bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Simulation of Fluctuating Wind Effects on an Offshore Deck Structure
Authors: Ma Jin , Zhou Dai , Han Zhaolong , Zhang Kai , Nguyen Jennifer , Lu Jiabao , Bao Yan
Published: March 2017

The offshore structures that play a vital role in oil and gas extraction are always under complicated environmental conditions such as the random wind loads. The structural dynamic response under the harsh wind is still an important issue for the safety and reliable design of offshore structures. This study conducts an investigation to analyze the wind-induced structural response of a typical offshore deck structure. An accurate and efficient mixture simulation method is developed to simulate the fluctuating wind speed, which is then introduced as the boundary condition into numerical wind tunnel tests. Large eddy simulation (LES) is utilized to obtain the time series of wind pressures on the structural surfaces and to determine the worst working condition. Finally, the wind-induced structural responses are calculated by ANSYS Parametric Design Language (APDL). The numerically predicted wind pressures are found to be consistent with the existing experimental data, demonstrating the feasibility of the proposed methods. The wind-induced displacements have the certain periodicity and change steadily. The stresses at the top of the derrick and connections between deck and derrick are relatively larger. These methods as well as the numerical examples are expected to provide references for the wind-resistant design of the offshore structures.
Stability Analysis of Steel Lining at Pressure Diversion Tunnel Collapse Zone during Operating Period
Authors: Xiao Ming , Zhao Chen
Published: March 2017

At the collapse zone, the effects of the thickness of the consolidation grouting layer and the water pressure on the steel lining are vital to the stability of steel‐lined pressure diversion tunnels. In this paper, a joint element and the load‐sharing ratio of the consolidation layer are introduced to investigate the joint load‐bearing characteristics of the steel lining and the consolidation layer and to determine a suitable consolidation layer thickness; a coupling method for simulating the hydromechanical interaction of the reinforced concrete lining is adopted to investigate the effect of internal water exosmosis on the seepage field at the collapse zone and to determine the external water pressure on the steel lining. In the case of a steel‐lined pressure diversion tunnel, a numerical simulation is implemented to analyse the effect of the thickness of the consolidation layer and the distribution of the seepage field under the influence of internal water exosmosis. The results show that a 10 m thick consolidation layer and the adopted antiseepage measures ensure the stability of the steel lining at the collapse zone under internal and external water pressure. These research results provide a reference for the design of treatment measures for large‐scale collapses in steel‐lined pressure tunnels.
Chronic Administration of Tadalafil Improves the Symptoms of Patients with Amicrobic MAGI: An Open Study
Authors: La Vignera Sandro , Condorelli Rosita A. , Mongioi Laura M. , Calogero Aldo E.
Published: March 2017

Aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of pharmacological treatment with Tadalafil 5 mg daily on symptoms and quality of sperm parameters in selected patients with amicrobic MAGI (male accessory gland inflammation). 120 patients with amicrobic MAGI (mean age 27.0 ± 6.0 years) with mild-moderate ED (erectile dysfunction) according to IIEF-5 (International Index of Erectile Function 5 Items) scores underwent pharmacological treatment with Tadalafil 5 mg daily for six months. Before and after treatment these patients were evaluated through IIEF-5, semen analysis (according to WHO Criteria, 2010), SI-MAGI (Structured Interview about Male Accessory Gland Inflammation), and ultrasound evaluation. Patients with PVE (prostate-vesciculo-epididymitis) showed a significant increase in the percentage of spermatozoa with total (16.0 ± 8.0 versus 30.0 ± 6.0%) and progressive motility (8.00 ± 10.0 versus 25.0 ± 6.00%). It was a significant reduction of the number of patients with complicated ultrasound forms (30.0 versus 52.0) and a significant increase of the number of patients with uncomplicated ultrasound form (90.0 versus 68.0). Finally, there was a significant reduction in the percentage of patients with alterations of sexual function different from DE, such as premature ejaculation (4.00 versus 8.00%), painful ejaculation (4.00 versus 10.0%), delayed ejaculation (12.50 versus 8.00%), and decreased libido (10.0 versus 25.0%).
Postoperative Airway Obstruction by a Bone Fragment
Authors: Schober Patrick , Karagozoglu K. Hakki , Loer Stephan A. , Schwarte Lothar A.
Published: March 2017

Postoperative airway obstructions are potentially life-threatening complications. These obstructions may be classified asfunctional(sagging tongue, laryngospasm, or bronchospasm),pathoanatomical(airway swelling or hematoma within the airways), orforeign body-related. Various cases of airway obstruction by foreign bodies have previously been reported, for example, by broken teeth or damaged airway instruments. Here we present the exceptional case of a postoperative airway obstruction due to a large fragment of the patient’s maxillary bone, left accidentally in situ after transoral surgical tumor resection. Concerning this type of airway obstruction, we discuss possible causes, diagnosis, and treatment options. Although it is an exceptional case after surgery, clinicians should be aware of this potentially life-threatening complication. In summary, this case demonstrates that the differential diagnosis of postoperative airway obstructions should include foreign bodies derived from surgery, including tissue and bone fragments.
Adipose Tissue-Specialized Immunologic Features Might Be the Potential Therapeutic Target of Prospective Medicines for Obesity
Authors: Yao Fan , Zhang Ming , Chen Li
Published: March 2017

