bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Corticotropin‐Releasing Factor and the Brain‐Gut Motor Response to Stress
Authors: Taché Yvette , Martinez Vicente , Million Mulugeta , Rivier Jean
Published: May 2016

The characterization
of corticotropin‐releasing factor (CRF) and CRF receptors,
and the development of specific CRF receptor antagonists
selective for the receptor subtypes have paved the way to the understanding
of the biochemical coding of stress‐related alterations
of gut motor function. Reports have consistently established that
central administration of CRF acts in the brain to inhibit gastric
emptying while stimulating colonic motor function through modulation
of the vagal and sacral parasympathetic outflow in rodents.
Endogenous CRF in the brain plays a role in mediating various
forms of stressor‐induced gastric stasis, including postoperative
gastric ileus, and activates colonic transit and fecal excretion elicited
by psychologically aversive or fearful stimuli. It is known that
brain CRF is involved in the cross‐talk between the immune and
gastrointestinal systems because systemic or central administration
of interleukin‐1‐beta delays gastric emptying while stimulating
colonic motor activity through activation of CRF release in
the brain. The paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus and
the dorsal vagal complex are important sites of action for CRF to
inhibit gastric motor function, while the paraventricular nucleus
of the hypothalamus and the locus coeruleus complex are sites of
action for CRF to stimulate colonic motor function. The inhibition
of gastric emptying by CRF may be mediated by the interaction
with the CRF2 receptors, while the anxiogenic and colonic
motor responses may involve CRF1 receptors. Hypersecretion of
CRF in the brain may contribute to the pathophysiology of
stress‐related exacerbation of irritable bowel syndrome.
Peripheral Contributions to Visceral Hyperalgesia
Authors: Gebhart GF
Published: May 2016

Hyperalgesia
has long been recognized clinically as a consequence of tissue
injury. Primary hyperalgesia (arising from the site of injury) is
generally considered to be due to sensitization of sensory receptors
(eg, nociceptors) and perhaps activation of so‐called ‘silent
nociceptors’ by mediators released, synthesized or attracted to the
site of tissue injury. Key questions associated with understanding
visceral hyperalgesia relate to whether the viscera are innervated
by nociceptors (ie, sensory receptors that respond selectively to
noxious intensities of stimulation), whether visceral receptors
and/or afferent fibres sensitize after tissue injury and whether silent
nociceptors exist in the viscera. Studies in nonhuman animals
have revealed that hollow organs such as the esophagus,
gall bladder, stomach, urinary bladder, colon and uterus are
innervated by mechanically sensitive receptors with low or high
thresholds for response. Accordingly, it appears that the viscera
are innervated by nociceptors, although the issue is far from settled.
One characteristic of cutaneous nociceptors is their ability to
be sensitized when tissue is injured. Mechanosensitive visceral receptors
also sensitize when the viscera are experimentally inflamed,
but both visceral receptors with low thresholds and those
with high thresholds for response are sensitized. Moreover, it is often
not appreciated that visceral receptors are likely polymodal
rather than unimodal – that is, mechanically sensitive visceral receptors
typically are also sensitive to chemical and/or thermal
stimuli. In this sense, visceral receptors may be considered
evolutionarily older than more highly developed, specialized cutaneous
receptors. Finally, there are mechanically insensitive receptors
that innervate the viscera and, when tissue is injured, develop
spontaneous activity and acquire sensitivity to mechanical stimuli.
In the aggregrate, visceral receptors change their behaviour in
the presence of tissue injury and, along with activated mechanically
insensitive receptors, increase the afferent barrage into the
spinal cord, contributing to the development of visceral
hyperalgesia.
The Role of Omalizumab in the Treatment of Severe Allergic Asthma
Authors: Chapman Kenneth R , Cartier Andre , Hébert Jacques , McIvor R Andrew , Schellenberg R Robert
Published: May 2016

BACKGROUND: A novel anti-immunoglobulin E (anti-IgE) therapy for asthma, omalizumab, has been approved for use in Canada.

OBJECTIVE: To review the basic and clinical data for omalizumab, and to examine its possible role for asthma management in Canada.

METHODS: A literature search from 1960 to 2006 was conducted in MEDLINE to identify studies of omalizumab. In addition, abstracts from recent respiratory and allergy scientific meetings were sought, and any unpublished data were requested from the manufacturer. A consensus panel of respiratory and allergy specialists reviewed and summarized the data, and derived a set of recommendations for omalizumab use.

RESULTS: Omalizumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody designed to bind to the C epsilon 3 domain of the IgE molecule, forming soluble immune complexes that are cleared by the reticuloendothelial system. Subcutaneous injections, given at two- or fourweek intervals at the recommended dose, result in a rapid decrease in free circulating IgE levels. In two phase III clinical trials of 1405 adult and adolescent patients with moderate to severe asthma maintained on moderate doses of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS), omalizumab reduced exacerbation rates compared with placebo, and was associated with improved symptoms and a greater corticosteroid-sparing effect. In a trial of 419 patients with severe disease that was uncontrolled despite the use of high-dose ICS and concurrent long-acting beta2-agonists, severe exacerbations were 50% less frequent in omalizumabtreated patients than in control subjects. Retrospective analyses have identified the characteristics of patients most likely to respond to omalizumab treatment.

