bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of TGF-β signaling in differentiation of mesothelial cells to vitamin A-poor hepatic stellate cells in liver fibrosis
Authors: Li Yuchang , Lua Ingrid , French Samuel W. , Asahina Kinji
Published: December 2015

Mesothelial cells (MCs) form a single layer of the mesothelium and cover the liver surface. A previous study demonstrated that, upon liver injury, MCs migrate inward from the liver surface and give rise to hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) in biliary fibrosis induced by bile duct ligation (BDL) or myofibroblasts in CCl4-induced fibrosis. The present study analyzed the role of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling in mesothelial-mesenchymal transition (MMT) and the fate of MCs during liver fibrosis and its regression. Deletion of TGF-β type II receptor ( Tgfbr2) gene in cultured MCs suppressed TGF-β-mediated myofibroblastic conversion. Conditional deletion of Tgfbr2 gene in MCs reduced the differentiation of MCs to HSCs and myofibroblasts in the BDL and CCl4 models, respectively, indicating that the direct TGF-β signaling in MCs is responsible to MMT. After BDL and CCl4 treatment, MC-derived HSCs and myofibroblasts were distributed near the liver surface and the thickness of collagen was increased in Glisson's capsule beneath the liver surface. Fluorescence-activated cell sorting analysis revealed that MC-derived HSCs and myofibroblasts store little vitamin A lipids and have fibrogenic phenotype in the fibrotic livers. MCs contributed to 1.4 and 2.0% of activated HSCs in the BDL and CCl4 models, respectively. During regression of CCl4-induced fibrosis, 20% of MC-derived myofibroblasts survived in the liver and deactivated to vitamin A-poor HSCs. Our data indicate that MCs participate in capsular fibrosis by supplying vitamin A-poor HSCs during a process of liver fibrosis and regression.
The Interchangeability of Plasma and Whole Blood Metal Ion Measurement in the Monitoring of Metal on Metal Hips
Authors: Malek Ibrahim A. , Rogers Joanne , King Amanda Christina , Clutton Juliet , Winson Daniel , John Alun
Published: December 2015

One hundred and twenty six paired samples of plasma and whole blood were measured with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry technique for metal ions analysis to determine a relationship between them. There was a significant difference between the mean plasma and whole blood concentrations of both cobalt (Co) and chromium (Cr) (p<0.0001 for both Co and Cr). The mean ratio between plasma and whole blood Cr and Co was 1.56 (range: 0.39–3.85) and 1.54 (range: 0.64–18.26), respectively, but Bland and Altman analysis illustrated that this relationship was not universal throughout the range of concentrations. There was higher variability at high concentrations for both ions. We conclude that both these concentrations should not be used interchangeably and conversion factors are unreliable due to concentration dependent variability.
Iterative Learning Control of a Nonlinear Aeroelastic System despite Gust Load
Authors: Xu Xing-zhi , Gao Ya-kui , Zhang Wei-guo
Published: December 2015

The development of a control strategy appropriate for the suppression of aeroelastic vibration of a two-dimensional nonlinear wing section based on iterative learning control (ILC) theory is described. Structural stiffness in pitch degree of freedom is represented by nonlinear polynomials. The uncontrolled aeroelastic model exhibits limit cycle oscillations beyond a critical value of the free-stream velocity. Using a single trailing-edge control surface as the control input, a ILC law under alignment condition is developed to ensure convergence of state tracking error. A novel Barrier Lyapunov Function (BLF) is incorporated in the proposed Barrier Composite Energy Function (BCEF) approach. Numerical simulation results clearly demonstrate the effectiveness of the control strategy toward suppressing aeroelastic vibration in the presence of parameter uncertainties and triangular, sinusoidal, and graded gust loads.
Synthesis of Decentralized Variable Gain Robust Controllers with GuaranteedL2Gain Performance for a Class of Uncertain Large-Scale Interconnected Systems
Authors: Nagai Shunya , Oya Hidetoshi
Published: December 2015

We consider a design problem of a decentralized variable gain robust controller with guaranteedL2gain performance for a class of uncertain large-scale interconnected systems. For the uncertain large-scale interconnected system, the uncertainties and the interactions satisfy the matching condition. In this paper, we show that sufficient conditions for the existence of the proposed decentralized variable gain robust controller with guaranteedL2gain performance are given in terms of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). Finally, simple illustrative examples are shown.
Pulmonary Complications of Azanucleoside Therapy in Patients with Myelodysplastic Syndrome and Acute Myelogenous Leukemia
Authors: Molina Manuel , Yellapragada Sarvari , Mims Martha , Rahman Effie , Rivero Gustavo
Published: December 2015

Our primary aim was to identify potential risk factors and clinical outcome of azanucleoside induced pulmonary complications in patients with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML). We present an 89-year-old female with MDS derived AML who developed fatigability, hypoxemia, and bilateral lung infiltrates indicating interstitial lung disease after 11 cycles of azanucleoside. In addition, we describe a cohort of six MDS patients with fever, cough, dyspnea, and pulmonary infiltrates at early time point during azanucleoside treatment. Early and late onset of pulmonary manifestations suggest different pathogenic mechanisms. Brief azanucleoside discontinuation and steroids led to rapid improvement in symptoms.
Mechanical Characterization and Water Absorption Behaviour of Interwoven Kenaf/PET Fibre Reinforced Epoxy Hybrid Composite
Authors: Dan-mallam Yakubu , Hong Tan Wei , Abdul Majid Mohd Shukry
Published: December 2015