Excessive lipid accumulation in adipose tissue is either the source of obesity or the cause and result of chronic local inflammation, and recent studies indicate that the accumulation may induce many other specialized immunologic features with macrophages and epidemic diseases. We analyze the effective stages of immune cells in adipose tissue, including macrophage recruitment, macrophage polarization, and macrophage-like phenotype preadipocyte possession to find optimal sites as drug targets. Subsequently, some main signaling pathways are summarized in this review, including the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway, the JNK signaling pathway, and a novel one, the Notch signaling pathway. We illustrate all these points in order to determine the general pathogenesis of chronic low-grade local inflammation in adipose tissue and the related signaling pathways. In addition, signal-associated prospective compounds, such as berberine, are summarized and discussed with potential targets in pathogenesis. This might provide some possible thoughts and novel therapies for studying chronic inflammatory diseases, such as insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Huang Gan Formula Eliminates the Oxidative Stress Effects of Advanced Oxidation Protein Products on the Divergent Regulation of the Expression of AGEs Receptors via the JAK2/STAT3 Pathway
Authors: Deng Quanwen , Bu Can , Mo Liqian , Lv Bin , Song Shaolian , Xiao Xiaoyan , Dan Guo , Yang Xixiao
Published: March 2017

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has a high prevalence and low cure rate and represents a significant health issue. Oxidative stress is common in CKD due to metabolic disorders, inflammation, and impaired renal function changing normal proteins into advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs). Huang Gan formula (HGF) is a new type of traditional Chinese herbal medicine. Although we previously investigated the protective effects of HGF against oxidative stress, the mechanism of HGF in CKD is still not fully understood. In this study, we used western blotting, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and biochemical assays to show that HGF significantly decreased AOPP‐induced oxidative stress damage. Moreover, the protective effects of HGF might be associated with upregulation of the advanced glycation end product receptor 1 (AGE‐R1) and downregulation of the receptor for advance glycation end products (RAGE). Treatment with HGF and the Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) inhibitor, AG4‐90, significantly attenuated AOPP‐induced JAK2/STAT3 protein levels. These findings indicate that HGF inhibits AOPP‐mediated biological responses by inactivating the JAK2/STAT3 pathway. In conclusion, HGF eliminated AOPP‐induced effects in human mesangial cells (HMCs) by interrupting JAK2/STAT3 signaling, which altered RAGE/AGE‐R1 expression and reduced oxidative stress in CKD.
Obesity Induces Artery-Specific Alterations: Evaluation of Vascular Function and Inflammatory and Smooth Muscle Phenotypic Markers
Authors: Soares Antonio Garcia , Carvalho Maria Helena Catelli de , Akamine Eliana
Published: March 2017

Vascular alterations are expected to occur in obese individuals but the impact of obesity could be different depending on the artery type. We aimed to evaluate the obesity effects on the relaxing and contractile responses and inflammatory and smooth muscle (SM) phenotypic markers in two vascular beds. Obesity was induced in C57Bl/6 mice by 16-week high-fat diet and vascular reactivity, mRNA expression of inflammatory and SM phenotypic markers, and collagen deposition were evaluated in small mesenteric arteries (SMA) and thoracic aorta (TA). Endothelium-dependent relaxation in SMA and TA was not modified by obesity. In contrast, contraction induced by depolarization and contractile agonists was reduced in SMA, whereas only contraction induced by adrenergic agonist was reduced in TA of obese mice. Obesity increased the mRNA expression of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in SMA and TA. The expression of genes necessary for maintaining contractile ability was increased by obesity, but the increase was more pronounced in TA. Collagen deposition was increased in SMA, but not in TA, of obese mice. Although the endothelial function was still preserved, the SM of the two artery types was impaired by obesity, but the impairment was higher in SMA, which could be associated with SM phenotypic changes.
Cavity Adaptation of Water-Based Restoratives Placed as Liners under a Resin Composite
Authors: Abraham Sheela B. , Gaintantzopoulou Maria D. , Eliades George
Published: March 2017

Purpose. To investigate the cavity adaptation of mineral trioxide (ProRoot MTA/MT), tricalcium silicate (Biodentine/BD), and glass ionomer (Equia Fil/EF) cements used as liners and the interfacial integrity between those liners and a composite resin placed as the main restorative material. Materials and Methods. Standardized class I cavities (n: 8 per group) were prepared in upper premolars. Cavities were lined with a 1 mm thick layer of each of the tested materials and restored with Optibond FL adhesive and Herculite Precis composite resin. Cavity adaptation of the restorations was investigated by computerized X-ray microtomography. The regions of interest (ROI) were set at the cavity-liner (CL) interface and the liner-resin (LR) interface. The percentage void volume fraction (%VVF) in the ROI was calculated. The specimens were then sectioned and the interfaces were evaluated by reflection optical microscopy, to measure the % length (%LD) of the interfacial gaps. Selected samples were further evaluated by scanning electron microscopy. Statistical analysis was performed by two-way ANOVA and Student-Newman-Keuls multiple comparison test (a=0.05). Results. MT showed significantly higher %VVF and %LD values in CL interfaces than BD and EF (p<0.05). No significant differences were found among the materials for the same values at the LR interfaces. Conclusions. When used as a composite liner, ProRoot MTA showed inferior cavity adaptation at dentin/liner interface when compared to Biodentine and Equia Fil.
Second-Order Regression-Based MR Image Upsampling
Authors: Hu Jing , Wu Xi , Zhou Jiliu
Published: March 2017

