagonism of PKCη or shRNA targeting PKCη prevented the melatonin‐mediated effects. In a heterologous expression system, activation of MT2 receptor strongly inhibited Cav3.2 T‐type channel currents but had no effect on Cav3.1 and Cav3.3 current amplitudes. The selective Cav3.2 response was PKCη dependent and was accompanied by a negative shift in the steady‐state inactivation curve. Furthermore, melatonin decreased the action potential firing rate of small TG neurons and attenuated the mechanical hypersensitivity in a mouse model of complete Freund's adjuvant‐induced inflammatory pain. These actions were inhibited by T‐type channel blockade. Together, our results demonstrated that melatonin inhibits Cav3.2 T‐type channel activity through the MT2 receptor coupled to novel Gβγ‐mediated PKCη signaling, subsequently decreasing the membrane excitability of TG neurons and pain hypersensitivity in mice.
Elevation patterns of plant diversity and recent altitudinal range shifts in Sinai's high‐mountain flora
Authors: Coals Peter , Shmida Avi , Vasl Amiel , Duguny Nasr Mansour , Gilbert Francis 
Published: February 2018

AbstractQuestionsIs there evidence of recent altitudinal range shifts in a hyper‐arid Middle Eastern desert mountain flora? How do the directions of shift for upper and lower altitudinal range limits of plants vary?LocationHyper‐arid mountain desert, St Katherine Protectorate, South Sinai, Egypt.MethodWe tested for shifts in both upper and lower altitudinal range limits by comparing a 1970s data set of recorded species’ limits with recent surveys using altitudinal transects across 36 sites. Altitudinal limits between 63 paired upper‐limit and 22 paired lower‐limit values from the 1970s and 2014 were compared using pairedt‐tests; binomial tests were used to indicate the dominant direction of change. The upper and lower limits of 22 species were considered together to allow assessment of overall altitudinal range size changes. In order to avoid the potential effect of yearly environmental fluctuations on the distributions of annual species, subsets of upper and lower limit shifts were taken for perennials, and for trees and shrubs.ResultsOur results show significant overall up‐slope shifts in mean upper altitudinal limits and significant overall down‐slope shifts in mean lower altitudinal limits. A majority of assessed species expanded their altitudinal ranges, but the responses of individual species varied.ConclusionsSince perennial herbs/graminoids, as well as trees and shrubs, show strong patterns of change, we suggest there has been a long‐term shift in altitudinal range in South Sinai's mountain flora. More research effort needs to be focussed on the drivers of range shift responses in arid regions.
Spinal Cord Stimulator Electrode Dislodging into the Ligamentum Flavum: A Case Report
Authors: Martin Aaron J. , Padalia Devang , Shah Neal , Singh Jaspreet , Jassal Navdeep 
Published: February 2018

AbstractTo date, no case studies specifically reporting an electrode dislodging from its lead wire have been reported. Here we describe a case involving an electrode shearing from the spinal cord stimulator lead, and lodging into the ligamentum flavum during implantation. In this case, an experienced board certified interventional pain management specialist was performing the implantation procedure of a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) compatible spinal cord stimulator with MR conditional leads. After successful placement of the first lead, the epidural space was accessed via a T11/12 interlaminar approach using loss of resistance technique. When the lead would not advance past the tip of the needle, it was removed in order to reposition the needle slightly. Upon removal of the lead, it was discovered that the first electrode was no longer attached to the wire. Subsequent fluoroscopic imaging revealed that the electrode had lodged within the ligamentum flavum. Upon discussion with the medical director of the device company, it was agreed upon that the electrode should be left in place. The decision was made to proceed with only one lead in place and the remainder of the procedure was completed uneventfully. The patient followed up two weeks later in clinic, and no adverse effect related to the dislodged electrode was reported. The indications and common complications associated with spinal cord stimulation are discussed, followed by factors to consider to help guide decision making in the event of a retained foreign body during a procedure.
Treatment outcomes of vitiligo in Asian children
Authors: Tay Evelyn Yuxin , Chong Cui Lian Vanessa , Chong Wen Jie Jonathan Paul , Gan Yiping Emily , Chuah Sai Yee , Tan Wei Ding Virlynn , Thng Tien Guan Steven 
Published: February 2018