RECOMMENDATIONS: Omalizumab may be considered as a potential adjunctive therapy in atopic patients with severe asthma uncontrolled by conventional therapy with optimal doses of ICS and appropriate adjunctive therapy (eg, long-acting beta2-agonists). Typically, patients are identified by the need for frequent short course or continuous oral corticosteroids. Therapy should be initiated only after review by a specialist to confirm the diagnosis and that conventional therapy is optimal.
A Study of the Closed-Loop Supply Chain Coordination on Waste Glass Bottles Recycling
Authors: Ran Wenxue , Chen Fan , Wu Qianni , Liu Sen
Published: May 2016

The recycling of waste products can sharply save manufacturing cost and improve the economic efficiency and corporate-reputation. It also has a great effect on the environment and resources protection. In the management of the closed-loop supply chain, the recycling of waste products and decision-making on pricing often directly affect the supply and demand of products and the operation efficiency of supply chain. Therefore, first we take waste glass bottles as an example and establish a mathematical model to solve the profit of manufacturers and retailers solely. Then, we analyzed whole supply chain profit under a dual-channel recycling condition which is directly recycled by consumers or by retailers. Finally, we concluded that no matter what product’s price, quality, profit, or operational efficiency of supply chain is, the overall recycling is better than the single node recycling model. Based on the analysis, we developed a new model to coordinate the profit of manufacturers and retailers in the supply chain with revenue-sharing contract. A numerical study shows that this approach is applicable and effective.
A Sensitive IHC Method for Monitoring Autophagy-Specific Markers in Human Tumor Xenografts
Authors: He Helen , Yang Yu , Xiang Zhongmin , Yu Lunyin , Chouitar Jouhara , Yu Jie , D’Amore Natalie Roy , Li Ping , Li Zhi , Bowman Douglas , Theisen Matthew , Brownell James E. , Tirrell Stephen
Published: May 2016

Objective. Use of tyramide signal amplification (TSA) to detect autophagy biomarkers in formalin fixed and paraffin embedded (FFPE) xenograft tissue. Materials and Methods. Autophagy marker regulation was studied in xenograft tissues using Amp HQ IHC and standard IHC methods. Results. The data demonstrate the feasibility of using high sensitivity TSA IHC assays to measure low abundant autophagy markers in FFPE xenograft tissue.
Textural Properties of Hybrid Biomedical Materials Made from Extracts ofTournefortia hirsutissimaL. Imbibed and Deposited on Mesoporous and Microporous Materials
Authors: Hernández Miguel Ángel , Rojas Fernando , Portillo Roberto , Salgado Martha Alicia , Petranovskii Vitalii , Quiroz Karla
Published: May 2016

Our research group has developed a group of hybrid biomedical materials potentially useful in the healing of diabetic foot ulcerations. The organic part of this type of hybrid materials consists of nanometric deposits, proceeding from the Mexican medicinal plantTournefortia hirsutissimaL., while the inorganic part is composed of a zeolite mixture that includes LTA, ZSM-5, clinoptilolite, and montmorillonite (PZX) as well as a composite material, made of CaCO3and montmorillonite (NABE). The organic part has been analyzed by GC-MS to detect the most abundant components present therein. In turn, the inorganic supports were characterized by XRD, SEM, and High Resolution Adsorption (HRADS) of N2at 76 K. Through this latter methodology, the external surface area of the hybrid materials was evaluated; besides, the most representative textural properties of each substrate such as total pore volume, pore size distribution, and, in some cases, the volume of micropores were calculated. The formation and stabilization of nanodeposits on the inorganic segments of the hybrid supports led to a partial blockage of the microporosity of the LTA and ZSM5 zeolites; this same effect occurred with the NABE and PZX substrates.
Obstructive Form of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy-Left Ventricular Outflow Tract Gradient: Novel Methods of Provocation, Monitoring of Biomarkers, and Recent Advances in the Treatment
Authors: Dimitrow Pawel Petkow , Rajtar-Salwa Renata
Published: May 2016

Dynamic (latent or/and labile) obstruction of left ventricular outflow (LVOT) was recognized from the earliest clinical descriptions of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and has proved to be a complex phenomenon, as well as arguably the most audible (“visible”) pathophysiological hallmark of this heterogeneous disease. The aim of the current review is focused on two novel issues in a subgroup of obstructive HCM. Firstly, the important methodological problem in HCM is the examination of a subgroup of patients with nonobstructive hypertrophy in resting conditions and hard, but possible provoking obstruction. Recently, investigators have proposed physiological stress test (with double combined stimuli) to disclose such type of patients. The upright exercise is described in the ESC guideline on hypertrophic cardiomyopathy from 2014 and may appear as a candidate for gold standard provocation test. The second novel area of interest is associated with elevated level of signaling biomarkers: hypercoagulation, hemolysis, acquired von Willebrand 2A disease, and enhanced oxidative stress. The accelerated and turbulent flow within narrow LVOT may be responsible for these biochemical disturbances. The most recent advances in the treatment of obstructive HCM are related to nonpharmacological methods of LVOT gradient reduction. This report extensively discusses novel methods.
Lactoferrin Decreases the Intestinal Inflammation Triggered by a Soybean Meal-Based Diet in Zebrafish
Authors: Ulloa Pilar E. , Solís Camila J. , De la Paz Javiera F. , Alaurent Trevor G. S. , Caruffo Mario , Hernández Adrián J. , Dantagnan Patricio , Feijóo Carmen G.
Published: May 2016