The spatial resolution of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is often limited due to several reasons, including a short data acquisition time. Several advanced interpolation-based image upsampling algorithms have been developed to increase the resolution of MR images. These methods estimate the voxel intensity in a high-resolution (HR) image by a weighted combination of voxels in the original low-resolution (LR) MR image. As these methods fall into the zero-order point estimation framework, they only include a local constant approximation of the image voxel and hence cannot fully represent the underlying image structure(s). To this end, we extend the existing zero-order point estimation to higher orders of regression, allowing us to approximate a mapping function between local LR-HR image patches by a polynomial function. Extensive experiments on open-access MR image datasets and actual clinical MR images demonstrate that our algorithm can maintain sharp edges and preserve fine details, while the current state-of-the-art algorithms remain prone to some visual artifacts such as blurring and staircasing artifacts.
A Method against Interrupted-Sampling Repeater Jamming Based on Energy Function Detection and Band-Pass Filtering
Authors: Yuan Hui , Wang Chun-yang , Li Xin , An Lei
Published: March 2017

Interrupted-sampling repeater jamming (ISRJ) is a new kind of coherent jamming to the large time-bandwidth linear frequency modulation (LFM) signal. Many jamming modes, such as lifelike multiple false targets and dense false targets, can be made through setting up different parameters. According to the “storage-repeater-storage-repeater” characteristics of the ISRJ and the differences in the time-frequency-energy domain between the ISRJ signal and the target echo signal, one new method based on the energy function detection and band-pass filtering is proposed to suppress the ISRJ. The methods mainly consist of two parts: extracting the signal segments without ISRJ and constructing band-pass filtering function with low sidelobe. The simulation results show that the method is effective in the ISRJ with different parameters.
Generation of Perfect Optical Vortices by Using a Transmission Liquid Crystal Spatial Light Modulator
Authors: Anaya Carvajal Nelson , Acevedo Cristian H. , Torres Moreno Yezid
Published: March 2017

We have experimentally created perfect optical vortices by the Fourier transformation of holographic masks with combination of axicons and spiral functions, which are displayed on a transmission liquid crystal spatial light modulator. We showed theoretically that the size of the annular vortex in the Fourier plane is independent of the spiral phase topological charge but it is dependent on the axicon. We also studied numerically and experimentally the free space diffraction of a perfect optical vortex after the Fourier back plane and we found that the size of the intensity pattern of a perfect optical vortex depends on the topological charge and the propagation distance.
Effects of Macromolecular Crowding on Human Adipose Stem Cell Culture in Fetal Bovine Serum, Human Serum, and Defined Xeno-Free/Serum-Free Conditions
Authors: Patrikoski Mimmi , Lee Michelle Hui Ching , Mäkinen Laura , Ang Xiu Min , Mannerström Bettina , Raghunath Michael , Miettinen Susanna
Published: March 2017

Microenvironment plays an important role for stem cell proliferation and diﬀerentiation. Macromolecular crowding (MMC) was recently shown to assist stem cells in forming their own matrix microenvironment in vitro. The ability of MMC to support adipose stem cell (ASC) proliferation, metabolism, and multilineage diﬀerentiation was studied under diﬀerent conditions: fetal bovine serum- (FBS-) and human serum- (HS-) based media and xeno- and serum-free (XF/SF) media. Furthermore, the immunophenotype of ASCs under MMC was evaluated. The proliferative capacity of ASCs under MMC was attenuated in each condition. However, osteogenic diﬀerentiation was enhanced under MMC, shown by increased deposition of mineralized matrix in FBS and HS cultures. Likewise, signiﬁcantly greater lipid droplet accumulation and increased collagen IV deposition indicated enhanced adipogenesis under MMC in FBS and HS cultures. In contrast, chondrogenic diﬀerentiation was attenuated in ASCs expanded under MMC. The ASC immunophenotype was maintained under MMC with signiﬁcantly higher expression of CD54. However, MMC impaired metabolic activity and diﬀerentiation capacity of ASCs in XF/SF conditions. Both the supportive and inhibitory eﬀects of MMC on ASC are culture condition dependent. In the presence of serum, MMC maintains ASC immunophenotype and enhances adipogenic and osteogenic diﬀerentiation at the cost of reduced proliferation.
Older Age and Larger Prostate Volume Are Associated with Stress Urinary Incontinence after Plasmakinetic Enucleation of the Prostate
Authors: Xu Ning , Chen Shao-Hao , Xue Xue-Yi , Wei Yong , Zheng Qing-Shui , Li Xiao-Dong , Huang Jin-bei , Cai Hai , Sun Xiong-Lin , Lin Yun-Zhi
Published: March 2017

