bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of the First Dose of BCG against Tuberculosis among HIV-Infected, Predominantly Immunodeficient Children
Authors: Van-Dunem Joaquim C. V. D. , Rodrigues Laura C. , Alencar Luiz Claudio Arraes , Militão-Albuquerque Maria de Fátima Pessoa , Ximenes Ricardo Arraes de Alencar
Published: June 2015

The objective of this study was to estimate the protective effect of Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine against tuberculosis among (predominantly immunodeficient) HIV-infected children in Angola. A hospital-based case-control study was conducted with 230 cases, children coinfected with tuberculosis, and 672 controls, HIV-infected children from the same hospital, aged 18 months to 13 years. The presence of a vaccination scar was taken as a proxy marker for BCG vaccination. The crude effectiveness was 8% (95% CI: −26 to 32) and the adjusted effectiveness was 30% (95% CI: −75 to 72). The present study suggests that BCG does not have a protective effect against tuberculosis among immunodeficient HIV-infected children. Since BCG is no longer given to HIV-infected children, the study may not be replicated. Accepting that these findings should be considered with caution, they are nonetheless likely to be the last estimate of BCG efficacy in a sufficiently powered study.
Vertical Profiles and Chemical Properties of Aerosol Particles upon Ny-Ålesund (Svalbard Islands)
Authors: Moroni B. , Becagli S. , Bolzacchini E. , Busetto M. , Cappelletti D. , Crocchianti S. , Ferrero L. , Frosini D. , Lanconelli C. , Lupi A. , Maturilli M. , Mazzola M. , Perrone M. G. , Sangiorgi G. , Traversi R. , Udisti R. , Viola A. , Vitale V.
Published: June 2015

Size-segregated particle samples were collected in the Arctic (Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard) in April 2011 both at ground level and in the free atmosphere exploiting a tethered balloon equipped also with an optical particle counter (OPC) and meteorological sensors. Individual particle properties were investigated by scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive microanalysis (SEM-EDS). Results of the SEM-EDS were integrated with particle size and optical measurements of the aerosols properties at ground level and along the vertical profiles. Detailed analysis of two case studies reveals significant differences in composition despite the similar structure (layering) and the comparable texture (grain size distribution) of particles in the air column. Differences in the mineral chemistry of samples point at both local (plutonic/metamorphic complexes in Svalbard) and remote (basic/ultrabasic magmatic complexes in Greenland and/or Iceland) geological source regions for dust. Differences in the particle size and shape are put into relationship with the mechanism of particle formation, that is, primary (well sorted, small) or secondary (idiomorphic, fine to coarse grained) origin for chloride and sulfate crystals and transport/settling for soil (silicate, carbonate and metal oxide) particles. The influence of size, shape, and mixing state of particles on ice nucleation and radiative properties is also discussed.
Local Fractional Laplace Variational Iteration Method for Solving Diffusion and Wave Equations on Cantor Sets within Local Fractional Operators
Authors: Jassim Hassan Kamil , Ünlü Canan , Moshokoa Seithuti Philemon , Khalique Chaudry Masood
Published: June 2015

The local fractional Laplace variational iteration method (LFLVIM) is employed to handle the diffusion and wave equations on Cantor set. The operators are taken in the local sense. The nondifferentiable approximate solutions are obtained by using the local fractional Laplace variational iteration method, which is the coupling method of local fractional variational iteration method and Laplace transform. Illustrative examples are included to demonstrate the high accuracy and fast convergence of this new algorithm.
Alendronate-Eluting Biphasic Calcium Phosphate (BCP) Scaffolds Stimulate Osteogenic Differentiation
Authors: Kim Sung Eun , Yun Young-Pil , Lee Deok-Won , Kang Eun Young , Jeong Won Jae , Lee Boram , Jeong Myeong Seon , Kim Hak Jun , Park Kyeongsoon , Song Hae-Ryong
Published: June 2015

Biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) scaffolds have been widely used in orthopedic and dental fields as osteoconductive bone substitutes. However, BCP scaffolds are not satisfactory for the stimulation of osteogenic differentiation and maturation. To enhance osteogenic differentiation, we prepared alendronate- (ALN-) eluting BCP scaffolds. The coating of ALN on BCP scaffolds was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR). Anin vitrorelease study showed that release of ALN from ALN-eluting BCP scaffolds was sustained for up to 28 days.In vitroresults revealed that MG-63 cells grown on ALN-eluting BCP scaffolds exhibited increased ALP activity and calcium deposition and upregulated gene expression of Runx2, ALP, OCN, and OPN compared with the BCP scaffold alone. Therefore, this study suggests that ALN-eluting BCP scaffolds have the potential to effectively stimulate osteogenic differentiation.
The Role of Epigenetics in Arterial Calcification
Authors: Wu Shan-Shan , Lin Xiao , Yuan Ling-Qing , Liao Er-Yuan
Published: June 2015

Arterial calcification is highly prevalent and correlated with cardiovascular mortality, especially in patients with ESRD or diabetes. The pathogenesis of arterial calcification is multifactorial, with both genetic and environmental factors being implicated. In recent years, several mechanisms contributing to arterial calcification have been proposed. However, these can only explain a small proportion of the variability in arterial calcification, which is a major obstacle for its prevention and management. Epigenetics has emerged as one of the most promising areas that may fill in some of the gaps in our current knowledge of the interaction between the environmental insults with gene regulation in the development of diseases. Epigenetics refers to heritable and acquired changes in gene transcription that occur independently of the DNA sequence. Well-known components of epigenetic regulation include DNA methylation, histone modifications, and microRNAs. Epigenetics research in the regulation of arterial calcification has only recently been elucidated. In this review, we will summarise recent progress in epigenetic pathways involved in arterial calcification and discuss potential therapeutic interventions based on epigenetic mechanisms.
In Vivo and Impression Cytology Study on the Effect of Compatible Solutes Eye Drops on the Ocular Surface Epithelial Cell Quality in Dry Eye Patients
Authors: Lanzini Manuela , Curcio Claudia , Colabelli-Gisoldi Rossella Annamaria , Mastropasqua Alessandra , Calienno Roberta , Agnifili Luca , Nubile Mario , Mastropasqua Leonardo
Published: June 2015

The aim of this study is to investigate in vivo and ex vivo ocular surface alterations induced by dry eye disease and modification after osmoprotective therapy. Forty‐eight eyes of 24 patients suffering from dry eye have been recruited. All patients received Optive (compatible solutes) eye drops in one randomly selected eye and Hylogel (sodium hyaluronate 0,2%) in the other. Follow‐up included a baseline visit and further examination 30‐, 60‐, and 90‐day intervals (which comprises clinical evaluation, in vivo confocal microscopy—IVCM—of the ocular surface, and conjunctival impression cytology). No significant difference in Schirmer I Test, TBUT, and vital staining results was observed during the follow‐up period in both groups. IVCM showed in all patients an improvement of ocular surface epithelial morphology and signs of inflammation (oedema and keratocyte activation). However, these modifications were more evident in patients treated with Optive therapy. A significant reduction of the expression of MMP9 and IL6 in Optive group was observed during the follow‐up period in comparison to Hylogel treatment. Our results show that in dry eye disease therapy based on osmoprotective eye drops determines a reduction of inflammatory activation of ocular surface, with consequent improvement of the quality of corneal and conjunctival epithelium.
Associational Involvement in Dutch Municipalities and Neighbourhoods: Does Ethnic Diversity Influence Bonding and Bridging Involvement?
Authors: Savelkoul Michael , Gesthuizen Maurice , Scheepers Peer
Published: June 2015