AbstractThis retrospective study aimed to identify factors that predict treatment response in a cohort of Asian children with vitiligo. Shorter duration of vitiligo was associated with better repigmentation. Patients with focal vitiligo of short duration have a good chance of achieving repigmentation with topical agents alone.
Kinetic Control in the Regioselective Alkylation of Pterin Sensitizers: A Synthetic, Photochemical, and Theoretical Study
Authors: Walalawela Niluksha , Vignoni Mariana , Urrutia María Noel , Belh Sarah J. , Greer Edyta M. , Thomas Andrés H. , Greer Alexander 
Published: February 2018

AbstractAlkylation patterns and excited‐state properties of pterins were examined both experimentally and theoretically. 2D NMR spectroscopy was used to characterize the pterin derivatives, revealing undoubtedly that the decyl chains were coupled to either the O4 or N3 sites on the pterin. At a temperature of 70°C, the pterin alkylation regioselectively favored the O4 over the N3. The O4 was also favored when using solvents, in which the reactants had increased solubility, namely N,N‐dimethylformamide and N,N‐dimethylacetamide, rather than solvents in which the reactants had very low solubility (tetrahydrofuran and dichloromethane). Density functional theory (DFT) computed enthalpies correlate to regioselectivity being kinetically driven because the less stable O‐isomer forms in higher yield than the more stable N‐isomer. Once formed these compounds did not interconvert thermally or undergo a unimolecular “walk” rearrangement. Mechanistic rationale for the factors underlying the regioselective alkylation of pterins is suggested, where kinetic rather than thermodynamic factors are key in the higher yield of the O‐isomer. Computations also predicted greater solubility and reduced triplet state energetics thereby improving the properties of the alkylated pterins as 1O2 sensitizers. Insight on thermal and photostability of the alkylated pterins is also provided.
Cerebral ischemia during hemodialysis—finding the signal in the noise
Authors: MacEwen Clare , Watkinson Peter , Tarassenko Lionel , Pugh Christopher 
Published: February 2018

AbstractHemodialysis patients have multiple risk factors for small vessel cerebrovascular disease and cognitive dysfunction. Hemodialysis itself may cause clinically significant neurological injury through repetitive cerebral ischemia. However, supporting evidence to date consists of epidemiological associations, expert opinion, and small, single‐centre studies of variable methodological quality. Isolating the impact of intra‐dialytic hemodynamic instability from underlying renal and vascular disease on clinically relevant functional outcomes would require very large, controlled studies, given the heterogeneity and confounding comorbidities of the population, and the complex relationship between blood pressure and cerebral oxygen delivery. There has been an increase in complementary physiological studies looking directly at intra‐dialytic cerebral oxygen balance, which have provided supporting evidence for the occurrence of cerebral ischemia, often independently of hemodynamics. Data suggesting a relationship between these measures of oxygen balance and functional outcomes is only hypothesis‐generating at this stage. We advocate the testing of interventions that aim to reduce intra‐dialytic cerebral hypoxia (rather than hypotension) in sufficiently powered studies, followed by correlation with validated, longitudinal assessment of clinically relevant neurological damage.
Different effects of phospholipase Dζ2 and non‐specific phospholipase C4 on lipid remodeling and root hair growth in Arabidopsis response to phosphate deficiency
Authors: Su Yuan , Li Maoyin , Guo Liang , Wang Xuemin 
Published: February 2018