Background. To investigate the factors associated with the occurrence of and recovery from stress urinary incontinence (SUI) after plasmakinetic enucleation of the prostate (PKEP). Materials and Methods. This retrospective study enrolled 1,288 patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia treated with plasmakinetic enucleation from January 2008 to January 2015, collecting demographics and clinical parameters. SUI was defined as a patient complaint of involuntary urine leak, including stress or mixed urinary incontinence. Logistic regression analysis was used to investigate the factors associated with the occurrence of SUI. Results. SUI after PKEP occurred in 80 of 1,288 patients (6.2%), 73 of whom (91.3%) recovered within 3 months and 78 of whom (97.5%) recovered within 6 months. In multivariate regression analysis of factors that were significant in univariate analysis, the factors that were significantly associated with postoperative SUI were age ≥ 70 years (odds ratio [OR] = 9.239; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 4.616–18.495; P<0.001) and prostate volume on transrectal ultrasound ≥ 90 mL (OR = 15.390; 95% CI = 8.077–29.326; P<0.001). Conclusions. SUI occurred in 6.2% patients after PKEP and was associated with older age and larger prostate volume. We suggest that age and prostate volume be considered in preoperative candidate selection before PKEP to reduce the occurrence of postoperative SUI.
Prostate Cancer Presenting as Huge Mediastinal and Retroperitoneal Masses: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Alshaikh Safa , Harb Zainab
Published: March 2017

Mediastinum and retroperitoneum are exceedingly rare sites for metastatic prostate cancer to occur. Here, we present the case of a 67-year-old male patient with incidental findings of mediastinal and retroperitoneal masses which were found to be due to metastatic prostate adenocarcinoma based on histopathology and immunohistochemical studies and later on supported by the significantly elevated Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) levels. Prostate cancer should always be considered in the differential diagnosis of elderly men presenting with metastatic epithelial tumors even in unusual sites.
Delayed Endothelial Progenitor Cell Therapy Promotes Bone Defect Repair in a Clinically Relevant Rat Model
Authors: Bates Brent D. , Godbout Charles , Ramnaraign David J. , Schemitsch Emil H. , Nauth Aaron
Published: March 2017

The repair of segmental bone defects remains a significant challenge for orthopaedic surgeons. Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) have successfully promoted the repair of acute defects in animal models; however, the ability of EPCs to induce the repair of chronic nonhealing defects, such as those often encountered clinically, has not been investigated. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the ability of EPCs delivered in delayed fashion to induce the repair of nonhealing defects in a clinically relevant model. In order to simulate delayed treatment, 5 mm segmental defects in Fischer 344 rat femora were treated with bone marrow-derived EPCs on a Gelfoam scaffold at 3 weeks post creation of the defect. At ten weeks posttreatment, 100% of EPC-treated defects achieved union, whereas complete union was only achieved in 37.5% of defects treated with Gelfoam alone. Furthermore, significant increases in ultimate torque (p=0.022) and torsional stiffness (p=0.003) were found in EPC-treated defects compared to controls. Critically, no differences in outcomes were observed between acute and delayed EPC treatments. These results suggest that EPCs can enhance bone healing when applied in an acute or delayed fashion and that their use may represent a clinically translatable therapy for bone healing in humans.
Research on Techniques of Multifeatures Extraction for Tongue Image and Its Application in Retrieval
Authors: Chen Liyan , Wang Beizhan , Zhang Zhihong , Lin Fan , Yihan Ma
Published: March 2017

Tongue diagnosis is one of the important methods in the Chinese traditional medicine. Doctors can judge the disease’s situation by observing patient’s tongue color and texture. This paper presents a novel approach to extract color and texture features of tongue images. First, we use improved GLA (Generalized Lloyd Algorithm) to extract the main color of tongue image. Considering that the color feature cannot fully express tongue image information, the paper analyzes tongue edge’s texture features and proposes an algorithm to extract them. Then, we integrate the two features in retrieval by different weight. Experimental results show that the proposed method can improve the detection rate of lesion in tongue image relative to single feature retrieval.
A Traffic Prediction Model for Self-Adapting Routing Overlay Network in Publish/Subscribe System
Authors: Chi Meng , Yang Jianhua , Liu Yabo , Li Zhenhui
Published: March 2017

In large-scale location-based service, an ideal situation is that self-adapting routing strategies use future traffic data as input to generate a topology which could adapt to the changing traffic well. In the paper, we propose a traffic prediction model for the broker in publish/subscribe system, which can predict the traffic of the link in future by neural network. We first introduced our traffic prediction model and then described the model integration. Finally, the experimental results show that our traffic prediction model could predict the traffic of link well.
Screening for Key Pathways Associated with the Development of Osteoporosis by Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Liu Yanqing , Wang Yueqiu , Zhang Yanxia , Liu Zhiyong , Xiang Hongfei , Peng Xianbo , Chen Bohua , Jia Guyou
Published: March 2017

Objectives.We aimed to find the key pathways associated with the development of osteoporosis.Methods.We downloaded expression profile data of GSE35959 and analyzed the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in 3 comparison groups (old_op versus middle, old_op versus old, and old_op versus senescent). KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) pathway enrichment analyses were carried out. Besides, Venn diagram analysis and gene functional interaction (FI) network analysis were performed.Results.Totally 520 DEGs, 966 DEGs, and 709 DEGs were obtained in old_op versus middle, old_op versus old, and old_op versus senescent groups, respectively. Lysosome pathway was the significantly enriched pathways enriched by intersection genes. The pathways enriched by subnetwork modules suggested that mitotic metaphase and anaphase and signaling by Rho GTPases in module 1 had more proteins from module.Conclusions.Lysosome pathway, mitotic metaphase and anaphase, and signaling by Rho GTPases may be involved in the development of osteoporosis. Furthermore, Rho GTPases may regulate the balance of bone resorption and bone formation via controlling osteoclast and osteoblast. These 3 pathways may be regarded as the treatment targets for osteoporosis.
Ultrasonography-Guided Lumbar Periradicular Injections for Unilateral Radicular Pain
Authors: Wan Qing , Wu Shaoling , Li Xiao , Lin Caina , Ke Songjian , Liu Cuicui , Xin Wenjun , Ma Chao
Published: March 2017

