bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Replication Rapidly Recovers and Continues in the Presence of Hydroxyurea in Escherichia coli
Authors: Nazaretyan Samvel A. , Savic Neda , Sadek Michael , Hackert Brandy J. , Courcelle Justin , Courcelle Charmain T.
Published: December 2017

In both prokaryotes and eukaryotes, hydroxyurea is suggested to inhibit DNA replication by inactivating ribonucleotide reductase and depleting deoxyribonucleoside triphosphate pools. In this study, we show that the inhibition of replication in
Escherichia coli
is transient even at concentrations of 0.1 M hydroxyurea and that replication rapidly recovers and continues in its presence. The recovery of replication does not require the alternative ribonucleotide reductases NrdEF and NrdDG or the translesion DNA polymerases II (Pol II), Pol IV, and Pol V. Ribonucleotides are incorporated at higher frequencies during replication in the presence of hydroxyurea. However, they do not contribute significantly to the observed synthesis or toxicity. Hydroxyurea toxicity was observed only under conditions where the stability of hydroxyurea was compromised and by-products known to damage DNA directly were allowed to accumulate. The results demonstrate that hydroxyurea is not a direct or specific inhibitor of DNA synthesis
in vivo
and that the transient inhibition observed is most likely due to a general depletion of iron cofactors from enzymes when 0.1 M hydroxyurea is initially applied. Finally, the results support previous studies suggesting that hydroxyurea toxicity is mediated primarily through direct DNA damage induced by the breakdown products of hydroxyurea, rather than by inhibition of replication or depletion of deoxyribonucleotide levels in the cell.

IMPORTANCE
Hydroxyurea is commonly suggested to function by inhibiting DNA replication through the inactivation of ribonucleotide reductase and depleting deoxyribonucleoside triphosphate pools. Here, we show that hydroxyurea only transiently inhibits replication in
Escherichia coli
before replication rapidly recovers and continues in the presence of the drug. The recovery of replication does not depend on alternative ribonucleotide reductases, translesion synthesis, or RecA. Further, we show that hydroxyurea toxicity is observed only in the presence of toxic intermediates that accumulate when hydroxyurea breaks down, damage DNA, and induce lethality. The results demonstrate that hydroxyurea toxicity is mediated indirectly by the formation of DNA damage, rather than by inhibition of replication or depletion of deoxyribonucleotide levels in the cell.
GalNAc-Specific Soybean Lectin Inhibits HIV Infection of Macrophages through Induction of Antiviral Factors
Authors: Zhou Runhong , Wang Xu , Liu Hang , Guo Le , Su Qijian , Wang He , Vasiliadis Theodore , Ho Wenzhe , Li Jieliang
Published: December 2017

Although it has been shown that some mannose-binding lectins (MBLs) exhibit significant activity against HIV infection, little is known about whetherN-acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc)-binding lectins have the ability to inhibit HIV infection. Here, we demonstrate that a soybean-derived lectin (SBL) with GalNAc-binding affinity could potently suppress HIV infection of macrophages in a dose-dependent fashion. Unlike the MBLs, which block HIV only through binding to the glycosylated envelope proteins (gp120 and gp41) of the virus, SBL inhibited HIV at multiple steps of the virus infection/replication cycle. SBL could activate the beta interferon (IFN-β)–STAT signaling pathway, resulting in the upregulation of a number of antiviral interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs) in macrophages. In addition, SBL treatment of macrophages induced the production of C-C chemokines, which bind to HIV entry coreceptor CCR5. Deglycosylation of cell surface galactosyl moieties or presaturation of GalNAc-binding capacity could compromise SBL-mediated induction of the antiviral factors. Furthermore, SBL exerted its anti-HIV activity in the low nanomolar range with no mitogenic effect on CD4+T cells, a major advantage in the development of SBL as a potential anti-HIV agent compared with MBLs. These data indicate a necessity to further investigate SBL as an alternative and cost-effective anti-HIV natural product.

IMPORTANCEMannose-binding lectins (MBLs) can block the attachment of HIV to target cells and have been suggested as anti-HIV microbicides. However, the mitogenic effect of MBLs on CD4+T cells limits this potential in clinical settings. Lectins with galactose (Gal)- orN-acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc)-binding specificity are another important category of carbohydrate-binding proteins (CBP). Compared to high-mannose N-linked glycans, GalNAc-type glycans present much less in HIV gp120 or gp41 glycosylation. Here, we demonstrate that GalNAc-specific soybean lectin (SBL) triggers antiviral signaling via recognition of the cell surface galactosyl group of macrophages, which results in the suppression of HIV at multiple steps. More importantly, SBL has no mitogenic effect on the activation of CD4+T cells, a major advantage in the development of Gal/GalNAc-specific lectins as naturopathic anti-HIV agents.
Genetic risk factors for late age-related macular degeneration in India
Authors: Rajendran Anand , Dhoble Pankaja , Sundaresan Periasamy , Saravanan Vijayan , Vashist Praveen , Nitsch Dorothea , Smeeth Liam , Chakravarthy Usha , Ravindran Ravilla D , Fletcher Astrid E
Published: December 2017

Background/Aims

There are limited data from India on genetic variants influencing late age-related macular degeneration (AMD). We have previously reported associations from a population-based study in India (the India age-related eye disease study (INDEYE)) of early AMD and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in ARMS2/HTRA1 and no association with CFH, C2 or CFB. Late AMD cases were too few for meaningful analyses. We aimed to investigate SNPs for late AMD through case enrichment and extend the loci for early AMD.

