bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Environmentally Benign Approach for As (V) Absorption from Wastewater Using Untreated Coffee Grounds—Preliminary Results
Authors: Nam Gnu , Kim Min-Suk , Lee Namju , Choi Young-Hoon , Ahn Ji
Published: November 2017

Arsenic contamination of water is a worldwide issue due to its severe effects on the human body. Coffee grounds are a porous material with network structures, making it absorb other substances such as some gases or elements. In this research, renewable coffee wastes were used as an adsorbent to extract arsenic (As) from wastewater. In order to evaluate the usefulness of untreated coffee grounds, a series of preliminary tests for attachment of arsenic to coffee grounds were provided. The Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area and adsorption–desorption isotherms of an untreated coffee ground obtained from N2 gas adsorption were provided, and pore sizes was obtained using Barrett–Joyner–Halenda (BJH) method. The adsorption capacities of the coffee waste were verified through a series of experimental processes changing the conditions such as concentration of arsenic, initial amount of coffee grounds, and pH. The maximum absorption concentration of 6.44 mg/L on 1 g of coffee grounds at 1.00 mM of arsenic solution was observed. It was demonstrated that the modification by the cation species or pretreatment processes, such as calcination, will be necessary to enhance the absorption capacity for the extraction of arsenic.
Effects of the community-based Wellspring Cancer Exercise Program on functional and psychosocial outcomes in cancer survivors
Authors: Santa Mina D. , Au D. , Brunet J. , Jones J. , Tomlinson G. , Taback N. , Field D. , Berlingeri A. , Bradley H. , Howell D.
Published: November 2017

Purpose In this study, we examined the effects of a 30-week community-based exercise program on cancer-related fatigue, quality of life, and other health-related outcomes in a sample of adults with mixed cancer diagnoses.Methods This prospective cohort study looked at outcomes for participants involved in the Wellspring Cancer Exercise Program in southern Ontario. The program consisted of an initial phase of two supervised sessions weekly for 10 weeks and a transition phase of one supervised session weekly for the subsequent 20 weeks. Outcomes were measured at baseline and every 10 weeks throughout the intervention, as well as at 16 weeks after program completion.Results During a period of 13 months, 229 of the 355 cancer survivors who enrolled in the exercise program consented to participate in the study. Participants attended 71% of the supervised exercise sessions in the initial phase and 49% in the transition phase. From baseline to the end of the initial phase, significant improvements in cancer-related fatigue, 6-minute walk test, social well-being, systolic blood pressure, balance, and physical activity volume were observed. During the transition phase, health-related quality of life and emotional well-being improved significantly.Conclusions The Wellspring Cancer Exercise Program is associated with clinically meaningful improvements in cancer-related fatigue and functional aerobic capacity. Several other aspects of well-being in cancer survivors also improved for participants in the program. Community-based cancer exercise programs such as the Wellspring Cancer Exercise Program can improve well-being for cancer survivors and can provide an effective option that enhances sustainability and accessibility to exercise services for this population.
PMSI, T2A et gestion interne
Authors: Moisdon Jean-Claude
Published: November 2017

Un des objectifs essentiels du PMSI et ensuite de la T2A était l’amélioration du management des établissements de santé. Pourtant des investigations dans le système hospitalier montrent que les effets de ces nouveaux instruments sur l’organisation des hôpitaux ont été de faible ampleur et que les raisons d’un tel phénomène sont notamment liées à la complexité du dispositif de financement et aux caractéristiques intrinsèques du fonctionnement d’un hôpital. Le nouveau financement a moins conduit à une augmentation de l’efficience qu’à une répartition plus équitable d’une enveloppe globale et un gain en autonomie stratégique des établissements. Ces observations conduisent à des réflexions sur les relations entre économie et gestion et sur les apprentissages qui vont se révéler nécessaires dans les évolutions qui sont prévues à l’heure actuelle pour les modalités de financement des hôpitaux.
Chapitre 6. Les dispositions de la loi de modernisation de notre système de santé relatives aux données de santé
Authors: Devillier Nathalie
Published: November 2017

La loi sur la modernisation de notre système de santé adoptée en 2016 étend le champ du secret médical en créant le dossier médical partagé (DMP) du patient. Tous les professionnels de santé intervenant dans le parcours de soin ont accès aux informations qui y sont renseignées. Le patient y accède par un site Internet dédié. Les décrets d’application de ce dispositif fixent les modalités de ce partage et encadrent la création de ce traitement automatisé de données à caractère personnel. Enfin, la loi créée un accès ouvert et sécurisé aux données de santé dans l’intérêt de la collectivité. Cet open data en santé est placé sous la gouvernance de l’Institut national des données de santé.
Politiser la jeunesse kanak
Authors: Tutugoro Anthony
Published: November 2017

Au-delà d’une tradition calédonienne de boycott électoral, la jeunesse kanak délaisse un droit de vote chèrement acquis pour une sorte d’indifférence politique. Peut-on interpréter cette dépolitisation comme une rébellion, une fatigue démocratique face au recul permanent de la date du référendum ? Ou n’est-ce pas, plus fondamentalement, le signe de l’entrée de cette jeunesse dans la « modernité », mêlant individualité et rejet des tactiques politiciennes ? Quoi qu’il en soit, la reconquête citoyenne de cette frange de la population est, pour le mouvement indépendantiste, primordiale. Elle ne pourra se faire que par l’offre d’un projet de société et de perspectives crédibles d’insertion professionnelle ou de « reconnexion » à la terre.
Correlación entre parámetros químicos, cristalográficos y espectroscópicos en la termometría de grafito aplicada a una aureola de contacto del monzogranito de La Soledad (Andes venezolanos)
Authors: Reategui K. , Martínez M.
Published: November 2017