The development of interwoven fabric for composite production is a novel approach that can be adopted to address the challenges of balanced mechanical properties and water absorption behaviour of polymer composites. In this paper, kenaf and PET (polyethylene terephthalate) fibre were selected as reinforcing materials to develop the woven fabric, and low viscosity epoxy resin was chosen as the matrix. Vacuum infusion process was adopted to produce the hybrid composite due to its superior advantages over hand lay-up technique. The weight percentage composition of the Epoxy/kenaf/PET hybrid composite was maintained at 70/15/15 and 60/20/20, respectively. A significant increase in tensile strength and elastic modulus of approximately 73% and 53% was recorded in relation to neat epoxy. Similarly, a substantial increase in flexural, impact, and interlaminar properties was also realized in relation to neat epoxy. This enhancement in mechanical properties may be attributed to the interlocking structure of the interwoven fabric, individual properties of kenaf and PET fibres, strong interfacial bonding, and resistance of the fibres to impact loading. The water absorption of the composites was studied by prolonged exposure in distilled water, and the moisture absorption pattern was found to follow Fickian behaviour.
Correlation and Significance of Urinary Soluble Fas and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor in Bladder Urothelial Cancer
Authors: Yang Huixiang , Wang Zhiyong , Guo Yong , Wang Zemin
Published: December 2015

Aim. To investigate the correlation and significance between the urine soluble Fas (sFas) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression in patients with urothelial bladder carcinoma (UC).Methods. The level of sFas was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and the expression of VEGF protein in UC surgical specimens was screened by immunohistochemical method. These data were analyzed through SPSS 13.0 software.Results. The urinary sFas levels were significantly higher in the patients with UC than in those without cancer (168.0 ng/mL ± 84.6 versus 56.2 ng/mL ± 37.0;P< 0.05) and in the cases with a higher stage or grade than in those with a lower stage or grade (eachP< 0.05). They had a positive relationship between the expression of VEGF protein and the pathological stage or grade in UC tissues (eachP< 0.05). Spearman rank correlation test showed a significant correlation between sFas levels and VEGF expressions (R= 0.882,P< 0.05).Conclusions. The effects of sFas and VEGF may play important roles together in the occurrence and progression of UC. Joint detection of urine sFas plus VEGF protein may provide valuable solutions to improve the diagnosis and treatment of UC.
Polychlorinated Biphenyls Water Pollution along the River Nile, Egypt
Authors: Megahed Ayman Mohamed , Dahshan Hesham , Abd-El-Kader Mahdy A. , Abd-Elall Amr Mohamed Mohamed , Elbana Mariam Hassan , Nabawy Ehab , Mahmoud Hend A.
Published: December 2015

Ten polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congeners were determined in water samples collected along the River Nile using gas chromatography‐electron capture detector (GC‐ECD). PCB concentrations ranged from 14 to 20 μg/L, which were higher than those reported in previous studies, indicating serious PCB pollution in the River Nile. PCB congener profiles varied depending on the sampling sties. PCB‐138 was the predominant congener accounting for more than 18% of total PCBs. The composition of PCB congeners in the water revealed that highly chlorinated PCB technical mixtures such as Aroclor 1254 was the main PCB production historically used in Egypt. An increasing trend in PCB levels from the upper stream to the Nile estuaries was observed. The calculated flux of PCBs indicated that 6.8 tons of PCBs is dumped into the Mediterranean Sea each year from the River Nile. The hazard quotients and carcinogenic risk caused by PCB pollution in the River Nile were above the acceptable level indicating that PCBs in the River Nile water pose adverse health effects for all age groups. Our findings revealed that PCBs possess a serious risk to the Egyptian population that depends mainly on the River Nile as a source of water. Thus, stricter legislation and regulatory controls should be applied to reduce the risk of PCBs in Egypt.
A Case-Control Study on Intimate Partner Violence during Pregnancy and Low Birth Weight, Southeast Ethiopia
Authors: Demelash Habtamu , Nigatu Dabere , Gashaw Ketema
Published: December 2015

Introduction. Violence against women has serious consequences for their reproductive and sexual health including birth outcomes. In Ethiopia, though the average parity of pregnant women is much higher than in other African countries, the link between intimate partner violence with low birth weight is unknown.Objective. The aim of this study was to examine the association between intimate partner violence and low birth weight among pregnant women.Method. Hospital based case-control study was conducted among 387 mothers (129 cases and 258 controls). Anthropometric measurements were taken both from mothers and their live births. The association between intimate partner violence and birth weight was computed through bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses and statistical significance was declared atP<0.05.Result. Out of 387 interviewed mothers, 100 (25.8%) had experienced intimate partner violence during their index pregnancy period. Relatively more mothers of low birth weight infants were abused (48%) compared with controls (16.4%). Those mothers who suffered acts of any type of intimate partner violence during pregnancy were three times more likely to have a newborn with low birth weight (95% CI; (1.57 to 7.18)). The association between overall intimate partner violence and LBW was adjusted for potential confounder variables.Conclusion. This research result gives insight for health professional about the importance of screening for intimate partner violence during pregnancy. Health care providers should consider violence in their practice and try to identify women at risk.
Enzyme Inhibitory Properties, Antioxidant Activities, and Phytochemical Profile of Three Medicinal Plants from Turkey
Authors: Zengin Gokhan , Guler Gokalp Ozmen , Aktumsek Abdurrahman , Ceylan Ramazan , Picot Carene Marie Nancy , Mahomoodally M. Fawzi
Published: December 2015