Methods

Fundus images of late AMD hospital cases were independently graded by the modified Wisconsin AMD grading scheme. In total 510 cases with late AMD (14 geographic atrophy and 496 neovascular AMD (nvAMD)), 1876 with early AMD and 1176 with no signs of AMD underwent genotyping for selected SNPs. We investigated genotype and per-allele additive associations (OR and 95% CIs) with nvAMD or early AMD. Bonferroni adjusted P values are presented.

Results

We found associations with nvAMD for CFHY402H variant (rs1061170) (OR=1.99, 95% CI 1.67 to 2.37, P=10−6), ARMS2 (rs10490924) (OR=2.94, 95% CI 2.45 to 3.52, P=10−9), C2 (rs547154) (OR=0.67, 95% CI 0.53 to 0.85, P=0.01), ABCA1 (rs1883025) (OR=0.77, 95% CI 0.65 to 0.92, P=0.04) and an SNP near VEGFA (rs4711751) (OR=0.64, 95% CI 0.54 to 0.77, P=10−3). We found no associations of TLR3 (rs3775291), CFD (rs3826945), FRK (rs1999930) or LIPC (rs10468017) or APOE ε4 alleles with nvAMD or early AMD, nor between early AMD and rs1883025 or rs4711751.

Conclusions

The major genetic determinants of nvAMD risk in India are similar to those in other ancestries, while findings for early AMD suggest potential differences in the pathophysiology of AMD development.
Does greater individual social capital improve the management of hypertension? Cross-national analysis of 61 229 individuals in 21 countries
Authors: Palafox Benjamin , Goryakin Yevgeniy , Stuckler David , Suhrcke Marc , Balabanova Dina , Alhabib Khalid F , Avezum Alvaro , Bahonar Ahmad , Bai Xiulin , Chifamba Jephat , Dans Antonio L , Diaz Rafael , Gupta Rajeev , Iqbal Romaina , Ismail Noorhassim , Kaur Manmeet , Keskinler Mirac V , Khatib Rasha , Kruger Annamarie , Kruger Iolanthe M , Lanas Fernando , Lear Scott A , Li Wei , Liu Jia , Lopez-Jaramillo Patricio , Peer Nasheeta , Poirier Paul , Rahman Omar , Pillai Rajamohanan K , Rangarajan Sumathy , Rosengren Annika , Swaminathan Sumathi , Szuba Andrzej , Teo Koon , Wang Yang , Wielgosz Andreas , Yeates Karen E , Yusufali Afzalhussein , Yusuf Salim , McKee Martin
Published: December 2017

Introduction

Social capital, characterised by trust, reciprocity and cooperation, is positively associated with a number of health outcomes. We test the hypothesis that among hypertensive individuals, those with greater social capital are more likely to have their hypertension detected, treated and controlled.

Methods

Cross-sectional data from 21 countries in the Prospective Urban and Rural Epidemiology study were collected covering 61 229 hypertensive individuals aged 35–70 years, their households and the 656 communities in which they live. Outcomes include whether hypertensive participants have their condition detected, treated and/or controlled. Multivariate statistical models adjusting for community fixed effects were used to assess the associations of three social capital measures: (1) membership of any social organisation, (2) trust in other people and (3) trust in organisations, stratified into high-income and low-income country samples.

Results

In low-income countries, membership of any social organisation was associated with a 3% greater likelihood of having one’s hypertension detected and controlled, while greater trust in organisations significantly increased the likelihood of detection by 4%. These associations were not observed among participants in high-income countries.

Conclusion

Although the observed associations are modest, some aspects of social capital are associated with better management of hypertension in low-income countries where health systems are often weak. Given that hypertension affects millions in these countries, even modest gains at all points along the treatment pathway could improve management for many, and translate into the prevention of thousands of cardiovascular events each year.
Protocol for the BRECAR study: a prospective cohort follow-up on the impact of breast reconstruction timing on health-related quality of life in women with breast cancer
Authors: Herrera de la Muela Maria , García López Enrique , Frías Aldeguer Laura , Gómez-Campelo Paloma
Published: December 2017

Introduction

The completion of postmastectomy breast reconstruction (BR) in women with breast cancer can last from months to years, and to our knowledge, there is a lack of studies that analyse how the different types and times of reconstruction impact on the patient’s quality of life and psychosocial adjustment.

The primary aim of the BREast Cancer Reconstruction (BRECAR Study) is twofold. First, to describe health-related quality of life (HRQoL), overall satisfaction with surgery and psychological impact (body image, self-esteem, depression and anxiety) on women who will have undergone a mastectomy with planned BR, considering the varied timing of BR procedures (immediate BR (iBR), delayed BR (dBR) and two-stage BR (2sBR)). To measure the impact on surgical outcomes, we will obtain data prior to and after surgery (6–9 and at 18 months of follow-up). Second, to analyse sociodemographic, clinical and psychosocial factors associated with HRQoL, satisfaction with surgery and psychological impact.

Methods and analysis

A prospective, observational, clinical cohort study of women diagnosed with breast cancer who have an indication for mastectomy treated at La Paz University Hospital (Madrid, Spain).

Patients will be classified into one of three groups under conditions of routine clinical practice, based on the type of BR planned: the iBR group, the dBR group and the 2sBR group.

Under typical clinical practice conditions, we will perform three visits: baseline visit (presurgery), V1 (6–9 months after diagnosis) and V2 (18 months after diagnosis). A sample size of 210 patients is estimated.

