bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Leptin attenuates oxidative stress and neuronal apoptosis in hyperglycemic condition
Authors: Kaeidi Ayat , Hajializadeh Zahra , Jahandari Farank , Fatemi Iman 
Published: September 2018

AbstractOne of the main pathological mechanisms of neurotoxicity in diabetic situation is oxidative stress promoted by hyperglycemia. It has been shown that leptin has neuroprotective effects and may provide neuronal survival signals. This study was designed to reveal the possible neuroprotective effects of leptin in hyperglycemic conditions. Pheochromocytoma (PC12) cell viability was assessed via the MTT test. Cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation was determined by DCFH‐DA analysis. The malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) levels were measured in high‐glucose‐treated PC12 cells with and without leptin cotreatment. Western blotting was performed to measure apoptosis markers (Cleaved caspase‐3 and Bax/Bcl2 ratio). Elevation of glucose levels (100 mmol/L) consecutively increased intracellular ROS and MDA level, and apoptosis in PC12 cells after 24 h leptin administration (12 and 24 nmol/L) decreased the high‐glucose‐induced cell toxicity, caspase‐3 activation, and Bax/Bcl‐2 ratio. Also, cotreatment with leptin (12 and 24 nmol/L) significantly reduced oxidative damage to PC12 cells in high‐glucose condition, as reflected by the diminution in MDA and ROS levels and the increase in GSH content. Our finding demonstrates that leptin has protective effects against hyperglycemia‐induced neural damage. This could be related to the attenuation of oxidative stress and neural apoptosis.
Tacrolimus diffusion across the peripheral mononuclear blood cell membrane: impact of drug transporters
Authors: Tron Camille , Allard Marie , Petitcollin Antoine , Ferrand‐Sorre Marie‐José , Verdier Marie‐Clémence , Querzerho‐Raguideau Julie , Blanchet Benoit , Le Priol Jérôme , Roussel Mickael , Deugnier Yves , Bellissant Eric , Lemaitre Florian 
Published: September 2018

AbstractMeasuring tacrolimus (TAC) concentration in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) could better reflect the drug effect on its target (calcineurin (CaN) in lymphocytes) than whole blood concentrations. Mechanisms influencing TAC diffusion into PBMC are not well characterized. This work aimed at describing, ex vivo, TAC diffusion kinetics into PBMC and investigating the contribution of membrane transporters to regulate TAC intracellular concentration as well as the impact on CaN activity. PBMCs were incubated with TAC for 5 min to 4 h and under several experimental conditions: 37 °C (physiological conditions), 4 °C (inhibition of influx and efflux active transport), 37 °C + transporter inhibitors (verapamil, carvedilol, and probenecid and bromosulfophthalein, respectively, inhibitors of P‐gp, OAT, and OATP). TAC concentration and CaN activity were measured in PBMC using liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. TAC intra‐PBMC concentration was maximal after 1 h of incubation. Mean TAC PMBC concentrations were significantly lower in samples incubated at 4 °C compared to the 37 °C groups. Addition of verapamil slightly increased TAC accumulation in PBMC while other inhibitors had no effect. A significant correlation was found between TAC intra‐PBMC concentration and the level of inhibition of CaN. Using an ex vivo cellular model, these results suggest that P‐gp is involved in the drug efflux from PBMC while influx active transporters likely to regulate TAC intra‐PBMC disposition remain to be identified. TAC concentration in PBMC is correlated with its pharmacodynamic effect. Then, TAC intra‐PBMC concentration appears to be a promising biomarker to refine TAC therapeutic drug monitoring.
Epidemiology of Helicobacter pylori infection
Authors: Sjomina Olga , Pavlova Jelizaveta , Niv Yaron , Leja Marcis 
Published: September 2018

AbstractThis review provides the most recent data concerning the epidemiology of Helicobacter pylori infection. Overall, the trend of declining prevalence of H. pylori infection is continuing, with major evidence available from studies in Europe. However, in some parts of the world, for example, in some countries in the Middle East, the prevalence has remained relatively stable. A number of systematic reviews and meta‐analyses have been published during the past year indicating the lowest prevalence rates of the infection in Oceania (24.4%), the highest in Africa (79.1%), and the global annual recurrence rate of H. pylori (4.3%). The recurrence rates were found to be directly related to the human development index and prevalence of infection. Several studies have addressed the correlation between H. pylori infection and sociodemographic conditions, source of drinking water and dietary factors. A hypothesis on the role of insects and yeasts in transmitting H. pylori has been suggested and addressed. Helicobacter sp. have been found in flow flies in Brazil. So far there is no evidence available that H. pylori may survive and persist on the outer body of the fly.
Diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori infection
Authors: Skrebinska Sabine , Mégraud Francis , Bessède Emilie 
Published: September 2018