We aimed to investigate the inhibitory potential of three medicinal plants (Hedysarum varium,Onobrychis hypargyrea, andVicia truncatula) from Turkey against key enzymes involved in human pathologies, namely, diabetes (α-amylase andα-glucosidase), neurodegenerative disorders (tyrosinase, acetylcholinesterase, and butyrylcholinesterase), and hyperpigmentation (tyrosinase). The antioxidant potential, phenolic and flavonoid content of ethyl acetate, and methanolic and aqueous extracts were investigated usingin vitroassays. The total antioxidant capacity (TAC),β-carotene/linoleic acid bleaching activity, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl free radical (DPPH•), 2,2-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS•+), cupric ion reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and metal chelating activity on ferrous ions were used to evaluate the antioxidant capabilities of the extracts. The half-maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50) of the extracts on cholinesterase, tyrosinase, andα-amylase were significantly higher than the references, galantamine, kojic acid, and acarbose, respectively. The half-maximal effective concentrations (EC50) of the extracts on TAC, CUPRAC, and FRAP were significantly higher than trolox. The phenol and flavonoid contents of the plant extracts were in the range20.90±0.190–83.25±0.914 mg gallic acid equivalent/g extract and1.45±0.200–39.71±0.092 mg rutin equivalent/g extract, respectively. The plants were found to possess moderate antioxidant capacities and interesting inhibitory action against key enzymes.
Imaging Modalities to Identity Inflammation in an Atherosclerotic Plaque
Authors: Goel Sunny , Miller Avraham , Agarwal Chirag , Zakin Elina , Acholonu Michael , Gidwani Umesh , Sharma Abhishek , Kulbak Guy , Shani Jacob , Chen On
Published: December 2015

Atherosclerosis is a chronic, progressive, multifocal arterial wall disease caused by local and systemic inflammation responsible for major cardiovascular complications such as myocardial infarction and stroke. With the recent understanding that vulnerable plaque erosion and rupture, with subsequent thrombosis, rather than luminal stenosis, is the underlying cause of acute ischemic events, there has been a shift of focus to understand the mechanisms that make an atherosclerotic plaque unstable or vulnerable to rupture. The presence of inflammation in the atherosclerotic plaque has been considered as one of the initial events which convert a stable plaque into an unstable and vulnerable plaque. This paper systemically reviews the noninvasive and invasive imaging modalities that are currently available to detect this inflammatory process, at least in the intermediate stages, and discusses the ongoing studies that will help us to better understand and identify it at the molecular level.
Efficacy and Safety of Levetiracetam and Carbamazepine as Monotherapy in Partial Seizures
Authors: Suresh Swaroop Hassan , Chakraborty Ananya , Virupakshaiah Akash , Kumar Nithin
Published: December 2015

Introduction. Levetiracetam (LEV) is a newer antiepileptic drug with better pharmacokinetic profile. Currently, it is frequently used for the treatment of partial seizures. The present study was undertaken to compare the efficacy and safety of LEV and Carbamazepine (CBZ) in partial epilepsy. Methods. This was a prospective, open labeled, randomized study. It was conducted in participants suffering from partial seizures after the approval of ethics committee and written informed consent. The first group received Tab LEV (500 to 3000 mg/day) and the second group received Tab CBZ (300 to 600 mg/day). The primary outcomes were efficacy and safety. The secondary outcome was the Quality of Life (QOL). Efficacy was assessed by comparing the seizure freedom rates at the end of 6 months. Safety profile was evaluated by comparing the adverse effects. QOL was assessed by QOLIE-10 scale. Results. The overall seizure freedom rate at the end of 6 months was 71.42% in CBZ group compared to 78.57% in LEV group (p=0.2529). Both LEV and CBZ reported a similar incidence of adverse reactions. LEV group reported more behavioral changes like increased aggression and anxiety. Also, it showed better QOL compared to the CBZ group. Conclusion. LEV monotherapy and CBZ monotherapy demonstrated similar efficacy for treatment of partial epilepsy and were found to be well tolerated.
Approximate Controllability of Semilinear Neutral Stochastic Integrodifferential Inclusions with Infinite Delay
Authors: Li Meili , Liu Man
Published: December 2015

The approximate controllability of semilinear neutral stochastic integrodifferential inclusions with infinite delay in an abstract space is studied. Sufficient conditions are established for the approximate controllability. The results are obtained by using the theory of analytic resolvent operator, the fractional power theory, and the theorem of nonlinear alternative for Kakutani maps. Finally, an example is provided to illustrate the theory.
Embolization of a Jejunal Artery Pseudoaneurysm via Collateral Vessels
Authors: Breguet Romain , Pupulim Lawrence F. , Terraz Sylvain
Published: December 2015

