bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Histopathological comparisons of Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa experimental infected porcine burn wounds
Authors: Chaney Sarah B. , Ganesh Kasturi , Mathew‐Steiner Shomita , Stromberg Paul , Roy Sashwati , Sen Chandan K. , Wozniak Daniel J.
Published: May 2017

Chronic skin wounds are a significant human health concern and are often complicated by infection with Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus, particularly methicillin resistant S. aureus (MRSA). Translating the knowledge gained from extensive study of virulence mechanisms and pathogenesis of these bacterial species to new treatment modalities has been lacking in part due to a paucity of animal models able to recapitulate human disease. Our groups recently described a novel porcine chronic burn wound model for the study of bacterial infection; however, the histopathology of infection has yet to be described. The objective of this study is to define the histopathology of this model using important human chronic wound bacterial isolates. Porcine full‐thickness burn wounds topically inoculated with P. aeruginosa strain PAO1, MRSA S. aureus strain USA300 or both bacteria were used to define and quantify histopathologic lesions. The development of a systemic, well‐defined rubric for analysis allowed for evaluation of differences between infection groups. These differences, which included epithelial migration and proliferation, stromal necrosis, fluid accumulation and intensity and character of the innate and adaptive inflammatory cell responses, were identified temporally between infection groups. Mono‐species infected wounds developed a hyper‐proliferative wound edge. Coinfected wounds at day 35 had the largest wound sizes, increased amounts of neutrophilic inflammation, immaturity of the wound bed, and retention of necrotic tissue. Infection, regardless of species, inhibited wound contracture at all time points evaluated. Most importantly, this model recapitulated key features of chronic human wounds. Thus, this model will allow researchers to study novel treatment modalities in a biologically relevant animal model while monitoring both host and bacterial responses.
Modeling of a Wind Turbine Rotor Blade System
Authors: Ju Dayuan , Sun Qiao
Published: May 2017

In wind turbine blade modeling, the coupling between rotor rotational motion and blade vibration has not been thoroughly investigated. The inclusion of the coupling terms in the wind turbine dynamics equations helps us understand the phenomenon of rotor oscillation due to blade vibration and possibly diagnose faults. In this study, a dynamics model of a rotor-blade system for a horizontal axis wind turbine (HAWT), which describes the coupling terms between the blade elastic movement and rotor gross rotation, is developed. The model is developed by using Lagrange's approach and the finite-element method has been adopted to discretize the blade. This model captures two-way interactions between aerodynamic wind flow and structural response. On the aerodynamic side, both steady and unsteady wind flow conditions are considered. On the structural side, blades are considered to deflect in both flap and edge directions while the rotor is treated as a rigid body. The proposed model is cross-validated against a model developed in the simulation software fatigue, aerodynamics, structure, and turbulence (fast). The coupling effects are excluded during the comparison since fast does not include these terms. Once verified, we added coupling terms to our model to investigate the effects of blade vibration on rotor movement, which has direct influence on the generator behavior. It is illustrated that the inclusion of coupling effects can increase the sensitivity of blade fault detection methods. The proposed model can be used to investigate the effects of different terms as well as analyze fluid–structure interaction.
Three-dimensional ultrasound and HDlive in tubal serous cystadenofibroma: a case report and literature review
Authors: Grigore Mihaela , Popovici Razvan , Furnica Cristina , Pristavu Anda , Hamod Alexandru , Gafitanu Dumitru
Published: May 2017

Cystadenofibromas of the fallopian tubes are very rare benign tumors and very few cases have been reported in the literature worldwide. Usually, the tumor is asymptomatic, and for almost all cases reported, the tumors were incidentally discovered during surgery for other genital pathology. We report the case of a 30-year-old woman with a serous cystadenofibroma of the fallopian tube, presenting with chronic abdominal pain and secondary infertility. The diagnosis of tubal tumor was formulated before surgery and confirmed during laparoscopic surgery. Both 3D ultrasound and HDlive were useful tools for the diagnosis. The ultrasound diagnosis was helpful in planning appropriate surgical management.
Speech production and sensory impairment in mild Parkinson's disease
Authors: Chen Yu-Wen , Watson Peter J.
Published: May 2017

Little is known about speech-related sensory systems and the link to speech in Parkinson's disease (PD). This study investigates auditory and somatosensory acuity and their association to speech in PD, using /s/ and /ʃ/ as speech targets. Ten adults with mild PD and ten age- and gender-matched healthy participants performed three tasks. In the auditory task, participants discriminated three aperiodic sounds acoustically modified from /s/ and /ʃ/ and differing in spectral shapes. In the tactile task, they judged the orientation of a dome-shaped grating probe gently touching their tongue tip. Measures of auditory and tactile acuity were determined based on participants' responses. For the production task, participants read a passage and eight sentences with /s/- and /ʃ/-initial words; acoustic contrast between the two sibilants was measured using difference between the average first spectral moments of /s/ and /ʃ/. The PD participants showed reduced auditory acuity of spectral sibilant contrast and reduced tactile acuity of the tongue tip. For speech production, the PD group showed smaller sibilant contrast in the sentence readings, but the difference was not statistically significant. Correlation analyses showed significant correlations between tactile acuity and sibilant contrast for the PD group, but not for auditory task.
Using nonlinear time warping to estimate North Pacific right whale calling depths in the Bering Sea
Authors: Thode Aaron , Bonnel Julien , Thieury Margaux , Fagan Aileen , Verlinden Chris , Wright Dana , Berchok Catherine , Crance Jessica
Published: May 2017