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol and informed consent form have been reviewed and approved by the Institutional Review Board of La Paz Hospital (no. PI-2036). Dissemination of results will be via journal articles and conference presentations.
1,2,4-triazole derivatives with morpholine; DFT study and antileishmanial activity
Authors: Süleymanoğlu Nevin , Ustabaş Reşat , Direkel Şahin , Alpaslan Yelda Bingöl , Ünver Yasemin
Published: December 2017

1,2,4-triazole derivatives with morpholine; 4-((3-methylthiophene–2-yl)methylenamino)-1-((4-(3-methylthiophene–2-yl)methylene amino)-1-(morpholinomethyl)-5-thioxo-4,5-dihydro-1H-1,2,4-triazole-3-yl)methyl)-3-(thiophene–2-ylmethyl)-1H-1,2,4-triazole-5(4H)-one (compound I) and 1-((1-(morpholinomethyl)–4-(5-nitrothiophene–2-yl)methyleneamino)-5-thioxo-4,5-dihydro-1H-1,2,4-triazole-3-yl)methyl)-4-((5-nitrothiophene–2-yl)methyleneamino)-3-(thiophene–2-ylmethyl)-1H-1,2,4-triazole-5(4H)-one (compound II), were optimized using a density functional theory (DFT) method with 6-311G(d,p) basis set and structural and spectral parameters were determined. In vitro antileishmanial activities of compounds were performed against Leishmania infantum promastigots by microdilution broth assay with Alamar Blue dye. Amphotericin B was used as standard drug. The results show that both compounds are antiparasitic and especially compound II has considerable antileishmanial activity due to the minimal inhibitory concentration value of 312 μg/mL.
Thermoluminescence and dosimetric characteristics study of quartz samples from Seyhan Dam Lake Terraces
Authors: Yüksel Mehmet
Published: December 2017

In the present study, soil samples of Seyhan Dam Lake Terraces were collected and then pure quartz samples were separated using various separation methods. The quartz samples were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy – energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX) methods. Thermoluminescence (TL) measurements were carried out using lexsyg smart TL – optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) reader with a constant heating rate of 1 °C/s from room temperature to 450 °C. Beta dose response of the samples were investigated in the dose range from 1 to 10 Gy and the linear dose response range was determined as 1–5 Gy. Computerized glow curve deconvolution (CGCD), peak shape, and isothermal decay (ID) methods were used to determine activation energy (E), order of kinetics (b), and frequency factor (s) of the samples. Furthermore, in this study, minimum detectable dose values of the quartz samples were also determined.
Theoretical study of phonon dispersion, elastic, mechanical and thermodynamic properties of barium chalcogenides
Authors: Musari A. A. , Orukombo S. A.
Published: December 2017

Barium chalcogenides are known for their high-technological importance and great scientific interest. Detailed studies of their elastic, mechanical, dynamical and thermodynamic properties were carried out using density functional theory and plane-wave pseudo potential method within the generalized gradient approximation. The optimized lattice constants were in good agreement when compared with experimental data. The independent elastic constants, calculated from a linear fit of the computed stress–strain function, were used to determine the Young’s modulus (E), bulk modulus (B), shear modulus (G), Poisson’s ratio ([Formula: see text]) and Zener’s anisotropy factor (A). Also, the Debye temperature and sound velocities for barium chalcogenides were estimated from the three independent elastic constants. The calculations of phonon dispersion showed that there are no negative frequencies throughout the Brillouin zone. Hence barium chalcogenides have dynamically stable NaCl-type crystal structure. Finally, their thermodynamic properties were calculated in the temperature range of 0–1000 K and their constant-volume specific heat capacities at room-temperature were reported.
Is the Wheeler–DeWitt equation more fundamental than the Schrödinger equation?
Authors: Shestakova Tatyana P.
Published: December 2017

The Wheeler–DeWitt equation was proposed 50 years ago and until now it is the cornerstone of most approaches to quantization of gravity. One can find in the literature, the opinion that the Wheeler–DeWitt equation is even more fundamental than the basic equation of quantum theory, the Schrödinger equation. We still should remember that we are in the situation when no observational data can confirm or reject the fundamental status of the Wheeler–DeWitt equation, so we can give just indirect arguments in favor of or against it, grounded on mathematical consistency and physical relevance. I shall present the analysis of the situation and comparison of the standard Wheeler–DeWitt approach with the extended phase space approach to quantization of gravity. In my analysis, I suppose, first, that a future quantum theory of gravity must be applicable to all phenomena from the early universe to quantum effects in strong gravitational fields, in the latter case, the state of the observer (the choice of a reference frame) may appear to be significant. Second, I suppose that the equation for the wave function of the universe must not be postulated but derived by means of a mathematically consistent procedure, which exists in path integral quantization. When applying this procedure to any gravitating system, one should take into account features of gravity, namely, nontrivial spacetime topology and possible absence of asymptotic states. The Schrödinger equation has been derived early for cosmological models with a finite number of degrees of freedom, and just recently it has been found for the spherically symmetric model which is a simplest model with an infinite number of degrees of freedom. The structure of the Schrödinger equation and its general solution appears to be very similar in these cases. The obtained results give grounds to say that the Schrödinger equation retains its fundamental meaning in constructing quantum theory of gravity.
Cosmology with an interacting van der Waals fluid
Authors: Elizalde E. , Khurshudyan M.
Published: December 2017