AbstractThe progress this year in Helicobacter pylori diagnosis concerned essentially endoscopy and molecular techniques. New endoscopy techniques such as blue laser imaging and magnifying narrow band imaging allow the visualization of mucosal aspects representing H. pylori infection, intestinal metaplasia, and even ambiguous early gastric cancer. Several real‐time PCRs have also been used either to quantify H. pylori or to detect mutations associated with clarithromycin resistance in gastric biopsies or applied on gastric juice, stool specimens, or the oral cavity. The presence of H. pylori in free‐living amebae purified from wastewater and drinking water was also determined by PCR and sequencing, as well as culture from a few wastewater samples. Among the noninvasive methods, the urea breath test was used in different conditions, including with a new test meal, which is claimed to avoid the proton‐pump inhibitor washout period before testing. Several articles concerning antibody detection and stool antigen test were also published.
Pathogenesis of Helicobacter pylori infection
Authors: Waskito Langgeng Agung , Salama Nina R. , Yamaoka Yoshio 
Published: September 2018

AbstractIn this review, we highlight progress in the last year in characterizing known virulence factors like flagella and the Cag type IV secretion system with sophisticated structural and biochemical approaches to yield new insight on the assembly and functions of these critical virulence determinants. Several aspects of Helicobacter pylori physiology were newly explored this year and evaluated for their functions during stomach colonization, including a fascinating role for the essential protease HtrA in allowing access of H. pylori to the basolateral side of the gastric epithelium through cleavage of the tight junction protein E‐cadherin to facilitate CagA delivery. Molecular biology tools standard in model bacteria, including regulated gene expression during animal infection and fluorescent reporter gene fusions, were newly applied to H. pylori to explore functions for urease beyond initial colonization and establish high salt consumption as a mediator of gene expression changes. New sequencing technologies enabled validation of long postulated roles for DNA methylation in regulating H. pylori gene expression. On the cell biology side, elegant work using lineage tracing in the murine model and organoid primary cell culture systems has provided new insights into how H. pylori manipulates gastric tissue functions, locally and at a distance, to promote its survival in the stomach and induce pathologic changes. Finally, new work has bolstered the case for genomic variation as an important mechanism to generate phenotypic diversity during changing environmental conditions in the context of diet manipulation in animal infection models and during human experimental infection after vaccination.
Helicobacter: Inflammation, immunology, and vaccines
Authors: Blosse Alice , Lehours Philippe , Wilson Keith T. , Gobert Alain P. 
Published: September 2018

AbstractHelicobacter pylori infection induces a chronic gastric inflammation which can lead to gastric ulcers and cancer. The mucosal immune response to H. pylori is first initiated by the activation of gastric epithelial cells that respond to numerous bacterial factors, such as the cytotoxin‐associated gene A or the lipopolysaccharide intermediate heptose‐1,7‐bisphosphate. The response of these cells is orchestrated by different receptors including the intracellular nucleotide‐binding oligomerization domain‐containing protein 1 or the extracellular epidermal growth factor receptor. This nonspecific response leads to recruitment and activation of various myeloid (macrophages and dendritic cells) and T cells (T helper‐17 and mucosal‐associated invariant T cells), which magnify and maintain inflammation. In this review, we summarize the major advances made in the past year regarding the induction, the regulation, and the role of the innate and adaptive immune responses to H. pylori infection. We also recapitulate efforts that have been made to develop efficient vaccine strategies.
Treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection in 2018
Authors: O'Morain Neil R. , Dore Maria P. , O'Connor Anthony J. P. , Gisbert Javier P. , O'Morain Colm A. 
Published: September 2018