Visceral artery pseudoaneurysms are rare and only few cases have been reported. They are considered to be life threatening in case of rupture. Rapid treatment is mandatory and endovascular procedure is recommended as the treatment of choice. Occasionally, endovascular approach is difficult to achieve, owing to unusual vascular anatomy. Whenever it is the case, an alternative method has to be considered. We report the case of a jejunal artery pseudoaneurysm that required an access via collateral vessels to accomplish complete occlusion in a 34-year-old woman who presented with a sudden epigastric pain 14 days after a cephalic duodenopancreatectomy.
Regressing Multiple Viral Plaques and Skin Fragility Syndrome in a Cat Coinfected with FcaPV2 and FcaPV3
Authors: Alberti Alberto , Tore Gessica , Scagliarini Alessandra , Gallina Laura , Savini Federica , Caporali Chiara , Abramo Francesca
Published: December 2015

Feline viral plaques are uncommon skin lesions clinically characterized by multiple, often pigmented, and slightly raised lesions. Numerous reports suggest thatpapillomaviruses(PVs) are involved in their development. Immunosuppressed and immunocompetent cats are both affected, the biological behavior is variable, and the regression is possible but rarely documented. Here we report a case of a FIV-positive cat with skin fragility syndrome and regressing multiple viral plaques in which the contemporary presence of two PV types (FcaPV2 and FcaPV3) was demonstrated by combining a quantitative molecular approach to histopathology. The cat, under glucocorticoid therapy for stomatitis and pruritus, developed skin fragility and numerous grouped slightly raised nonulcerated pigmented macules and plaques with histological features of epidermal thickness, mild dysplasia, and presence of koilocytes. Absolute quantification of the viral DNA copies (4555 copies/microliter of FcaPV2 and 8655 copies/microliter of FcaPV3) was obtained. Eighteen months after discontinuation of glucocorticoid therapy skin fragility and viral plaques had resolved. The role of the two viruses cannot be established and it remains undetermined how each of the viruses has contributed to the onset of VP; the spontaneous remission of skin lesions might have been induced by FIV status change over time due to glucocorticoid withdraw and by glucocorticoids withdraw itself.
Iron Deposition Is Positively Related to Cognitive Impairment in Patients with Chronic Mild Traumatic Brain Injury: Assessment with Susceptibility Weighted Imaging
Authors: Lu Liyan , Cao Heli , Wei Xiaoer , Li Yuehua , Li Wenbin
Published: December 2015

Background. This study aimed to evaluate the usability of SWI in assessment of brain iron to detect cognitive dysfunction in patients with chronic mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI).Methods. 39 patients with mTBI and 37 normal controls were given the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and underwent SWI scanning at least 6 months after injury. Angle radian values were calculated with phase images. The angle radian values were compared between groups using analysis of covariance, and their association with MMSE scores was analyzed using Spearman correlations.Results. Significantly higher angle radian values (p<0.05) were found in the head of the caudate nucleus, the lenticular nucleus, the hippocampus, the thalamus, the right substantia nigra, the red nucleus, and the splenium of the corpus callosum (SCC) in the mTBI group, compared to the control group. MMSE scores were negatively correlated with angle radian values in the right substantia nigra (r=-0.685,p<0.001).Conclusions. Patients with chronic mTBI might have abnormally high accumulations of iron, and their MMSE scores are negatively associated with angle radian values in the right substantia nigra, suggesting a role of SWI in the assessment of cognitive impairments of these patients.
Pregnancy Tumor in a 31-Year-Old Female with a Facial Port-Wine Stain
Authors: Rockafellow Andrew , Florin Whitney , Philipone Elizabeth , Koslovsky David
Published: December 2015

Pyogenic granuloma is a type of inflammatory hyperplasia often seen in the oral cavity and occurs in response to stimuli such as local irritants and hormonal factors. Pyogenic granulomas associated with pregnancy are referred to as pregnancy tumors. This report describes the presentation and surgical management of a large pregnancy tumor occurring in a patient with an overlying isolated facial port-wine stain.
Influence of Quasiperiodic Gravitational Modulation on Convective Instability of Liquid-Liquid Polymerization Front
Authors: Assiyad Saadia , Allali Karam , Belhaq Mohamed
Published: December 2015

The influence of quasiperiodic gravitational modulation on convective instability of polymerization front with liquid monomer and liquid polymer is studied. The model includes the heat equation, the concentration equation, and the Navier-Stokes equations under the Boussinesq approximation. The linear stability analysis of the problem is carried out and the interface problem is derived. Using numerical simulations, the convective instability threshold is determined and the boundary of the convective instability is obtained for different amplitudes and frequencies ratio.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Psychiatric Nursing in Japan
Authors: Yoshinaga Naoki , Nosaki Akiko , Hayashi Yuta , Tanoue Hiroki , Shimizu Eiji , Kunikata Hiroko , Okada Yoshie , Shiraishi Yuko
Published: December 2015