Muestras de grafito provenientes de una aureola de contacto entre filitas de la Asociación Cerro Azul (Paleozoico) y el Monzogranito de La Soledad en Los Andes venezolanos, fueron estudiadas mediante técnicas químicas (% Carbono inorgánico y distribución isotópica), cristalográficas (DRX) y espectroscópicas (Raman) con el fin de evaluar los cambios en las características del grafito en las cercanías del contacto, correlacionar los diferentes parámetros entre sí, y estimar la temperatura máxima alcanzada por la roca caja durante la intrusión ígnea. La cristalografía del grafito exhibe cambios notables, y tiene lugar una disminución en el contenido del mineral en las inmediaciones del contacto. El δ13C alcanzó valores menos negativos en las cercanías al monzogranito, ocasionado por devolatilización; el grafito presente exactamente en el contacto con el plutón pudo experimentar recristalización posterior al evento térmico, con puntual desplazamiento isotópico hacia valores más negativos. El intervalo de valores de grado de grafitización calculados (GD=53–80) corresponde a un mineral bien estructurado y con empaquetamiento ordenado. La temperatura máxima durante el evento intrusivo en el contacto fue calculada a través de los parámetros cristalográficos (DRX) como espectroscópicos (Raman) con gran concordancia en ambas técnicas, registrando 528 ± 16 y 526 ± 20 ºC respectivamente. El nivel metamórfico alcanzado por las rocas metapelíticas en la aureola de contacto comprende la Zona de la Cordierita (cordierita + biotita + muscovita) donde el grafito se halla bien cristalizado y en microtextura hexagonal. Factores como la actividad de fluidos y la recristalización posterior de mineral grafitoso inciden en redistribuciones isotópicas posteriores al evento intrusivo, al igual que en la tasa de cambio de cristalinidad del grafito con la temperatura lo que determina una ausencia clara de correlación entre las variaciones isotópicas de 13C en el grafito y la temperatura.
A Wireless Internet of Things Architecture Based on Mobile Internet
Authors: Zhou Bing
Published: November 2017

In order to develop a valid wireless Internet of things system, a wireless Internet of things framework based on mobile Internet is designed. The architecture of the Internet of things determines the architecture of the Internet of things business platform. There is no uniform standard for the architecture of the Internet of things service platform. The Internet of things business platform is mostly in an isolated state. The platform uses the common information management platform of Internet websites to manage mobile internet. Combined with the technologies of perception, identification and network transmission in the Internet of things technology, it is a content management Web management information system with both B/S (Browser/Server) and C/S structure (Client/Server). The platform can operate anywhere, and can give full play to the processing capacity of the client PC, and greatly reduce the application server running data load. The experimental results show that compared with the centralized database system, in the same piece of redundant condition, when the test table data is greater than the 1 million and the concurrent number is 100, the distributed database system has shorter concurrent query time and faster system response rate. Based on the above finding, it is concluded that wireless Internet of things technology based on mobile Internet will promote the development of the whole logistics industry and other related industries.
Prolonged Treatment with Free Fatty Acids has Post Receptor Effect in Hepatic Insulin Resistance: Evidence that Fatty Acids, Oleate and Palmitate have Insignificant Effect on the Insulin Receptor BetaIn VivoandEx Vivoprimary Hepatocytes
Authors: Ragheb Rafik , Medhat Amina M. , Shanab Gamila M.L. , Seoudi Dina M. , Fantus I.G.
Published: November 2017

In the current study, we used immunoprecipitation and immunoblotting to examine the levels and phosphorylation status of the insulin receptor-beta subunit (IR-β), as well as the down stream target in PI3K pathway, total PKB/Akt as well as their phosphorylated forms. The assessment of FFAs treatment showed no direct and significant effect on the PI3K stimulation, specifically the IR-β in primary hepatic control cells treated with insulin. Cells treated with either oleate or palmitate (360 μM) showed no statistically significant values following insulin stimulation (P > 0.05). To further investigate the effect of both FFAs and high insulin (1 μg), we examined the effects of oleate and palmitate at 360 μM concentration on IR-β as well as PKB. There was no significant difference in the total protein levels and their phosphorylated forms in cells treated with or without oleate or plamitate. Interestingly, IR-β tyrosine phosphorylation showed a similar insignificant effect in vivo and ex vivo hepatic cells treated with oleate or palmitate in comparison to their controls in the fructose fed hamsters.
A Novel Mechanism in Regulating the Alpha-Subunit of the Epithelial Sodium Channel (α ENaC) by the Alternatively Spliced Form α ENaC-b
Authors: Shehata Marlene F.
Published: November 2017

Introduction

In Dahl rats’ kidney cortex, the alternatively spliced form of the epithelial sodium channel α subunit (α ENaC-b) is the most abundant mRNA transcript (32+/-3 fold > α ENaC-wt) as was investigated by quantitative RT-PCR analysis. α ENaC-b mRNA levels were significantly higher in Dahl R versus S rats, and were further augmented by high salt diet.