AbstractTreatment options for the eradication of Helicobacter pylori continue to evolve. There have been many guidelines for H. pylori treatment published, which may lead to some confusion. However, most are in agreement with the most recent iteration of the Maastricht treatment guidelines. Triple therapy is still the most frequently used treatment, especially in areas of low clarithromycin resistance. Its best results are achieved when taken for a minimum of 10 days and with high‐dose acid suppression. Quadruple therapy is gaining in popularity particularly in areas with increasing resistance to standard triple therapy. Whether three antibiotics, or bismuth and two antibiotics are used, excellent eradication rates are achieved, albeit with increased side effects. Levofloxacin second‐line therapy is widely used; however bismuth, when available, is an increasingly successful option. Sequential therapy is challenging in terms of compliance and is no longer recommended. This past year witnessed a notable increase in the number of studies based on antimicrobial susceptibility testing and tailored eradication therapy, reflecting the role of culture‐guided treatment, which may well represent the future of H. pylori treatment and prevent the inappropriate use of antibiotics.
Phase relations in silicon and germanium nitrides up to 98 GPa and 2400°C
Authors: Nishiyama Norimasa , Langer Julia , Sakai Takeshi , Kojima Yohei , Holzheid Astrid , Gaida Nico A. , Kulik Eleonora , Hirao Naohisa , Kawaguchi Saori I. , Irifune Tetsuo , Ohishi Yasuo 
Published: September 2018

AbstractPhase relations in silicon and germanium nitrides (Si3N4 and Ge3N4) were investigated using a Kawai‐type multianvil apparatus and a laser‐heated diamond anvil cell combined with a synchrotron radiation. The pressure‐induced phase transition from the β to γ (cubic spinel‐type structure) phase was observed in both compositions. We observed the coexistence of the β and γ phases in Si3N4 at 12.4 GPa and 1800°C, while the appearance of single phase γ‐Ge3N4 was observed at pressures above 10 GPa. Our observations under higher pressures revealed that γ‐Si3N4 and γ‐Ge3N4 have wide stability fields and no postspinel transition was observed up to 98 GPa and 2400°C in both compositions. Using the room‐temperature compression curves of these materials, the bulk moduli (K0) and their pressure derivatives (K′0) were determined: K0 = 317 (16) GPa and K′0 = 6.0 (8) for γ‐Si3N4; K0 = 254 (13) GPa and K′0 = 6.0 (7) for γ‐Ge3N4.
Leadless multisite pacing: A feasibility study using wireless power transfer based on Langendorff rodent heart models
Authors: Lyu Hongming , John Mathews , Burkland David , Greet Brian , Xi Yutao , Sampaio Luiz C. , Taylor Doris A. , Babakhani Aydin , Razavi Mehdi 
Published: September 2018

AbstractIntroductionFifteen to thirty percent of patients with impaired cardiac function have ventricular dyssynchrony and warrant cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). While leadless pacemakers eliminate lead‐related complications, their current form factor is limited to single‐chamber pacing. In this study, we demonstrate the feasibility of multisite, simultaneous pacing using miniaturized pacing nodes powered through wireless power transfer (WPT).MethodsA wireless energy transfer system was developed based on resonant coupling at approximately 200 MHz to power multiple pacing nodes. The pacing node comprises circuitry to efficiently convert the harvested energy to output stimuli. To validate the use of these pacing nodes, ex vivo studies were carried out on Langendorff rodent heart models (n = 4). To mimic biventricular pacing, two beating Langendorff rodent heart models, kept 10 cm apart, were paced using two distinct pacing nodes, each attached on the ventricular epicardial surface of a given heart.ResultsAll ex vivo Langendorff heart models were successfully paced with a simple coil antenna at 2 to 3 cm from the pacing node. The coil was operated at 198 MHz and 0.3 W. Subsequently, simultaneous pacing of two Langendorff heart models 30 cm apart using an output power of 5 W was reliably demonstrated.ConclusionWPT provides a feasible option for multisite, wireless cardiac pacing. While the current system remains limited in design, it offers support and a conceptual framework for future iterations and eventual clinical utility.
Clinical preferences and trends of anti‐vascular endothelial growth factor treatments for diabetic macular edema in Japan
Authors: Sugimoto Masahiko , Tsukitome Hideyuki , Okamoto Fumiki , Oshika Tetsuro , Ueda Tetsuo , Niki Masanori , Mitamura Yoshinori , Ishikawa Hiroto , Gomi Fumi , Kitano Shigehiko , Noma Hidetaka , Shimura Masahiko , Sonoda Shozo , Sawada Osamu , Ohji Masahito , Harimoto Kozo , Takeuchi Masaru , Takamura Yoshihiro , Kondo Mineo , Sakamoto Taiji 
Published: September 2018