Psychiatric nurses have played a significant role in disseminating cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in Western countries; however, in Japan, the application, practice, efficiency, and quality control of CBT in the psychiatric nursing field are unclear. This study conducted a literature review to assess the current status of CBT practice and research in psychiatric nursing in Japan. Three English databases (MEDLINE, CINAHL, and PsycINFO) and two Japanese databases (Ichushi-Web and CiNii) were searched with predetermined keywords. Fifty-five articles met eligibility criteria: 46 case studies and 9 comparative studies. It was found that CBT took place primarily in inpatient settings and targeted schizophrenia and mood disorders. Although there were only a few comparative studies, each concluded that CBT was effective. However, CBT recipients and outcome measures were diverse, and nurses were not the only CBT practitioners in most reports. Only a few articles included the description of CBT training and supervision. This literature review clarified the current status of CBT in psychiatric nursing in Japan and identified important implications for future practice and research: performing CBT in a variety of settings and for a wide range of psychiatric disorders, conducting randomized controlled trials, and establishing pre- and postqualification training system.
Multivariate Analysis of Grain Yield and Its Attributing Traits in Different Maize Hybrids Grown under Heat and Drought Stress
Authors: Ali Fawad , Kanwal Naila , Ahsan Muhammmad , Ali Qurban , Bibi Irshad , Niazi Nabeel Khan
Published: December 2015

This study was carried out to evaluate F1 single cross-maize hybrids in four crop growing seasons (2010–2012). Morphological traits and physiological parameters of twelve maize hybrids were evaluated (i) to construct seed yield equation and (ii) to determine grain yield attributing traits of well-performing maize genotype using a previously unexplored method of two-way hierarchical clustering. In seed yield predicting equation photosynthetic rate contributed the highest variation (46%). Principal component analysis data showed that investigated traits contributed up to 90.55% variation in dependent structure. From factor analysis, we found that factor 1 contributed 49.6% variation (P<0.05) with primary important traits (i.e., number of leaves per plant, plant height, stem diameter, fresh leaves weight, leaf area, stomata conductance, substomata CO2absorption rate, and photosynthetic rate). The results of two-way hierarchical clustering demonstrated that Cluster III had outperforming genotype H12(Sultan × Soneri) along with its most closely related traits (photosynthetic rate, stomata conductance, substomata CO2absorption rate, chlorophyll contents, leaf area, and fresh stem weight). Our data shows that H12(Sultan × Soneri) possessed the highest grain yield per plant under environmentally stress conditions, which are most likely to exist in arid and semiarid climatic conditions, such as in Pakistan.
Study on Hysteretic Fracture of Naturally Cracked Surrounding Rock
Authors: Zhong Zhibin , Deng Ronggui , Lin Fang , Zhang Ying , Lv Lei , Yin Jing , Fu Xiaomin
Published: December 2015

To determine the hysteretic fracture mechanism of the hard and naturally cracked surrounding rock mass, uniaxial and biaxial compression tests were performed on rhyolite specimens. In the biaxial compression test, displacements and strains around the U-shaped opening were monitored throughout to study the fracture pattern and distribution of stress. To compare with the experimental results, the finite difference codeFLAC3Dwas used to simulate a perfectly intact rock model with the same geometric and mechanical conditions in a continuum model. Stress-strain curves under uniaxial compression and the surrounding rock stresses of numerical results were compared with laboratory test. On one hand, laboratory test and numerical results all showed that tensile fracture regions were found at the crown and floor of the opening while shear regions are found at the sidewall. On the other hand, due to microcracks in the laboratory specimen, the laboratory test showed lower ultimate compressive strength. However, its vertical displacement of initial fracture was larger than those of numerical model which did not consider about the microcracks. They revealed the hysteretic fracture behaviour of underground opening in hard and cracked rock.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Multiphase Strengthened Al/Si/Al2O3/SiO2/MWCNTs Nanocomposites Sintered by In Situ Vacuum Hot Pressing
Authors: Li Jingrui , Jiang Xiaosong , Shao Zhenyi , Zhu Degui , Johnson Shardai S. , Luo Zhiping , Zhu Minhao
Published: December 2015

Eutectic Al–Si binary alloy is technically one of the most important Al casting alloys due to its high corrosion resistance, evident shrinkage reduction, low thermal expansion coefficient, high fluidity, and good weldability. In this work, multiphased Al–Si matrix nanocomposites reinforced with Al2O3 and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) have been sintered by an in situ vacuum hot‐pressing method. The alumina Al2O3 nanoparticles were introduced by an in situ reaction of Al with SiO2. Microstructure and mechanical properties of the sintered Al/Si/Al2O3/SiO2/MWCNTs nanocomposites with different alumina contents were investigated. The mechanical properties were determined by micro‐Vickers hardness and compressive and shear strength tests. The results demonstrated that in situ alumina and MWCNTs had impacts on microstructure and mechanical properties of the nanocomposites. Based on the mechanical properties and microstructure of the nanocomposites, strengthening and fracture mechanisms by multiple reinforcements were analyzed.
An Innovative Pansharpening Method Based on MRF Strategy
Authors: Liu Jian , Lei Yingjie , Xing Yaqiong , Cheng Yinglei
Published: December 2015

An innovative pansharpening method is proposed to selectively extract more useful information from the original images to produce a new image with higher resolution information. The standard PCA is employed as a decorrelation tool to separate the spectral and spatial information in MS images. In order to reduce the spectral distortion of fused image, we decompose the first principal component (PC1) of multispectral (MS) images and panchromatic (PAN) images using nonsubsample shearlet transform (NSST) to achieve effective detailed information; a novel energy function, including the inter- and intrainformation between subbands, has been established to take full account of the local dissimilarity between MS and PAN images, and the reasonable coefficients are selectively chosen based on Markov random field (MRF). It is found that the simulated image by the new method is more close to the real image and more clear and with more detailed information compared with other popular methods reported recently, which means that our new method can effectively improve the efficiency and quality during the fusion image process.
Clinical Outcome of Third-Line Pazopanib in a Patient with Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Roberto Michela , Bassanelli Maria , Iannicelli Elsa , Giacinti Silvana , D’Antonio Chiara , Aschelter Anna Maria , Marchetti Paolo
Published: December 2015