Intestinal inflammation is a harmful condition in fish that can be triggered by the ingestion of soybean meal. Due to the positive costs-benefits ratio of including soybean meal in farmed fish diets, identifying additives with intestinal anti-inflammatory effects could contribute to solving the issues caused by this plant protein. This study evaluated the effect of incorporating lactoferrin (LF) into a soybean meal-based diet on intestinal inflammation in zebrafish. Larvae were fed with diets containing 50% soybean meal (50SBM) or 50SBM supplemented with LF to 0.5, 1, 1.5 g/kg (50SBM+LF0.5; 50SBM+LF1.0; 50SBM+LF1.5). The 50SBM+LF1.5 diet was the most efficient and larvae had a reduced number of neutrophils in the intestine compared with 50SBM larvae and an indistinguishable number compared with control larvae. Likewise, the transcription of genes involved in neutrophil migration and intestinal mucosal barrier functions (mmp9,muc2.2, andβ-def-1) were increased in 50SBM larvae but were normally expressed in 50SBM+LF1.5 larvae. To determine the influence of intestinal inflammation on the general immune response, larvae were challenged withEdwardsiella tarda. Larvae with intestinal inflammation had increased mortality rate compared to control larvae. Importantly, 50SBM+LF1.5 larvae had a mortality rate lower than control larvae. These results demonstrate that LF displays a dual effect in zebrafish, acting as an intestinal anti-inflammatory agent and improving performance against bacterial infection.
Cam Femoroacetabular Impingement as a Possible Explanation of Recalcitrant Anterior Knee Pain
Authors: Sanchis-Alfonso Vicente , Tey Marc , Monllau Joan Carles
Published: May 2016

We present a case of a patient with chronic anterior knee pain (AKP) recalcitrant to conservative treatment who returned to our office for severe hip pain secondary to Cam femoroacetabular impingement (Cam FAI) at 10 months after the onset of knee pain. This case highlights the fact that the main problem is not in the patella but in the hip in some patients with AKP. We hypothesize that there is an external femoral rotation in order to avoid the impingement and therefore the hip pain in patients with Cam FAI. This functional femoral rotation could provoke a patellofemoral imbalance that may be, in theory, responsible for patellofemoral pain in this particular patient. In our case, Cam FAI resolution was related to the resolution of AKP.
Millimeter Wave Fabry-Perot Resonator Antenna Fed by CPW with High Gain and Broadband
Authors: Yang Xue-Xia , Tan Guan-Nan , Han Bing , Xue Hai-Gao
Published: May 2016

A novel millimeter wave coplanar waveguide (CPW) fed Fabry-Perot (F-P) antenna with high gain, broad bandwidth, and low profile is reported. The partially reflective surface (PRS) and the ground form the F-P resonator cavity, which is filled with the same dielectric substrate. A dual rhombic slot loop on the ground acts as the primary feeding antenna, which is fed by the CPW and has broad bandwidth. In order to improve the antenna gain, metal vias are inserted surrounding the F-P cavity. A CPW-to-microstrip transition is designed to measure the performances of the antenna and extend the applications. The measured impedance bandwidth ofS11less than −10 dB is from 34 to 37.7 GHz (10.5%), and the gain is 15.4 dBi at the center frequency of 35 GHz with a 3 dB gain bandwidth of 7.1%. This performance of the antenna shows a tradeoff among gain, bandwidth, and profile.
Skin Prick Test Analysis in Allergic Rhinitis Patients: A Preliminary Study in Abuja, Nigeria
Authors: Ibekwe P. U. , Ibekwe T. S.
Published: May 2016

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is prevalent in Nigeria, though little information exists on the allergen. We assessed the clinical features of AR patients in our environment based on the allergic rhinitis impact on asthma (ARIA) classification. Only patients with positive skin prick test (SPT) were recruited. Seventy-four patients participated in the study. AR and asthma comorbidity were observed in 13.5%. The proportion of “sneezers-runners” was higher than “blockers” with significantly more “sneezers-runners” having persistent AR (P=0.007). No relationship was established between these predominant symptoms and the aeroallergens used in this study. Intermittent mild and moderate/severe AR were evident in 13.5% and 31.1%, while persistent mild and moderate/severe were seen in 20.3% and 35.1%, respectively. House dust mites allergen yielded the highest number of positive responses (22.6%) followed by tree pollen (16.8%). No relationship was observed between the allergens tested and AR severity. Majority of patients were oligosensitive (33.8%) and polysensitive (35.1%) and were not significantly associated with AR severity (P=0.07). Most AR patients presenting for treatment in Abuja, Nigeria, had moderate-severe persistent AR and showed similar SPT sensitization pattern with countries having similar climatic conditions. Sensitization patterns were not related to ARIA classification or predominant AR symptoms.
Direct FVM Simulation for Sound Propagation in an Ideal Wedge
Authors: Ji Hongyu , Xu Xinhai , Guo Xiaowei , Ye Shuai , Chen Juan , Yang Xuejun
Published: May 2016