Objectives

In the present study, we described the molecular cloning and searched for a possible role of α ENaC-b by testing its potential expression in COS7 cells as well as its impact on α ENaC-wt expression levels when co-expressed in COS7 cells in a dose-dependent manner.

Methods

Using RT-PCR strategy, the full-length wildtype α ENaC transcript and the alternatively spliced form α ENaC-b were amplified, sequenced, cloned, subcloned into PCMV-sport6 expression vector, expressed and co-expressed into COS7 cells in a dose-dependent manner. A combination of denaturing and native western blotting techniques was employed to examine the expression of α ENaC-b in vitro, and to determine if an interaction between α ENaC-b and α ENaC-wt occurs in vitro, and finally to demonstrate if degradation of α ENaC-wt protein does occur.

Results

α ENaC-b is translated in COS7 cells. Co-expression of α ENaC-b together with α ENaC-wt reduced α ENaC-wt levels in a dose-dependent manner. α ENaC-wt and α ENaC-b appear to form a complex that enhances the degradation of α ENaC-wt.

Conclusions

Western blots suggest a novel mechanism in α ENaC regulation whereby α ENaC-b exerts a dominant negative effect on α ENaC-wt expression. This is potentially by sequestering α ENaC-wt, enhancing its proteolytic degradation, and possibly explaining the mechanism of salt-resistance in Dahl R rats.
Experiences from the Architectural Migration of a Joint Replacement Surgery Information System
Authors: Niiranen Samuli , Välimäki Ari , Yli-Hietanen Jari
Published: November 2017

The goal of this study is to present the experiences gathered from the migration of an existing and deployed joint replacement surgery information system from a classical 2-tier architecture to a 4-tier architecture. These include discussion on the motivation for the migration and on the technical benefits of the chosen technical migration path and an evaluation of user experiences. The results from the analysis of clinical end-user and administrator experiences show an increase in the perceived performance and maintainability of the system and a high level of acceptance for the new system version.
Gene Expression in Hair Follicle Dermal Papilla Cells after Treatment with Stanozolol
Authors: Reiter M. , Pfaffl M.W. , Schönfelder M. , Meyer H.H.D.
Published: November 2017

Doping with anabolic agents is a topic in sports where strength is crucial, e.g. sprinting, weight lifting and many more. Testosterone and its functional analogs are the drugs of choice taken as pills, creams, tape or injections to increase muscle mass and body performance, and to reduce body fat. Stanozolol (17β-hydroxy-17α-methyl-5α-androst-2-eno[3,2c]pyrazol) is a testosterone analogue with the same anabolic effect like testosterone but its ring structure makes it possible to take it orally. Therefore, stanozolol is one of the most frequently used anabolic steroids.

Common verification methods for anabolic drugs exist, identifying the chemicals in tissues, like hair or blood samples. The idea of this feasibility study was to search for specific gene expression regulations induced by stanozolol to identify the possible influence of the synthetically hormone on different metabolic pathways. Finding biomarkers for anabolic drugs could be supportive of the existing methods and an additional proof for illegal drug abuse.

In two separate cell cultures, human HFDPC (hair follicle dermal papilla cells) from a female and a male donor were treated with stanozolol. In the female cell culture treatment concentrations of 0 nM (control), 1 nM, 10 nM and 100 nM were chosen. Cells were taken 0 h, 6 h, 24 h and 48 h after stimulation and totalRNA was extracted. Learning from the results of the pilot experiment, the male cell culture was treated in 10 nM and 100 nM concentrations and taken after 0 h, 6 h, 24 h and 72 h. Using quantitative real-time RT-PCR expression of characteristics of different target genes were analysed.

Totally 13 genes were selected according to their functionality by screening the actual literature and composed to functional groups: factors of apoptosis regulation were Fas Ligand (FasL), its receptor (FasR), Caspase 8 and Bcl-2. Androgen receptor (AR) and both estrogen receptors (ERα, ERβ) were summarized in the steroid receptor group. The growth factor group included the insulin like growth factor receptor (IGF1R) and growth hormone receptor (GHR). Fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) and keratinocyte growth factor (FGF7) were summarized in the hair cycle factor group. 5α-Steroidreductases (SRD5A1, SRD5A2) represented the enzyme group. Three reference genes were taken for relative quantification: ubiquitin (UBQ), glycerinaldehyde-3-phsophate-dehydrogenase (GAPDH), and β-actin (ACTB).

In cell culture 1 AR, FasR, FGF2 showed significant regulations within one treatment time, significant gene expressions over time were analysed for Caspase 8. In cell culture 2 AR, FasR and SRD5A2 were significantly regulated within one treatment time.