Calling depth distributions are estimated for two types of calls produced by critically endangered eastern North Pacific right whales (NPRWs) in the Bering Sea, using passive acoustic data collected with bottom-mounted hydrophone recorders. Nonlinear time resampling of 12 NPRW “upcalls” and 20 “gunshots” recorded in a critical NPRW habitat isolated individual normal mode arrivals from each call. The relative modal arrival times permitted range estimates between 1 and 40 km, while the relative modal amplitudes permitted call depth estimates, provided that environmental inversions were obtained from high signal-to-noise ratio calls. Gunshot sounds were generally only produced at a few meters depth, while upcall depths clustered between 10 and 25 m, consistent with previously published bioacoustic tagging results from North Atlantic right whales. A Wilcoxon rank sum test rejected the null hypothesis that the mean calling depths of the two call types were the same (p = 2.9 × 10−5); the null hypothesis was still rejected if the sample set was restricted to one call per acoustic encounter (p = 0.02). Propagation modeling demonstrates that deeper depths enhance acoustic propagation and that source depth estimates impact both NPRW upcall source level and detection range estimates.
Mutations in the vesicular trafficking protein annexin A11 are associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Smith Bradley N. , Topp Simon D. , Fallini Claudia , Shibata Hideki , Chen Han-Jou , Troakes Claire , King Andrew , Ticozzi Nicola , Kenna Kevin P. , Soragia-Gkazi Athina , Miller Jack W. , Sato Akane , Dias Diana Marques , Jeon Maryangel , Vance Caroline , Wong Chun Hao , de Majo Martina , Kattuah Wejdan , Mitchell Jacqueline C. , Scotter Emma L. , Parkin Nicholas W. , Sapp Peter C. , Nolan Matthew , Nestor Peter J. , Simpson Michael , Weale Michael , Lek Monkel , Baas Frank , Vianney de Jong J. M. , ten Asbroek Anneloor L. M. A. , Redondo Alberto Garcia , Esteban-Pérez Jesús , Tiloca Cinzia , Verde Federico , Duga Stefano , Leigh Nigel , Pall Hardev , Morrison Karen E. , Al-Chalabi Ammar , Shaw Pamela J. , Kirby Janine , Turner Martin R. , Talbot Kevin , Hardiman Orla , Glass Jonathan D. , De Belleroche Jacqueline , Maki Masatoshi , Moss Stephen E. , Miller Christopher , Gellera Cinzia , Ratti Antonia , Al-Sarraj Safa , Brown Robert H. , Silani Vincenzo , Landers John E. , Shaw Christopher E.
Published: May 2017

Annexin A11 mutations, implicated in ALS, prevent binding to calcyclin and induce the formation of cytoplasmic inclusions.
Nociceptive brain activity as a measure of analgesic efficacy in infants
Authors: Hartley Caroline , Duff Eugene P. , Green Gabrielle , Mellado Gabriela Schmidt , Worley Alan , Rogers Richard , Slater Rebeccah
Published: May 2017

A measure of nociceptive brain activity that can be used to assess analgesic efficacy in infants is derived and validated.
A highly potent extended half-life antibody as a potential RSV vaccine surrogate for all infants
Authors: Zhu Qing , McLellan Jason S. , Kallewaard Nicole L. , Ulbrandt Nancy D. , Palaszynski Susan , Zhang Jing , Moldt Brian , Khan Anis , Svabek Catherine , McAuliffe Josephine M. , Wrapp Daniel , Patel Nita K. , Cook Kimberly E. , Richter Bettina W. M. , Ryan Patricia C. , Yuan Andy Q. , Suzich JoAnn A.
Published: May 2017

Development of a highly potent anti-RSV monoclonal antibody with extended half-life intended to be used as RSV prophylaxis for all infants.
Epidemiology of coeliac disease in a single centre in Southern Derbyshire 1958–2014
Authors: Holmes Geoffrey K T , Muirhead A
Published: May 2017

Objective

To determine trends in diagnosis of coeliac disease (CD) in patients attending a single centre 1958–2014 and provide figures for prevalence and incidence in those born in Derby city over 4 decades. To explore a link between deprivation and prevalence and characteristics of CD in Asians.

Design

An unselected, consecutive series of 2410 adult patients with CD diagnosed in the catchment area of the Derby hospitals was identified. 1077 born within Derby city identified by postcodes was used to determine changes in prevalence and incidence over 4 decades. 191 patients were Asian. Population numbers were obtained from National Census information.

Results

In the quinquennium 2010–2014, 20 times more patients were diagnosed than during 1975–1979. 27% were diagnosed at ≥60 years. A paucity of diagnoses in young men was observed. Women were diagnosed most often in age band ≥35<45, 15 years earlier than men. The largest increase in diagnosis rates occurred in young women and the elderly. In 2014, overall prevalence was 1:188; women 1:138. 4.6% of the variation was attributed to deprivation. Diagnosis rates in Asians increased markedly although only 5% were diagnosed at ≥60 years, much lower than for whites.