We test whether ethnic diversity in Dutch neighbourhoods and municipalities drives down associational involvement and build on earlier research in two important ways. First, we explicitly take into account the ethnic composition of local voluntary associations, distinguishing involvement in bonding (only in-group members) and bridging (with out-group members) associations. Second, we aim to explain relationships between ethnic diversity and associational involvement, testing two competing sets of predictions derived from conflict and contact theories. Using data from the Netherlands Longitudinal Lifecourse Study (2013), ethnic diversity turns out to hardly affect associational involvement negatively. Only for leisure associations, living in ethnically more diverse municipalities substantially decreases the likelihood to be involved in bonding associations, whereas higher levels of neighbourhood ethnic diversity increase the likelihood to be involved in bridging associations. Moreover, ethnic diversity indirectly affects associational involvement via interethnic contact. Higher levels of ethnic diversity increase interethnic contact which, in turn, is negatively related to involvement in bonding associations. Whereas higher levels of ethnic diversity in neighbourhoods increase perceptions of ethnic threat, these perceptions decrease with higher levels of ethnic diversity in the municipality. Perceptions of ethnic threat do not, however, affect associational involvement. Our results shed more light on the direct and indirect relationships between ethnic diversity and bonding and bridging associational involvement.
Cellular and Molecular Connections between Autophagy and Inflammation
Authors: Lapaquette Pierre , Guzzo Jean , Bretillon Lionel , Bringer Marie-Agnès
Published: June 2015

Autophagy is an intracellular catabolic pathway essential for the recycling of proteins and larger substrates such as aggregates, apoptotic corpses, or long‐lived and superfluous organelles whose accumulation could be toxic for cells. Because of its unique feature to engulf part of cytoplasm in double‐membrane cup‐shaped structures, which further fuses with lysosomes, autophagy is also involved in the elimination of host cell invaders and takes an active part of the innate and adaptive immune response. Its pivotal role in maintenance of the inflammatory balance makes dysfunctions of the autophagy process having important pathological consequences. Indeed, defects in autophagy are associated with a wide range of human diseases including metabolic disorders (diabetes and obesity), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and cancer. In this review, we will focus on interrelations that exist between inflammation and autophagy. We will discuss in particular how mediators of inflammation can regulate autophagy activity and, conversely, how autophagy shapes the inflammatory response. Impact of genetic polymorphisms in autophagy‐related gene on inflammatory bowel disease will be also discussed.
Optical Properties of Sol-Gel Nb2O5Films with Tunable Porosity for Sensing Applications
Authors: Georgiev Rosen , Georgieva Biliana , Vasileva Marina , Ivanov Petar , Babeva Tsvetanka
Published: June 2015

Thin Nb2O5films with tunable porosity are deposited by the sol-gel and evaporation induced self-assembly methods using organic template Pluronic PE6100 with different molar fractions with respect to NbCl5used as a precursor for synthesis of Nb sol. Surface morphology and structure of the films are studied by Transmission Electron Microscopy and Selected Area Electron Diffraction. The optical characterization of the films is carried out through reflectance spectra measurements of the films deposited on silicon substrates and theoretical modeling in order to obtain refractive index, extinction coefficient, and thickness of the films. The overall porosity of the films and the amount of adsorbed acetone vapors in the pores are quantified by means of Bruggeman effective medium approximation using already determined optical constants. The sensing properties of the samples are studied by measuring both the reflectance spectra and room-temperature photoluminescence spectra prior to and after exposure to acetone vapors and liquid, respectively. The potential of using the studied mesoporous Nb2O5films for chemooptical sensing is demonstrated and discussed.
Verifiable Rational Secret Sharing Scheme in Mobile Networks
Authors: Zhang En , Yuan Peiyan , Du Jiao
Published: June 2015

With the development of mobile network, lots of people now have access to mobile phones and the mobile networks give users ubiquitous connectivity. However, smart phones and tablets are poor in computational resources such as memory size, processor speed, and disk capacity. So far, all existing rational secret sharing schemes cannot be suitable for mobile networks. In this paper, we propose a verifiable rational secret sharing scheme in mobile networks. The scheme provides a noninteractively verifiable proof for the correctness of participants’ share and handshake protocol is not necessary; there is no need for certificate generation, propagation, and storage in the scheme, which is more suitable for devices with limited size and processing power; in the scheme, every participant uses her encryption on number of each round as the secret share and the dealer does not have to distribute any secret share; every participant cannot gain more by deviating the protocol, so rational participant has an incentive to abide by the protocol; finally, every participant can obtain the secret fairly (means that either everyone receives the secret, or else no one does) in mobile networks. The scheme is coalition-resilient and the security of our scheme relies on a computational assumption.
Role of Exogenous Hsp72 on Liver Dysfunction during Sepsis
Authors: Tsai Tsen-Ni , Ho Jia-Jing , Liu Maw-Shung , Lee Tzu-Ying , Lu Mei-Chin , Liu Chia-Jen , Huang Li-Ju , Lue Sheng-I , Yang Rei-Chen
Published: June 2015