In this feasibility study first biomarker for a screening pattern of anabolic agents could be identified providing the rationality to investigate modified, metabolic pathways in the whole hair follicle.
Changes in Plasma IL-6, Plasma VEGF and Serum YKL-40 During Treatment with Etanercept and Methotrexate or Etanercept alone in Patients with Active Rheumatoid Arthritis despite Methotrexate Therapy
Authors: Knudsen Lene Surland , Hetland Merete Lund , Johansen Julia Sidenius , Skjødt Henrik , Peters Niels Daugaard , Colic Ada , Grau Karin , Nielsen Hans Jørgen , Østergaard Mikkel
Published: November 2017

Changes in plasma IL-6, plasma VEGF and serum YKL-40 were determined in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients during treatment with etanercept alone or in combination with methotrexate. Twenty-five patients with active RA (DAS28 ≥ 3.2) were randomized to receive etanercept (25 mg sc. biweekly) plus methotrexate (n = 12) or etanercept alone (n = 13). Plasma IL-6, plasma VEGF and serum YKL-40 were determined by ELISA. The 3 biomarkers and DAS28 scores were evaluated at baseline and after 4, 8, 12 and 16 weeks of treatment. At inclusion all patients had significantly (p < 0.001) elevated plasma IL-6, plasma VEGF and serum YKL-40 compared to healthy subjects. Eighteen patients responded to treatment (pooled data from both treatment groups), and they had significant (p < 0.05 to p < 0.001) decreases in plasma IL-6, plasma VEGF, serum YKL-40, ESR and DAS28 after 4 weeks of treatment and throughout the study (except serum YKL-40 at week 16). Plasma IL-6 showed the largest reductions. Non-responders had unchanged biomarkers. At week 16 the patients with DAS28 < 3.2 had lower levels compared to baseline values in plasma IL-6 (p = 0.005), plasma VEGF (p = 0.014), and ESR (p = 0.024).

Plasma IL-6, plasma VEGF and serum YKL-40, which reflect different aspects of the inflammatory process, may provide useful information regarding early differentiation of responders from non-responders.
Novel Biomarkers for the Diagnosis of Urinary Tract Infection–-A systematic Review
Authors: Nanda Neha , Juthani-Mehta Manisha
Published: November 2017

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are associated with significant morbidity. We rely on clinical presentation, urinalysis, and urine culture to diagnose UTI. To differentiate between lower UTI and pyelonephritis, we depend on the clinical presentation. In the extremes of age and in immunocompromised individuals, clinical presentation is often atypical posing a challenge to diagnosis. In the elderly, the high prevalence of asymptomatic bacteriuria is another confounder. We conducted a search of publications to find novel biomarkers to diagnose UTI and to ascertain its severity. We searched PUBMED, MEDLINE and SCOPUS databases for studies pertaining to novel biomarkers and UTI. Two reviewers independently evaluated the methodology of the studies using the STARD (Standards for Reporting of Diagnostic Accuracy) criteria. We have identified procalcitonin as a biomarker to differentiate lower UTI from pyelonephritis in the pediatric age group. Elevated serum procalcitonin levels can result in early and aggressive treatment at the time of presentation. Interleukin 6 has also shown some promise in differentiating between lower UTI and pyelonephritis but needs further validation. Lastly, given the paucity of data in certain subgroups like diabetics, kidney transplant recipients, and individuals with spinal cord injury, further studies should be conducted in these populations to improve diagnostic criteria that will inform clinical management decisions.
Biomarkers of Adiponectin: Plasma Protein Variation and Genomic DNA Polymorphisms
Authors: Gu Harvest F.
Published: November 2017

Adiponectin is secreted by white adipose tissue and exists as the most abundant adipokine in the human plasma. Recent research has indicated that plasma adiponectin levels are inversely correlated with body mass index (BMI) and insulin resistance. Reduction of plasma adiponectin levels is commonly observed in the patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and/or in those who are obese in comparison with healthy control individuals. The adiponectin ( AdipoQ) gene has a moderate linkage disequilibrium (LD), but two small LD blocks are observed, respectively, in the promoter region and the boundary of exon 2-intron 2. Genetic association studies have demonstrated that single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) +45G15G(T/G) in exon 2 and +276G/T in intron 2 of the AdipoQ gene confer the risk susceptibility to the development of T2D, obesity and diabetic nephropathy (DN). The SNPs in the promoter region, including –11426A/G, –11377C/G and –11391G/A, are found to be associated with T2Dand DN. Recent research has indicated that the promoter polymorphisms interfere with the AdipoQ promoter activity. The haplotypes constructed by the promoter polymorphisms and SNP +276G/T in intron 2 are associated with circulating adiponectin levels. This review summarises genetic and pathophysiological relevancies of adiponectin and discusses about the biomarkers of adiponectin plasma protein variation and genomic DNA polymorphisms.
Decreased Serum Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF) in Autistic Children with severe Gastrointestinal Disease
Authors: Russo A.J. , Krigsman A. , Jepson B. , Wakefield Andrew
Published: November 2017

Aim

To assess serum Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF) levels in autistic children with severe gastrointestinal (GI) disease and to test the hypothesis that there is a relationship between GI pathology and HGF concentration.

Subjects and Methods

Serum from 29 autistic children with chronic digestive disease (symptoms for a minimum of 6–12 months), most with ileo-colonic lymphoid nodular hyperplasia (LNH—markedly enlarged lymphoid nodules) and inflammation of the colorectum, small bowel and/or stomach), and 31 controls (11 age matched autistic children with no GI disease, 11 age matched non autistic children without GI disease and 9 age matched non autistic children with GI disease) were tested for HGF using ELISAs. HGF concentration of autistic children with GI disease was compared to GI disease severity.