Conclusions

The dramatic increase in number of patients with CD presents challenges for follow-up and new models of care need to be explored. Healthcare workers should be alert to the diagnosis in young men and elderly Asians. A dedicated coeliac clinic is an excellent facility to increase diagnosis rates.
Effects of different amounts of exercise on preventing depressive symptoms in community-dwelling older adults: a prospective cohort study in Taiwan
Authors: Chang Yu-Chen , Lu Mei-Chun , Hu I-Han , Wu Wan-Chi Ida , Hu Susan C
Published: May 2017

Objectives

To compare the effects of four different amounts of exercise for preventing depressive symptoms in community-dwelling older adults.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

A nationally representative sample in Taiwan.

Participants

Four waves of the survey ‘Taiwan Longitudinal Study on Aging (TLSA)’ from 1996 to 2007 were analysed. A total of 2673 older adults aged 65 years and over were recruited.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Depressive symptoms were measured using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CESD). Four different types/amounts of exercise were examined including: (1) 3 times/week, 15 min/time; (2) 3 times/week, 30 min/time; (3) 6 times/week, 15 min/time; and (4) 6 times/week, 30 min/time. All exercise types were required to have at least moderate intensity. The impacts of different amounts of exercise on depressive symptoms were analysed using generalised linear mixed models.

Results

More than one-fifth of the elder individuals under consideration had depressive symptoms (CESD ≥10). About 38.6% of older adults met the lowest criteria for exercise type 1, and fewer (28.0%) met the highest criteria for type 4. Only exercise type 4 in the current survey was initially related to lower depressive symptoms (OR=0.8, 95% CI 0.66 to 0.95). However, after considering the interaction between time and changes in exercise patterns, the results showed that all persistent exercise models, even if a very low amount (3 times/week, 15 min/time), had significantly preventive effects on depressive symptoms (OR=0.56~0.67).

Conclusion

Consistent exercise with at least 15 min per time, three times a week of moderate intensity is significantly associated with lower risk of depressive symptoms. This low amount of exercise may be easier to promote at the community and population level than other alternatives.

Trial registration

Registry number 104040 of the Institutional Ethics Committee of Chia-Yi Christian Hospital.
Association of magnetic resonance imaging for back pain on seven-day return visit to the Emergency Department
Authors: Aaronson Emily L , Yun Brian J , Mort Elizabeth , Brown David , Raja Ali S , Kaafarani Haytham M A , Chang Yuchiao , Lee Jarone
Published: May 2017

Background

The prevalence of back pain is rising, as is the use of high-cost imaging in the ED. The objective of our study was to determine if an MRI in the ED for patients with back pain resulted in a lower incidence of ED return visit and to determine if these patients had longer ED length of stay (LOS) and use of ED observation.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of consecutive patients seen with back pain was conducted at an urban, university-affiliated ED between 1 January 2012 and 11 July 2014. The association of MRI on return within 7 days was assessed using a χ2test and a multivariable logistic regression model and the difference in median ED LOS was compared using a Wilcoxon rank-sum test.

Results

During the study period, 6094 patients were evaluated in the ED with back pain as the primary diagnosis. Of these, 797 (13%) received an MRI. Among all patients with back pain, 277 (4.5%) returned within 7 days. Univariate analysis found that patients who received an MRI were no less likely to return within 7 days than patients who did not (4.3% vs 4.6%; p=0.68). Patients who had an MRI were more likely to be admitted to observation (74.2% vs 10.8%; p<0.0001) and had a longer ED LOS (median 4.8 hours vs 2.7; p<0.0001). Multivariable regression confirmed that MRI did not decrease the rate of a 7-day return visit (OR=0.98; 95% CI 0.68 to 1.42).

Conclusions

In patients with uncomplicated back pain, performing an MRI will not mitigate their likelihood of return; however, it leads to a longer ED LOS and more ED observation admissions.
A systematic characterization of the factors influencing polymerization and dynamic behavior of n-butyl cyanoacrylate
Authors: Wang Bill H , Boulton Melfort , Lee Donald H , Pelz David M , Lownie Stephen P
Published: May 2017

Introduction

Brain arteriovenous malformations are abnormal connections between arteries and veins without an intervening capillary bed. Endovascular glue embolization with N-butyl cyanoacrylate (NBCA) is an accepted form of treatment. The reported complication rates vary widely from 2% to 15%, and timing of polymerization appears to play a major role. Additionally, the interaction between NBCA and vessel surface as well as the presence of biological catalysts are poorly understood.

Methods

Polymerization time was measured for mixtures of Lipiodol/NBCA of 50/50, 70/30, and 60/40. The influence of pH, temperature, and the presence of biological catalysts on polymerization time was investigated. Contact angles were measured on polyvinyl alcohol cryogel (PVA-C), silicone, and endothelial surfaces in a submerged aqueous environment to assess physical surface interactions. High speed video analysis of glue injection through a microcatheter was performed to characterize simulated coaxial flow.

Results

NBCA polymerization rate increased with pH and temperature. A hydrophilic surface such as PVA-C was better than silicone at mimicking the physical properties of endothelium. Live endothelium provided a catalytic surface that at least doubled the rate of polymerization. Blood products further increased the polymerization rate in the following order (slowest to fastest): plasma, platelets, red blood cells (RBCs), and lysed RBCs. These factors could explain the discrepancy between in vitro and in vivo results reported in the current literature. High speed video analysis of NBCA injection showed dripping to jetting transition with significant wall effect which deviated from previous ideal assumptions.