A model for the late-time accelerated expansion of the Universe is considered where a van der Waals fluid interacting with matter plays the role of dark energy. The transition towards this phase in the cosmic evolution history is discussed in detail and, moreover, a complete classification of the future finite-time singularities is obtained for six different possible forms of the nongravitational interaction between dark energy (the van der Waals fluid) and dark matter. This study shows, in particular, that a Universe with a noninteracting three-parameter van der Waals fluid can evolve into a Universe characterized by a type IV (generalized sudden) singularity. On the other hand, for certain values of the parameters, exit from the accelerated expanding phase is possible in the near future, what means that the expansion of the Universe in the future could become decelerated – to our knowledge, this interesting situation is not commonplace in the literature. On the other hand, our study shows that space can be divided into different regions. For some of them, in particular, the nongravitational interactions [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] may completely suppress future finite-time singularity formation, for sufficiently high values of [Formula: see text]. On the other hand, for some other regions of the parameter space, the mentioned interactions would not affect the singularity type, namely the type IV singularity generated in the case of the noninteracting model would be preserved. A similar conclusion has been archived for the cases of [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] nongravitational interactions, with only one difference: the [Formula: see text] interaction will change the type IV singularity of the noninteracting model into a type II (the sudden) singularity.
Compressive Column Load Identification in Steel Space Frames Using Second-Order Deflection-Based Methods
Authors: Bonopera Marco , Chang Kuo-Chun , Chen Chun-Chung , Lin Tzu-Kang , Tullini Nerio
Published: December 2017

This paper presents a comparison of two static nondestructive methods used to assess compressive loads in columns of steel space frames. The first method requires knowledge of the flexural rigidity of the column under investigation, whereas the second method requires knowledge of the column’s buckling load. In each method, short-term displacements are measured at given cross-sections along the member under examination, which is subjected to an additional transverse load. The two methods were verified in this study through experimental and numerical tests on a column of a small-scale space frame prototype with generic connections and end conditions. Estimations of compressive forces were generally reliable when second-order effects were accurately considered. In conclusion, the two methods can be successfully used to test steel space frames in a laboratory or under real conditions.
THE SIMULATION STUDY ON THE DEFORMATION OF RABBIT CORNEA AFTER REFRACTIVE SURGERY WITH DIFFERENT CUTTING THICKNESS
Authors: ZHANG DI , SUN TAIFENG , ZHANG HAIXIA , LI LIN
Published: December 2017

Based on the inflation tests data of rabbit cornea, finite element analysis has been applied to determine the material parameters, simulate corneal refractive surgery and study postoperative corneal deformations. The corneal profile and apical displacement data were recorded during the inflation experiment of five rabbit corneas. Inverse finite element method was applied to determine the material parameters from the corneal apical displacements. Based on the determined material parameters and the corneal profile information, we established five corneal geometry models that simulate refractive surgery with different cutting amounts. We analyzed displacements at corneal apex and cutting edge, corneal surface curvatures under different pressures. Both Ogden model ([Formula: see text]) and Yeoh model ([Formula: see text]) gave good fits to the experiment data. The maximum of error square sum between the calculated value and the experimental value of the displacements per point at the corneal profile was less than 0.06[Formula: see text]mm. For each model with the increase of pressure, the displacement at cutting edge was larger than that at corneal apex, both of them increased, and curvature radius of anterior and posterior corneal surface increased slowly, but the refractive power decreased slowly and tended to be a stable value. Under the same pressure, the larger the cutting amount, the larger the displacements at corneal apex and cutting edge with a cutting edge displacement of about 1.10 (less ablation model) and 1.02 (larger ablation model) times the corneal vertex displacement. Both Ogden model and Yeoh model can be used to describe corneal mechanical responses of inflation experiment. After refractive surgery, the displacement at cutting edge is larger than that at corneal apex, the curvature radius of anterior (posterior) corneal surface increases (decreases), and the refractive power decreases.
A Finite Pointset Method for Biharmonic Equation Based on Mixed Formulation
Authors: Doss L. Jones Tarcius , Kousalya N. , Sundar S.
Published: December 2017

In this paper, a meshless method based on finite point set is presented for solving the biharmonic equation with simply supported boundary condition. The biharmonic equation is split into a coupled system of two Poisson equations by introducing an intermediate function. The system of two Poisson equations is then solved by finite pointset method. This method is a local iterative method based on the weighted least square approximation. The advantage of this method is that two resultant of sizes only [Formula: see text] matrices are solved at each particle for the original and intermediate solution. Numerical results indicate a good accuracy of the finite pointset method.
ANALYZING INFORMAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP: A BIBLIOMETRIC SURVEY
Authors: SANTOS EUNICE MARIA M. N. DOS , FERREIRA JOÃO J.
Published: December 2017

This study involves the analysis of the scientific outputs on informal entrepreneurship (IE hereafter) over the period from 1990 to 2016. We deploy a combination of bibliometric techniques such as citations, bibliographic coupling as well as approaching the social networks established. We sourced the contents thus analyzed from the online Thomson/Reuters-ISI database and the online Scopus database run by the Elsevier Publishing Company, which returned a total of 44 and 95 publications for analysis, respectively. From among the 139 articles analyzed, the journals Entrepreneurship and Regional Development and Journal of Developmental Entrepreneurship stand out as the publishers of the largest number of articles. We encounter studies on IE in developing countries as a low-income activity that contributes to the economic development of the region. The motivations and the determinants of informality are common to the majority of the scientific outputs and effectively serving as the analytical basis either for arguing in favor of the formalization of the business. Another aspect present in the literature interrelates IE with the quality of governance and economic liberalization. This analysis facet ensures IE gains in scientific profile within the ongoing context of discussions over neoliberalism and its effects on the world economy.
The Role of Homogeneity and Heterogeneity Among Resource Users on Water Governance: Lessons Learnt from an Economic Field Experiment on Irrigation in Uzbekistan
Authors: Roßner Robert , Zikos Dimitrios
Published: December 2017