SummaryPhosphate (Pi) deficiency in soils is a major limiting factor for plant growth. In response to Pi deprivation, one prominent metabolic adaptation in plants is the decrease in membrane phospholipids that consume approximately one‐third cellular Pi. The level of two phospholipid‐hydrolyzing enzymes, phospholipase Dζ2 (PLDζ2) and non‐specific phospholipase C4 (NPC4), is highly induced in Pi‐deprived Arabidopsis. To determine the role of PLDζ2 and NPC4 in plant growth under Pi limitation, Arabidopsis plants deficient in both PLDζ2 and NPC4 (npc4pldζ2) were generated and characterized. Lipid remodeling in leaves and roots was analyzed at three different durations of Pi deficiency. NPC4 affected lipid changes mainly in roots at an early stage of Pi deprivation, whereas PLDζ2 exhibited a more overt effect on lipid remodeling in leaves at a later stage of Pi deprivation. Pi deficiency‐induced galactolipid increase and phospholipid decrease were impeded in pldζ2 and npc4pldζ2 plants. In addition, seedlings of npc4pldζ2 had the same root hair density as pldζ2 but shorter root hair length than pldζ2 in response to Pi deficiency. The loss of NPC4 decreased root hair length but had no effect on root hair density. These data suggest that PLDζ2 and NPC4 mediate the Pi deprivation‐induced lipid remodeling in a tissue‐ and time‐specific manner. PLDζ2 and NPC4 have distinctively different roles in root hair growth and development in response to Pi deprivation; PLDζ2 negatively modulates root hair density and length, whereas NPC4 promotes root hair elongation.
Accuracy of four ultrasonography techniques in predicting histopathological classification of canine mammary carcinomas
Authors: Feliciano Marcus Antonio Rossi , Ramirez Ricardo Andrés Uscategui , Maronezi Marjury Cristina , Maciel Giovanna Serpa , Avante Michelle Lopes , Senhorello Igor Luiz Salardani , Mucédola Talita , Gasser Beatriz , Carvalho Cibele Figueira , Vicente Wilter Ricardo Russiano 
Published: February 2018

AbstractDue to the importance of presurgical, noninvasive, and accurate diagnostic tools in mammary carcinoma characterization, this prospective secondary observational cohort study was designed to evaluate and compare the diagnostic accuracy of B‐mode, Doppler, contrast enhancement ultrasonography, or acoustic radiation force impulse–elastography in identifying mammary carcinomas types with high degree of malignancy. A total of 246 mammary carcinomas from 141 female dogs were analyzed using B‐mode, Doppler, contrast enhancement ultrasonography, and acoustic radiation force impulse ultrasonography prior to their histopathological classification according to types (simple, complex, or special) and grade (I, II, or III). Qualitative and quantitative variables were compared between carcinoma types and grades by Fisher's or analysis of variance. Diagnostic performance was estimated by receiver‐operating characteristic analysis, using histopathological classification as a reference. Deformability (acoustic radiation force impulse) had a diagnostic specificity of 100% and sensitivity of 12% in identifying special carcinomas. A width:length ratio greater than 0.53 can be suggestive of special carcinoma, with 80% sensitivity and 76% specificity. Contrast wash‐in and peak enhancement times lower than 7.5 and 13.5 s, respectively, were indicative of complex carcinoma at 62% sensitivity and 60% specificity. Contrast wash‐in, peak enhancement, and wash‐out times greater than 6.5, 12.5, and 64.5 s, respectively; were indicative of grade II and III carcinoma at 68% sensitivity and 62% specificity. In conclusion, B‐mode ultrasonography, contrast enhancement ultrasonography, and acoustic radiation force impulse–elastography enabled the identification of some of the characteristics of high‐grade mammary carcinoma types and grades in female dogs with limited accuracy. The findings from this study may contribute to oncology research and clinical management canine patients.
Computed tomographic findings in a Bluetick Coonhound with a longitudinal thoracic tracheal tear
Authors: Dancer Sumari C. , Van Der Zee Johannes , Kirberger Robert M. 
Published: February 2018