Results

Autistic children with GI disease had significantly lower serum levels of HGF compared to controls (autistic without GI disease; p = 0.0005, non autistic with no GI disease; p = 0.0001, and non autistic with GI disease; p = 0.001). Collectively, all autistic children had significantly lower HGF levels when compared to non autistic children (p < 0.0001). We did not find any relationship between severity of GI disease and HGF concentration in autistic children with GI disease.

Discussion

These results suggest an association between HGF serum levels and the presence of GI disease in autistic children and explain a potential functional connection between the Met gene and autism. The concentration of serum HGF may be a useful biomarker for autistic children, especially those with severe GI disease.
Enhanced Expression of Radiation-induced Leukocyte CDKN1A mRNA in Multiple Primary Breast Cancer Patients: Potential New Marker of cancer susceptibility
Authors: Mitsuhashi Masato , Peel David , Ziogas Argyrios , Anton-Culver Hoda
Published: November 2017

This study was designed to discover blood biomarkers of cancer susceptibility using invasive multiple (n = 21), single primary breast cancer (n = 21), and control subjects (n = 20). Heparinized whole blood was incubated at 37 °C for 2 hours after 0–10 Gy of radiation, then cell cycle arrest marker CDKN1A and apoptosis marker BBC3 mRNA were quantified. This epidemiological study was practically feasible because radiation-induced mRNA was preserved for at least 1 day whenever blood was stored at 4 °C (r2 = 0.901). Moreover, blood could be stored frozen after radiation treatment (r2 = 0.797). Radiation- induced CDKN1A and BBC3 mRNA were dose dependent, and the degree of induction of CDKN1A was correlated with that of BBC3 (r2 = 0.679). Interestingly, multiple primary cases showed higher induction of CDKN1A mRNA than single primary and control groups, whereas BBC3 did not show such differences. The results suggested that cancer susceptibility represented by the multiple primary breast cancer cases was related to over-reaction of CDKN1A mRNA, not BBC3. The study also suggests that ex vivo gene expression analysis could potentially be used as a new tool in epidemiological studies for cancer and radiation sensitivity research.
Asymmetric Dimethylarginine and Its Relation as a Biomarker in Nephrologic Diseases
Authors: Sitar Mustafa E.
Published: November 2017

It is encouraging to observe that a search for publications on “asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA)” in PubMed, as updated on June 2016, yielded >2500 items, 24 years after a splendid paper published by Vallance et al in which the authors proposed that ADMA accumulation could be a cardiovascular risk factor in chronic kidney diseases. ADMA is the endogenous inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase and is related to endothelial dysfunction, which plays an important role in vascular damage elicited by various cardiometabolic risk factors. Although current knowledge suggests that ADMA has critical central roles in renal diseases, there are still unexplained details. The present article aims to provide a review on ADMA and its relation as a biomarker in nephrologic diseases. We aimed to systematize articles in which ADMA levels were assessed in order to clarify its role in many diseases and establish its reference values in different populations.
A Comparison of Different Methodologies for the Measurement of Extracellular Vesicles and Milk-derived Particles in Raw Milk from Cows
Authors: Pollott Geoff , Brito Amanda , Gardiner Christopher , Lawson Charlotte
Published: November 2017

Cow's milk is economically important to the agricultural industry with the nutritive value of milk being routinely measured. This does not give full insight into normal mammary tissue turnover during the course of lactation, which could be important for both an understanding of milk production and animal welfare. We have previously demonstrated that submicron particles, including extracellular vesicles (EVs), can be measured in unprocessed cow's milk by flow cytometry and that they correlate with stage of lactation. A number of different techniques are available to measure EVs and other milk-derived particles. The purpose of this study was to compare two different methodologies and the value of fluorescent staining for the phospholipid phosphatidylserine (PS), which is exposed on the surface of EVs (but not other milk-derived particles). We used two different flow cytometers and nanotracker analysis to detect milk-derived particles in whole and skimmed milk samples. Our findings indicate significant correlation, after staining for PS, suggesting potential for larger multicenter studies in the future.
Cartilage Oligomeric Matrix Protein (COMP): A Biomarker of Arthritis
Authors: Tseng Susan , Reddi A. Hari , Di Cesare Paul E.
Published: November 2017

Arthritis is a chronic disease with a significant impact on the population. It damages the cartilage, synovium, and bone of the joints causing pain, impairment, and disability in patients. Current methods for diagnosis of and monitoring the disease are only able to detect clinical manifestations of arthritis late in the process. However, with the recent onset of successful treatments for rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, it becomes important to identify prognostic factors that can predict the evolution of arthritis. This is especially critical in the early phases of disease so that these treatments can be started as soon as possible to slow down progression of the disease. A valuable approach to monitor arthritis would be by measuring biological markers of cartilage degradation and repair to reflect variations in joint remodeling. One such potential biological marker of arthritis is cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP). In various studies, COMP has shown promise as a diagnostic and prognostic indicator and as a marker of the disease severity and the effect of treatment. This review highlights the progress in the utilization of COMP as a biomarker of arthritis.
Carcinoma En Cuirasse of Scrotum–-Metastatic Malignancy from a Lung Primary
Authors: Rajasundaram Ramanan , Montague Richard , Lupton Eric
Published: November 2017