The governance of common-pool resources, such as irrigation systems, is a highly debated topic in research. Numerous studies suggest that actors can successfully manage these resources through cooperation, especially in hybrid governance structures, if they are able to design and enforce their own rules. Thereby, certain factors, such as the composition of a group of resource users, influence the likelihood of cooperation and the performance of self-managed resource systems. This study employed an economic framed field experiment to compare the effects of externally imposed and self-set rules of water distribution on homogeneous and heterogeneous groups of irrigation users who differ in their economic endowment. The experiment was conducted with 20 farmers in an Uzbek community. Furthermore, questionnaires, group discussions and interviews complemented the analytical method. The results show that groups, homogeneous in their economic endowment are more inclined to comply with self-designed rules than groups that are economically heterogeneous. Thus, homogenous groups achieve a better performance in terms of resource maintenance and water harvest under self-governance. However, water distribution was more equal and the illegal activities decreased in both the homogeneous and heterogeneous groups with self-implemented rules. It was found that trust was a crucial factor regarding both greater individual rule adherence and more cooperative behavior within homogeneous entities compared to heterogeneous groups of irrigation users. Finally, the results support the argument that economic heterogeneity among resource users lowers the likeliness of cooperation in self-governed common-pool resource systems.
Prediction of Severity of Acute Pancreatitis Using Total Serum Calcium and Albumin-Corrected Calcium: A Prospective Study in Tertiary Center Hospital in Nepal
Authors: Pokharel Ashik , Sigdel Prem Raj , Phuyal Suman , Kansakar Prasan Bir Singh , Vaidya Pradeep
Published: December 2017

Introduction. Total calcium (TC) and albumin-corrected calcium (ACC) are easily accessible AP severity tests in the Primary Health Care Center of Nepal. The aim of the study was to evaluate TC and ACC as prognostic severity markers in acute pancreatitis (AP). Methods. All patients admitted in Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital with the diagnosis of AP were studied prospectively over a period of one year from January 2015 to January 2016. TC and ACC were measured in the first 24 hours of admission in each patient. The modified Marshall score was determined at admission and at 48 hours and at any point of time during admission as per the need of the patient. Severity of acute pancreatitis was defined as per the Revised Atlanta Classification 2012. Results. 80 patients of AP were included in the study. Among them, 14% were categorized as having severe AP. The mean total calcium was 8.22, 7.51, and 6.98 for mild, moderate, and severe AP, respectively, which was significant at 0.001. Conclusion. TC and ACC, measured within the first 24 hours, are useful severity predictors in acute pancreatitis.
The Distribution of the Photoreceptor Outer Segment Length in a Healthy Population
Authors: Maden Gamze , Cakir Akin , Icar Dilan , Erden Burak , Bolukbasi Selim , Elcioglu Mustafa
Published: December 2017

Purpose. To evaluate the effects of age and sex on the photoreceptor outer segment (PROS) length in healthy eyes, using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). Methods. A total of 97 eyes of 97 healthy participants (spherical equivalent < ±1 diopters [D]) were scanned with SD-OCT. The patients were divided into 3 groups by age: group 1 (0–20 years), group 2 (21–40 years), and group 3 (41–60 years). The PROS length was defined as the distance from the inner surface of IS/OS (inner segment/outer segment) band to the inner surface of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Results. The mean PROS length was 52.01 ± 3.79 μm in females and 53.41 ± 3.37 μm in males (p=0.061). The mean PROS length of the different groups was 53.70 ± 3.18 μm (0–20 years), 52.14 ± 3.64 μm (21–40 years), and 52.20 ± 3.95 μm (41–60 years) (p=0.155; ANOVA test). Multiple linear regression analysis revealed a −0.039 μm decline in PROS length per year (p=0.074) and a −1.408 μm decline in females (p=0.055). Conclusion. The difference in PROS length was not statistically significant neither for age nor for gender; females tended to have a lower PROS length than males, and PROS length was slightly higher in the first two decades of life.
Characterization of Origin and Evolution of Formation Water in Buried Hill of Jizhong Depression, China, Using Multivariate Statistical Analysis of Geochemical Data
Authors: Li Fei , Zeng Jianhui
Published: December 2017