Conclusions

The determinants of NBCA polymerization rate are multifactorial and dependent mainly on the presence of biological catalysts coupled with flow related wall interaction.
The golden 35 min of stroke intervention with ADAPT: effect of thrombectomy procedural time in acute ischemic stroke on outcome
Authors: Alawieh Ali , Pierce Alyssa K , Vargas Jan , Turk Aquilla S , Turner Raymond D , Chaudry M Imran , Spiotta Alejandro M
Published: May 2017

Introduction

In acute ischemic stroke (AIS), extending mechanical thrombectomy procedural times beyond 60 min has previously been associated with an increased complication rate and poorer outcomes.

Objective

After improvements in thrombectomy methods, to reassess whether this relationship holds true with a more contemporary thrombectomy approach: a direct aspiration first pass technique (ADAPT).

Methods

We retrospectively studied a database of patients with AIS who underwent ADAPT thrombectomy for large vessel occlusions. Patients were dichotomized into two groups: ‘early recan’, in which recanalization (recan) was achieved in ≤35 min, and ‘late recan’, in which procedures extended beyond 35 min.

Results

197 patients (47.7% women, mean age 66.3 years) were identified. We determined that after 35 min, a poor outcome was more likely than a good (modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score 0–2) outcome. The baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score was similar between ‘early recan’ (n=122) (14.7±6.9) and ‘late recan’ patients (n=75) (15.9±7.2). Among ‘early recan’ patients, recanalization was achieved in 17.8±8.8 min compared with 70±39.8 min in ‘late recan’ patients. The likelihood of achieving a good outcome was higher in the ‘early recan’ group (65.2%) than in the ‘late recan’ group (38.2%; p<0.001). Patients in the ‘late recan’ group had a higher likelihood of postprocedural hemorrhage, specifically parenchymal hematoma type 2, than those in the ‘early recan’ group. Logistic regression analysis showed that baseline NIHSS, recanalization time, and atrial fibrillation had a significant impact on 90-day outcomes.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that extending ADAPT thrombectomy procedure times beyond 35 min increases the likelihood of complications such as intracerebral hemorrhage while reducing the likelihood of a good outcome.
Helistroke: neurointerventionalist helicopter transport for interventional stroke treatment: proof of concept and rationale
Authors: Hui Ferdinand K , El Mekabaty Amgad , Schultz Jacky , Hong Kelvin , Horton Karen , Urrutia Victor , Naqvi Imama , Brast Shawn , Lynch John K , Nadareishvili Zurab
Published: May 2017

Background and purpose

It is increasingly recognized that time is one of the key determinants in acute stroke outcome when interventional stroke therapy is applied. With increasing device efficacy and understanding of imaging triage options, reducing pre-treatment time loss may be a critical component of improving interventional stroke outcomes for the population at large. Time sensitive procedures such as organ harvest have transported physicians to the patient site to improve time to procedure. Applying this same principle to interventional stroke management may be a valid paradigm.

Methods

Previous logistical deliberation with hospital and Medevac companies was carried out to provide the rationale and funding for helicopter transfer of a neurointerventionalist to an in-network hospital with an on-site angiographic suite. An appropriate patient with large vessel occlusion and an NIH Stroke Scale score >8 was identified. MRI was performed, then the Medevac transport system was activated and the intervention was carried out. Times were collected during the case and assessed for time efficiency.

Results

The proof of concept case was identified and Medevac was consulted at 12:13 after verifying that no in-house emergencies would prevent physician departure. Weather clearance was obtained and stroke intervention confirmed as a go at 12:24. Groin puncture occurred at 13:07 and the intervention was completed at 13:41. The total time from decision-to-treat to groin puncture was 43 min and groin closure was completed at 77 min from decision-to-treat.

Conclusions

This proof of concept case is presented for logistical, financial and use-case analysis. As it is a first case, times can likely be improved. We assert that this model may be another option in the spoke-and-hub design of stroke systems of care.
Comparing the curative efficacy of topical treatment with thiamphenicol and oxytetracycline on digital dermatitis lesions in dairy cattle
Authors: Holzhauer M. , Ploegmakers‐van Deventer R. , Smits D. , Swart W.
Published: May 2017

The efficacy of two topically applied antibiotics for the treatment of painful ulcerative stage of bovine digital dermatitis (BDD) lesions was compared in a clinical trial conducted on five dairy farms in the Netherlands during the autumn of 2015. A total of 109 cows with an ulcerative (M2) stage of BDD were randomly appointed a treatment with an antibiotic‐based spray. One treatment contained thiamphenicol as active ingredient (TAF). The other treatment had oxytetracycline as active ingredient (ENG). The experimental unit for this study was the hind claw with the presence of an ulcerative BDD lesion. On day 0, claws with ulcerative BDD lesions were trimmed, cleaned, photographed and thereafter treated randomly either with TAF or ENG. Cure was defined as the transition of an ulcerative lesion into a non‐painful chronic (M4) or into a healed (M0) stage of BDD at day 28 post‐treatment. The cure rate at day 28 of M2 BDD lesions treated with TAF was 89 per cent (95 per cent CI 0.78 to 0.94), and for ENG 75 per cent (95 per cent CI 0.67 to 0.86). So the difference in cure rate was 14 per cent (95 per cent CI 0.00 to 0.27), which was statistically significant. The P value in this experiment is very close to 0.05 indicating that the effect is quite small. If a two‐sided test would be used, the small significant effect, in this experiment, will disappear. Overall, the significant better curative effect of TAF on BDD M2 lesions was small, compared with ENG.
Private animal health and welfare standards in quality assurance programmes: a review and proposed framework for critical evaluation
Authors: More S. J. , Hanlon A. , Marchewka J. , Boyle L.
Published: May 2017

