bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Focal Local Field Potential Signature of the Single-Axon Monosynaptic Thalamocortical Connection
Authors: Hagen Espen , Fossum Janne C. , Pettersen Klas H. , Alonso Jose-Manuel , Swadlow Harvey A. , Einevoll Gaute T. 
Published: April 2017

A resurgence has taken place in recent years in the use of the extracellularly recorded local field potential (LFP) to investigate neural network activity. To probe monosynaptic thalamic activation of cortical postsynaptic target cells, so called spike-trigger-averaged LFP (stLFP) signatures have been measured. In these experiments, the cortical LFP is measured by multielectrodes covering several cortical lamina and averaged on spontaneous spikes of thalamocortical (TC) cells. Using a well established forward-modeling scheme, we investigated the biophysical origin of this stLFP signature with simultaneous synaptic activation of cortical layer-4 neurons, mimicking the effect of a single afferent spike from a single TC neuron. Constrained by previously measured intracellular responses of the main postsynaptic target cell types and with biologically plausible assumptions regarding the spatial distribution of thalamic synaptic inputs into layer 4, the model predicted characteristic contributions to monosynaptic stLFP signatures both for the regular-spiking (RS) excitatory neurons and the fast-spiking (FS) inhibitory interneurons. In particular, the FS cells generated stLFP signatures of shorter temporal duration than the RS cells. Added together, a sum of the stLFP signatures of these two principal synaptic targets of TC cells were observed to resemble experimentally measured stLFP signatures. Outside the volume targeted by TC afferents, the resulting postsynaptic LFP signals were found to be sharply attenuated. This implies that such stLFP signatures provide a very local measure of TC synaptic activation, and that newly developed inverse current-source density (CSD)-estimation methods are needed for precise assessment of the underlying spatiotemporal CSD profiles.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTDespite its long history and prevalent use, the proper interpretation of the extracellularly recorded local field potential (LFP) is still not fully established. Here we investigate by biophysical modeling the origin of the focal LFP signature of the single-axon monosynaptic thalamocortical connection as measured by spike-trigger-averaging of cortical LFPs on spontaneous spikes of thalamocortical neurons. We find that this LFP signature is well accounted for by a model assuming thalamic projections to two cortical layer-4 cell populations: one excitatory (putatively regular-spiking cells) and one inhibitory (putatively fast-spiking cells). The LFP signature is observed to decay sharply outside the cortical region receiving the thalamocortical projection, implying that it indeed provides a very local measure of thalamocortical synaptic activation.
Glucose tolerance and insulin responsiveness in Gitelman syndrome patients
Authors: Yuan Tao , Jiang Lanping , Chen Chen , Peng Xiaoyan , Nie Min , Li Xuemei , Xing Xiaoping , Li Xuewang , Chen Limeng 
Published: April 2017

Objective
Impaired glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity have been reported in patients with Gitelman syndrome (GS), but insulin secretion and the related mechanisms are not well understood.

Design and methods
The serum glucose levels, insulin secretion and insulin sensitivity were evaluated in patients with GS (n = 28), patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) and healthy individuals (n = 20 in both groups) using an oral glucose tolerance test. Serum and urine sodium, potassium and creatinine levels were measured at 0, 30, 60, 120 and 180 min after an oral glucose load was administered.

Results
The areas under the serum glucose curves were higher in the GS patients than those in the healthy controls (17.4 ± 5.1 mmol·h/L vs 14.5 ± 2.8 mmol·h/L, P = 0.02) but lower than those in the DM patients (24.8 ± 5.3 mmol·h/L, P < 0.001). The areas under the serum insulin curves and the insulin secretion indexes in GS patients were higher than those in DM patients and lower than those in healthy subjects. The insulin secretion-sensitivity index of GS patients was between that of healthy subjects and DM patients, but the insulin sensitivity indices were not different among the three groups. After one hour of glucose administration, the serum potassium level significantly decreased from baseline, and the urinary potassium-to-creatinine ratio increased gradually and peaked at 2 h.