AbstractAims/IntroductionTo determine the current clinical preferences of anti‐vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) treatment protocols for diabetic macular edema (DME) in Japan.Materials and MethodsThis was a descriptive cross‐sectional study. Answers to a questionnaire consisting of 16 questions were obtained from 176 of 278 (63.3%) surveyed ophthalmologists.ResultsThe results showed that 81.2% preferred intravitreal injections of anti‐VEGF antibodies as the first‐line therapy. The most important indicators for beginning anti‐VEGF therapy were: the best‐corrected visual acuity in 44.3% and the retinal thickness in 30.7%. In the loading phase, 53.4% preferred a single injection, and in the maintenance phase, 75.0% preferred the pro re nata regimen. Financial limitation (85.8%) was reported as the most important difficulty in the treatment. For combination therapy with anti‐VEGF treatment, panretinal photocoagulation, focal photocoagulations and a sub‐Tenon steroid injection were preferred. The contraindications for anti‐VEGF therapy were: prior cerebral infarction (72.7%). Regarding the use of both approved anti‐VEGF agents in Japan, ranibizumab and aflibercept, 39.8% doctors used them appropriately.ConclusionsOur results present the current clinical preferences of anti‐VEGF treatment for DME in Japan. The best‐corrected visual acuity and the retinal thickness are important indicators to institute this therapy. The majority of the ophthalmologists use anti‐VEGF treatment as first‐line therapy and prefer the 1 + pro re nata regimen.
Toxoplasma gondii, Neospora caninum and Encephalitozoon cuniculi in Animals from Captivity (Zoo and Circus Animals)
Authors: Marková Jiřina , Machačová Tereza , Bártová Eva , Sedlák Kamil , Budíková Marie , Silvestre Pasquale , Laricchiuta Paolo , Russo Marco , Veneziano Vincenzo 
Published: September 2018

AbstractProblems with parasitic infections are common in zoological gardens and circuses. In some animals it can lead to several disorders such as systemic disease, reproductive disorders (abortions and neonatal mortality), and even to death if severe illness is untreated. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of three common parasites in 74 animals from three zoos, and four circuses in Southern Italy. Antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii, Neospora caninum, and Encephalitozoon cuniculi were detected in 51%, 12%, and 20% of animals, respectively. Co‐infections of T. gondii and N. caninum were reported in seven animals (9%) and co‐infection of T. gondii and E. cuniculi in one animal. T. gondii, N. caninum and E. cuniculi seroprevalence differed in type of diet (P ≤ 0.0001; P ≤ 0.037 and P ≤ 0.004, respectively). T. gondii and E. cuniculi seroprevalence also differed in animal families (P ≤ 0.0001) and according to type of housing (P ≤ 0.003), respectively. Statistical differences were not found in other characteristics (gender, age, country of birth, origin, and contact with cats or dogs). This is the first serological study focusing on protozoan and microsporidian parasites in zoo and circus animals from Southern Italy and the first detection of antibodies to E. cuniculi in camels in Europe.
Regulating nociceptive transmission by VGluT2‐expressing spinal dorsal horn neurons
Authors: Wang Li , Chen Shao‐Rui , Ma Huijie , Chen Hong , Hittelman Walter N. , Pan Hui‐Lin 
Published: September 2018