In recent years, ‘private standards’ in animal health and welfare have become increasingly common, and are often incorporated into quality assurance (QA) programmes. Here, we present an overview of the use of private animal health and welfare standards in QA programmes, and propose a generic framework to facilitate critical programme review. Private standards are being developed in direct response to consumer demand for QA, and offer an opportunity for product differentiation and a means to drive consumer choice. Nonetheless, a range of concerns have been raised, relating to the credibility of these standards, their potential as a discriminatory barrier to trade, the multiplicity of private standards that have been developed, the lack of consumer input and compliance costs. There is a need for greater scrutiny of private standards and of associated QA programmes. We propose a framework to clarify the primary programme goal(s) and measureable outputs relevant to animal health and welfare, the primary programme beneficiaries and to determine whether the programme is effective, efficient and transparent. This paper provides a theoretical overview, noting that this framework could be used as a tool directly for programme evaluation, or as a tool to assist with programme development and review.
One night of sleep restriction following heavy exercise impairs 3-km cycling time-trial performance in the morning
Authors: Chase John D. , Roberson Paul A. , Saunders Michael J. , Hargens Trent A. , Womack Christopher J. , Luden Nicholas D.
Published: May 2017

The goal of this project was to examine the influence of a single night of sleep restriction following heavy exercise on cycling time-trial (TT) performance and skeletal muscle function in the morning. Seven recreational cyclists (age, 24 ± 7 years; peak oxygen consumption, 62 ± 4 mL·kg−1·min−1) completed 2 phases, each comprising evening (EX1) and next-morning (EX2) exercise sessions. EX1 and EX2 were separated by an assigned sleep condition: a full night of rest (CON; 7.1 ± 0.3 h of sleep) or sleep restriction through early waking (SR; 2.4 ± 0.2 h). EX1 comprised baseline testing (muscle soreness, isokinetic torque, and 3-km TT performance) followed by heavy exercise that included 60 min of high-intensity cycling intervals and resistance exercise. EX2 was performed to assess recovery from EX1 and included all baseline measures. Magnitude-based inferences were used to evaluate all variables. SR had a negative effect (very likely) on the change in 3-km TT performance compared with CON. Specifically, 3-km TT performance was ‘very likely’ slower during EX2 compared with EX1 following SR (−4.0% ± 3.0%), whereas 3-km TT performance was ‘possibly’ slower during EX2 (vs. EX1) following CON (−0.5% ± 3.0%). Sleep condition did not influence changes in peak torque or muscle soreness from EX1 to EX2. A single night of sleep restriction following heavy exercise had marked consequences on 3-km TT performance the next morning. Because occasional sleep loss is likely, strategies to ameliorate the consequences of sleep loss on performance should be investigated.
Anti-angiogenic effect of chebulagic acid involves inhibition of the VEGFR2- and GSK-3β-dependent signaling pathways
Authors: Athira A.P. , Abhinand C.S. , Saja K. , Helen A. , Reddanna P. , Sudhakaran P.R.
Published: May 2017

Inhibition of angiogenesis is a useful strategy to prevent cancer growth by targeting new vessels that grow to nourish actively proliferating tumor cells. Endothelial cells can use a number of different pathways to cause angiogenesis, and each step in these pathways can be targeted. The use of multi-targeted drugs is gaining much importance in this scenario. Our previous results have shown that chebulagic acid (a benzopyran tannin present in the fruits of Terminalia chebula) has anti-angiogenic properties. Thus, this study was designed to examine the molecular mechanism for the anti-angiogenic effects of chebulagic acid. Results from our investigations using molecular docking studies and human umbilical vein endothelial cells in culture suggested that chebulagic acid inhibits both GSK-3β-dependent β-catenin phosphorylation (an important mediator of VE-cadherin–β-catenin signaling) and VEGFR2 phosphorylation, which is an important step in VEGF signaling. Chebulagic acid inhibits angiogenesis by blocking both the VEGF–VEGFR2 complex and cell–cell contact dependent downstream signaling pathways.
Effects of fines on liquefaction behaviour in well-graded materials
Authors: Kwa Katherine A. , Airey David W.
Published: May 2017

This study uses a critical state soil mechanics perspective to understand the mechanics behind the liquefaction of metallic ores during transport by ship. These metallic ores are transported at relatively low densities and have variable gradings containing a wide range of particle sizes and fines contents. The effect of the fines content on the location of the critical state line (CSL) and the cyclic liquefaction behaviour of well-graded materials was investigated by performing saturated, standard drained and undrained monotonic and compression-only cyclic triaxial tests. Samples were prepared at four different gradings containing particle sizes from 9.5 mm to 2 μm with fines (<75 μm) contents of 18%, 28%, 40%, and 60%. In the e versus log[Formula: see text] plane, where e is void ratio and [Formula: see text] is mean effective stress, the CSLs shifted upwards approximately parallel to one another as the fines content was increased. Transitional soil behaviour was observed in samples containing 28%, 40%, and 60% fines. A sample’s cyclic resistance to liquefaction depended on a combination of its density and state parameter, which were both related to the fines content. Samples with the same densities were more resistant to cyclic failure if they contained higher fines contents. The state parameter provided a useful prediction for general behavioural trends of all fines contents studied.
Mitochondrial miRNAs in diabetes: just the tip of the iceberg
Authors: Baradan Rohini , Hollander John M. , Das Samarjit
Published: May 2017