This study examined the role of exogenous heat shock protein 72 (Hsp72) in reversing sepsis-induced liver dysfunction. Sepsis was induced by cecal ligation and puncture. Liver function was determined on the basis of the enzymatic activities of serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (GOT) and glutamate pyruvate transaminase (GPT). Apoptosis was determined using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling staining. B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax), cleaved caspase-3 and caspase-9, and cleaved poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) protein expressions were analyzed using Western blotting. Results showed GOT and GPT levels increased during sepsis, and levels were restored following the administration of human recombinant Hsp72 (rhHsp72). Increased liver tissue apoptosis was observed during sepsis, and normal apoptosis resumed on rhHsp72 administration. The Bcl-2/Bax ratio, cleaved caspase-3, caspase-9, and PARP protein expressions in the liver tissues were upregulated during sepsis and normalized after rhHsp72 treatment. We conclude that, during sepsis, exogenous Hsp72 restored liver dysfunction by inhibiting apoptosis via the mitochondria-initiated caspase pathway.
Effects of Sucroferric Oxyhydroxide Compared to Lanthanum Carbonate and Sevelamer Carbonate on Phosphate Homeostasis and Vascular Calcifications in a Rat Model of Chronic Kidney Failure
Authors: Phan Olivier , Maillard Marc , Malluche Hartmut H. , Stehle Jean-Christophe , Funk Felix , Burnier Michel
Published: June 2015

Elevated serum phosphorus, calcium, and fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) levels are associated with cardiovascular disease in chronic renal disease. This study evaluated the effects of sucroferric oxyhydroxide (PA21), a new iron-based phosphate binder, versus lanthanum carbonate (La) and sevelamer carbonate (Se), on serum FGF23, phosphorus, calcium, and intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) concentrations, and the development of vascular calcification in adenine-induced chronic renal failure (CRF) rats. After induction of CRF, renal function was significantly impaired in all groups: uremic rats developed severe hyperphosphatemia, and serum iPTH increased significantly. All uremic rats (except controls) then received phosphate binders for 4 weeks. Hyperphosphatemia and increased serum iPTH were controlled to a similar extent in all phosphate binder-treatment groups. Only sucroferric oxyhydroxide was associated with significantly decreased FGF23. Vascular calcifications of the thoracic aorta were decreased by all three phosphate binders. Calcifications were better prevented at the superior part of the thoracic and abdominal aorta in the PA21 treated rats. In adenine-induced CRF rats, sucroferric oxyhydroxide was as effective as La and Se in controlling hyperphosphatemia, secondary hyperparathyroidism, and vascular calcifications. The role of FGF23 in calcification remains to be confirmed.
On Productions of Net-Baryons in Central Au-Au Collisions at RHIC Energies
Authors: Chen Ya-Hui , Zhang Guo-Xing , Liu Fu-Hu
Published: June 2015

The transverse momentum and rapidity distributions of net-baryons (baryons minus antibaryons) produced in central gold-gold (Au-Au) collisions at 62.4 and 200 GeV are analyzed in the framework of a multisource thermal model. Each source in the model is described by the Tsallis statistics to extract the effective temperature and entropy index from the transverse momentum distribution. The two parameters are used as input to describe the rapidity distribution and to extract the rapidity shift and contribution ratio. Then, the four types of parameters are used to structure some scatter plots of the considered particles in some three-dimensional (3D) spaces at the stage of kinetic freeze-out, which are expected to show different characteristics for different particles and processes. The related methodology can be used in the analyses of particle production and event holography, which are useful for us to better understand the interacting mechanisms.
Temozolomide-Induced Shrinkage of Invasive Pituitary Adenoma in Patient with Nelson’s Syndrome: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Kurowska Maria , Nowakowski Andrzej , Zieliński Grzegorz , Malicka Joanna , Tarach Jerzy S. , Maksymowicz Maria , Denew Piotr
Published: June 2015