Objective. The aim of this study was to compare the accuracy and efficacy of sonographically guided lumbar periradicular injections through in-plane or out-of-plane approach techniques for patients with unilateral lower lumbar radicular pain. The feasibility and accuracy of these techniques were studied by means of computed tomography (CT). Methods. A total of 46 patients with chronic unilateral lumbar radicular pain were recruited and randomly assigned to either the in-plane or out-of-plane injection group. A mixture of 3 mL 1% lidocaine and 7 mg betamethasone was injected. The visual analog scale (VAS) was used to assess pain before and after treatment. Results. The pain intensity, as measured by VAS, significantly decreased in both in-plane and out-of-plane injection groups. Conclusions. The sonographically guided periradicular injections are feasible and effective in treating lumbar unilateral radicular pain.
Influence of Initial Moisture Content on Heat and Moisture Transfer in Firefighters’ Protective Clothing
Authors: Huang Dongmei , He Song
Published: March 2017

This paper presents a model for heat and moisture transfer through firefighters’ protective clothing (FPC) during radiation exposure. The model, which accounts for air gaps in the FPC as well as heat transfer through human skin, investigates the effect of different initial moisture contents on the thermal insulation performance of FPC. Temperature, water vapor density, and the volume fraction of liquid water profiles were monitored during the simulation, and the heat quantity absorbed by water evaporation was calculated. Then the maximum durations of heat before the wearer acquires first- and second-degree burns were calculated based on the bioheat transfer equation and the Henriques equation. The results show that both the moisture weight in each layer and the total moisture weight increase linearly within a given environmental humidity level. The initial moisture content in FPC samples significantly influenced the maximum water vapor density. The first- and second-degree burn injury time increase 16 sec and 18 sec when the RH increases from 0% to 90%. The total quantity of heat accounted for by water evaporation was about 10% when the relative humidity (RH) is 80%. Finally, a linear relationship was identified between initial moisture content and the human skin burn injury time before suffering first- and second-degree burn injuries.
Natural History Analysis of 101 Severe Dysplasia and Esophageal Carcinoma Cases by Endoscopy
Authors: Wang Jin-Wu , Guan Chen-Tao , Wang Li-Li , Chang Ling-Yun , Hao Chang-Qing , Li Bian-Yun , Lu Ning , Wei Wen-Qiang
Published: March 2017

Objectives. Our research is to realize the natural history from dysplasia to carcinoma and to provide evidence for exploring proper screening intervals. Methods. After the onset endoscopy screening, 2093 of the patients participated in the endoscopic follow-up voluntarily. Totally, 101 severe dysplasia and carcinoma cases, either diagnosed in the first endoscopy without treatment or diagnosed in the second endoscopy, were included in our study. We compared the pathologic results of their two endoscopies and calculate the mean and median progression time. Results. Of the 39 severe dysplasia cases diagnosed by the onset endoscopy, only 8 progressed to carcinoma. For severe dysplasia cases diagnosed by the follow-up endoscopy, mean progression times are 55.0, 49.8, and 38.0 months and median progression times are 43, 56, and 31 months for esophagitis, mild dysplasia, and moderate dysplasia, respectively. For superficial carcinoma cases diagnosed by the second endoscopy, mean progression times are 76.0, 57.4, and 47.0 months and median progression times are 77, 63, and 35 months for mild dysplasia, moderate dysplasia, and severe dysplasia, respectively. Conclusions. Population-based severe dysplasia cases may have much lower carcinoma progression rate than specific-selected ones. The progression time for most enrolled cases seems longer than that of the recent screening protocol recommended.
Mining Important Nodes in Directed Weighted Complex Networks
Authors: Yang Yunyun , Xie Gang , Xie Jun
Published: March 2017

In complex networks, mining important nodes has been a matter of concern by scholars. In recent years, scholars have focused on mining important nodes in undirected unweighted complex networks. But most of the methods are not applicable to directed weighted complex networks. Therefore, this paper proposes a Two-Way-PageRank method based on PageRank for further discussion of mining important nodes in directed weighted complex networks. We have mainly considered the frequency of contact between nodes and the length of time of contact between nodes. We have considered the source of the nodes (in-degree) and the whereabouts of the nodes (out-degree) simultaneously. We have given node important performance indicators. Through numerical examples, we analyze the impact of variation of some parameters on node important performance indicators. Finally, the paper has verified the accuracy and validity of the method through empirical network data.
DNA Damage Induces a Secretory Program in the Quiescent TME that Fosters Adverse Cancer Phenotypes
Authors: Gomez-Sarosi Luis , Sun Yu , Coleman Ilsa , Bianchi-Frias Daniella , Nelson Peter S.
Published: March 2017