Groundwater samples from buried hill of Jizhong Depression were evaluated using two statistical analyses: hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) and principal component analysis (PCA). The samples were classified into four clusters, C1–C4, in HCA and the hydrochemical types of C1–C4 are HCO3-Na, Cl·HCO3-Na, Cl-Na, and Cl-Na·Ca. From C1 to C2, C3, and C4, the water-rock interaction becomes increasingly intensive, and rNa/rCl gets lower while total dissolved solids and r(Cl-Na)/rMg get higher. Three components of PCA explain 86.87% of the variance. Component1 (PC1), characterized by highly positive loadings in Na+ and Cl−, is related to evaporation concentration. Component2 (PC2) is defined by highly positive loading in HCO3- and is related to influence of atmospheric water. With high positive loadings in Ca2+ and high negative loadings in Na+ and SO42-, component3 (PC3) suggests plagioclase albitization. The combination of HCA and PCA within the hydrogeological contexts allowed the division of study area into five dynamic areas. From recharge area to discharge area, the influence of atmospheric water gets weaker and water-rock interactions such as evaporation concentration and plagioclase albitization become intensive. Therefore groundwater in buried hill showed paths of hydrochemical evolution, from C1, to C2, C3, and C4. Buried hill reservoir in Jizhong Depression is mainly distributed in hydrodynamic blocking and discharge area; therefore the two regions can be the favorable areas for petroleum migration.
Neural-Based Compensation of Nonlinearities in an Airplane Longitudinal Model with Dynamic-Inversion Control
Authors: Liu YanBin , Li YuHui , Jin FeiTeng
Published: December 2017

The inversion design approach is a very useful tool for the complex multiple-input-multiple-output nonlinear systems to implement the decoupling control goal, such as the airplane model and spacecraft model. In this work, the flight control law is proposed using the neural-based inversion design method associated with the nonlinear compensation for a general longitudinal model of the airplane. First, the nonlinear mathematic model is converted to the equivalent linear model based on the feedback linearization theory. Then, the flight control law integrated with this inversion model is developed to stabilize the nonlinear system and relieve the coupling effect. Afterwards, the inversion control combined with the neural network and nonlinear portion is presented to improve the transient performance and attenuate the uncertain effects on both external disturbances and model errors. Finally, the simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of this controller.
A Study on Parameterization of the Beijing Winter Heavy Haze Events Associated with Height of Pollution Mixing Layer
Authors: Niu Tao , Wang Jizhi , Yang Yuanqin , Wang Yaqiang , Chen Cheng
Published: December 2017

North China Plain, Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei province are the major areas facing the decreasing air quality and frequent pollution events in the recent years. Identifying the effect of meteorological conditions on changes in aerosol concentration and the mechanism for forming such heavy pollution in North China Plain has become the focus of scientific research. The influence of atmospheric boundary layer characteristics on air quality has become the focus of attention and research. However, the boundary layer describes that the influences of air pollution have sometimes been duplicated and confused with each other in some of the studies. It is necessary to pay attention to some extent, raising awareness of related pollution mixing layer. The conclusions of the study include the following:(1)The lowered height of pollution mixing layer (H_PML) was favorable for the increase of the PM2.5density. The lowered height of pollution mixing layer had significant impacts on formation of severe haze.(2)A statistical analysis of large-scale heavy pollution cases in eastern China shows that the H_PML parameters have significant contributions.(3)The feedback effect of the high value of the convection inhibition (CIN), which is unfavorable to vertical diffusion of pollution, causes further reduction of H_PML, resulting in cumulative pollution again.
Performance of Laboratory Professionals Working on Malaria Microscopy in Tigray, North Ethiopia
Authors: Alemu Megbaru , Tadesse Desalegn , Hailu Tesfaye , Mulu Wondemagegn , Derbie Awoke , Hailu Tadesse , Abera Bayeh
Published: December 2017

Background. Microscopic analysis of stained blood smear is the most suitable method of malaria diagnosis. However, gaps were observed among clinical laboratory professionals in microscopic diagnosis of malaria.Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted in December 2015 among 46 laboratory professionals. Data was collected via on-site assessment and panel testing. The slide panel testing was composed of positive and negative slides. The kappa score was used to estimate the agreement between participants and reference reader.Results. The overall agreement between the study participants and the reference reader in malaria detection was 79% (kappa = 0.62). Participating in refresher training on malaria microscopy (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR = 7, CI = 1.5–36.3)) and malaria epidemic investigation (AOR = 4.1 CI = 1.1–14.5) had statistical significant association with detection rate of malaria parasites.Conclusion. Laboratory professionals showed low performance in malaria microscopy. Most of the study participants were graded “in-training” in laboratory diagnosis of malaria.
Epileptic Seizures Prediction Using Machine Learning Methods
Authors: Usman Syed Muhammad , Usman Muhammad , Fong Simon
Published: December 2017

Epileptic seizures occur due to disorder in brain functionality which can affect patient’s health. Prediction of epileptic seizures before the beginning of the onset is quite useful for preventing the seizure by medication. Machine learning techniques and computational methods are used for predicting epileptic seizures from Electroencephalograms (EEG) signals. However, preprocessing of EEG signals for noise removal and features extraction are two major issues that have an adverse effect on both anticipation time and true positive prediction rate. Therefore, we propose a model that provides reliable methods of both preprocessing and feature extraction. Our model predicts epileptic seizures’ sufficient time before the onset of seizure starts and provides a better true positive rate. We have applied empirical mode decomposition (EMD) for preprocessing and have extracted time and frequency domain features for training a prediction model. The proposed model detects the start of the preictal state, which is the state that starts few minutes before the onset of the seizure, with a higher true positive rate compared to traditional methods, 92.23%, and maximum anticipation time of 33 minutes and average prediction time of 23.6 minutes on scalp EEG CHB-MIT dataset of 22 subjects.
Vitamin D Receptor Activation Influences NADPH Oxidase (NOX2) Activity and Protects against Neurological Deficits and Apoptosis in a Rat Model of Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Cui Changmeng , Song Sixin , Cui Jianzhong , Feng Yan , Gao Junling , Jiang Pei
Published: December 2017

