bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptor neurons fire in synchrony with the female reproductive cycle
Authors: Schauer Christian , Tong Tong , Petitjean Hugues , Blum Thomas , Peron Sophie , Mai Oliver , Schmitz Frank , Boehm Ulrich , Leinders-Zufall Trese
Published: June 2015

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) controls mammalian reproduction via the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (hpg) axis, acting on gonadotrope cells in the pituitary gland that express the GnRH receptor (GnRHR). Cells expressing the GnRHR have also been identified in the brain. However, the mechanism by which GnRH acts on these potential target cells remains poorly understood due to the difficulty of visualizing and identifying living GnRHR neurons in the central nervous system. We have developed a mouse strain in which GnRHR neurons express a fluorescent marker, enabling the reliable identification of these cells independent of the hormonal status of the animal. In this study, we analyze the GnRHR neurons of the periventricular hypothalamic nucleus in acute brain slices prepared from adult female mice. Strikingly, we find that the action potential firing pattern of these neurons alternates in synchrony with the estrous cycle, with pronounced burst firing during the preovulatory period. We demonstrate that GnRH stimulation is sufficient to trigger the conversion from tonic to burst firing in GnRHR neurons. Furthermore, we show that this switch in the firing pattern is reversed by a potent GnRHR antagonist. These data suggest that endogenous GnRH acts on GnRHR neurons and triggers burst firing in these cells during late proestrus and estrus. Our data have important clinical implications in that they indicate a novel mode of action for GnRHR agonists and antagonists in neurons of the central nervous system that are not part of the classical hpg axis.
Inhibitory input to the direction-selective ganglion cell is saturated at low contrast
Authors: Lipin Mikhail Y. , Taylor W. Rowland , Smith Robert G.
Published: June 2015

Direction-selective ganglion cells (DSGCs) respond selectively to motion toward a “preferred” direction, but much less to motion toward the opposite “null” direction. Directional signals in the DSGC depend on GABAergic inhibition and are observed over a wide range of speeds, which precludes motion detection based on a fixed temporal correlation. A voltage-clamp analysis, using narrow bar stimuli similar in width to the receptive field center, demonstrated that inhibition to DSGCs saturates rapidly above a threshold contrast. However, for wide bar stimuli that activate both the center and surround, inhibition depends more linearly on contrast. Excitation for both wide and narrow bars was also more linear. We propose that positive feedback, likely within the starburst amacrine cell or its network, produces steep saturation of inhibition at relatively low contrast. This mechanism renders GABA release essentially contrast and speed invariant, which enhances directional signals for small objects and thereby increases the signal-to-noise ratio for direction-selective signals in the spike train over a wide range of stimulus conditions. The steep saturation of inhibition confers to a neuron immunity to noise in its spike train, because when inhibition is strong no spikes are initiated.
Structure and Electrical Study of New Chemically Modified Poly(vinyl chloride)
Authors: Ammari F. , Dardouri M. , Kahlaoui M. , Meganem F.
Published: June 2015

The aim of this work was to study the structural and electrical properties of a new polymer obtained by functionalization of a commercial poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) (Mw = 48000) by grafting aminoalkyl and aminoaryl groups. Modified poly(vinyl chloride) was prepared in two steps. The structural properties of the polymer were systematically investigated by varieties of techniques as differential scanning calorimetric (DSC), thermogravimetry analysis (TG), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The electrical properties of the polymer were studied by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS).
L-Dopa Pharmacokinetic Profile with Effervescent Melevodopa/Carbidopa versus Standard-Release Levodopa/Carbidopa Tablets in Parkinson’s Disease: A Randomised Study
Authors: Stocchi Fabrizio , Vacca Laura , Grassini Paola , Pawsey Stephen , Whale Holly , Marconi Stefano , Torti Margherita
Published: June 2015

Objectives.To characterize the pharmacokinetic profile of levodopa (L-dopa) and carbidopa after repeated doses of the effervescent tablet of melevodopa/carbidopa (V1512; Sirio) compared with standard-release L-dopa/carbidopa in patients with fluctuating Parkinson’s disease. Few studies assessed the pharmacokinetics of carbidopa to date.Methods.This was a single-centre, randomized, double-blind, double-dummy, two-period crossover study. Patients received V1512 (melevodopa 100 mg/carbidopa 25 mg) or L-dopa 100 mg/carbidopa 25 mg, 7 doses over 24 hours (Cohort 1), 4 doses over 12 hours (Cohort 2), or 2 doses over 12 hours in combination with entacapone 200 mg (Cohort 3). Pharmacokinetic parameters included area under the plasma-concentration time curve (AUC), maximum plasma concentration (Cmax), and time toCmax(tmax).Results.Twenty-five patients received at least one dose of study medication. L-dopa absorption tended to be quicker and pharmacokinetic parameters less variable after V1512 versus L-dopa/carbidopa, both over time and between patients. Accumulation of L-dopa in plasma was less noticeable with V1512. Carbidopa exposure and interpatient variability was lower when V1512 or L-dopa/carbidopa was given in combination with entacapone. Both treatments were well tolerated.Conclusions.V1512 provides a more reliable L-dopa pharmacokinetic profile versus standard-release L-dopa/carbidopa, with less drug accumulation and less variability. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.govNCT00491998.
Management of Musculoskeletal Manifestations in Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Sheth Tejas , Pitchumoni C. S. , Das Kiron M.
Published: June 2015