Carcinomas develop in complex environments that include a diverse spectrum of cell types that influence tumor cell behavior. These microenvironments represent dynamic systems that contribute to pathologic processes. Damage to DNA is a notable inducer of both transient and permanent alterations in cellular phenotypes. Induction of a DNA damage secretory program is known to promote adverse tumor cell behaviors such as proliferation, invasion, metastasis, and treatment resistance. However, prior studies designed to identify genotoxic stress–induced factors evaluated actively proliferating in vitro cultures of cells such as fibroblasts as experimental models. Conversely, the vast majority of benign cells in a typical tumor microenvironment (TME) are not proliferating but rather exist in quiescent (i.e., G0) or in terminally differentiated states. In this study, the diversity and magnitude of transcriptional responses to genotoxic damage in quiescent prostate fibroblasts were assessed using gene expression profiling. The secretory damage response in quiescent cells was highly concordant with that of actively dividing cells. Quiescent human prostate stroma exposed to genotoxic agents (e.g., mitoxantrone) in vivo resulted in significant upregulation (2.7- to 5.7-fold; P ≤ 0.01) of growth factors and cytokines including IL1β, MMP3, IL6, and IL8. The paracrine effects of damaged quiescent cells consistently increased the proliferation and invasion of prostate cancer cells and promoted cell survival and resistance to apoptosis following exposure to chemotherapy.

Implications: Benign quiescent cells in the TME respond to genotoxic stress by inducing a secretory program capable of promoting therapy resistance. Developing approaches to suppress the secretory program may improve treatment responses. Mol Cancer Res; 15(7); 842–51. ©2017 AACR.
The Effect of Combined Treatment with the (Pro)Renin Receptor Blocker HRP and Quinapril in Type 1 Diabetic Rats
Authors: Kökény Gábor , Fang Lilla , Révész Csaba , Mózes Miklós M. , Vörös Péter , Szénási Gábor , Rosivall László
Published: March 2017

Background/Aims: Diabetic nephropathy remains a major clinical problem. The effects of prorenin might be adverse, but the literature data are controversial. We compared the renal effects of the (pro)renin receptor ((P)RR) blockade and angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition on the progression of diabetic nephropathy in rats. Methods: Diabetes (DM) was induced by ip. streptozotocin administration in adult male Sprague-Dawley rats, followed by eight weeks of treatment with the (P)RR blocker „handle region” decoy peptide (HRP, 0,1 mg/kg/day) or with the ACE inhibitor Quinapril (Q, 50 mg/kg/day) and grouped as follows: 1. Control (n=10); 2. DM (n=8); 3. DM+HRP (n=6); 4. DM+Q (n=10); 5. DM+Q+HRP (n=10). Renal functional parameters, histology and gene expressions were evaluated. Results: HRP reduced glomerulosclerosis and podocyte desmin expression, but did not affect proteinuria and tubular ERK(1/2) phosphorylation. Both Q and Q+HRP treatment reduced proteinuria, glomerular and tubular damage, tubular TGF-ß1 expression and ERK(1/2) phosphorylation to the same extent. Conclusion: The effects of HRP were partially beneficial on diabetic kidney lesions as HRP reduced damage but did not improve tubular damage and failed to reduce ERK(1/2) phosphorylation in rats. The combination of HRP with Quinapril had no additive effects over Quinapril monotherapy on the progression of diabetic nephropathy.
Mean platelet volume is associated with lower risk of overall and non-vascular mortality in a general population
Authors: Bonaccio Marialaura , Di Castelnuovo Augusto , Costanzo Simona , De Curtis Amalia , Persichillo Mariarosaria , Cerletti Chiara , Donati Maria Benedetta , de Gaetano Giovanni , Iacoviello Licia ,   the Moli-sani Study Investigators
Published: March 2017

Larger mean platelet volume (MPV) has been associated with adverse health outcomes in high-risk populations or patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD). We tested the association of MPV with mortality in a prospective cohort study including 17,402 subjects randomly recruited from an adult general population within the Moli-sani study (2005–2010). Two distinct subgroups (with or without CVD at baseline) were subsequently analysed. Hazard ratios (HR) were calculated using multivariable Cox-proportional hazard models. Over a median follow up of eight years (137,547 person-years), 925 all-cause deaths occurred (330 vascular, 351 cancer and 244 other deaths). In a multivariable model, the highest MPV quintile (mean MPV=10.0 fL), as compared to the lowest one, was associated with reduced risk of overall mortality (HR=0.79; 95 % confidence interval 0.64–0.98), cancer death (HR=0.70; 0.49–1.00) and death from other non- vascular/non cancer causes (HR=0.55; 0.36–0.84) but not with vascular mortality. The inverse association with overall death appeared even stronger in the subgroup without CVD at baseline (HR=0.64; 0.50–0.81). In contrast, within 920 subjects reporting a previous CVD event, larger MPV was associated with higher risk of total mortality (HR=1.69; 1.05–2.72; p for interaction=0.048) and with a trend of risk for other cause-specific deaths. In conclusion, larger MPV is associated with lower risk of overall and non-vascular death in subjects apparently free from CVD, but appears to be a predictive marker of death in patients with CVD history. The latter is a likely effect modifier of the association between MPV and death.
Modulation of Endothelial Bone Morphogenetic Protein Receptor Type 2 Activity by Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor 3 in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Hwangbo Cheol , Lee Heon-Woo , Kang Hyeseon , Ju Hyekyung , Wiley David S. , Papangeli Irinna , Han Jinah , Kim Jun-Dae , Dunworth William P. , Hu Xiaoyue , Lee Seyoung , El-Hely Omar , Sofer Avraham , Pak Boryeong , Peterson Laura , Comhair Suzy , Hwang Eun Mi , Park Jae-Yong , Thomas Jean-Leon , Bautch Victoria L. , Erzurum Serpil C. , Chun Hyung J. , Jin Suk-Won
Published: March 2017