A 69 year old male who presented with painful, swollen and inflamed scrotum is presented as a unique case report. He was initially treated as a case of infection and was subject to further investigation due to poor response to antibiotics. CT scan showed thickened scrotal wall and an incision biopsy revealed metastatic ‘carcinoma en cuirasse’ of the scrotal wall with the primary foci in the lung. There has been one other such case reported in literature, presenting as generalised swelling of scrotum with the whole of the scrotal wall being involved.
Molecular Imaging of Proteases in Cancer
Authors: Yang Yunan , Hong Hao , Zhang Yin , Cai Weibo
Published: November 2017

Proteases play important roles during tumor angiogenesis, invasion, and metastasis. Various molecular imaging techniques have been employed for protease imaging: optical (both fluorescence and bioluminescence), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), and positron emission tomography (PET). In this review, we will summarize the current status of imaging proteases in cancer with these techniques. Optical imaging of proteases, in particular with fluorescence, is the most intensively validated and many of the imaging probes are already commercially available. It is generally agreed that the use of activatable probes is the most accurate and appropriate means for measuring protease activity. Molecular imaging of proteases with other techniques (i.e. MRI, SPECT, and PET) has not been well-documented in the literature which certainly deserves much future effort. Optical imaging and molecular MRI of protease activity has very limited potential for clinical investigation. PET/SPECT imaging is suitable for clinical investigation; however the optimal probes for PET/SPECT imaging of proteases in cancer have yet to be developed. Successful development of protease imaging probes with optimal in vivo stability, tumor targeting efficacy, and desirable pharmacokinetics for clinical translation will eventually improve cancer patient management. Not limited to cancer, these protease-targeted imaging probes will also have broad applications in other diseases such as arthritis, atherosclerosis, and myocardial infarction.
BITC Sensitizes Pancreatic Adenocarcinomas to TRAIL-induced Apoptosis
Authors: Wicker Christina A. , Sahu Ravi P. , Kulkarni-Datar Kashmira , Srivastava Sanjay K. , Brown Thomas L.
Published: November 2017

Pancreatic adenocarcinoma is an aggressive cancer with a greater than 95% mortality rate and short survival after diagnosis. Chemotherapeutic resistance hinders successful treatment. This resistance is often associated with mutations in codon 12 of the K-Ras gene (K-Ras 12), which is present in over 90% of all pancreatic adenocarcinomas. Codon 12 mutations maintain Ras in a constitutively active state leading to continuous cellular proliferation. Our study determined if TRAIL resistance in pancreatic adenocarcinomas with K-Ras 12 mutations could be overcome by first sensitizing the cells with Benzyl isothiocyanate (BITC). BITC is a component of cruciferous vegetables and a cell cycle inhibitor. BxPC3, MiaPaCa2 and Panc-1 human pancreatic adenocarcinoma cell lines were examined for TRAIL resistance. Our studies show BITC induced TRAIL sensitization by dual activation of both the extrinsic and intrinsic apoptotic pathways.
HIV-1 Transmission, Replication Fitness and Disease Progression
Authors: Biesinger Tasha , Kimata Jason T.
Published: November 2017

Upon transmission, human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) establishes infection of the lymphatic reservoir, leading to profound depletion of the memory CD4+ T cell population despite the induction of the adaptive immune response. The rapid evolution and association of viral variants having distinct characteristics during different stages of infection, the level of viral burden, and rate of disease progression suggest a role for viral variants in this process. Here, we review the literature on HIV-1 variants and disease and discuss the importance of viral fitness for transmission and disease.
DETERMINACIÓN DE TRAYECTORIAS DE BLOQUES ROCOSOS EN ENSAYOS MEDIANTE VIDEOGRAMETRÍA
Authors: Prades Albert , Matas Gerard , Núñez-Andrés Amparo , Buill Felipe , Nieves Nieves , Corominas Jord
Published: November 2017

Determining the trajectory of a block that falls down on a slope is not straightforward due to the high number of variables involved. Because of this, the appropriate understanding of how these variables may affect the trajectories is required. In this work, we estimate some magnitudes that affect the trajectories of the blocks such as the coefficient of restitution and the energy thresholds for fragmentation of the blocks among others. We have chosen the controlled scenario of a quarry in which targets and high speed video cameras were arranged to capture images of the blocks falling from the top of a slope. The position of the blocks over time has been measured from video frames applying photogrammetric methods. From here, the velocities and the accelerations have been determined, and with the estimated mass of each block, we have calculated the energy balance.http://dx.doi.org/10.4995/CIGeo2017.2017.6617
DISEÑO DE ESTRATEGIAS DE CROWDSOURCING EN SISTEMAS DE INFORMACIÓN GEOGRÁFICA VOLUNTARIA
Authors: Gómez Barrón Sierra José Pablo , Manso-Callejo Miguel-Ángel , Alcarria Ramón
Published: November 2017