The sound propagation in a wedge-shaped waveguide with perfectly reflecting boundaries is one of the few range-dependent problems with an analytical solution. This provides a benchmark for the theoretical and computational studies on the simulation of ocean acoustic applications. We present a direct finite volume method (FVM) simulation for the ideal wedge problem, and both time and frequency domain results are analyzed. We also study the broadband problem with large-scale parallel simulations. The results presented in this paper validate the accuracy of the numerical techniques and show that the direct FVM simulation could be applied to large-scale complex acoustic applications with a high performance computing platform.
Expression of Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway and Its Regulatory Role in Type I Collagen with TGF-β1 in Scleral Fibroblasts from an Experimentally Induced Myopia Guinea Pig Model
Authors: Li Min , Yuan Ying , Chen Qingzhong , Me Rao , Gu Qing , Yu Yunjie , Sheng Minjie , Ke Bilian
Published: May 2016

Background. To investigate Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway expression and its regulation of type I collagen by TGF-β1 in scleral fibroblasts from form-deprivation myopia (FDM) guinea pig model.Methods. Wnt isoforms were examined using genome microarrays. Scleral fibroblasts from FDM group and self-control (SC) group were cultured. Wnt isoforms,β-catenin, TGF-β1, and type I collagen expression levels were examined in the two groups with or without DKK-1 or TGF-β1 neutralizing antibody.Results. For genome microarrays, the expression of Wnt3 in FDM group was significantly greater as confirmed in retinal and scleral tissue. The expression of Wnt3 andβ-catenin significantly increased in FDM group and decreased significantly with DKK-1. TGF-β1 expression level decreased significantly in FDM group and increased significantly with DKK-1. Along with morphological misalignment inside and outside cells, the amount of type I collagen decreased in FDM group. Furthermore, type I collagen increased and became regular in DKK-1 intervention group, whereas it decreased and rearranged more disorder in TGF-β1 neutralizing antibody intervention group.Conclusions. The activation of Wnt3/β-catenin signaling pathway was demonstrated in primary scleral fibroblasts in FDM. This pathway further reduced the expression of type I collagen by TGF-β1, which ultimately played a role in scleral remodeling during myopia development.
Novel Mutations inMLH1andMSH2Genes in Mexican Patients with Lynch Syndrome
Authors: Moreno-Ortiz Jose Miguel , Ayala-Madrigal María de la Luz , Corona-Rivera Jorge Román , Centeno-Flores Manuel , Maciel-Gutiérrez Víctor , Franco-Topete Ramón Antonio , Armendáriz-Borunda Juan , Hotchkiss Erin , Pérez-Carbonell Lucia , Rhees Jennifer , Boland Clement Richard , Gutiérrez-Angulo Melva
Published: May 2016

Background. Lynch Syndrome (LS) is characterized by germline mutations in the DNA mismatch repair (MMR) genesMLH1,MSH2,MSH6,andPMS2. This syndrome is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern and is characterized by early onset colorectal cancer (CRC) and extracolonic tumors. The aim of this study was to identify mutations inMMRgenes in three Mexican patients with LS.Methods. Immunohistochemical analysis was performed as a prescreening method to identify absent protein expression. PCR, Denaturing High Performance Liquid Chromatography (dHPLC), and Sanger sequencing complemented the analysis.Results. Two samples showed the absence of nuclear staining for MLH1 and one sample showed loss of nuclear staining for MSH2. The mutations found inMLH1gene were c.2103+1G>C in intron 18 and compound heterozygous mutants c.1852_1854delAAG (p.K618del) and c.1852_1853delinsGC (p.K618A) in exon 16. In theMSH2gene, we identified mutation c.638dupT (p.L213fs) in exon 3.Conclusions. This is the first report of mutations in MMR genes in Mexican patients with LS and these appear to be novel.
Design of Symmetrical Beam Triple-Aperture Waveguide Antenna for Primary Feed of Reflector
Authors: Nuangwongsa Kanawat , Phongcharoenpanich Chuwong
Published: May 2016

This research presents a triple-aperture waveguide antenna as the primary feed of parabolic reflectors. The proposed antenna is able to rectify the asymmetry and also achieve a symmetrical unidirectional beam through the application of two parasitic coupling apertures. The design of the antenna is that of a rectangular waveguide (radiating aperture) vertically jointed to the two coupling apertures of the same measurement widthwise (i.e., one stacked on top and the other underneath) to achieve the symmetrical beam. The rectangular waveguide is 97.60 mm and 46.80 mm in width (a) and height (b), respectively, to propagate the WLAN frequency band of 2.412–2.484 GHz. Simulations were carried out to determine the optimal antenna parameters and an antenna prototype was subsequently fabricated and tested. The simulated beamwidths in theE- andH-planes at-3 dB were equally 67° (i.e., 67° for both theE- andH-planes) and at-10 dB also equally 137°, while the measured results at-3 dB were equally 65° and at-10 dB equally 135°. The simulation and measured results are thus in good agreement. The simulated and measured antenna gains are, respectively, 8.25 dBi and 9.17 dBi. The findings validate the applicability of the antenna as the prime feed for rotationally symmetric parabolic reflectors.
Efficient Optimization ofF-Measure with Cost-Sensitive SVM
Authors: Cheng Fan , Zhou Yuan , Gao Jian , Zheng Shuangqiu
Published: May 2016