Conclusions
Glucose metabolism and insulin secretion were impaired in GS patients, but insulin sensitivity was comparable between GS patients and patients with type 2 DM. After administration of an oral glucose load, the plasma potassium level decreased in GS patients due to the increased excretion of potassium in the urine.
Assessment of lung function in a large cohort of patients with acromegaly
Authors: Störmann Sylvère , Gutt Bodo , Roemmler-Zehrer Josefine , Bidlingmaier Martin , Huber Rudolf M , Schopohl Jochen , Angstwurm Matthias W 
Published: April 2017

ObjectiveAcromegaly is associated with increased mortality due to respiratory disease. To date, lung function in patients with acromegaly has only been assessed in small studies, with contradicting results. We assessed lung function parameters in a large cohort of patients with acromegaly.DesignLung function of acromegaly patients was prospectively assessed using spirometry, blood gas analysis and body plethysmography. Biochemical indicators of acromegaly were assessed through measurement of growth hormone and IGF-I levels. This study was performed at the endocrinology outpatient clinic of a tertiary referral center in Germany.MethodsWe prospectively tested lung function of 109 acromegaly patients (53 male, 56 female; aged 24–82 years; 80 with active acromegaly) without severe acute or chronic pulmonary disease. We compared lung volume, air flow, airway resistance and blood gases to normative data.ResultsAcromegaly patients had greater lung volumes (maximal vital capacity, intra-thoracic gas volume and residual volume:P < 0.001, total lung capacity:P = 0.006) and showed signs of small airway obstruction (reduced maximum expiratory flow when 75% of the forced vital capacity (FVC) has been exhaled:P < 0.001, lesser peak expiratory flow:P = 0.01). There was no significant difference between active and inactive acromegaly. Female patients had significantly altered lung function in terms of subclinical airway obstruction.ConclusionsIn our cross-sectional analysis of lung function in 109 patients with acromegaly, lung volumes were increased compared to healthy controls. Additionally, female patients showed signs of subclinical airway obstruction. There was no difference between patients with active acromegaly compared with patients biochemically in remission.
Discriminating between virilizing ovary tumors and ovary hyperthecosis in postmenopausal women: clinical data, hormonal profiles and image studies
Authors: Yance V R V , Marcondes J A M , Rocha M P , Barcellos C R G , Dantas W S , Avila A F A , Baroni R H , Carvalho F M , Hayashida S A Y , Mendonca B B , Domenice S 
Published: April 2017

Background
The presence of virilizing signs associated with high serum androgen levels in postmenopausal women is rare. Virilizing ovarian tumors (VOTs) and ovarian stromal hyperthecosis (OH) are the most common etiologies in virilized postmenopausal women. The differential diagnosis between these two conditions is often difficult.

Objective
To evaluate the contribution of clinical features, hormonal profiles and radiological studies to the differential diagnosis of VOT and OH.

Design
A retrospective study.

Setting
A tertiary center.

Main outcome measures
Clinical data, hormonal status (T, E2, LH and FSH), pelvic images (transvaginal sonography and MRI) and anatomopathology were reviewed.

Patients
Thirty-four postmenopausal women with a diagnosis of VOT (13 women) and OH (21 women) were evaluated retrospectively.

Results
Clinical signs of hyperandrogenism were more prevalent in the VOT group than the OH group. Although the VOT group showed higher T and E2 levels and lower gonadotropin levels than the OH group, a great overlap occurred among the hormone levels. A pelvic MRI provided an accurate differentiation of these two conditions.

Conclusion
In this group of patients, the main features contributing to the differential diagnosis of VOT and OH were serum levels of testosterone and gonadotropins and the presence of an ovarian nodule identified on the MRI. Although the association of clinical, hormonal and radiological features contributes to the differential diagnosis of these two conditions, histopathological analysis remains the gold standard for the diagnosis of ovarian hyperandrogenism in postmenopausal women.
IMPACTO DE LOS TRATADOS DE LIBRE COMERCIO (TLC) EN LA ECONOMÍA COLOMBIANA
Authors: Salazar Araújo Eduardo 
Published: April 2017

El presente artículo de investigación se realizó con el objetivo de determinar los impactos que los TLCs han producido en la economía colombiana. En su desarrollo, se han identificado aspectos positivos, negativos y las acciones que se deben llevar a cabo a fin de que cumplan con los propósitos para los cuales fueron firmados. Se utilizo el método analítico y la técnica de revisión documental, que permitió la evaluación de los resultados de la política de libre comercio emprendida por el país durante la última década. Los resultados muestran que algunos tratados han sido beneficiosos para el país, como el caso del tratado con Chile, y el TNC. Otros, aunque no han sido muy beneficiosos fueron necesarios, como ocurre con los suscritos con México y Estados Unidos, pues son socios comerciales muy importantes; mientras que algunos no han surtido efecto como EFTA, Canadá o han quedado obsoletos como el de la Comunidad Andina de Naciones (CAN). La conclusión general es que el país no se encuentra preparado para aprovechar plenamente estos tratados, por lo cual conviene estudiar con mayor detalle la conveniencia de firmar nuevos acuerdos con otros países. ABSTRACTThis research article , look for determining the effects that have produced the AFT in the Colombian economy, identifying the positives , negatives and actions to be carried out, in order that the country to achieve economic level to fulfill the purposes for which the agreements were signed. The methodology used is the document review, based on the general theory of international trade and statistical data analysis, to describe and evaluate the result of the free trade policy undertaken by the country in the course of the last decade. This research focus on a quantitative paradigm.The results show that some trade agreements have been beneficial for the country, as the case of the AFT with Chile, and the TNC, others have been very beneficial, but were necessary, as the case of Mexico and the United States, because they are important trading partners, even some have not worked or have become obsolete as EFTA, Canada and CAN. The general conclusion is that the country is not prepared to take full advantage of these treaties, so the country should study in detail the advisability of signing new agreements with other countries.
PRINCIPIOS DEL SECTOR COOPERATIVO EN EL MUNICIPIO DE EL ESPINAL (COLOMBIA)
Authors: Hernández Sánchez Jairo , Cruz Ramírez César Augusto 
Published: April 2017