Background:

Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling has multiple roles in the development and function of the blood vessels. In humans, mutations in BMP receptor type 2 (BMPR2), a key component of BMP signaling, have been identified in the majority of patients with familial pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). However, only a small subset of individuals with
BMPR2
mutation develops PAH, suggesting that additional modifiers of BMPR2 function play an important role in the onset and progression of PAH.

Methods:

We used a combination of studies in zebrafish embryos and genetically engineered mice lacking endothelial expression of
Vegfr3
to determine the interaction between vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 3 (VEGFR3) and BMPR2. Additional in vitro studies were performed by using human endothelial cells, including primary lung endothelial cells from subjects with PAH.

Results:

Attenuation of Vegfr3 in zebrafish embryos abrogated Bmp2b-induced ectopic angiogenesis. Endothelial cells with disrupted VEGFR3 expression failed to respond to exogenous BMP stimulation. Mechanistically, VEGFR3 is physically associated with BMPR2 and facilitates ligand-induced endocytosis of BMPR2 to promote phosphorylation of SMADs and transcription of
ID
genes. Conditional, endothelial-specific deletion of
Vegfr3
in mice resulted in impaired BMP signaling responses, and significantly worsened hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension. Consistent with these data, we found significant decrease in VEGFR3 expression in pulmonary arterial endothelial cells from human PAH subjects, and reconstitution of VEGFR3 expression in PAH pulmonary arterial endothelial cells restored BMP signaling responses.

Conclusions:

Our findings identify VEGFR3 as a key regulator of endothelial BMPR2 signaling and a potential determinant of PAH penetrance in humans.
Fibroblast-Specific Genetic Manipulation of p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase In Vivo Reveals Its Central Regulatory Role in Fibrosis
Authors: Molkentin Jeffery D. , Bugg Darrian , Ghearing Natasha , Dorn Lisa E. , Kim Peter , Sargent Michelle A. , Gunaje Jagadambika , Otsu Kinya , Davis Jennifer
Published: March 2017

Background:

In the heart, acute injury induces a fibrotic healing response that generates collagen-rich scarring that is at first protective but if inappropriately sustained can worsen heart disease. The fibrotic process is initiated by cytokines, neuroendocrine effectors, and mechanical strain that promote resident fibroblast differentiation into contractile and extracellular matrix–producing myofibroblasts. The mitogen-activated protein kinase p38α (
Mapk14
gene) is known to influence the cardiac injury response, but its direct role in orchestrating programmed fibroblast differentiation and fibrosis in vivo is unknown.

Methods:

A conditional
Mapk14
allele was used to delete the p38α encoding gene specifically in cardiac fibroblasts or myofibroblasts with 2 different tamoxifen-inducible Cre recombinase–expressing gene–targeted mouse lines. Mice were subjected to ischemic injury or chronic neurohumoral stimulation and monitored for survival, cardiac function, and fibrotic remodeling. Antithetically, mice with fibroblast-specific transgenic overexpression of activated mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 6, a direct inducer of p38, were generated to investigate whether this pathway can directly drive myofibroblast formation and the cardiac fibrotic response.

Results:

In mice, loss of
Mapk14
blocked cardiac fibroblast differentiation into myofibroblasts and ensuing fibrosis in response to ischemic injury or chronic neurohumoral stimulation. A similar inhibition of myofibroblast formation and healing was also observed in a dermal wounding model with deletion of
Mapk14
. Transgenic mice with fibroblast-specific activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 6–p38 developed interstitial and perivascular fibrosis in the heart, lung, and kidney as a result of enhanced myofibroblast numbers. Mechanistic experiments show that p38 transduces cytokine and mechanical signals into myofibroblast differentiation through the transcription factor serum response factor and the signaling effector calcineurin.

Conclusions:

These findings suggest that signals from diverse modes of injury converge on p38α mitogen-activated protein kinase within the fibroblast to program the fibrotic response and myofibroblast formation in vivo, suggesting a novel therapeutic approach with p38 inhibitors for future clinical application.
Individual Differences in Face Identity Processing with Fast Periodic Visual Stimulation
Authors: Xu Buyun , Liu-Shuang Joan , Rossion Bruno , Tanaka James
Published: March 2017