AbstractA 9‐year‐old intact male Bluetick Coonhound presented for progressive subcutaneous emphysema of 5 days’ duration due to a suspected tracheal tear. Cervical computed tomography (CT) and thoracic CT were performed after failure to identify the tracheal tear with tracheoscopy. A longitudinal tracheal tear was identified starting 4.3 cm cranial to the tracheal bifurcation and extending caudally over a distance of 3.6 cm. Severe pneumomediastinum, subcutaneous emphysema, and retroperitoneal gas were also present. A follow‐up CT 7 days postoperatively confirmed the successful repair of the tear with partial resolution of the presurgical secondary pathology and the patient recovered uneventfully.
Tenotomy of the semitendinosus muscle under standing sedation versus general anesthesia: Outcomes in 20 horses with fibrotic myopathy
Authors: Suarez‐Fuentes David G. , Tatarniuk Dane M. , Caston Stephanie S. , Kersh Kevin D. , Gillen Alex M. , Hays Ashley M. 
Published: February 2018

AbstractObjectiveTo compare outcomes after semitendinosus tenotomy performed under standing sedation versus general anesthesia.Study DesignRetrospective case series.Sample Population20 horses with fibrotic myopathy of the semitendinosus muscle.MethodsMedical records (2002‐2015) of horses undergoing tenotomy of the semitendinosus muscle for the treatment of fibrotic myopathy were reviewed. Signalment, history, affected muscles, restrain method, surgical procedures, and short‐term outcome as well as complications were retrieved from records. Long‐term outcome (gait and athletic function) was assessed at least 6 months postoperatively by conversation with the owners. Pearson's χ2 statistical analysis was used to compare restrain method and affected muscles with overall outcome. Significance was set at P < .05.ResultsTenotomy of the semitendinosus muscle was performed under standing sedation in 8 horses and under general anesthesia in 12 horses. Follow‐up period ranged from 9 months to 10 years. Gait was improved to variable degrees in 8 of 14 horses when the semitendinosus muscle alone was affected and in 4 of 6 horses when both the semitendinosus and semimembranosus muscles were involved (P = .11). Six of 8 horses treated under standing sedation and 6 of 12 horses treated under general anesthesia exhibited some improvement in the characteristic fibrotic gait (P = .4473). Five of 6 athletic horses treated under standing sedation and 6 of 9 athletic horses treated under general anesthesia returned to their preinjury level of athleticism. Horses treated under standing sedation had no incisional complications; 2 of 12 horses treated under general anesthesia exhibited incisional drainage.ConclusionTenotomy of the semitendinosus muscle in horses with fibrotic myopathy leads to similar improvement in gait, whether performed under standing sedation or general anesthesia.
Endophyte-Mediated Modulation of Defense-Related Genes and Systemic Resistance in Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal under Alternaria alternata Stress
Authors: Mishra Aradhana , Singh Satyendra Pratap , Mahfooz Sahil , Singh Surendra Pratap , Bhattacharya Arpita , Mishra Nishtha , Nautiyal C. S. 
Published: February 2018