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a worldwide phenomenon which results in significant neurological and cognitive deficits in humans. Vitamin D (VD) is implicated as a therapeutic strategy for various neurological diseases now. Recently, inhibition of the NADPH oxidase (NOX2) was reported to protect against oxidative stress (ROS) production. However, whether alterations in NOX2 expression and NOX activity are associated with calcitriol (active metabolite of VD) treatment following TBI remains unclear. In the present study, rats were randomly assigned to the sham, TBI, and calcitriol‐treated groups. Calcitriol was administered intraperitoneally (2 μg/kg) at 30 min, 24 h, and 48 h after TBI insult. We observed that calcitriol treatment alleviated neurobehavioral deficits and brain edema following TBI. At the molecular levels, administration of calcitriol activated the expression of VDR and downregulated NOX2 as well as suppressed apoptosis cell rate in the hippocampus CA1 region of TBI rats. In conclusion, our findings indicate that the protective effects of calcitriol may be related to the modulation of NADPH oxidase and thereby ultimately inhibited the progression of apoptosis. Calcitriol may be promising as a protective intervention following TBI, and more study is warranted for its clinical testing in the future.
CXCR4 Promotes Neuroblastoma Growth and Therapeutic Resistance through miR-15a/16-1–Mediated ERK and BCL2/Cyclin D1 Pathways
Authors: Klein Shiri , Abraham Michal , Bulvik Baruch , Dery Elia , Weiss Ido D. , Barashi Neta , Abramovitch Rinat , Wald Hanna , Harel Yaniv , Olam Devorah , Weiss Lola , Beider Katia , Eizenberg Orly , Wald Ori , Galun Eithan , Pereg Yaron , Peled Amnon
Published: December 2017

CXCR4 expression in neuroblastoma tumors correlates with disease severity. In this study, we describe mechanisms by which CXCR4 signaling controls neuroblastoma tumor growth and response to therapy. We found that overexpression of CXCR4 or stimulation with CXCL12 supports neuroblastoma tumorigenesis. Moreover, CXCR4 inhibition with the high-affinity CXCR4 antagonist BL-8040 prevented tumor growth and reduced survival of tumor cells. These effects were mediated by the upregulation of miR-15a/16-1, which resulted in downregulation of their target genes BCL-2 and cyclin D1, as well as inhibition of ERK. Overexpression of miR-15a/16-1 in cells increased cell death, whereas antagomirs to miR-15a/16-1 abolished the proapoptotic effects of BL-8040. CXCR4 overexpression also increased miR-15a/16-1, shifting their oncogenic dependency from the BCL-2 to the ERK signaling pathway. Overall, our results demonstrate the therapeutic potential of CXCR4 inhibition in neuroblastoma treatment and provide a rationale to test combination therapies employing CXCR4 and BCL-2 inhibitors to increase the efficacy of these agents.

Significance: These results provide a mechanistic rationale for combination therapy of CXCR4 and BCL-2 inhibitors to treat a common and commonly aggressive pediatric cancer.Cancer Res; 78(6); 1471–83. ©2017 AACR.
Oncogenic Signal and Tumor Microenvironment in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Nishida Naoshi , Kudo Masatoshi
Published: December 2017

During tumor development, several immunosuppressive molecules are released from cancer cells and contribute to the establishment of immunosuppressive tumor environment. In tumor tissues, cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, and metabolites are present and could counter the effects of immune checkpoint inhibitors. From this point of view, monotherapy of anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibody might not be enough to exert a sufficient antitumor effect; additional blockade of immunosuppressive molecules in tumor microenvironment could enhance the antitumor effect of anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibody. Importantly, the production of immunosuppressive molecules in cancer cells is attributed to the activation of cellular signaling through genetic and epigenetic alterations and environmental stimulation, such as inflammation and hypoxia. In this review, we focus on the establishment of immunosuppressive microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma in the context of activation of oncogenic signals, and discuss how the immunosuppressive condition could be overcome using tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
MiR-129-5p Sensitizes the Response of Her-2 Positive Breast Cancer to Trastuzumab by Reducing Rps6
Authors: Lu Xiangdong , Ma Jingjing , Chu Jiahui , Shao Qing , Zhang Yao , Lu Guangping , Li Jun , Huang Xiang , Li Wei , Li Yongfei , Ling Yang , Zhao Tao
Published: December 2017

Background/Aims: Trastuzumab is an important treatment used for patients with Her-2-positive breast cancer, but an increasing incidence of trastuzumab resistance has been observed clinically during the past decade. Aberrant microRNA (miR) expression levels are correlated with prognosis and response to trastuzumab in breast cancer. MiR-129-5p is downregulated in trastuzumab-resistant human breast cancer cells (JIMT-1), but its potential function and underlying mechanism remain unclear. Methods: Quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR) was used to determine the expression levels of miR-129-5p and its potential target genes. The effects of miR-129-5p on cell responses to trastuzumab were analyzed by CCK-8 and flow cytometry assays in Her-2-positive breast cancer cells (SKBR-3 and JIMT-1). Bio-informatics analyses were performed to predict target genes of miR-129-5p, and luciferase assays were carried out to confirm the binding of miR-129-5p and rpS6. Results: MiR-129-5p, which was downregulated and predicted to target rpS6 in trastuzumab-resistant breast cancer cells, enhanced the sensitivity of breast cancer cells to trastuzumab by reducing the expression of rpS6. Moreover, the overexpression of rpS6 reversed the sensitivity of cells to trastuzumab induced by miR-129-5p. Conclusions: MiR-129-5p sensitized Her-2-positive breast cancer to trastuzumab by downregulating rpS6. These findings provide novel insights into the common role of rpS6 and its related molecular mechanisms in mediating trastuzumab-resistance in Her-2-positive breast cancers.
Ankle brace does not infl uence strenght and functional balance of ankle muscles over an exercise at the intensity of basketball game
Authors: Castro Alex , Marques Nise Ribeiro , Hallal Camilla Zamfolini , Gonçalves Mauro
Published: December 2017