Over the last 2 decades, mi(cro)RNAs have emerged as one of the key regulators of metabolic homeostasis. Most of the studies have highlighted that, in the cytoplasm, miRNAs directly bind to the 3′-UTR (untranslated region) of a mRNA. Conventional RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC) formation results in the post-transcriptional inhibition. This process is known to contribute to the development of metabolic diseases, including diabetes mellitus. Recent advancements with small RNA detection technologies have enabled us to identify miRNAs in the mitochondrial compartment of the cells. We have termed these miRNAs, which translocate into the mitochondria as mitochondrial miRNA, MitomiR. It has been demonstrated that MitomiRs can regulate gene expression, with some evidence even suggesting that, after translocation, MitomiRs can bind to the 3′-end of a mitochondrial gene, altering its regulation. Our main focus in this review is to highlight the potential role of MitomiR in the pathogenesis of metabolic disorders such as diabetes mellitus.
Hydrogen production using aluminum-based materials prepared by mechanical milling
Authors: Guan X. , Luo P. , Dong S. J.
Published: May 2017

Aluminum (Al)-based materials composited of different low melting point materials were prepared by mechanical ball-milling. Hydrogen production using these materials was investigated to help resolving the safety issues associated with the storage and transportation of hydrogen. The phase composition and microstructure of the Al-based composited materials were examined using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. As observed in this study, the addition of low melting point metals (such as Sn, Bi and In) helped to lower the initial Al-water reaction temperature and to increase the yield in the production of hydrogen. Samples of optimized compositions, Al–6% Sn–4% Bi and Al–6% Sn–4% In, were found to exhibit high hydrogen production yields of up to 448 and 515 mL, respectively. Meanwhile, their hydrogen generation rates were increased.
Preparation and characterization of ZnS nanoparticles prepared by hydrothermal method
Authors: Wang Caifeng , Li Qingshan , Hu Bo
Published: May 2017

ZnS nanoparticles were prepared by hydrothermal method using zinc nitrate [Zn(NO[Formula: see text] ⋅ 6H2O] and thiourea [SC(NH[Formula: see text]] as sources of Zn[Formula: see text] and S[Formula: see text] ions and cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide [CH3(CH2)[Formula: see text]N[Formula: see text](CH3)3 ⋅ Br[Formula: see text]; CTAB] as a surface active agent. The structural, surface morphology and optical properties of ZnS nanoparticles as a function of growth temperature were investigated. The studies show that ZnS nanoparticles have high transmittance over 70% in the visible light range of 400–800 nm, and it has a strong green emission band at about 520 nm which originates from the recombination of electrons from the energy level of sulfur vacancies with the holes from the energy level of zinc vacancies. With the increase of the growth temperature, the XRD peak intensity and the size of ZnS nanoparticles increase, while the green emission intensity firstly increases and then decreases.
The influence of diagenetic and mineralogical factors on the breakdown and geotechnical properties of mudrocks
Authors: Cripps John C. , Czerewko Mourice A.
Published: May 2017

Mudrocks comprise fine-grained, sediments, in which the modal grain size is <0.063 mm and clay minerals are often major constituents. In geotechnics the term defines a generic group of argillaceous lithologies ranging from stiff clay-soils to strong, partly metamorphosed rocks. In the UK outcrops occur extensively and they also lie concealed beneath later deposits. In engineering applications mudrocks can present challenging forms of behaviour, including rapid deterioration and structural breakdown during sampling and preparation for tests. Attempts to measure their geotechnical properties are often frustrated and misleading results appear in the literature. A review of the engineering properties of UK mudrocks and studies involving mudrocks of varying induration demonstrates the importance of composition and genesis in controlling physical behaviour and provides a framework for understanding variation in mudrocks. Various index tests have been appraised in terms of their value for predicting mudrock durability. It is newly proposed that style of breakdown provides guidance for predicting the mechanical properties and that simple index tests can supplant relatively expensive and time-consuming undisturbed sampling and testing, even where this is possible. This approach has potential for use in the prediction of fracture formation owing to changes in stress conditions and pore water pressure.
Correlative multi-scale imaging of shales: a review and future perspectives
Authors: Ma Lin , Fauchille Anne-Laure , Dowey Patrick J. , Figueroa Pilz Fernando , Courtois Loic , Taylor Kevin G. , Lee Peter D.
Published: May 2017