This work addresses voluntary geographic information (VGI) as an information system that facilitates organizations to achieve specific goals by outsourcing processes and activities to an online community. A definition of a voluntary geographic information system (VGIS) is proposed, identifying its core components (Project, Participants, Technology), then, crowdsourcing, the most relevant process for managing information within these type of systems, is analysed. We analyse several types of crowdsourcing models in the context of VGIS, and it is proposed a classification built around the different ways of organizing a community, which include different levels of participation according to the use of three processes: contributory, collaborative and participatory. Based on the study of the different typologies intrinsically linked to the existing levels of involvement and engagement, and the use of participants' cognitive skills, a continuum of participation is identified, presenting two opposite tendencies when designing VGI projects: crowd-based and community-driven, the latter with higher levels of collaboration or even co-creation. Based on the above, it is proposed a set of criteria for the design of the crowdsourcing strategy of a VGIS, as a roadmap that directs the project. This design and planning tool helps to characterize and define in a simple way the general requirements of the processes and activities of a VGIS that will be implemented through a crowdsourcing task, being the first step in the interdependent design of the project, participation and technological components. The design of subsequent strategies related to the other components of the system must be aligned and linked to the crowdsourcing strategy, and altogether will guide the development of tasks, functionalities and the specific technological tools of the system.http://dx.doi.org/10.4995/CIGeo2017.2017.6629
A Study on the Energetic Viability of Single Board Computers for Cloud Computing Scenarios
Authors: Verdugo Pedro , Salvachúa Joaquín , Huecas Gabriel
Published: November 2017

The following document explores the viability of the usage of consumer-grade, ARM-based single board computers as a power saving alternative to the traditional monolithic x64-full-server based approach.By taking advantage of several capabilities provided by such devices, such as low cost, low power consumption and low on-time, the authors finally propose a scalable, energy-efficient, ARM-based cloud infrastructure.To that end, we start analyzing the current offerings in terms of capabilities, net cost, processing power and power consumption, comparing them with the relevant server-oriented offerings.We subsequently explore the adequacy of several metrics to model on-budget raw data processing, considering full-system wattage under nominal usage conditions.The low initial investment and long-term affordability of this approach results in quite a relevant case of application to Edge Cloud computing scenarios.
Peridynamic Modeling of Repassivation in Pitting Corrosion of Stainless Steel
Authors: Jafarzadeh Siavash , Chen Ziguang , Bobaru Florin
Published: November 2017

This article introduces repassivation and salt film formation models in a peridynamic formulation for corrosion damage. The model leads to autonomous generation of lacy covers in pitting corrosion and development of secondary pits. It does not require interface conditions. The electrical current density, usually provided as an input into the problem, is obtained as part of the solution procedure. Validation against available 2D experimental results on pitting corrosion shows the model to be predictive in terms of corrosion rate and pit shape evolution in time. The influence of electrolyte potential drop, applied potential, and chloride concentration on the pit shape, corrosion rate, and the lacy cover structure are studied. Results agree well with experimental observations.
Frequent ultrafine particle formation and growth in Canadian Arctic marine and coastal environments
Authors: Collins Douglas B. , Burkart Julia , Chang Rachel Y.-W. , Lizotte Martine , Boivin-Rioux Aude , Blais Marjolaine , Mungall Emma L. , Boyer Matthew , Irish Victoria E. , Massé Guillaume , Kunkel Daniel , Tremblay Jean-Éric , Papakyriakou Tim , Bertram Allan K. , Bozem Heiko , Gosselin Michel , Levasseur Maurice , Abbatt Jonathan P. D.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The source strength and capability of aerosol particles in the Arctic to act as cloud condensation nuclei have important implications for understanding the indirect aerosol–cloud effect within the polar climate system. It has been shown in several Arctic regions that ultrafine particle (UFP) formation and growth is a key contributor to aerosol number concentrations during the summer. This study uses aerosol number size distribution measurements from shipboard expeditions aboard the research icebreaker CCGS Amundsen in the summers of 2014 and 2016 throughout the Canadian Arctic to gain a deeper understanding of the drivers of UFP formation and growth within this marine boundary layer. UFP number concentrations (diameter > 4 nm) in the range of 101–104 cm−3 were observed during the two seasons, with concentrations greater than 103 cm−3 occurring more frequently in 2016. Higher concentrations in 2016 were associated with UFP formation and growth, with events occurring on 41 % of days, while events were only observed on 6 % of days in 2014. Assessment of relevant parameters for aerosol nucleation showed that the median condensation sink in this region was approximately 1.2 h−1 in 2016 and 2.2 h−1 in 2014, which lie at the lower end of ranges observed at even the most remote stations reported in the literature. Apparent growth rates of all observed events in both expeditions averaged 4.3 ± 4.1 nm h−1, in general agreement with other recent studies at similar latitudes. Higher solar radiation, lower cloud fractions, and lower sea ice concentrations combined with differences in the developmental stage and activity of marine microbial communities within the Canadian Arctic were documented and help explain differences between the aerosol measurements made during the 2014 and 2016 expeditions. These findings help to motivate further studies of biosphere–atmosphere interactions within the Arctic marine environment to explain the production of UFP and their growth to sizes relevant for cloud droplet activation.
Line-averaging measurement methods to estimate the gap in the CO2 balance closure – possibilities, challenges, and uncertainties
Authors: Ziemann Astrid , Starke Manuela , Schütze Claudia
Published: November 2017