Background.Renal cell carcinoma accounts for about 2-3% of all malignant tumors. The prevalence of brain metastases from RCC is less than 20% of cases. Traditionally, whole brain radiotherapy as well as the latest stereotactic radiosurgery improves both survival and local tumor control. These treatments also allow stabilization of clinical symptomatology. However, validated treatment guidelines for RCC patients with brain metastases are not yet available on account of the frequent exclusion of such patients from clinical trials. Moreover, limited data about the sequential use of three therapies, changing the class of agent, have been published up to now.Case Report.We report the case of a patient with metastatic RCC who developed disease progression after sunitinib and everolimus as first-line and second-line therapy, respectively. Thus, he underwent a multimodality treatment with pazopanib, as third-line therapy, to control systemic disease and radiosurgery directed on the new brain metastasis. To date, the patient is still receiving pazopanib, with progression-free survival and overall survival of 43 and 103 months, respectively.Conclusion.In a context characterized by different emerging options, with no general consensus on the optimal treatment strategy, the use of pazopanib in pretreated patients could be a suitable choice.
IL‐1 Receptor Blockade Alleviates Graft‐versus‐Host Disease through Downregulation of an Interleukin‐1β‐Dependent Glycolytic Pathway in Th17 Cells
Authors: Park Min-Jung , Lee Seung Hoon , Lee Sung-Hee , Lee Eun-Jung , Kim Eun-Kyung , Choi Jong Young , Cho Mi-La
Published: December 2015

T helper (Th) 17 cells are a subset of Th cells expressing interleukin‐ (IL‐) 17 and initiating an inflammatory response in autoimmune diseases. Graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD) is an immune inflammatory disease caused by interactions between the adaptive immunity of donor and recipient. The Th17 lineage exhibits proinflammatory activity and is believed to be a central player in GVHD. IL‐1 performs a key function in immune responses and induces development of Th17 cells. Here, we show that blockade of IL‐1 signaling suppresses Th17 cell differentiation and alleviates GVHD severity. We hypothesized that the IL‐1 receptor antagonist (IL‐1Ra) would suppress Th17 cell differentiation in vitro via inhibition of glycolysis‐related genes. Blockade of IL‐1 using IL‐1Ra downregulated Th17 cell differentiation, an alloreactive T cell response, and expression of genes of the glycolysis pathway. Severity of GVHD was reduced in mice with a transplant of IL‐Ra‐treated cells, in comparison with control mice. To clarify the mechanisms via which IL‐1Ra exerts the therapeutic effect, we demonstrated in vivo that IL‐1Ra decreased the proportion of Th17 cells, increased the proportion of FoxP3‐expressing T regulatory (Treg) cells, and inhibited expression of glycolysis‐related genes and suppressed Th17 cell development and B‐cell activation. These results suggest that blockade of IL‐1 signaling ameliorates GVHD via suppression of excessive T cell‐related inflammation.
Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms inP2X7Gene Are Associated with Serum Immunoglobulin G Responses toMycobacterium tuberculosisin Tuberculosis Patients
Authors: Wu Jiangdong , Lu Lijun , Zhang Le , Ding Yulei , Wu Fang , Zuo Weize , Zhang Wanjiang
Published: December 2015

Objective. Our study investigated the association between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in P2X7 gene and serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) responses to mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) in TB patients.Methods. A total of 103 TB patients were enrolled as case group and 87 healthy individuals at same geographical region as control group. The SNP detection of 1513A>C and -762T>C was performed using PCR-RFLP, and the levels of serum IgG responses to MTB in all subjects were determined.Results. AC and CC of 1513A>C and TC and CC of -762T>C had higher frequencies in case group than in control group. TB patients carrying TC and CC of -762T>C had higher positive rate of IgG responses to MTB than those carrying TT. Additionally, patients carrying TC and CC of -762T>C had more MTB in sputum than those carrying TT.Conclusion. P2X7 SNPs, 1513A>C and -762T>C, may be associated with the susceptibility to tuberculosis, and -762T>C SNP may contribute to the development of MTB. The mutant genotype of -762T>C (TC and CC) may lower human capability of phagocytosis to MTB, leading to an increased morbidity of TB.
Local Mutational Pressures in Genomes of Zaire Ebolavirus and Marburg Virus
Authors: Khrustalev Vladislav Victorovich , Barkovsky Eugene Victorovich , Khrustaleva Tatyana Aleksandrovna
Published: December 2015