Musculoskeletal manifestations are the most common extraintestinal manifestations in inflammatory bowel diseases. Some appendicular manifestations are independent of gut inflammation and are treated with standard anti-inflammatory strategies. On the other hand, axial involvement is linked to gut inflammatory activity; hence, there is a considerable amount of treatment overlap. Biological therapies have revolutionized management of inflammatory bowel diseases as well as of associated articular manifestations. Newer mechanisms driving gut associated arthropathy have surfaced in the past decade and have enhanced our interests in novel treatment targets. Introduction of biosimilar molecules is expected in the US market in the near future and will provide an opportunity for considerable cost savings on healthcare. A multidisciplinary approach involving a gastroenterologist, rheumatologist, and physical therapist is ideal for these patients.
Alpha-Lipoic Acid and Antioxidant Diet Help to Improve Endothelial Dysfunction in Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes: A Pilot Trial
Authors: Scaramuzza Andrea , Giani Elisa , Redaelli Francesca , Ungheri Saverio , Macedoni Maddalena , Giudici Valentina , Bosetti Alessandra , Ferrari Matteo , Zuccotti Gian Vincenzo
Published: June 2015

After evaluating the prevalence of early endothelial dysfunction, as measured by means of reactive hyperemia in adolescents with type 1 diabetes, we started a 6-month, double-blind, randomized trial to test the efficacy of an antioxidant diet (± alpha-lipoic acid supplementation) to improve endothelial dysfunction. Seventy-one children and adolescents, ages 17 ± 3.9 yrs, with type 1 diabetes since 9.5 ± 5.3 yrs, using intensified insulin therapy, were randomized into 3 arms: (a) antioxidant diet 10.000 ORAC + alpha-lipoic acid; (b) antioxidant diet 10.000 ORAC + placebo; (c) controls. BMI, blood pressure, fasting lipid profile, HbA1c, insulin requirement, dietary habits, and body composition were determined in each patient. An antioxidant diet significantly improved endothelial dysfunction when supplemented with alpha-lipoic acid, unlike diet with placebo or controls. A significant reduction in bolus insulin was also observed. We speculate that alpha-lipoic acid might have an antioxidant effect in pediatric diabetes patients by reducing insulin.
Dynamic Response of an Inhomogeneous Viscoelastic Pile in a Multilayered Soil to Transient Axial Loading
Authors: Zhang Zhiqing , Zhou Jian , Wang Kuihua , Li Qiang , Liu Kaifu
Published: June 2015

A quasi-analytical solution is developed in this paper to investigate the mechanism of one-dimensional longitudinal wave propagating in inhomogeneous viscoelastic pile embedded in layered soil and subjected to a transient axial loading. At first, the pile-soil system is subdivided into several layers along the depth direction in consideration of the variation of cross-sectional acoustic impedance of the pile or differences in soil properties. Then, the dynamic governing equation of arbitrary soil layer is established in cylindrical coordinates and arbitrary viscoelastic pile segment is modeled using a single Voigt model. By using the Laplace transform and boundary conditions of the pile-soil system, the vertical impedance at the top of arbitrary pile segment is defined in a closed form in the frequency domain. Then by utilizing the method of recursion typically used in the Transfer Function technique, the vertical impedance at the pile top can be derived in the frequency domain and the velocity response of an inhomogeneous viscoelastic pile subjected to a semi-sine wave exciting force is obtained in a semi-analytical form in the time domain. Selected numerical results are obtained to study the mechanism of longitudinal wave propagating in a pile with a single defect or double defects.
Remaining Problems in Interpretation of the Cosmic Microwave Background
Authors: Fahr Hans-Jörg , Sokaliwska Michael
Published: June 2015

By three independent hints it will be demonstrated that still at present there is a substantial lack of theoretical understanding of the CMB phenomenon. One point, as we show, is that at the phase of the recombination era one cannot assume complete thermodynamic equilibrium conditions but has to face both deviations in the velocity distributions of leptons and baryons from a Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution and automatically correlated deviations of photons from a Planck law. Another point is that at the conventional understanding of the CMB evolution in an expanding universe one has to face growing CMB temperatures with growing look-back times. We show, however, here that the expected CMB temperature increases would be prohibitive to star formation in galaxies at redshifts higher than z=2 where nevertheless the cosmologically most relevant supernovae have been observed. The third point in our present study has to do with the assumption of a constant vacuum energy density which is required by the present ΛCDM-cosmology. Our studies here rather lead to the conclusion that cosmic vacuum energy density scales with the inverse square of the cosmic expansion scale R=R(t). Thus we come to the conclusion that with the interpretation of the present-day high quality CMB data still needs to be considered carefully.
A Fuzzy Neural Network Based on Non-Euclidean Distance Clustering for Quality Index Model in Slashing Process
Authors: Zhang Yuxian , Li Song , Qian Xiaoyi , Wang Jianhui
Published: June 2015