AbstractVesicular glutamate transporter‐2 (VGluT2) mediates the uptake of glutamate into synaptic vesicles in neurons. Spinal cord dorsal horn interneurons are highly heterogeneous and molecularly diverse. The functional significance of VGluT2‐expressing dorsal horn neurons in physiological and pathological pain conditions has not been explicitly demonstrated. Designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs (DREADDs) are a powerful chemogenetic tool to reversibly control neuronal excitability and behavior. Here, we used transgenic mice with Cre recombinase expression driven by the VGluT2 promoter, combined with the chemogenetic approach, to determine the contribution of VGluT2‐expressing dorsal horn neurons to nociceptive regulation. Adeno‐associated viral vectors expressing double‐floxed Cre‐dependent Gαq‐coupled human M3 muscarinic receptor DREADD (hM3D)‐mCherry or Gαi‐coupled κ‐opioid receptor DREADD (KORD)‐IRES‐mCitrine were microinjected into the superficial spinal dorsal horn of VGluT2‐Cre mice. Immunofluorescence labeling showed that VGluT2 was predominantly expressed in lamina II excitatory interneurons. Activation of excitatory hM3D in VGluT2‐expressing neurons with clozapine N‐oxide caused a profound increase in neuronal firing and synaptic glutamate release. Conversely, activation of inhibitory KORD in VGluT2‐expressing neurons with salvinorin B markedly inhibited neuronal activity and synaptic glutamate release. In addition, chemogenetic stimulation of VGluT2‐expressing neurons increased mechanical and thermal sensitivities in naive mice, whereas chemogenetic silencing of VGluT2‐expressing neurons reversed pain hypersensitivity induced by tissue inflammation and peripheral nerve injury. These findings indicate that VGluT2‐expressing excitatory neurons play a crucial role in mediating nociceptive transmission in the spinal dorsal horn. Targeting glutamatergic dorsal horn neurons with inhibitory DREADDs may be a new strategy for treating inflammatory pain and neuropathic pain.
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Combination chemical peels are more effective than single chemical peel in treatment of mild‐to‐moderate acne vulgaris: A split face comparative clinical trial
Authors: Nofal Eman , Nofal Ahmad , Gharib Khalid , Nasr Mohammad , Abdelshafy Ahmed , Elsaid Eman 
Published: September 2018

SummaryBackgroundSuccessful management of acne involves choosing proper medication. Chemical peeling is a well‐known option in treatment of acne vulgaris.ObjectiveTo evaluate and compare the clinical efficacy and safety of combination chemical peels vs single peel in treatment of mild‐to‐moderate acne.MethodsThe study included 45 patients with mild‐to‐moderate acne divided into three equal groups. Group A underwent combination sequential peels with modified Jessner's solution (MJ) followed by trichloro acetic acid (TCA20%) on the right (Rt) side of the face vs TCA 30% on the left (Lt) side. Group B was treated by combination peels of salicylic (20%) mandelic (10%) (SM) mixture on the Rt half vs salicylic acid 30% on the Lt half. Group C underwent combination sequential peeling of MJ and TCA on the Rt side vs SM combination peels on the Lt side. All patients received six sessions with 2‐week intervals and followed up for 3 months after the last session. Side effects were reported.ResultsBoth sides of the face showed significant improvement of acne lesions but improvement was significantly higher and earlier in sides treated by combination peels. Side effects were minimal.ConclusionIn conclusion, combination peels achieved a higher and earlier therapeutic response with a reasonable cost that is maintained for a relatively long periods than single peel. Combination sequential peels gave the best results.
Evaluation of the delivery of long‐term at‐home nursing care: An example of good practice
Authors: Stojak Zofia , Jamiolkowski Jacek , Marcinowicz Ludmila 
Published: September 2018

AbstractAims and objectivesTo evaluate the influence of long‐term at‐home nursing care (LTHNC) on patient functional status. The specific aims were as follows: (1) to analyse the influence of LTHNC on patient functional status in terms of activities of daily living; (2) to evaluate the risk of pressure sores and pressure sore prevention in patients receiving LTHNC.BackgroundLTHNC is a form of care for chronically ill persons staying at home who do not need hospitalisation, but due to their health problems they require regular nursing care that can be provided at home.DesignA retrospective descriptive study.MethodsA document research method was used. We collected data from the medical records of 1,058 patients receiving LTHNC at the Non‐Public Health Care Centre OMNI‐MED in Bialystok (Poland) for the years 2005–2012.ResultsDetailed analysis of scores on the Barthel Activities of Daily Living Index revealed significant improvement in patient functional status as a result of LTHNC. In patients aged 65–80, the Barthel score increased by 8.83 points, and in patients aged 64 years and younger, the score increased by 6.58 points (p < 0.001). In the oldest patients (>80 years), functional status improved the least, gaining a mean of 4.97 points on the Barthel scale. Overall, the demonstrated improvement of patient functional status and reduced risk of pressure sore development provide evidence that LTHNC is an effective form of care for elderly and chronically ill persons staying at home.ConclusionThe findings of our study represent a positive example of the way good nursing care can benefit patients while promoting the autonomous nature of nursing.Relevance to clinical practiceThe results add to our understanding of the functioning of LTHNC by providing relevant scientific evidence which may contribute to the development of community nursing.