Abstract. An imbalance of surface energy fluxes using the eddy covariance (EC) method is observed in global measurement networks although all necessary corrections and conversions are applied to the raw data. Mainly during nighttime, advection can occur, resulting in a closing gap that consequently should also affect the CO2 balances. There is the crucial need for representative concentration and wind data to measure advective fluxes. Ground-based remote sensing techniques are an ideal tool as they provide the spatially representative CO2 concentration together with wind components within the same voxel structure. For this purpose, the presented SQuAd (Spatially resolved Quantification of the Advection influence on the balance closure of greenhouse gases) approach applies an integrated method combination of acoustic and optical remote sensing. The innovative combination of acoustic travel-time tomography (A-TOM) and open-path Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (OP-FTIR) will enable an upscaling and enhancement of EC measurements. OP-FTIR instrumentation offers the significant advantage of real-time simultaneous measurements of line-averaged concentrations for CO2 and other greenhouse gases (GHGs). A-TOM is a scalable method to remotely resolve 3-D wind and temperature fields. The paper will give an overview about the proposed SQuAd approach and first results of experimental tests at the FLUXNET site Grillenburg in Germany. Preliminary results of the comprehensive experiments reveal a mean nighttime horizontal advection of CO2 of about 10 µmol m−2 s−1 estimated by the spatially integrating and representative SQuAd method. Additionally, uncertainties in determining CO2 concentrations using passive OP-FTIR and wind speed applying A-TOM are systematically quantified. The maximum uncertainty for CO2 concentration was estimated due to environmental parameters, instrumental characteristics, and retrieval procedure with a total amount of approximately 30 % for a single measurement. Instantaneous wind components can be derived with a maximum uncertainty of 0.3 m s−1 depending on sampling, signal analysis, and environmental influences on sound propagation. Averaging over a period of 30 min, the standard error of the mean values can be decreased by a factor of at least 0.5 for OP-FTIR and 0.1 for A-TOM depending on the required spatial resolution. The presented validation of the joint application of the two independent, nonintrusive methods is in the focus of attention concerning their ability to quantify advective fluxes.
Modeling calcification periods of Cytheridella ilosvayi from Florida based on isotopic signatures and hydrological data
Authors: Meyer Juliane , Wrozyna Claudia , Leis Albrecht , Piller Werner E.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The isotopic signatures of ostracod shells are the result of the temperature and composition of their host water and the phenology and ecology of the target species. Investigations addressing the influence of site-specific environmental variations on the isotopic ranges of ostracod shells are still rare but can provide important information on habitat-dependent variations and may signify a seasonally restricted timing of calcification periods. Here we present isotopic signatures (δ18Oostr, δ13Costr) of living Cytheridella ilosvayi (Ostracoda) and physical, chemical, and isotopic (δD, δ18Owater, δ13CDIC) compositions of 14 freshwater habitats (rivers, lakes, canals, marshes, sinkholes) in South Florida from winter 2013 and summer 2014. We also present instrumental data of river temperatures and δ18O of precipitation (δ18Oprec) from this region. The physicochemical and isotopic compositions of the selected sites characterize the different habitats and show the influence of the source water, biological activity, and duration of exposure to the surface. Mean δ18Oostr and δ13Costr signatures of C. ilosvayi shells correlate well with the isotopic composition of their host waters. Within-sample variabilities in repeated isotopic measurements of single ostracod shells reflect habitat-dependent ranges. The similarly high range of ostracod δ18O in rivers and one marsh sample indicates that both temperature and δ18Oprec are responsible for their variation in the whole study area. Rivers and canals, which are predominantly influenced by the input and mixing of inorganic carbon from the catchment, show smaller δ13Costr ranges than the marsh dominated by local fluctuations in biological activities. Based on these observations, background data of water temperatures and δ18Oprec were used to calculate monthly δ18O variations in a theoretical calcite formed in rivers in Florida assuming a direct reaction on precipitation changes. The calculated values showed a high variation coupled with low mean values during the summer wet season, while during the winter dry season the variation remains small and mean values increased. Inferred configurations were used to approximate possible calcification periods of C. ilosvayi. For a plausible calcification period, mean values and ranges of δ18Oostr had to be equal to the theoretical calcite with a slight positive offset (vital effect). The applied model suggests a seasonal calcification period of C. ilosvayi in early spring that is probably coupled to the hydrologic cycle of Florida.
Thermal acclimation of leaf photosynthetic traits in an evergreen
woodland, consistent with the co-ordination hypothesis
Authors: Fürstenau Togashi Henrique , Prentice Iain Colin , Atkin Owen K. , Macfarlane Craig , Prober Suzanne M. , Bloomfield Keith J. , Evans Bradley John
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Ecosystem models commonly assume that key photosynthetic traits, such as carboxylation-capacity measured at a standard temperature, are constant in time. The temperature responses of modelled photosynthetic/respiratory rates then depend entirely on enzyme kinetics. Optimality considerations suggest this assumption may be incorrect. The ‘co-ordination hypothesis’ (that Rubisco- and electron-transport limited rates of photosynthesis are co-limiting under typical daytime conditions) predicts instead that carboxylation (Vcmax) and light-harvesting (Jmax) capacities, and mitochondrial respiration in the dark (Rdark), should acclimate so that they increase with growth temperature – but less steeply than their instantaneous response rates. To explore this hypothesis, photosynthetic measurements were carried out on woody species during the warm and the cool seasons in the semi-arid Great Western Woodlands, Australia, under broadly similar light environments. A consistent linear relationship between Vcmax and Jmax was found across species. Vcmax, Jmax and Rdark increased with temperature, but values standardized to 25 ˚C declined. The ci:ca ratio increased slightly with temperature. The leaf N:P ratio was lower in the warm season. The slopes of the relationships of log-transformed Vcmax and Jmax to temperature were close to values predicted by the co-ordination hypothesis, but shallower than those predicted by enzyme kinetics.