As the fastest growing energy sector globally, shale and shale reservoirs have attracted the attention of both industry and scholars. However, the strong heterogeneity at different scales and the extremely fine-grained nature of shales makes macroscopic and microscopic characterization highly challenging. Recent advances in imaging techniques have provided many novel characterization opportunities of shale components and microstructures at multiple scales. Correlative imaging, where multiple techniques are combined, is playing an increasingly important role in the imaging and quantification of shale microstructures (e.g. one can combine optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy/transmission electron microscopy and X-ray radiography in 2D, or X-ray computed tomography and electron microscopy in 3D). Combined utilization of these techniques can characterize the heterogeneity of shale microstructures over a large range of scales, from macroscale to nanoscale (
c.
10
0
–10
−9
m). Other chemical and physical measurements can be correlated to imaging techniques to provide complementary information for minerals, organic matter and pores. These imaging techniques and subsequent quantification methods are critically reviewed to provide an overview of the correlative imaging workflow. Applications of the above techniques for imaging particular features in different shales are demonstrated, and key limitations and benefits summarized. Current challenges and future perspectives in shale imaging techniques and their applications are discussed.
TRPV3 modulates nociceptive signaling through peripheral and supraspinal sites in rats
Authors: McGaraughty Steve , Chu Katharine L. , Xu Jun , Leys Laura , Radek Richard J. , Dart Michael J. , Gomtsyan Arthur , Schmidt Robert G. , Kym Philip R. , Brederson Jill-Desiree
Published: May 2017

Recent studies have linked TRPV3 to pain modulation, and much of this work has focused on its role in the skin-primary afferent interface. In this electrophysiological study, we demonstrate that receptor antagonists modulate evoked signals through peripheral mechanisms but blockade of supraspinal TRPV3 receptors contributes to dampening both evoked and nonevoked “pain” through descending modulation. Thus, the full therapeutic potential of TRPV3 antagonists may only be realized with the ability to access receptors in the brain.
Ketamine induced converged synchronous gamma oscillations in the cortico-basal ganglia network of nonhuman primates
Authors: Slovik Maya , Rosin Boris , Moshel Shay , Mitelman Rea , Schechtman Eitan , Eitan Renana , Raz Aeyal , Bergman Hagai
Published: May 2017

This study is the first to show spontaneous gamma oscillations under NMDA antagonist in nonhuman primates. These oscillations appear in synchrony in the cortex and the basal ganglia. Phase analysis refutes the confounding effects of volume conduction and supports the funneling and amplifying architecture of the cortico-basal ganglia loops. These results suggest an abnormal network phenomenon with a unique spectral signature that could account for pathological mental and neurological states.
Choice of Allograft in Patients Requiring Intestinal Transplantation: A Critical Review
Authors: Huard Genevieve , Schiano Thomas , Moon Jang , Iyer Kishore
Published: May 2017

Intestinal transplantation (ITx) is indicated in patients with irreversible intestinal failure (IF) and life-threatening complications related to total parenteral nutrition (TPN). ITx can be classified into three main types. Isolated intestinal transplantation (IITx), that is, transplantation of the jejunoileum, is indicated in patients with preserved liver function. Combined liver-intestine transplantation (L-ITx), that is, transplantation of the liver and the jejunoileum, is indicated in patients with liver failure related to TPN. Thus, patients with cirrhosis or advanced fibrosis should receive a combined allograft, while patients with lower grades of liver fibrosis can usually safely undergo ITx. Reflecting their degree of sickness, the waitlist mortality rate and the early posttransplant outcomes of patients receiving L-ITx are worse than IITx. However, L-ITx is associated with better long-term graft and patient survival. Multivisceral transplantation (MVTx), that is, transplantation of the organs dependent on the celiac axis and superior mesenteric artery, can be classified into full MVTx if it includes the liver and modified MVTx if it does not. The most common indications for MVTx are extensive portomesenteric thrombosis and diffuse gastrointestinal pathology such as motility disorders and polyposis syndrome. Every patient with IF should undergo a multidisciplinary evaluation by an experienced ITx team.
Biochemical and Molecular Analysis of the Hb Lepore Boston Washington in a Syrian Homozygous Child
Authors: Pirastru Monica , Manca Laura , Trova Sandro , Mereu Paolo
Published: May 2017

Hemoglobin (Hb) Lepore is composed of two normalαchains and twoδβfusion globins that arise from unequal crossover events between theδ- andβ-globin genes. The Hb Lepore is widespread all over the world and in many ethnic groups. It includes some of the few clinically significant Hb variants that are associated with aβ-thalassemia phenotype. Here, we describe the first occurrence of Hb Lepore Boston Washington in a Syrian individual. The patient, a 10-year-old child, shows severe anemia with a Hb level of 6.85 g/dL and typical thalassemic red cell indices. The diagnostic procedure implies hematological, biochemical, and molecular analysis, including multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) assay, GAP-PCR, and DNA sequencing. This latter allowed us to define the correct structure of the hybridδβ-globin gene. The knowledge of the spectrum of mutations associated with different geographical areas is the prerequisite to set up large-scale screening programs and be able to offer genetic counseling to couples at risk.
New Modified UPLC/Tandem Mass Spectrometry Method for Determination of Risperidone and Its Active Metabolite 9-Hydroxyrisperidone in Plasma: Application to Dose-Dependent Pharmacokinetic Study in Sprague-Dawley Rats
Authors: Ezzeldin Essam , Tammam Marwa , Abo Talib Nisreen F.
Published: May 2017