El presente artículo es producto de una investigación desarrollada en el sector cooperativo adscrito al municipio de El Espinal, departamento del Tolima (Colombia). El objetivo del estudio consistió en determinar si las entidades del sector cooperativo cumplen efectivamente con la aplicación de los principios del cooperativismo. El tipo de estudio fue exploratorio y descriptivo; en tanto que el método de investigación utilizado fue cuanti-cualitativo, la técnica de investigación fue la encuesta, que se aplicó a los asociados de las diferentes cooperativas. Los resultados mostraron que pocos asociados reciben formación respecto a los principios del cooperativismo y a la gestión cooperativa, situación que dificulta su aplicación eficiente. En conclusión, el sector cooperativo de El Espinal-Tolima requiere fomentar la cultura de formación y apropiación de los principios cooperativos de sus asociados para que sean aprovechados en el quehacer diario. Esto exige a los directivos generar estrategias de divulgación oportunas, que fortalezcan la interiorización y aplicación de la filosofía y principios cooperativos, de manera que se produzca un crecimiento económico y social al interior de la empresa. ABSTRACTThe present article is the result of a research developed in the cooperative sector in the municipality of “El Espinal”, department of Tolima (Colombia). The aim of this study consisted of determining if the entities of the cooperative sector comply with the implementation of cooperative principles. The type of study was exploratory and descriptive; while the research method used was the quantitative-qualitative one; a survey was the research technique applied to the associates of the different co-operatives. The results showed that few associates receive formation with regard toco-operative principles and the co-operative management; this situation makes their application difficult. In conclusion, the co-operative sector in ”El Espinal”, Tolima, needs to promote the culture of formation and appropriation of co-operative principles of its associates for them to be used in everyday life. This demands managers to generate appropriate dissemination strategies, which strengthen the internalization and application of Philosophy and co-operative principles, so that an economic and social growth takes place within the company.
CT imaging and staging of carcinoma oesophagus
Authors: Chandna Parveen , B. Siddesh M. , U. Jeevika M. , Kochar Praveen Kumar T. 
Published: April 2017

Background: Over the past decades, computerized tomography (CT) technology has led to an early detection of cancers and thereby decreasing mortality rate. The objective was to demonstrate usefulness of Toshiba Activion 16 slice multi detector computerized tomography (MDCT) scan in staging of oesophageal cancer.Methods: The study was carried out in the Department of Radio diagnosis, Bapuji Hospital and Chigateri Government Hospital attached to Jagadguru Jayadeva Murugarajendra Medical College, Davangere, Karnataka, India over a period of 24 months. After taking a properly informed written consent, complete history and thorough clinical examination was done and these patients were subjected to CT scan.Results: The total numbers of patients studied in present study were 25. Out of which 10 were males and 15 were females. There were 6 patients upto the age of 54 years and 8 patients equal to or greater than 65 years of age, there were 11 patients between 55-64 years of age. Dysphagia was the most common symptom in patients and was present in all the 25 patients of present study. Other common symptoms were weight loss followed by pain in throat. Two different types of wall thickenings of the involved portion have been reported. The most common asymmetrical wall thickening was observed in maximum number of patients 18 (72%) and circumferential wall thickening was observed only in 7 number (28%) of patients out of 25 total patients showing heterogeneous/homogeneous enhancement. Lower third (40%) and middle third (40%) of the esophagus was the most common site of involvement with regards to location of oesophageal cancer followed by upper third (20%) of the esophagus. Homogeneous wall attenuation was observed in most of the cases accounting for (64%). The other type of wall attenuation noted were heterogeneous (36%).Conclusions: By performing endoscopy uncertainty lies in discrimination of muscular layer from serosal layer in most parts of esophagus. However, by employing MDCT technique separation of 2 layers of esophagus can be better judged. Therefore, MDCT has been found to be the most valuable and preferential technique for planning operational strategy.
Clinical study and management of incisional hernias: a prospective monocenter experience
Authors: Deshmukh Santoshkumar N. , Varudkar Anagha S. , Chopde Anant V. 
Published: April 2017