The quality index model in slashing process is difficult to build by reason of the outliers and noise data from original data. To the above problem, a fuzzy neural network based on non-Euclidean distance clustering is proposed in which the input space is partitioned into many local regions by the fuzzy clustering based on non-Euclidean distance so that the computation complexity is decreased, and fuzzy rule number is determined by validity function based on both the separation and the compactness among clusterings. Then, the premise parameters and consequent parameters are trained by hybrid learning algorithm. The parameters identification is realized; meanwhile the convergence condition of consequent parameters is obtained by Lyapunov function. Finally, the proposed method is applied to build the quality index model in slashing process in which the experimental data come from the actual slashing process. The experiment results show that the proposed fuzzy neural network for quality index model has lower computation complexity and faster convergence time, comparing with GP-FNN, BPNN, and RBFNN.
Fast Integral Equation Solution of Scattering of Multiscale Objects by Domain Decomposition Method with Mixed Basis Functions
Authors: Zhao Ran , Zhao Hua Peng , Nie Zai-ping , Hu Jun
Published: June 2015

Nonconformal nonoverlapping domain decomposition method (DDM) with mixed basis functions is presented to realize fast integral equation solution of electromagnetic scattering of multiscale objects. The original multiscale objects are decomposed into several closed subdomains. The higher order hierarchical vector basis functions are used in the electrically large smooth subdomains to significantly reduce the number of unknowns, while traditional Rao-Wilton-Glisson basis functions are used for subdomains with tiny structures. A well-posed matrix is successfully derived by the present DDM. Besides, the nonconformal property of DDM allows flexible mesh generation for complicated objects. Numerical results are presented to validate the proposed method and illustrate its advantages.
Assessment of the Correlation between the Implant Distance and Primary Stability by Resonance Frequency Analysis
Authors: Jeu Samuel , Guillaud Etienne , Hauret Laurent , Coutant Jean-Christophe , Ella Bruno
Published: June 2015

Objective. The aim of this study was to assess the influence of the interimplant distance on the implant primary stability (ISQ) by Resonance Frequency Analysis (RFA). Method. Forty-five implants were placed in the mandible of human cadavers and 108 in artificial bone substrates in the form of polyurethane foam blocks. Primary implant stability was successively measured first by RFA immediately after the placement of the first implant (A) and then after two other implants (B and C) proximal and distal to the first implant. The interimplant distances were defined from 1 to 6 mm and the three primary stability values measured were compared. Results. On the mandibles, no correlation was observed between the interimplant distances and primary stability. On the polyurethane foam block, the primary stability of implant A increased significantly (p<0.001) after the placement of implant B but remained constant after placement of implant C. Conclusion. Reducing the interimplant distance does not affect the primary stability on dry bone or artificial substrate.
A Well-Designed Parameter Estimation Method for Lifetime Prediction of Deteriorating Systems with Both Smooth Degradation and Abrupt Damage
Authors: Yu Chuanqiang , Jiang Cheng
Published: June 2015

Deteriorating systems, which are subject to both continuous smooth degradation and additional abrupt damages due to a shock process, can be often encountered in engineering. Modeling the degradation evolution and predicting the lifetime of this kind of systems are both interesting and challenging in practice. In this paper, we model the degradation trajectory of the deteriorating system by a random coefficient regression (RCR) model with positive jumps, where the RCR part is used to model the continuous smooth degradation of the system and the jump part is used to characterize the abrupt damages due to random shocks. Based on a specified threshold level, the probability density function (PDF) and cumulative distribution function (CDF) of the lifetime can be derived analytically. The unknown parameters associated with the derived lifetime distributions can be estimated via a well-designed parameter estimation procedure on the basis of the available degradation recordings of the deteriorating systems. An illustrative example is finally provided to demonstrate the implementation and superiority of the newly proposed lifetime prediction method. The experimental results reveal that our proposed lifetime prediction method with the dedicated parameter estimation strategy can get more accurate lifetime predictions than the rival model in literature.
Integrated Damage Sensing in Fibre‐Reinforced Composites with Extremely Low Carbon Nanotube Loadings
Authors: Zhang Han , Kuwata Manabu , Bilotti Emiliano , Peijs Ton
Published: June 2015

A nanoengineered hybrid composite system has been developed, with integrated damage sensing capabilities at extremely low carbon nanotube (CNT) contents. The employed simple spray coating technique offers good spatial control and the possibility of localized CNT deposition, especially near the fibre/matrix interface, solving traditional problems associated with the incorporation of nanofillers in fibre‐reinforced composite laminates such as increased resin viscosity and filtering effects. Moreover, the employed spraying technology has good potential for industrial scale‐up. In situ damage sensing based on standard composite tests has been demonstrated for the first time on hybrid glass fibre/CNT composites using extremely low CNT loadings (below 0.1 wt.%) and shows great potential for localized structural health monitoring by controlled CNT deposition into damage prone zones.
Research on FCM and NHL Based High Order Mining Driven by Big Data
Authors: Peng Zhen , Peng Jie , Zhao Wei , Chen Zhenguo
Published: June 2015

In order to get the high order evaluation and correlation degree among big data with the characteristics of multidimension and multigranularity, an FCM and NHL based high order mining algorithm driven by big data is proposed, which is a kind of machine learning based on qualitative knowledge. The algorithm is applied in scientific and technical talent forecast. Driven by the big data of scientific research track of scientific and technical talents, the index system is designed and the big data is automatically acquired and processed. Accordingly, the high order evaluations in dimension level and target level can be inferred by the correlation weights mining. And the outstanding young talents in material field in 2014 have been actively recommended to review department for decision-making.
Effective Filtering of Query Results on Updated User Behavioral Profiles in Web Mining
Authors: Sadesh S. , Suganthe R. C.
Published: June 2015