O objetivo do presente estudo foi analisar o efeito de um exercício em intensidade do jogo de basquetebol e uso de órtese de tornozelo sobre o pico de torque (PT) isocinético dos músculos estabilizadores do tornozelo e a razão funcional eversor excêntrico/inversor concêntrico. Dezessete homens jogadores de basquetebol realizaram um teste em intensidade do jogo de basquetebol, sob duas condições: com e sem órtese no tornozelo. O teste consistiu em uma sucessão de esforços físicos típicos do jogo de basquetebol, distribuídos igualmente em quatro períodos de 10 min cada. Força muscular e a razão funcional foram avaliadas a 120 graus.s-1, previante (Pré), no intervalo do Meio (Intervalo do Meio) e após (Pós) o exercício. Os dados isocinéticos foram analisados usando ANOVA de medidas repetidas (2x3) (P < 0,05). Em ambas as condições o PT inversor concêntrico e excêntrico, respectivamente, diminuiu (P < 0,05) quando comparado: Pré vs. Intervalo do Meio (-10.1% e -8.4%); Pré vs. Pós (-17.7% e -16.4%); e Intervalo do Meio vs. Pós (-8.4% and -8.9%). Entretanto, o PT eversor concêntrico e excêntrico, respectivamente, reduziu (P < 0,05) somente quando comparado: Pré vs. Intervalo do Meio (-14.4% e -12.0); Pré vs. Pós (-15.1% e -15.2%). Não houve diferença signifi cativa entre as condições para o PT e razão funcional (P > 0,05). Estes resultados mostram que a fadiga induzida pelo exercício em intensidade do jogo de basquetebol reduziu o PT sem alterar o equilíbrio muscular sobre o tornozelo. Além disso, o uso da órtese de tornozelo não afetou a capacidade muscular em gerar torque dinâmico nem o equilíbrio funcional do tornozelo. Estes resultados sugerem que atletas podem ter um aumentado risco de lesão no tornozelo no jogo de basquetebol devido à fadiga e que o uso da órtese de tornozelo não será prejudicial para a força muscular do tornozelo durante o jogo de basquetebol.
Supervised traineeship: locus of professional socialization, habitus and knowledge production
Authors: Corrêa Junior José , Souza Neto Samuel , Iza Dijnane Fernanda Vedovatto
Published: December 2017

Esta pesquisa teve como objetivo compreender os elementos que constituem a socialização profi ssional do professor-colaborador e os saberes mobilizados no estágio supervisionado. A pesquisa foi qualitativa, descritiva e utilizou como técnicas o questionário, a observação e a entrevista com a dimensão de esclarecer e aprofundar as informações. Participaram seis professores de Educação Física. A apreciação dos dados foi feita pela análise de conteúdo e a sua organização em eixos temáticos: a socialização profi ssional no estágio supervisionado; a aprendizagem da supervisão de estágio na socialização profi ssional e o habitus de supervisor de estágio do professor-colaborador. Os resultados se referem a compreensão da supervisão de estágio e das orientações e intervenções referentes ao trabalho docente. Concluiu-se que no trabalho dos professores-colaboradores a aprendizagem da supervisão é temporal e espacial, ela tende a ser real e refl exiva, dando indicativos de que no fi nal de cada processo se afi rme a identidade de um formador pela socialização das atividades e dos indivíduos na perspectiva de um habitus.
Sport on indigenous lands in the Paraná State: elements for a public policy
Authors: Boaretto Juliana Dias , Pimentel Giuliano Gomes de Assis
Published: December 2017

Este artigo responde às seguintes questões: Para as populações indígenas do Paraná o que signifi cam as práticas corporais esportivas no lazer? Como eles interagem suas práticas locais com as manifestações não indígenas? Como podemos pensar políticas a partir das práticas sociais e do pensamento ameríndio? Em termos metodológicos, desenvolvemos pesquisa-ação junto às populações Guarani, Xetá e Kaingang. Foram realizados inventários “in loco”, consultando lideranças sobre necessidades e potencialidades esportivas de cada comunidade. Também realizamos, em articulação com este público, ações de formação de lideranças esportivas, construção de festivais, jogos estaduais e ações colaborativas de revitalização da cultura corporal desses povos. Os resultados apontam que a prática de hibridação cultural é recorrente em cada povo, mas com usos e ressignifi cações específi cas para cada terra indígena. Dentre as práticas corporais, o esporte é o elemento mais recorrente na interação multicultural, mas a pintura corporal, as lutas e as danças são eleitas para marcar a identidade da etnia junto à língua e ao artesanato. Concluímos que os povos participantes do estudo vêm no esporte dois mecanismos: a) ressignifi cação de suas práticas históricas; b) diálogo intercultural com a sociedade não indígena. Se o conhecimento deve se voltar ao interesse público, sugerimos que as políticas da área se pautem nessa intencionalidade nativa.