Heterogeneities in nucleotide content distribution along the length of Zaire ebolavirus and Marburg virus genomes have been analyzed. Results showed that there is asymmetric mutational A-pressure in the majority of Zaire ebolavirus genes; there is mutational AC-pressure in the coding region of the matrix protein VP40, probably, caused by its high expression at the end of the infection process; there is also AC-pressure in the 3′-part of the nucleoprotein (NP) coding gene associated with low amount of secondary structure formed by the 3′-part of its mRNA; in the middle of the glycoprotein (GP) coding gene that kind of mutational bias is linked with the high amount of secondary structure formed by the corresponding fragment of RNA negative (−) strand; there is relatively symmetric mutational AU-pressure in the polymerase (Pol) coding gene caused by its low expression level. In Marburg virus all genes, including C-rich fragment of GP coding region, demonstrate asymmetric mutational A-bias, while the last gene (Pol) demonstrates more symmetric mutational AU-pressure. The hypothesis of a newly synthesized RNA negative (−) strand shielding by complementary fragments of mRNAs has been described in this work: shielded fragments of RNA negative (−) strand should be better protected from oxidative damage and prone to ADAR-editing.
The Photobiology of Lutein and Zeaxanthin in the Eye
Authors: Roberts Joan E. , Dennison Jessica
Published: December 2015

Lutein and zeaxanthin are antioxidants found in the human retina and macula. Recent clinical trials have determined that age- and diet-related loss of lutein and zeaxanthin enhances phototoxic damage to the human eye and that supplementation of these carotenoids has a protective effect against photoinduced damage to the lens and the retina. Two of the major mechanisms of protection offered by lutein and zeaxanthin against age-related blue light damage are the quenching of singlet oxygen and other reactive oxygen species and the absorption of blue light. Determining the specific reactive intermediate(s) produced by a particular phototoxic ocular chromophore not only defines the mechanism of toxicity but can also later be used as a tool to prevent damage.
Using the Intramolecular Contribution to the Second Moment of NMR Line Shape to Detect Site Symmetry Breakdown in Molecular Crystals
Authors: Bashirov Ferid , Gaisin Nail
Published: December 2015

A new approach to simulating the intramolecular contribution to the anisotropic second moment of NMR spectral lines broadened by magnetic dipole-dipole interaction of nuclei is suggested. The extended angular jump model is used by approximating the local hindered molecular motion (HMM). The theoretical result allow describing the site symmetry distortion by new experimental parameters qα, the dynamic weights of irreducible representations of the HMM crystallographic point symmetry group. The application of the theory to describing the intraionic second moment of the proton NMR spectral line in monocrystalline ammonium chloride proves the tetragonal distorted tetrahedral site symmetry of ammonium ions.
Preparation of Stellerite Loading Titanium Dioxide Photocatalyst and Its Catalytic Performance on Methyl Orange
Authors: Chen Hua , Wang Jianhua , Wang Huajun , Yang Fei , Zhou Jia-nan , Fu Jiajun , Yang Jie , Yuan Zheng , Zheng Bingbing
Published: December 2015

TiO2/stellerite composite photocatalysts were prepared by dispersing TiO2 onto the surface of HCl, NaOH, or NaCl treated stellerite using a sol‐gel method. The materials were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X‐ray (EDX), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), BET surface area analysis, and X‐ray diffraction (XRD). HCl and NaCl modification result in the promotion of the pore formation at the stellerite surfaces and induced the microscopic changes, while the surface morphology and structure of the stellerite were almost ruined by NaOH modification. Supported TiO2 calcinated at 200°C presented anatase structure. The photocatalytic degradation activities of TiO2 loaded HCl and NaCl modified stellerite were better than that of natural stellerite, accompanied with increasing specific surface area. On the contrary, NaOH modification induced the loss of photocatalytic ability of composite due to the generation of silicates.
A Cross-Layer Key Management Scheme for MIPv6 Fast Handover over IEEE 802.11 Wireless LAN
Authors: Park Chang-Seop , Kang Hyun-Sun , Jung Jaijin
Published: December 2015

A new key management and security scheme is proposed to integrate Layer Two (L2) and Layer Three (L3) keys for secure and fast Mobile IPv6 handover over IEEE 802.11 Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN). Unlike the original IEEE 802.11-based Mobile IPv6 Fast Handover (FMIPv6) that requires time-consuming IEEE 802.1x-based Extensible Authentication Protocol (EAP) authentication on each L3 handover, the newly proposed key management and security scheme requires only one 802.1x-EAP regardless of how many L3 handovers occur. Therefore, the proposed scheme reduces the handover latency that results from a lengthy 802.1x-based EAP. The proposed key management and security scheme is extensively analyzed in terms of security and performance, and the proposed security scheme is shown to be more secure than those that were previously proposed.
p-Sulfonic Acid Calix[4]arene as an Efficient Catalyst for One-Pot Synthesis of Pharmaceutically Significant Coumarin Derivatives under Solvent-Free Condition
Authors: Tashakkorian Hamed , Lakouraj Moslem Mansour , Rouhi Mona
Published: December 2015

One-pot and efficient protocol for preparation of some potent pharmaceutically valuable coumarin derivatives under solvent-free condition via direct coupling using biologically nontoxic organocatalyst, calix[4]arene tetrasulfonic acid (CSA), was introduced. Calix[4]arene sulfonic acid has been incorporated lately as a magnificent and recyclable organocatalyst for the synthesis of some organic compounds. Nontoxicity, solvent-free conditions, good-to-excellent yields for pharmaceutically significant structures, and especially ease of catalyst recovery make this procedure valuable and environmentally benign.
Endobronchial Tuberculosis Mimicking Asthma
Authors: Argun Baris Serap , Onyilmaz Tuğba , Basyigit Ilknur , Boyaci Hasim
Published: December 2015