Web with tremendous volume of information retrieves result for user related queries. With the rapid growth of web page recommendation, results retrieved based on data mining techniques did not offer higher performance filtering rate because relationships between user profile and queries were not analyzed in an extensive manner. At the same time, existing user profile based prediction in web data mining is not exhaustive in producing personalized result rate. To improve the query result rate on dynamics of user behavior over time, Hamilton Filtered Regime Switching User Query Probability (HFRS‐UQP) framework is proposed. HFRS‐UQP framework is split into two processes, where filtering and switching are carried out. The data mining based filtering in our research work uses the Hamilton Filtering framework to filter user result based on personalized information on automatic updated profiles through search engine. Maximized result is fetched, that is, filtered out with respect to user behavior profiles. The switching performs accurate filtering updated profiles using regime switching. The updating in profile change (i.e., switches) regime in HFRS‐UQP framework identifies the second‐ and higher‐order association of query result on the updated profiles. Experiment is conducted on factors such as personalized information search retrieval rate, filtering efficiency, and precision ratio.
Pion Transverse Momentum Spectrum, Elliptic Flow, and Interferometry in the Granular Source Model for RHIC and LHC Heavy Ion Collisions
Authors: Yang Jing , Ren Yan-Yu , Zhang Wei-Ning
Published: June 2015

We systematically investigate the pion transverse momentum spectrum, elliptic flow, and Hanbury-Brown-Twiss (HBT) interferometry in the granular source model for the heavy ion collisions of Au-Au atsNN=200 GeV and Pb-Pb atsNN=2.76 TeV with different centralities. The granular source model can well reproduce the experimental results of the heavy ion collisions at the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider (RHIC) and the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). We examine the parameters involved in the granular source model. The experimental data of the momentum spectrum, elliptic flow, and HBT radii for the two collision energies and different centralities impose very strict constraints on the model parameters. They exhibit certain regularities for collision centrality and energy. The space-time structure and expansion velocities of the granular sources for the heavy ion collisions at the RHIC and LHC energies with different centralities are investigated.
Central Macular Thickness in Children with Myopia, Emmetropia, and Hyperopia: An Optical Coherence Tomography Study
Authors: Yau Gordon S. K. , Lee Jacky W. Y. , Woo Tiffany T. Y. , Wong Raymond L. M. , Wong Ian Y. H.
Published: June 2015

Purpose.To investigate the central macular thickness (CMT) in myopic, emmetropic, and hyperopic Chinese children using Optical Coherence Tomography.Methods.168 right eyes of Chinese subjects aged 4–18 were divided into 3 groups based on their postcycloplegic spherical equivalent: myopes (<−1.0 D); emmetropes (≥−1.0 to ≤+1.0 D); and hyperopes (>+1.0 D) and the CMT was compared before/after age adjustment. The CMT was correlated with age, axial length, and peripapillary retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL).Results.The mean CMT was274.9±50.3 μm and the mean population age was7.6±3.3years. The CMT was thickest in the myopes (283.3±57.3 μm,n=56), followed by the hyperopes (266.2±55.31 μm,n=60) and then emmetropes (259.8±28.7 μm,n=52) (allP<0.0001). When adjusted for age, myopes had a thicker CMT than the other 2 groups (allP<0.0001) but there was no CMT difference between the emmetropes and hyperopes (P>0.05). There was no significant correlation between CMT with age, axial length, or peripapillary RNFL (allP≥0.2).Conclusion.Chinese children with myopia had a thicker CMT than those with emmetropia or hyperopia. There was no correlation of the CMT with age, axial length, or peripapillary RNFL thickness.
Circuit Tolerance Design Using Belief Rule Base
Authors: Xu Xiao-Bin , Liu Zheng , Chen Yu-Wang , Xu Dong-Ling , Wen Cheng-Lin
Published: June 2015

A belief rule-based (BRB) system provides a generic nonlinear modeling and inference mechanism. It is capable of modeling complex causal relationships by utilizing both quantitative information and qualitative knowledge. In this paper, a BRB system is firstly developed to model the highly nonlinear relationship between circuit component parameters and the performance of the circuit by utilizing available knowledge from circuit simulations and circuit designers. By using rule inference in the BRB system and clustering analysis, the acceptability regions of the component parameters can be separated from the value domains of the component parameters. Using the established nonlinear relationship represented by the BRB system, an optimization method is then proposed to seek the optimal feasibility region in the acceptability regions so that the volume of the tolerance region of the component parameters can be maximized. The effectiveness of the proposed methodology is demonstrated through two typical numerical examples of the nonlinear performance functions with nonconvex and disconnected acceptability regions and high-dimensional input parameters and a real-world application in the parameter design of a track circuit for Chinese high-speed railway.
Nanodosimetry-Based Plan Optimization for Particle Therapy
Authors: Casiraghi Margherita , Schulte Reinhard W.
Published: June 2015