A growing body of literature suggests that human individuals differ in their ability to process face identity. These findings mainly stem from explicit behavioral tasks, such as the Cambridge Face Memory Test (CFMT). However, it remains an open question whether such individual differences can be found in the absence of an explicit face identity task and when faces have to be individualized at a single glance. In the current study, we tested 49 participants with a recently developed fast periodic visual stimulation (FPVS) paradigm [Liu-Shuang, J., Norcia, A. M., & Rossion, B. An objective index of individual face discrimination in the right occipitotemporal cortex by means of fast periodic oddball stimulation. Neuropsychologia, 52, 57–72, 2014] in EEG to rapidly, objectively, and implicitly quantify face identity processing. In the FPVS paradigm, one face identity (A) was presented at the frequency of 6 Hz, allowing only one gaze fixation, with different face identities (B, C, D) presented every fifth face (1.2 Hz; i.e., AAAABAAAACAAAAD…). Results showed a face individuation response at 1.2 Hz and its harmonics, peaking over occipitotemporal locations. The magnitude of this response showed high reliability across different recording sequences and was significant in all but two participants, with the magnitude and lateralization differing widely across participants. There was a modest but significant correlation between the individuation response amplitude and the performance of the behavioral CFMT task, despite the fact that CFMT and FPVS measured different aspects of face identity processing. Taken together, the current study highlights the FPVS approach as a promising means for studying individual differences in face identity processing.
The Cost of Structure Learning
Authors: Collins Anne G. E.
Published: March 2017

Human learning is highly efficient and flexible. A key contributor to this learning flexibility is our ability to generalize new information across contexts that we know require the same behavior and to transfer rules to new contexts we encounter. To do this, we structure the information we learn and represent it hierarchically as abstract, context-dependent rules that constrain lower-level stimulus–action–outcome contingencies. Previous research showed that humans create such structure even when it is not needed, presumably because it usually affords long-term generalization benefits. However, computational models predict that creating structure is costly, with slower learning and slower RTs. We tested this prediction in a new behavioral experiment. Participants learned to select correct actions for four visual patterns, in a setting that either afforded (but did not promote) structure learning or enforced nonhierarchical learning, while controlling for the difficulty of the learning problem. Results replicated our previous finding that healthy young adults create structure even when unneeded and that this structure affords later generalization. Furthermore, they supported our prediction that structure learning incurred a major learning cost and that this cost was specifically tied to the effort in selecting abstract rules, leading to more errors when applying those rules. These findings confirm our theory that humans pay a high short-term cost in learning structure to enable longer-term benefits in learning flexibility.
The Spirit of Experimentation: Barbara Kasten and László Moholy-Nagy
Authors: Eliel Carol S.
Published: March 2017

This article discusses how László Moholy-Nagy’s practice has informed Barbara Kasten’s in the context of their shared interest in experimentation and in the interdisciplinary, explicating those terms in both modernist and contemporary contexts. It considers the various ways Moholy-Nagy has influenced (and continues to influence) Kasten over the course of her ongoing career.
Selection of appropriate reference genes for qPCR in the Chinese mitten crab, Eriocheir sinensis (Decapoda, Varunidae)
Authors: Huang Shu , Chen Xiaowen , Wang Jun , Chen Jiao , Yue Wucheng , Lu Weiqun , Lu Guoqing , Wang Chenghui
Published: March 2017

The accuracy of qPCR depends on the stability of the reference gene used for data normalization. However, the stably expressed reference genes in the Chinese mitten crab, Eriocheir sinensis, have not been well identified under different experimental conditions. In this study, the stabilities of the expressions of 10 candidate reference genes were evaluated in different developmental stages, tissues, and moulting stages of E. sinensis. Our results indicated that UBE and S27 were the most stable reference genes. To validate the suitability of the reference genes, the EcR (ecdysone receptor) gene was analysed among different moulting stages. The results showed that the expression level of EcR was elevated using the least stable reference gene, GST, compared with using the three most stable reference genes. Taken together, our results indicate that reference genes should be assessed and selected in accordance with the experimental conditions, and more than one reference gene should be selected.
A population study of the amphipod Nototropis minikoi (Gammaridea, Atylidae) in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Authors: Cházaro-Olvera Sergio , García-Delgado Xochitl , Winfield Ignacio , Ortiz Manuel
Published: March 2017

The population structure, growth and fecundity of the amphipod Nototropis minikoi in front of the Campechen Lagoon, Quintana Roo, were analysed. A total of 1207 juveniles, 120 adult females and 211 adult males were collected. The relationship of the total length and head length was allometric. Using the Von Bertalanffy equation the maximum length was calculated to be 6.66 ± 0.55 mm, the growth rate was 0.67 ± 0.02, which is faster and higher than in other peracarids. There was a significant relationship between the size of ovigerous females and the number of eggs, with an average of 6 ± 3.27 eggs and total length of 5.21 ± 0.57 mm, similar to that found in other studies. The net reproduction rate was 4.98, generation time 124.49 days, maximum intrinsic growth rate of 0.0131 and a low survival (15%). This work represents the first study on the population structure of the amphipod N. minikoi.
Bemerkungen zur salfränkischen Freilassungsformel
Authors: Quak Arend
Published: March 2017

The formula for the liberation of slaves is handed down in the vernacular in chapter xxvi of the ‘Pactus legis Salicae’ and chapter xxxvii of the ‘Lex Salica’ [both C6]. The language of this particular part of the text seems to have strong characteristics of Low Franconian, such as the pronoun thi in the accusative and the prefix â- in verbs. In this respect it differs somewhat from the other so-called ‘Malberg Glosses’ in this Latin text.
Validation of Cathaya vanderburghii (Pinaceae) from European Neogene
Authors: WINTERSCHEID HEINRICH , GOSSMANN ROLF
Published: March 2017

Here we supply an effective publication and validation of the fossil-species Cathaya vanderburghii out of the European Neogene by designating a type and providing an English diagnosis and description.