F-measure is one of the most commonly used performance metrics in classification, particularly when the classes are highly imbalanced. Direct optimization of this measure is often challenging, since no closed form solution exists. Current algorithms design the classifiers by using the approximations to theF-measure. These algorithms are not efficient and do not scale well to the large datasets. To fill the gap, in this paper, we propose a novel algorithm, which can efficiently optimizeF-measure with cost-sensitive SVM. First of all, we present an explicit transformation from the optimization ofF-measure to cost-sensitive SVM. Then we adopt bundle method to solve the inner optimization. For the problem where the existing bundle method may have the fluctuations in the primal objective during iterations, an additional line search procedure is involved, which can alleviate the fluctuations problem and make our algorithm more efficient. Empirical studies on the large-scale datasets demonstrate that our algorithm can provide significant speedups over current state-of-the-artF-measure based learners, while obtaining better (or comparable) precise solutions.
Scaled-Down Moderator Circulation Test Facility at Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute
Authors: Kim Hyoung Tae , Rhee Bo Wook
Published: May 2016

Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI) started the experimental research on moderator circulation as one of a the national research and development programs from 2012. This research program includes the construction of the moderator circulation test (MCT) facility, production of the validation data for self-reliant computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tools, and development of optical measurement system using the particle image velocimetry (PIV). In the present paper we introduce the scaling analysis performed to extend the scaling criteria suitable for reproducing thermal-hydraulic phenomena in a scaled-down CANDU- (CANada Deuterium Uranium-) 6 moderator tank, a manufacturing status of the 1/4 scale moderator tank. Also, preliminary CFD analysis results for the full-size and scaled-down moderator tanks are carried out to check whether the moderator flow and temperature patterns of both the full-size reactor and scaled-down facility are identical.
The Antibacterial and Antifungal Textile Properties Functionalized by Bimetallic Nanoparticles of Ag/Cu with Different Structures
Authors: Paszkiewicz Marta , Gołąbiewska Anna , Rajski Łukasz , Kowal Ewelina , Sajdak Agnieszka , Zaleska-Medynska Adriana
Published: May 2016

We reported a preparation and characterization of five kinds of impregnation solutions, containing Ag/Cu in the form of bimetallic nanoparticles (alloy and core-shell) as well as ionic species. The cotton-polyester textiles were successfully impregnated during the washing and ironing process by as-prepared solutions to have antibacterial and antifungal properties against toEscherichia coli,Staphylococcus aureus,andCandida albicans. Moreover, we have reported the effect of type of the fabric used and number of washing/impregnation cycles (in a laboratory scale) on the bactericidal and fungicidal activity of obtained textiles. The results indicated that all tested samples after 5, 10, 15, and 20 washing/impregnated cycles exhibited an antimicrobial activity. The antifungal tests showed that only textile impregnated with solutions containing Ag+/Cu2+and Ag NPs/Cu2+exhibited a strong inhibition of fungi growth of the after 5 (99.99%) and 15 (100%) washing/impregnation cycles, respectively.
Quantitative Estimation of the Impact of Precipitation and Land Surface Change on Hydrological Processes through Statistical Modeling
Authors: Saifullah Muhammad , Li Zhijia , Li Qiaoling , Zaman Muhammad , Hashim Sarfraz
Published: May 2016

Precipitation variability and land surface changes are the two primary factors that affect basin hydrology, and thus estimation of their impact is of great importance for sustainable development at a catchment scale. In this study, we investigated the long-term changes in precipitation and runoff, from 1961 to 2011, in the Yihe River basin by Mann-Kendall test. A new method of trend pattern was put forward and used to identify the trends of precipitation and runoff, which indicated that the basin had a decreasing trend in annual runoff. The change point occurred in the year 1985 dividing the long-term series into two periods. Precipitation elasticity and linear regression methods were used to quantify the impact of precipitation and land surface change on runoff and provided consistent results of the percentage change in an annual runoff for the postchange period. Use of these methods reveals that the reduction in annual runoff is mainly due to precipitation variability of 56.38–67.68% and land surface change of 43.62–32.32%, as estimated by precipitation elasticity and linear regression methods, respectively. Due to the rapid growth of urbanization, the land surface change increased from 1990 to 2010. The result of this study can provide a reference for the management of regional water resources.
Short-Term Biliary Stent Placement Contributing Common Bile Duct Stone Disappearance with Preservation of Duodenal Papilla Function
Authors: Ueda Tatsuki , Kikuyama Masataka , Kodama Yuzo , Kurokami Takafumi
Published: May 2016

Aims. To investigate the effect of biliary stent placement without endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST) on common bile duct stones (CBDS) disappearance and the contribution of preserving the duodenal papilla function to reduce recurrence of CBDS.Methods. Sixty-six patients admitted for acute obstructive cholangitis due to CBDS who underwent biliary stent placement without EST for 2 years from March 2011 were evaluated retrospectively. The second endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) was performed for treatment of CBDS 3 to 4 months after the first ERCP. We estimated the rate of stone disappearance at the time of second ERCP.Results. CBDS disappearance was observed in 32 (48.5%) of 66 patients. The diameter of the bile ducts and the diameter of CBDS in patients with CBDS disappearance were significantly smaller than in those with CBDS requiring extraction (p=0.007andp<0.001, resp.). Stone disappearance was evident when the diameter of bile ducts and that of CBDS were <10 and 7 mm, respectively (p=0.002).Conclusions. Short-term stent placement without EST eliminates CBDS while preserving duodenal papilla function and may be suitable for treating CBDS in patients with nondilated bile ducts and small CBDS.
Is Early Experience Destiny? Review of Research on Long-Term Outcomes following International Adoption with Special Reference to the British Chinese Adoption Study
Authors: Grant Margaret , Rushton Alan , Simmonds John
Published: May 2016