Treatment planning for particle therapy is currently an active field of research due uncertainty in how to modify physical dose in order to create a uniform biological dose response in the target. A novel treatment plan optimization strategy based on measurable nanodosimetric quantities rather than biophysical models is proposed in this work. Simplified proton and carbon treatment plans were simulated in a water phantom to investigate the optimization feasibility. Track structures of the mixed radiation field produced at different depths in the target volume were simulated with Geant4-DNA and nanodosimetric descriptors were calculated. The fluences of the treatment field pencil beams were optimized in order to create a mixed field with equal nanodosimetric descriptors at each of the multiple positions in spread-out particle Bragg peaks. For both proton and carbon ion plans, a uniform spatial distribution of nanodosimetric descriptors could be obtained by optimizing opposing-field but not single-field plans. The results obtained indicate that uniform nanodosimetrically weighted plans, which may also be radiobiologically uniform, can be obtained with this approach. Future investigations need to demonstrate that this approach is also feasible for more complicated beam arrangements and that it leads to biologically uniform response in tumor cells and tissues.
Leptin as well as Free Leptin Receptor Is Associated with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Young Women
Authors: Rizk Nasser M. , Sharif Elham
Published: June 2015

Background and Aim. Leptin has two forms in the circulation: free and bound forms. The soluble leptin receptor (sOB-R) circulates in the blood and can bind to leptin. The aim of this study is to assess the concentrations of the leptin and the sOB-R in PCOS and its relation to adiposity, insulin resistance, and androgens.Methods. A cross-sectional study included 78 female students aged 17–25 years. Fasting serum leptin and sOB-R concentrations were measured. The anthropometric variables and the hormonal profile such as insulin, female and male sex hormones, and prolactin were assessed.Results. In PCOS, leptin level (ng/ml) and free leptin index (FLI) increased significantly while sOB-R (ng/ml) significantly decreased compared to control subjects. In age-matched subjects, obese PCOS had increased leptin level in ng/ml (median level with interquartile levels) of 45.67 (41.98–48.04) and decreased sOB-R in ng/ml 11.47 (7.59–16.44) compared to lean PCOS 16.97 (10.60–45.55) for leptin and 16.62 (11.61–17.96) for sOB-R withpvalues 0.013 and 0.042, respectively. However, body mass index (BMI) is significantly correlated with leptin and s-OBR, while no significant correlations with parameters of insulin resistance were detected.Conclusion. PCOS is associated with hyperleptinemia and increased free leptin index. Decreased sOB-R could be a compensatory mechanism for the defective action of leptin.
Effects of a 12-Week Hatha Yoga Intervention on Cardiorespiratory Endurance, Muscular Strength and Endurance, and Flexibility in Hong Kong Chinese Adults: A Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Lau Caren , Yu Ruby , Woo Jean
Published: June 2015

Objective. To examine the effects of a 12-week Hatha yoga intervention on cardiorespiratory endurance, muscular strength and endurance, and flexibility in Chinese adults.Methods. 173 adults (aged 52.0 ± 7.5 years) were assigned to either the yoga intervention group (n=87) or the waitlist control group (n=86). 19 dropped out from the study. Primary outcomes were changes in cardiorespiratory endurance (resting heart rate (HR) and maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max)), muscular strength and endurance (curl-up and push-up tests), and lower back and hamstring flexibility (the modified back-saver sit-and-reach (MBS) test).Results. Compared to controls, the yoga group achieved significant improvements inVO2max(P<0.01), curl-up (P<0.05) and push-up (P<0.001) tests, and the MBS left and right leg tests (bothP<0.001) in both genders. Significant change was also found for resting HR between groups in women (P<0.05) but not in men. Further analysis comparing participants between younger and older subgroups yielded similar findings, except that the older participants in the yoga group failed to improve resting HR or the curl-up test versus control. Adherence (89%) and attendance (94%) were high. No serious adverse events occurred.Conclusion. A 12-week Hatha yoga intervention has favorable effects on cardiorespiratory endurance, muscular strength and endurance, and flexibility in Chinese adults.
Eucommia ulmoidesOliv. (Du-Zhong) Lignans Inhibit Angiotensin II-Stimulated Proliferation by Affecting P21, P27, and Bax Expression in Rat Mesangial Cells
Authors: Jing Xian , Huang Wei-Hua , Tang Yong-Jun , Wang Ya-Qin , Li Hui , Tian Ying-Ying , Chen Yao , Zhou Hong-Hao , Ouyang Dong-Sheng
Published: June 2015