Endobronchial tuberculosis (EBTB) is defined as tuberculosis infection of the tracheobronchial tree with microbial and histopathological evidence. The clinical symptoms of the diseases are nonspecific. Chronic cough is the major symptom of the disease. The diagnosis is often delayed due to its nonspecific presentation and misdiagnosed as bronchial asthma. This case is presented to recall the notion that the endobronchial tuberculosis can mimic asthma and the importance of bronchoscopic evaluation in a patient with chronic cough and treatment resistant asthma.
Late Type 3b Endoleak with an Endurant Endograft
Authors: Barburoglu Mehmet , Acunas Bulent , Onal Yilmaz , Ugurlucan Murat , Sayin Omer Ali , Alpagut Ufuk
Published: December 2015

Endovascular stent grafting with different commercially available stent graft systems is widely applied for the treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysms with high success rates in the current era. Various types of endoleaks are potential complications of the procedure. They usually occur in the early period. In this report, we present type 3b endoleak occurring 14 months after a successful endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair with a Medtronic Endurant stent graft.
High Tuberculosis Disease Burden among Indigenous People of the Paraguayan Chaco and Associated Community Characteristics, 2002–2004: An Ecological Study
Authors: VanSteelandt Amanda , Hurtado Ana Magdalena , Rolón Miriam , Rojas de Arias Antonieta , Jara Juan Carlos
Published: December 2015

Indigenous populations are generally reported to suffer greater active tuberculosis (TB) disease burden. The objective of this study was to examine ecological associations between cases of active adult and pediatric TB reported from 2002 to 2004 and community characteristics in indigenous communities of the Paraguayan Chaco. Adult and pediatric models were examined by negative binomial and Poisson GLM regression, respectively. Active TB prevalence in indigenous people was eight times higher than the nonindigenous population. Communities with a health post were more than twice as likely to report active adult TB (RR = 2.07, 95% confidence interval (CI) [1.14–3.83], and p<0.05). Each additional average year of education in the community was associated with nearly 50% less likelihood of active pediatric TB (RR = 0.53, 95% CI [0.38–0.73], and p<0.001). Although nonsignificant, the presence of nonindigenous community members had a strong protective association in both the adult (RR = 0.56, 95% CI [0.30–1.03], and p=0.06) and pediatric models (RR = 0.64, 95% CI [0.34–1.14], and p=0.14). These results reinforce the importance of increasing epidemiologic surveillance and investigating the social determinants of TB disease among vulnerable indigenous populations.
Behcet’s Disease: Is There Geographical Variation? A Review Far from the Silk Road
Authors: Leonardo Nieves Marie , McNeil Julian
Published: December 2015

Behcet’s Disease (BD) is a systemic vasculitis characterized by the triad of recurrent mouth and genital ulcers with eye involvement. To date there are no laboratory tests specific for the disease and diagnosis continues to remain on clinical grounds. Multiple criteria have been created as guides for diagnosis; however, given the wide spectrum of organ involvement, some cases remain undiagnosed. The diagnosis of Behcet’s Disease may only be made over time as the clinical manifestations emerge sometimes separated by months and even years. With an increased recognition of this disease it has become apparent that there is geographical variation in clinical manifestations. In particular cardiac manifestations are not seen commonly in Caucasians compared to Asian and Middle Eastern patients, while neurological manifestations are more common in Caucasians. Use of immunosuppressive and immunomodulatory drugs to suppress inflammation remains the cornerstone of treatment.
Sometimes There Is More Than One Puzzle on the Table: Pneumococcal Bacteremia as a New Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Presentation
Authors: Sheybani Fereshte , Naderi Hamidreza , Mirfeizi Zahra , Erfani Sedigheh
Published: December 2015

Infection is common and a leading cause of death in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). SLE is associated with a diverse spectrum of immune impairments including humoral defects and hypocomplementemia that contribute to a lupus patient’s increased susceptibility to infection with encapsulated bacteria. Nonetheless, there are only few reports of severe invasive bacterial infection as the initial presentation of SLE in the literature. Here, we report a rare case of SLE presenting with pneumococcal bacteremia. Based on the high resolution chest computed tomography and the result of blood cultures, the bacteremia was assumed to be secondary to pneumococcal pneumonia.
Power Saving Scheduling Scheme for Internet of Things over LTE/LTE-Advanced Networks
Authors: Kuo Yen-Wei , Chou Li-Der
Published: December 2015

The devices of Internet of Things (IoT) will grow rapidly in the near future, and the power consumption and radio spectrum management will become the most critical issues in the IoT networks. Long Term Evolution (LTE) technology will become a promising technology used in IoT networks due to its flat architecture, all-IP network, and greater spectrum efficiency. The 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) specified the Discontinuous Reception (DRX) to reduce device’s power consumption. However, the DRX may pose unexpected communication delay due to missing Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) information in sleep mode. Recent studies mainly focus on optimizing DRX parameters to manage the tradeoff between the energy consumption and communication latency. In this paper, we proposed a fuzzy-based power saving scheduling scheme for IoT over the LTE/LTE-Advanced networks to deal with the issues of the radio resource management and power consumption from the scheduling and resource allocation perspective. The proposed scheme considers not only individual IoT device’s real-time requirement but also the overall network performance. The simulation results show that our proposed scheme can meet the requirements of the DRX cycle and scheduling latency and can save about half of energy consumption for IoT devices compared to conventional approaches.