Sensitive and specific liquid-chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) assay has been developed and validated for simultaneous quantification of risperidone (RIS) and its active metabolite 9-hydroxyrisperidone (9-OH-RIS) in rat plasma using olanzapine (OLA) as internal standard (IS). Pharmacokinetics of risperidone and its active metabolite 9-hydroxyrisperidone was compared across different doses (0.3, 1.0, and 6.0 mg/kg). Serial blood sample was collected over a time of 48 hours and analyzed for risperidone and its active metabolite 9-hydroxyrisperidone. The pharmacokinetics parameters including Cmax, tmax, and AUC were determined for risperidone and its active ingredient. The method was linear in the concentration range of 0.2–500 ng/mL for risperidone and 9-OH-risperidone, with coefficients of determination greater than 0.998 and lower limit of quantitation of 0.2 ng/mL. Blood levels of risperidone and its active metabolite were roughly dose-proportional. The method developed herein is simple and rapid and was successfully applied for dose-dependent pharmacokinetic study.
Dynamic Changes Analysis and Hotspots Detection of Land Use in the Central Core Functional Area of Jing‐Jin‐Ji from 2000 to 2015 Based on Remote Sensing Data
Authors: Li Yafei , Liu Gaohuan , Huang Chong
Published: May 2017

The article uses GIS spatial analysis and grid technologies to study the dynamic changes, hotspot regions, and driving forces in land use of the central core functional area of Jing‐Jin‐Ji. The research results are as follows: from 2000 to 2015, the main types of land use in the central core functional area of Jing‐Jin‐Ji are cultivated land, woodland, and built‐up land. In the period of 2005–2010, the transfer between built‐up land and cultivated land was frequent. The dynamic degree of single land use in unused land was highest. It also finds out that the dynamic degree of the integrated land use from 2005 to 2010 was higher. The center of gravity transfer of the dynamic degree of integrated land use was concentrated in research area. As for the hotspots, their number and scope are increasing, and the positions located in the edge of original main urban area and developed transportation network. The main characteristics of land use dynamic change in the study area are the rapid decrease of cultivated land area and rapid growth of built‐up land. The spatial agglomeration of economic factors caused by human activities has an important influence on the spatial and temporal dynamic changes of land use.
Human Adipose-Derived Stem Cells Exhibit Enhanced Proliferative Capacity and Retain Multipotency Longer than Donor-Matched Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells during Expansion In Vitro
Authors: Burrow Kimberley L. , Hoyland Judith A. , Richardson Stephen M.
Published: May 2017

Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and adipose-derived multipotent/mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) have been proposed as the ideal cell types for a range of musculoskeletal tissue engineering and regenerative medicine therapies. However, extensive in vitro expansion is required to generate sufficient cells for clinical application and previous studies have demonstrated differences in the proliferative capacity and the impact of expansion on differentiation capacity of both MSCs and ASCs. Significantly, these studies routinely use cells from different donors, making direct comparisons difficult. Importantly, this study directly compared the proliferative capacity and multipotency of human MSCs and ASCs from the same donors to determine how each cell type was affected by in vitro expansion. The study identified that ASCs were able to proliferate faster and undergo greater population doublings than donor-matched MSCs and that senescence was primarily driven via telomere shortening and upregulation of p16ink4a. Both donor-matched MSCs and ASCs were capable of trilineage differentiation early in cultures; however, while differentiation capacity diminished with time in culture, ASCs retained enhanced capacity compared to MSCs. These findings suggest that ASCs may be the most appropriate cell type for musculoskeletal tissue engineering and regenerative medicine therapies due to their enhanced in vitro expansion capacity and limited loss of differentiation potential.
Factors Affecting Herd Status for Bovine Tuberculosis in Dairy Cattle in Northern Thailand
Authors: Singhla Tawatchai , Boonyayatra Sukolrat , Punyapornwithaya Veerasak , VanderWaal Kimberly L. , Alvarez Julio , Sreevatsan Srinand , Phornwisetsirikun Somphorn , Sankwan Jamnong , Srijun Mongkol , Wells Scott J.
Published: May 2017

The objective of this case-control study was to identify farm-level risk factors associated with bovine tuberculosis (bTB) in dairy cows in northern Thailand. Spatial analysis was performed to identify geographical clustering of case-farms located in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai provinces in northern Thailand. To identify management factors affecting bTB status, a matched case-control study was conducted with 20 case-farms and 38 control-farms. Case-farms were dairy farms with at least single intradermal tuberculin test- (SIT-) reactor(s) in the farms during 2011 to 2015. Control-farms were dairy farms with no SIT-reactors in the same period and located within 5 km from case-farms. Questionnaires were administered for data collection with questions based on epidemiological plausibility and characteristics of the local livestock industry. Data were analyzed using multiple logistic regressions. A significant geographic cluster was identified only in Chiang Mai province (p<0.05). The risk factor associated with presence of SIT-reactors in dairy herds located in this region was purchasing dairy cows from dealers (OR = 5.85, 95% CI = 1.66–20.58, and p=0.006). From this study, it was concluded that geographic clustering was identified for dairy farms with SIT-reactors in these provinces, and the cattle movements through cattle dealers increased the risks for SIT-reactor farm status.
A Case of Urinary Tract Infection and Severe Sepsis Caused byKluyvera ascorbatain a 73-Year-Old Female with a Brief Literature Review
Authors: Alfreijat Majd
Published: May 2017

Infections that are caused byKluyverabacteria have been previously reported in the medical literature; however, they seem to be less common. Herein, we report a case of urinary tract infection and severe sepsis caused byKluyvera ascorbatain a 73-year-old female. We also did a brief literature review of infections caused by this organism in adults.