Cortex Eucommiae (Du-zhong) is the dried bark of theEucommia ulmoidesOliv. The natural products identified fromDu-zhonginclude lignans, iridoids, flavonoids, polysaccharides, terpenes, and proteins, Liu et al. (2012). Lignans, the main bioactive components, were protective against hypertensive renal injury in spontaneous hypertensive rats in our previous study, Li et al. (2012). Moreover,Eucommialignans also diminished aldose reductase (AR) overexpression in the kidney, Li et al. (2012). However, the pathological mechanism underlying the protective effects ofEucommialignans remains unknown. Cellular proliferation was reported to contribute to important pathological changes in hypertensive renal injuries, and increased angiotensin II (Ang II) expression was reported to be essential for target-organ damage during hypertension. Ang II is the main effective peptide in the renin-angiotensin system and is considered to be a key mediator in the development of hypertensive nephropathy, Rüster and Wolf (2011). Our preliminary results showed thatEucommialignans had inhibitory effects on Ang II-induced proliferation of rat mesangial cells. In the present study, we investigated the effects ofEucommia ulmoideson Ang II-induced proliferation and apoptosis of rat mesangial cells. Cell cycle-related genes P21 and P27, and cell apoptosis-related genes Bax and Bcl-2, were determined.
Pilot Trial of Selecting Molecularly Guided Therapy for Patients with Non–V600 BRAF-Mutant Metastatic Melanoma: Experience of the SU2C/MRA Melanoma Dream Team
Authors: LoRusso Patricia M. , Boerner Scott A. , Pilat Mary Jo , Forman Karen M. , Zuccaro Clarice Y. , Kiefer Jeffrey A. , Liang Winnie S. , Hunsberger Sally , Redman Bruce G. , Markovic Svetomir N. , Sekulic Aleksandar , Bryce Alan H. , Joseph Richard W. , Cowey C. Lance , Fecher Leslie Anne , Sosman Jeffrey Alan , Chapman Paul B. , Schwartz Gary K. , Craig David W. , Carpten John D. , Trent Jeffrey M.
Published: June 2015

Targeted therapies and immunotherapies have led to significant improvements in the treatment of advanced cancers, including metastatic melanoma. However, new strategies are desperately needed to overcome therapeutic resistance to these agents, as well as to identify effective treatment approaches for cancer patients that fall outside major targetable mutational subtypes (e.g., non–V600 BRAF melanoma). One such strategy is to extend the paradigm of individually tailored, molecularly targeted therapy into a broader spectrum of melanoma patients, particularly those bearing tumors without commonly recognized therapeutic targets, as well as having failed or were ineligible for immunotherapy. In this nontreatment pilot study, next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies were utilized, including whole genome and whole transcriptome sequencing, to identify molecular aberrations in patients with non–V600 BRAF metastatic melanoma. This information was then rationally matched to an appropriate clinical treatment from a defined pharmacopeia. Five patients with advanced non–V600 BRAF metastatic melanoma were enrolled. We demonstrated successful performance of the following during a clinically relevant time period: patient tumor biopsy, quality DNA/RNA extraction, DNA/RNA-based sequencing for gene expression analysis, analysis utilizing a series of data integration methodologies, report generation, and tumor board review with formulated treatment plan. Streamlining measures were conducted based on the experiences of enrolling, collecting specimens, and analyzing the molecular signatures of patients. We demonstrated the feasibility of using NGS to identify molecular aberrations and generate an individualized treatment plan in this patient population. A randomized treatment study utilizing lessons learned from the conduct of this pilot study is currently underway. Mol Cancer Ther; 14(8); 1962–71. ©2015 AACR.
Transdifferentiation of erythroblasts to megakaryocytes using FLI1 and ERG transcription factors
Authors: Siripin Darin , Kheolamai Pakpoom , U-Pratya Yaowalak , Supokawej Aungkura , Wattanapanitch Methichit , Klincumhom Nuttha , Laowtammathron Chuti , Issaragrisil Surapol
Published: June 2015

Platelet transfusion has been widely used to prevent and treat life-threatening thrombocytopenia; however, preparation of a unit of concentrated platelet for transfusion requires at least 4–6 units of whole blood. At present, a platelet unit from a single donor can be prepared using apheresis, but lack of donors is still a major problem. Several approaches to produce platelets from other sources, such as haematopoietic stem cells and pluripotent stem cells, have been attempted but the system is extremely complicated, time-consuming and expensive. We now report a novel and simpler technology to obtain platelets using transdifferentiation of human bone marrow erythroblasts to megakaryocytes with overexpression of the FLI1 and ERG genes. The obtained transdifferentiated erythroblasts (both from CD71+ and GPA+ erythroblast subpopulations) exhibit typical features of megakaryocytes including morphology, expression of specific genes (cMPL and TUBB1) and a marker protein (CD41). They also have the ability to generate megakaryocytic CFU in culture and produce functional platelets, which aggregate with normal human platelets to form a normal-looking clot. Overexpression of FLI1 and ERG genes is sufficient to transdifferentiate erythroblasts to megakaryocytes that can produce functional platelets.
АЛГОРИТМ КЛАСИФІКАЦІЇ ПОЛІТРАВМ МЕТОДОМ ІНДУКЦІЇ ДЕРЕВА РІШЕНЬ
Authors: Borys R. M. , Martsenyuk V. P.
Published: June 2015

The work program is developed and implemented induction decision tree method for classification of polytrauma based on a number of biochemical parameters.

The selection algorithm     uses the value of the attribute information gain. The project was implemented in the  medium

Netbeans Java-based classes.
Echocardiographic and Hemodynamic Predictors of Survival in Precapillary Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Grapsa Julia , Pereira Nunes Maria Carmo , Tan Timothy C. , Cabrita Ines Zimbarra , Coulter Taryn , Smith Benjamin C.F. , Dawson David , Gibbs J. Simon R. , Nihoyannopoulos Petros
Published: June 2015

Background—

In this study, we looked at the prognostic value of echocardiographic and hemodynamic measures in a large cohort of patients with precapillary pulmonary hypertension before and after initiation of treatment.