The pathway from adverse early experience to adulthood for internationally adopted children is complex in identifying key influences, impacts, and outcomes. This review arose from the authors’ involvement in the British Chinese Adoption Study, a recent outcomes study that explored the links between early orphanage care, adoptive experiences, and midadulthood. It differs from previous reviews in focusing on a greater length of time since adoption. Both quantitative and qualitative studies were included to allow for examination of a fuller range of adult-related outcomes rather than mental health scores alone. The sampling, methods, and results of reviewed articles are summarised and a critical commentary is provided. Despite methodological differences and identified strengths and weaknesses, conclusions are drawn on the basis of the evidence available. Special attention is paid to the interpretation of negative outcomes. Findings identify areas that should be explored further in order to gain a fuller understanding of midlife outcomes of people who experienced a poor start in life followed by international adoption. Such studies help in refining lifespan developmental theories.
The A, C, G, and T of Genome Assembly
Authors: Wajid Bilal , Sohail Muhammad U. , Ekti Ali R. , Serpedin Erchin
Published: May 2016

Genome assembly in its two decades of history has produced significant research, in terms of both biotechnology and computational biology. This contribution delineates sequencing platforms and their characteristics, examines key steps involved in filtering and processing raw data, explains assembly frameworks, and discusses quality statistics for the assessment of the assembled sequence. Furthermore, the paper explores recent Ubuntu-based software environments oriented towards genome assembly as well as some avenues for future research.
Lipoyltransferase 1 Gene Defect Resulting in Fatal Lactic Acidosis in Two Siblings
Authors: Taché Véronique , Bivina Liga , White Sophie , Gregg Jeffrey , Deignan Joshua , Boyadjievd Simeon A. , Poulain Francis R.
Published: May 2016

A term male neonate developed severe intractable lactic acidosis on day of life 1 and died the same day at our institution. The family previously lost another term, female newborn on day of life 1 from suspected sepsis at an outside hospital. After performing an autopsy on the neonate who died at our institution, extensive and lengthy neonatal and parental genetic testing, as well as biochemical analyses, and whole exome sequencing analysis identified compound heterozygous mutations in the lipoyltransferase 1 (LIPT1)gene responsible for the lipoylation of the 2-keto dehydrogenase complexes in the proband. These mutations were also identified in the deceased sibling. The clinical manifestations of these two siblings are consistent with those recently described in two unrelated families with lactic acidosis due toLIPT1mutations, an underrecognized and underreported cause of neonatal death.Conclusions. Our observations contribute to the delineation of a new autosomal recessive metabolic disorder, leading to neonatal death. Our case report also highlights the importance of an interdisciplinary team in solving challenging cases.
Implementation of Associated Hermite FDTD Method in Handling INBCs for Shielding Analysis
Authors: Shi Lihua , Huang Zhengyu , Si Qing , Zhou Yinghui
Published: May 2016

For modeling of electrically thin conductive shields, the unconditionally stable Associated Hermite (AH) FDTD scheme is combined with the impedance network boundary conditions (INBCs) in this paper. The two-port network equations of INBCs in frequency domain are transformed into AH domain to represent the relationship of tangential components of the electric and magnetic fields at faces of the shield. The established AH-INBCs shielding boundaries are incorporated into a set of implicit equations to calculate the expansion coefficients vectors of electromagnetic fields in the computational domain. The method is free of CFL condition and no convolution integral operation for solving the conventional INBCs-FDTD is involved. Numerical example shows that, compared with analytical solutions and conventional FDTD method, the proposed algorithm is efficient and accurate.
Synchrony in Leafing, Flowering, and Fruiting Phenology ofSenegalia senegalwithin Lake Baringo Woodland, Kenya: Implication for Conservation and Tree Improvement
Authors: Omondi Stephen F. , Odee David W. , Ongamo George O. , Kanya James I. , Khasa Damase P.
Published: May 2016

Leafing, flowering, and fruiting patterns ofSenegalia senegalwere studied over a period of 24 months from January 2014 to December 2015. The phenological events of the species are bimodal and follow the rainfall patterns. The leafing phase starts during the onset of rains and lasts for 18 weeks. New leaves continued to appear on the new shoots while old leaves persisted to the leaf fall period. Flowering event takes 12 weeks and is concentrated in the months of high relative humidity (April and October) with one-month peak flowering period. Fruiting phase starts at the peak of the rainy seasons (May and November) and peaks in June and December. This phase lasted for 14 weeks. The fruits mature towards the end of the rainy season (January/February and July/August). The fruits open for dispersal mainly in February/March and September during the peak dry season. High synchrony index (SI) was found in leafing (SI: 0.87), flowering (SI: 0.75), and fruiting (SI: 0.85) events among the populations. Temperature, precipitation, and soil moisture content were significantly correlated with the phenological events. Significant variations in floral morphology and fruits traits were also evident. Seed collections should be undertaken in the months of January/February and July/August.
Thermodynamical Study of FRW Universe in Quasi-Topological Theory
Authors: Moradpour H. , Dehghani R.
Published: May 2016