ABSTRACTEndophytes have been explored and found to perform an important role in plant health. However, their effects on the host physiological function and disease management remain elusive. The present study aimed to assess the potential effects of endophytes, singly as well as in combination, inWithania somnifera(L.) Dunal, on various physiological parameters and systemic defense mechanisms againstAlternaria alternata. Seeds primed with the endophytic bacteriaBacillus amyloliquefaciensandPseudomonas fluorescensindividually and in combination demonstrated an enhanced vigor index and germination rate. Interestingly, plants treated with the two-microbe combination showed the lowest plant mortality rate (28%) underA. alternatastress. Physiological profiling of treated plants showed improved photosynthesis, respiration, transpiration, and stomatal conductance under pathogenic stress. Additionally, these endophytes not only augmented defense enzymes and antioxidant activity in treated plants but also enhanced the expression of salicylic acid- and jasmonic acid-responsive genes in the stressed plants. Reductions in reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) along with enhanced callose deposition in host plant leaves corroborated well with the above findings. Altogether, the study provides novel insights into the underlying mechanisms behind the tripartite interaction of endophyte-A. alternata-W. somniferaand underscores their ability to boost plant health under pathogen stress.IMPORTANCEW. somniferais well known for producing several medicinally important secondary metabolites. These secondary metabolites are required by various pharmaceutical sectors to produce life-saving drugs. However, the cultivation ofW. somniferafaces severe challenge from leaf spot disease caused byA. alternata. To keep pace with the rising demand for this plant and considering its capacity for cultivation under field conditions, the present study was undertaken to develop approaches to enhance production ofW. somniferathrough intervention using endophytes. Application of bacterial endophytes not only suppresses the pathogenicity ofA. alternatabut also mitigates excessive ROS/RNS generation via enhanced physiological processes and antioxidant machinery. Expression profiling of plant defense-related genes further validates the efficacy of bacterial endophytes against leaf spot disease.
Treatment of Infections Caused by Extended-Spectrum-Beta-Lactamase-, AmpC-, and Carbapenemase-Producing Enterobacteriaceae
Authors: Rodríguez-Baño Jesús , Gutiérrez-Gutiérrez Belén , Machuca Isabel , Pascual Alvaro 
Published: February 2018

SUMMARY

Therapy of invasive infections due to multidrug-resistant
Enterobacteriaceae
(MDR-E) is challenging, and some of the few active drugs are not available in many countries. For extended-spectrum β-lactamase and AmpC producers, carbapenems are the drugs of choice, but alternatives are needed because the rate of carbapenem resistance is rising. Potential active drugs include classic and newer β-lactam–β-lactamase inhibitor combinations, cephamycins, temocillin, aminoglycosides, tigecycline, fosfomycin, and, rarely, fluoroquinolones or trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. These drugs might be considered in some specific situations. AmpC producers are resistant to cephamycins, but cefepime is an option. In the case of carbapenemase-producing
Enterobacteriaceae
(CPE), only some “second-line” drugs, such as polymyxins, tigecycline, aminoglycosides, and fosfomycin, may be active; double carbapenems can also be considered in specific situations. Combination therapy is associated with better outcomes for high-risk patients, such as those in septic shock or with pneumonia. Ceftazidime-avibactam was recently approved and is active against KPC and OXA-48 producers; the available experience is scarce but promising, although development of resistance is a concern. New drugs active against some CPE isolates are in different stages of development, including meropenem-vaborbactam, imipenem-relebactam, plazomicin, cefiderocol, eravacycline, and aztreonam-avibactam. Overall, therapy of MDR-E infection must be individualized according to the susceptibility profile, type, and severity of infection and the features of the patient.
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation for depression after basal ganglia ischaemic stroke: protocol for a multicentre randomised double-blind placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Tang Ying , Chen Aimin , Zhu Shuzhen , Yang Li , Zhou Jiyuan , Pan Suyue , Shao Min , Zhao Lianxu 
Published: February 2018

IntroductionStudies suggest that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is effective for the treatment of depression and promotes the repair of white matter. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of rTMS in treating depression after basal ganglia ischaemic stroke and to examine whether such effects are related to restoration of white matter integrity.Methods and analysisSixty-six participants will be recruited from Zhujiang Hospital, Nanfang Hospital and Sichuan Bayi Rehabilitation Hospital and randomised in a 1:1 ratio to receive active rTMS treatment or sham rTMS treatment in addition to routine supportive treatments. The data will be collected at 0, 2 and 4 weeks after the commencement of treatment. The primary outcome is the measurement of 24-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale scores, and the secondary outcomes include diffusion tensor imaging results and the results of neuropsychological tests including the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, Activities of Daily Living Scale, Montreal Cognitive Assessment, Clinical Global Impressions scales, Aphasia Battery in Chinese, Social Support Revalued Scale and Medical Coping Modes Questionnaire.Ethics and disseminationThis study has been approved by the Ethics Committee of Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University. The findings will be disseminated by publication in a peer-reviewed journal and by presentation at international conferences.Trial registration numberNCT03159351.