Methods and Results—

Data were collected prospectively in a cohort of consecutive patients with precapillary pulmonary hypertension referred between 2002 and 2011. A range of clinical and echocardiographic variables were collected and stored on a database to assess predictors of survival. Invasive hemodynamic data including pulmonary artery pressure, pulmonary vascular resistance, capillary wedge pressure, and cardiac index were also obtained at baseline in all patients. Outcome was defined as mortality because of cardiovascular-related death. The study cohort comprised 777 patients (514 women) with precapillary pulmonary hypertension. A total of 195 (25%) died. In multivariable analysis, moderate or severe tricuspid regurgitation (hazard ratio [HR], 26.537; 95% confidence interval, 11.536–61.044;
P
<0.001), right ventricular myocardial performance index (HR, 3.421; 95% confidence interval, 1.777–6.584;
P
<0.001), and the presence of pericardial effusion (HR, 1.38; 95% confidence interval, 1.023–1.862;
P
=0.035) were independent predictors of mortality. High pulmonary vascular resistance and right atrial pressure by invasive hemodynamic measurements were independent predictors of mortality (HR, 1.084; 95% confidence interval, 1.041–1.130, and 1.079, respectively; 95% confidence interval, 1.049–1.111;
P
<0.001 for both), whereas patients with a higher cardiac index had better survival overall (HR, 0.384; 95% confidence interval, 0.307–0.481;
P
<0.001).

Conclusions—

Right ventricular dysfunction, moderate–severe tricuspid regurgitation, low cardiac index, and raised right atrial pressure were associated with poor survival for both pulmonary arterial hypertension and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertensive disease patients. The severity of tricuspid regurgitation, myocardial performance index, presence of pericardial effusion, pulmonary vascular resistance, cardiac index, and right atrial pressure may be used to stratify risk of death.
Evaluation of Regional-Scale River Depth Simulations Using Various Routing Schemes within a Hydrometeorological Modeling Framework for the Preparation of the SWOT Mission
Authors: Häfliger Vincent , Martin Eric , Boone Aaron , Habets Florence , David Cédric H. , Garambois Pierre-A. , Roux Hélène , Ricci Sophie , Berthon Lucie , Thévenin Anthony , Biancamaria Sylvain
Published: June 2015

The Surface Water and Ocean Topography (SWOT) mission will provide free water surface elevations, slopes, and river widths for rivers wider than 50 m. Models must be prepared to use this new finescale information by explicitly simulating the link between runoff and the river channel hydraulics. This study assesses one regional hydrometeorological model’s ability to simulate river depths. The Garonne catchment in southwestern France (56 000 km2) has been chosen for the availability of operational gauges in the river network and finescale hydraulic models over two reaches of the river. Several routing schemes, ranging from the simple Muskingum method to time-variable parameter kinematic and diffusive waves schemes, are tested. The results show that the variable flow velocity schemes are advantageous for discharge computations when compared to the original Muskingum routing method. Additionally, comparisons between river depth computations and in situ observations in the downstream Garonne River led to root-mean-square errors of 50–60 cm in the improved Muskingum method and 40–50 cm in the kinematic–diffusive wave method. The results also highlight SWOT’s potential to improve the characterization of hydrological processes for subbasins larger than 10 000 km2, the importance of an accurate digital elevation model, and the need for spatially varying hydraulic parameters.
William Herschel’s Yorkshire Years
Authors: Hoskin Michael
Published: June 2015

William Herschel, telescope-builder, observer, and pioneer of deep-sky astronomy, was a professional musician for the first half of his life. He served as a boy bandsman in the Hanoverian Guards, and then fled to England in 1757 to escape the French. We are well informed about his time as a musician in Bath (1766–1782), which culminated in his discovery of Uranus, as his sister Caroline, chronicler of the family, was with him for most of these years. But little has been known of his previous time in the north of England (1760–1766), or of why an obscure jobbing musician should have been offered a prestigious post in Bath. This article is devoted to this episode in his career.
Patronage and community in a society of thieves
Authors: Piliavsky Anastasia
Published: June 2015

Patronage is a structural pivot of social life in South Asia. Drawing on the ethnography of relations between a caste of professional thieves in rural Rajasthan, known as Kanjars, and their patron-goddesses, I show that patronage is also, crucially, a normative formula which encompasses a set of values. I examine the nature of these values, and why the Kanjars value them such a lot, to show an alternative sense of hierarchy, based neither on substantive values (like purity or auspiciousness) nor on transactions, but on a set of relational values (like attachment and generosity) that may have cardinal provenance beyond the given context.
Increased Kidney Size following Renal Angioplasty
Authors: Ekelund L.
Published: June 2015

Percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty was performed in nine patients (10 kidneys). Immediately following dilatation of the renal artery stenosis, seven of ten kidneys increased in length by at least 0.5 cm (0.5–1.5 cm) indicating improved renal perfusion. This is an observation that does not seem to have been described before. Another, but rare, cause of renal enlargement following angioplasty is hematoma formation which was seen in one of the cases. All of the patients responded well to the treatment and five previously hypertensive patients became normotensive shortly after dilatation.
Budd-Chiari Syndrome Treated by Percutaneous Transluminal Angioplasty
Authors: Sawada S. , Oshima T. , Kato T. , Kubota Y. , Tanaka Y.
Published: June 2015

Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty was performed in a patient with an incomplete obstruction of the inferior vena cava producing the Budd-Chiari syndrome. The web was successfully dilated percutaneously by three simultaneously inflated 9 mm balloon catheters. Symptoms and signs of obstruction of the inferior vena cava improved without any complications. This method is recommended because of its safety, low procedure related risk, and the possibility of recurrent use.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Extremities
Authors: Pettersson H. , Krop D. , Hamlin D. , Fitzsimmons J.
Published: June 2015

In 3 adult volunteers, the appropriate technique for depicting the normal anatomy with magnetic resonance imaging was tested. At 0.15 T, the images obtained in different anatomic planes with different pulse sequences and radiofrequency coils were compared. Spin echo technique with a repetition time of 500 ms and an echo time of 30 ms appeared as a good compromise, giving excellent depiction of both soft tissues and joints, especially if a surface coil was used. The optimum anatomic plane varied with the structures examined.
Radiation Dosimetry in Tomography of the Teeth and Jaws Using a Multi-Film Cassette
Authors: Borglin K. , Petersson A. , Rohlin M. , Thapper K.
Published: June 2015

The absorbed doses and energy imparted in lateral and antero-posterior tomography of the teeth and jaws were measured. A multi-film cassette with 5 films was exposed using a diameter of the circular collimator of 1.5 cm. With one exception, the absorbed doses were below 1 mGy. The parotid gland towards the roentgen tube received about 2 mGy in lateral tomography of the mandibular third molar. The energy imparted in lateral tomography was 0.6 mJ and in antero-posterior tomography about 2.5 mJ. Since the radiation doses in tomography of the teeth and jaws were low compared with estimated risk levels, they should not deter from using tomography.
Iohexol and Meglumine Iothalamate in Shoulder Arthrography
Authors: Tallroth K. , Vankka E.
Published: June 2015

The first clinical experience with the new contrast medium, iohexol, in shoulder arthrography is reported. A double-blind comparison of iohexol and meglumine iothalamate, a conventional medium in standard use for arthrography, was carried out in a consecutive series of 60 adult patients forming two groups of 30 subjects each. No difference in the radiographic quality was seen immediately after contrast injection but in exposures at 20 min iohexol gave a significantly better arthrographic quality. Practically no adverse effects occurred during the examinations. Although minor side effects were numerous in both groups during the two days following arthrography, they were somewhat more frequent in patients given iothalamate
Pharyngeal Swallowing in Patients with Paresis of the Recurrent Nerve
Authors: Ekberg O. , Lindgren S. , Schultze T.
Published: June 2015

Pharyngolaryngeal function during swallowing was investigated cineradiographically in 22 patients with paresis of the recurrent nerve. Nineteen of these patients (86%) had defective closure of the laryngeal vestibule: 10 patients had defective apposition of the corniculate cartilages, (paresis of the oblique cricoarytenoid muscle), 9 patients had defective apposition of the arytenoid cartilages, (paresis of the interarytenoid muscle), 13 patients had defective movement of the epiglottis (paresis of, i.a. the thyrohyoid muscle), 1 patient had defective closure of the subepiglottic portion of the vestibule (paresis of the thyroepiglottic muscle), 2 patients had defective closure of the supraglottic portion of the vestibule (paresis of the superior ventricular segment of the thyroarytenoid muscle). Five patients with immobility of the epiglottis also had paresis of the pharyngeal constrictor musculature indicating paresis of the superior laryngeal nerve. Our investigation has shown that patients with paresis of the recurrent nerve who present with dysphagia with or without aspiration should be examined cineradiographically for pharyngolaryngeal function during swallowing.
The Upper Urinary Tract
Authors: Thomsen H. S. , Dorph S.
Published: June 2015

Pyelography is superior to all other imaging techniques for the demonstration of fine detail in the pelveocalyceal system and the ureter. For almost 90 years it has been performed through a retrogradely inserted catheter, but during the recent 30 years antegrade injection via a transparenchymally inserted needle or catheter has become an accepted alternative, especially in case of a dilated upper urinary tract. Both methods have their advantages and their disadvantages. This article presents a review of indications, techniques, and complications. Furthermore, interventional procedures on the upper urinary tract—such as stent placement and balloon dilatation—are now handled by the radiologist, mainly through an antegrade approach. These therapeutic procedures are also reviewed.
Effects of Intravascular Contrast Media on Blood-Brain Barrier
Authors: Michelet Å. Aulie
Published: June 2015

The effects upon the rabbit blood-brain barrier after intracarotid injection of two non-ionic contrast media, iopentol (a monomer) and iodixanol (a dimer) were compared. Iothalamate and iohexol were used as reference substances.99Tcm-DTPA,125I-HSA and Trypsin blue were used as tracers in order to demonstrate various degrees of damage to the barrier. Injection of iothalamate led to large extravasation of99Tcm-DTPA,125I-HSA and Trypan blue which means severe damage of the blood-brain barrier. Injection of iopentol and iohexol resulted in some extravasation of all three tracers used, whereas injection of iodixanol only led to extravasation of the small molecule tracer99Tcm-DTPA demonstrating minor changes of the barrier. At computed tomography of the brain with intravascular contrast medium enhancement it is safer to use iodixanol than iothalamate. Iodixanol is expected to cause even less adverse effects to the brain after intraarterial injection than iopentol and iohexol.