By applying the unified first law of thermodynamics on the apparent horizon of FRW universe, we get the entropy relation for the apparent horizon in quasi-topological gravity theory. Throughout the paper, the results of considering the Hayward-Kodama and Cai-Kim temperatures are also addressed. Our study shows that whenever there is no energy exchange between the various parts of cosmos, we can get an expression for the apparent horizon entropy in quasi-topological gravity, which is in agreement with other attempts that followed different approaches. The effects of a mutual interaction between the various parts of cosmos on the apparent horizon entropy as well as the validity of second law of thermodynamics in quasi-topological gravity are perused.
The Effects of Organic Wastes on Soil and Cotton Quality with respect to the Risk of Boron and Heavy Metal Pollution
Authors: Seçer Müzeyyen , Elmaci Ömer Lütfü , Ceylan Şafak
Published: May 2016

The effects on soil and cotton quality of organic wastes from medicinal and aromatic plant factories were investigated with regard to the risks of boron and heavy metal pollution. Oily cumin, oregano, oilless oregano wastes, and mineral fertilizers were applied to cotton in two field experiments performed in the years 2003 and 2006. The Pb content of the soil differed significantly in the 2003 experiment and oregano wastes had significantly decreasing effect. Boron of soil to which oily cumin wastes had been applied reached a toxic limit value in 2006. Boron in soil adversely affected long fibres; B in leaves had a positive effect on the fineness of fibres in 2006. Soil Ni adversely affected plant height in 2006 and seed cotton yield in 2003. Leaf Ni had an adverse effect on fibre elasticity in 2006. Soil Co increased ginning out-turn and Cr decreased the fibre fineness of cotton in 2003.
Fine-Grained Support of Security Services for Resource Constrained Internet of Things
Authors: Ban Hyo Jin , Choi Jaeduck , Kang Namhi
Published: May 2016

Internet of Things (IoT) technologies allow everyday objects to be capable of connecting to the Internet, thereby making smart and convenient daily life. Although users' daily lives can be convenient due to various smart services utilizing IoT, it can also be a target of attack through the Internet. Thus, security has now been recognized as mandatory technology to activate IoT based smart service. Several standard organizations related to IoT technologies recommend using the CoAP over DTLS protocol stacks for enabling secure communications between resource constrained things. In general DTLS, a cipher suite required to support specific security service should be negotiated between the CoAP client and server in the process of performing the DTLS handshake protocol. However, the handshake requires too much processing and transmission overhead in constrained IoT environment. To improve such an issue, this paper proposes a secure but efficient scheme for resource constrained things. The proposed scheme can selectively apply application data encryption or integrity to the DTLS record layer during an on-going secure session, thereby reducing the burden of DTLS handshake in resource constrained Internet of Things.
Experimental Study on the Properties of Concrete Mixed with Iron Ore Tailings
Authors: Tian Zhong-xi , Zhao Zeng-hui , Dai Chun-quan , Liu Shu-jie
Published: May 2016

The objective of this study is to evaluate the modified performance of concrete with mixing of iron ore tailings in order to solve the shortage of natural sand and make full use of industrial waste. Firstly, the raw materials of mixing were analyzed, and the test ratio was determined. Secondly, the workability and mechanical property of concrete specimens with different amounts of iron ore tailings as replacement were tested. Results show that 35% replacement of natural aggregate by iron ore tailings is optimal. Finally, tests of impermeability, frost resistance, and carbonation resistance were further performed for the concrete specimens with optimal amount of iron ore tailings. The compression performance of the specimens after a durability test was determined. The change in the mechanical properties of the specimens was obtained after seepage, freezing-thawing, and carbonation. Findings showed that the performance of the concrete with 35% replacement of iron ore tailings is basically equivalent to that of natural sand concrete. Hence, it can be utilized in engineering applications.
Morvan Syndrome Secondary to Thymic Carcinoma in a Patient with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Macaron Gabrielle , El Rassy Elie , Koussa Salam
Published: May 2016

Morvan syndrome (MoS) is a rare paraneoplastic autoimmune disorder characterized by peripheral nerve hyperexcitability, autonomic dysfunction, and sleep disorders. Systemic lupus erythmatosus (SLE) cooccurs in 6–10% of patients with thymoma. It may occur before, concurrently with, or after thymoma diagnosis. This paper reports the first case of cooccurrence of SLE, thymic carcinoma, and MoS. The cooccurrence of SLE, thymoma, and MoS delineates the generalized autoimmunity process. Symptoms of both MoS and SLE abated upon tumor resection.
Optimization Control of the Color-Coating Production Process for Model Uncertainty
Authors: He Dakuo , Wang Zhengsong , Yang Le , Mao Zhizhong
Published: May 2016