Background: Incisional hernia is the most frequent postoperative complication following abdominal surgery. Several studies have shown that incisional hernias have different etiologies which are related to the patient, the surgical technique, the suture material, and experience of the surgeon. Aim of present study was to assess the magnitude of problem, analyse various factors leading to development of this condition, different modalities of treatment practiced, postoperative complications, various factors affecting surgical outcome in these patients.Methods: This prospective descriptive study was conducted in department of surgery at a tertiary care teaching hospital at Solapur, Maharashtra, India from January 2014 to December 2016. All the patients, regardless of age and gender, admitted with diagnosis of incisional hernia were included in the study. Depending upon the size of defect treatment was carried out. Postoperatively patients were followed up for detection of possible complications and their treatment.Results: Total 50 patients of incisional hernia were studied. Mean age was 46 years with male to female ratio 4.5:1 wound infection in the post-operative period was the commonest etiology noted followed by obesity.Conclusions: Wound infection following previous surgery was the most important risk factor associated with incisional hernia. The other risk factors were obesity and COPD. Polypropylene mesh repair is superior to anatomical repair as it has less recurrence.
A study of VP shunt in management of hydrocephalus
Authors: Pal Sudhir Singh , Dubey Saurabh 
Published: April 2017

Background: Hydrocephalus a neurological disorder common in both children and adults. VP shunt placement is considered the mainstay of management. The aim was to study complications of VP Shunt and factors influencing shunt malfunction and prognosis.Methods: This study was conducted in the Department of Surgery, Gandhi Medical College Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India between January 2013 to August 2016 and included all patients of hydrocephalus who underwent VP shunt surgery. We performed a retrospective and prospective data review which was subjected to statistical analysis, frequency determination, determination of mean and standard deviation, Pearson’s Chi-square test for studying associations between variables.Results: A total of 198 patients were studied. The predominant etiologies being congenital hydrocephalus, aqueduct stenosis, spina bifida/MMC, intracranial space occupying lesions and tuberculous meningitis. The incidence of overall shunt complications was 28.8%, incidence of shunt revision was 21.2%, shunt blockade 7.6%), shunt migration 5.05%, shunt infection 4.5%, and shunt malfunction due to other causes 8.6%. The mortality rate was 20.2%. Factors associated with increased shunt complications included infective etiology of the hydrocephalus and CSF culture positivity in preoperative period.Conclusions: Infective and traumatic causes of hydrocephalus are more likely to be associated with complications like infection and obstruction. Shunt migration is seen in paediatric patients.
Diagnostic value of serum hyperbilirubinemia in acute appendicitis and its complications
Authors: Mir Farooq A. , Aara Shaugfta , Jan Masrat , Wani Nisar A. 
Published: April 2017

Background: To increase diagnostic accuracy and to decrease complication rates secondary to acute appendicitis, a variety of different approaches have been described, including predictive scoring systems. To prevent the catastrophic effects of perforated appendix, a surgeon needs diagnostic tools which may signal perforation of appendix at earliest, as a result of which the delay in the management of perforated appendix will not be witnessed. Keeping in view the above facts, the diagnostic value of serum bilirubin in acute appendicitis and its complications has been evaluated.Methods: This prospective study was conducted on 100 patients who presented with clinical diagnosis of Acute Appendicitis. Role of serum bilirubin as a diagnostic tool in acute appendicitis and diagnostic value of hyperbilirubinemia as a predictive factor for appendiceal perforation was evaluated. . Estimation of serum bilirubin was done by Jendrassik and Gorf method using Hitachi – 912 automatic biochemistry analyzer. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and accuracy of the investigations in the diagnosis of the acute appendicitis were calculated.Results: Serum bilirubin levels had a sensitivity of 84.1% and specificity of 83.3% in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis. The mean bilirubin level of patients with gangrenous appendicitis (2.1±1.2mg/dl) was significantly higher than the mean bilirubin level of patients with simple acute appendicitis (1.5 ±0.6) (p1=0.030 sig). A statistically significant difference was also observed in the mean bilirubin level of patients with perforated appendicitis (mean=2.9±1.6mg/dl) and mean bilirubin level of patients with simple acute appendicitis (p2=<0.0001 sig). However statistically non-significant difference was observed between the mean bilirubin level of patients with gangrenous and perforated appendicitis (p3=0.056 non- sig).Conclusions:Pre-operative assessment of serum bilirubin not only helps in acute appendicitis but also serves as a predictive factor for appendiceal perforation.