Optimized control of the color-coating production process (CCPP) aims at reducing production costs and improving economic efficiency while meeting quality requirements. However, because optimization control of the CCPP is hampered by model uncertainty, a strategy that considers model uncertainty is proposed. Previous work has introduced a mechanistic model of CCPP based on process analysis to simulate the actual production process and generate process data. The partial least squares method is then applied to develop predictive models of film thickness and economic efficiency. To manage the model uncertainty, the robust optimization approach is introduced to improve the feasibility of the optimized solution. Iterative learning control is then utilized to further refine the model uncertainty. The constrained film thickness is transformed into one of the tracked targets to overcome the drawback that traditional iterative learning control cannot address constraints. The goal setting of economic efficiency is updated continuously according to the film thickness setting until this reaches its desired value. Finally, fuzzy parameter adjustment is adopted to ensure that the economic efficiency and film thickness converge rapidly to their optimized values under the constraint conditions. The effectiveness of the proposed optimization control strategy is validated by simulation results.
Assessment of the Central Effects of Natural UraniumviaBehavioural Performances and the Cerebrospinal Fluid Metabolome
Authors: Lestaevel P. , Grison S. , Favé G. , Elie C. , Dhieux B. , Martin J. C. , Tack K. , Souidi M.
Published: May 2016

Natural uranium (NU), a component of the earth’s crust, is not only a heavy metal but also an alpha particle emitter, with chemical and radiological toxicity. Populations may therefore be chronically exposed to NU through drinking water and food. Since the central nervous system is known to be sensitive to pollutants during its development, we assessed the effects on the behaviour and the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) metabolome of rats exposed for 9 months from birth to NUvialactation and drinking water (1.5, 10, or 40 mg·L−1for male rats and 40 mg·L−1for female rats). Medium-term memory decreased in comparison to controls in male rats exposed to 1.5, 10, or 40 mg·L−1NU. In male rats, spatial working memory and anxiety- and depressive-like behaviour were only altered by exposure to 40 mg·L−1NU and any significant effect was observed on locomotor activity. In female rats exposed to NU, only locomotor activity was significantly increased in comparison with controls. LC-MS metabolomics of CSF discriminated the fingerprints of the male and/or female NU-exposed and control groups. This study suggests that exposure to environmental doses of NU from development to adulthood can have an impact on rat brain function.
Renalase Expression by Melanoma and Tumor-Associated Macrophages Promotes Tumor Growth through a STAT3-Mediated Mechanism
Authors: Hollander Lindsay , Guo Xiaojia , Velazquez Heino , Chang John , Safirstein Robert , Kluger Harriet , Cha Charles , Desir Gary V.
Published: May 2016

To sustain their proliferation, cancer cells overcome negative-acting signals that restrain their growth and promote senescence and cell death. Renalase (RNLS) is a secreted flavoprotein that functions as a survival factor after ischemic and toxic injury, signaling through the plasma calcium channel PMCA4b to activate the PI3K/AKT and MAPK pathways. We show that RNLS expression is increased markedly in primary melanomas and CD163+ tumor-associated macrophages (TAM). In clinical specimens, RNLS expression in the tumor correlated inversely with disease-specific survival, suggesting a pathogenic role for RNLS. Attenuation of RNLS by RNAi, blocking antibodies, or an RNLS-derived inhibitory peptide decreased melanoma cell survival, and anti-RNLS therapy blocked tumor growth in vivo in murine xenograft assays. Mechanistic investigations showed that increased apoptosis in tumor cells was temporally related to p38 MAPK-mediated Bax activation and that increased cell growth arrest was associated with elevated expression of the cell-cycle inhibitor p21. Overall, our results established a role for the secreted flavoprotein RNLS in promoting melanoma cell growth and CD163+ TAM in the tumor microenvironment, with potential therapeutic implications for the management of melanoma. Cancer Res; 76(13); 3884–94. ©2016 AACR.
Early Life Body Fatness, Serum Anti-Müllerian Hormone, and Breast Density in Young Adult Women
Authors: Bertrand Kimberly A. , Baer Heather J. , Orav E. John , Klifa Catherine , Kumar Ajay , Hylton Nola M. , LeBlanc Erin S. , Snetselaar Linda G. , Van Horn Linda , Dorgan Joanne F.
Published: May 2016

Background: Emerging evidence suggests positive associations between serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), a marker of ovarian function, and breast cancer risk. Body size at young ages may influence AMH levels, but few studies have examined this. Also, no studies have examined the relation of AMH levels with breast density, a strong predictor of breast cancer risk.

Methods: We examined associations of early life body fatness, AMH concentrations, and breast density among 172 women in the Dietary Intervention Study in Children (DISC). Height and weight were measured at baseline (ages 8–10) and throughout adolescence. Serum AMH concentrations and breast density were assessed at ages 25–29 at the DISC 2006 Follow-up visit. We used linear mixed effects models to quantify associations of AMH (dependent variable) with quartiles of age-specific youth body mass index (BMI) Z-scores (independent variable). We assessed cross-sectional associations of breast density (dependent variable) with AMH concentration (independent variable).

Results: Neither early life BMI nor current adult BMI was associated with AMH concentrations. There were no associations between AMH and percent or absolute dense breast volume. In contrast, women with higher AMH concentrations had significantly lower absolute nondense breast volume (Ptrend < 0.01).

Conclusions: We found no evidence that current or early life BMI influences AMH concentrations in later life. Women with higher concentrations of AMH had similar percent and absolute dense breast volume, but lower nondense volume.

Impact: These results suggest that AMH may be associated with lower absolute nondense breast volume; however, future prospective studies are needed to establish temporality. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 25(7); 1151–7. ©2016 AACR.