Introduction. Invasive tumours in Nelson’s syndrome need aggressive therapy. Recent reports have documented the efficacy of temozolomide (TMZ) in the treatment of adenomas resistant to conventional management.Objective. The review of the literature concerning TMZ treatment of atypical corticotroph adenomas and a case study of 56-year-old woman who developed Nelson’s syndrome.Treatment Proceeding. The patient with Cushing’s disease underwent transsphenoidal adenomectomy followed by a 27-month-long period of remission. Due to a regrowth of the tumor, she underwent two reoperations followed by stereotactic radiotherapy. Because of treatment failures, bilateral adrenalectomy was performed. Then she developed Nelson’s syndrome. A fourth transsphenoidal adenomectomy was performed, but there was a rapid recurrence. Five months later, she underwent a right frontotemporal craniotomy. Due to a rapid regrowth of the tumour, the patient did not receive gamma-knife therapy and was treated with cabergoline and somatostatin analogue for some time. Only TMZ therapy resulted in marked clinical, biochemical, and radiological improvement. To date, this is the first case of invasive corticotroph adenoma in Nelson’s syndrome treated with temozolomide in Poland.Conclusion. In our opinion, temozolomide can be an effective treatment option of invasive adenomas in Nelson’s syndrome.
Combined Methods for Diabetic Retinopathy Screening, Using Retina Photographs and Tear Fluid Proteomics Biomarkers
Authors: Torok Zsolt , Peto Tunde , Csosz Eva , Tukacs Edit , Molnar Agnes M. , Berta Andras , Tozser Jozsef , Hajdu Andras , Nagy Valeria , Domokos Balint , Csutak Adrienne
Published: June 2015

Background. It is estimated that 347 million people suffer from diabetes mellitus (DM), and almost 5 million are blind due to diabetic retinopathy (DR). The progression of DR can be slowed down with early diagnosis and treatment. Therefore our aim was to develop a novel automated method for DR screening.Methods. 52 patients with diabetes mellitus were enrolled into the project. Of all patients, 39 had signs of DR. Digital retina images and tear fluid samples were taken from each eye. The results from the tear fluid proteomics analysis and from digital microaneurysm (MA) detection on fundus images were used as the input of a machine learning system.Results. MA detection method alone resulted in 0.84 sensitivity and 0.81 specificity. Using the proteomics data for analysis 0.87 sensitivity and 0.68 specificity values were achieved. The combined data analysis integrated the features of the proteomics data along with the number of detected MAs in the associated image and achieved sensitivity/specificity values of 0.93/0.78.Conclusions. As the two different types of data represent independent and complementary information on the outcome, the combined model resulted in a reliable screening method that is comparable to the requirements of DR screening programs applied in clinical routine.
The Performance of the National Weather Service Heat Warning System against Ground Observations and Satellite Imagery
Authors: Vargo Jason , Xiao Qingyang , Liu Yang
Published: June 2015

Deadly heat waves are increasing with climate change. Public forecasts and warnings are a primary public health strategy for dealing with such extreme weather events; however, temperatures can vary widely within the administrative units used to issue warnings, particularly across urban landscapes. The emergence of more frequent and widely distributed sources of urban temperature data provide the opportunity to investigate the specificity of the current National Weather Service (NWS) warnings and to improve their accuracy and precision. In this work, temperatures from distributed public weather stations, NWS heat advisories and warnings, and land surface temperature imagery throughout two large metropolitan areas, Atlanta and Chicago, during the 2006–2012 summers are considered. We investigate the spatial variability of hazardous temperatures and their agreement against NWS advisories. Second, we examine the potential for thermal imagery to replicate National Weather Service heat warnings. Observations from weather stations exhibit varying degrees of agreement with NWS advisories. The level of agreement varied by station and was not found to be associated with the station’s proximate land cover. Air temperatures estimated from satellite imagery correspond with NWS Advisory status regionally and may enable creating more refined public warnings regarding hazardous temperatures and protective actions
Variational Approach for Resolving the Flow of Generalized Newtonian Fluids in Circular Pipes and Plane Slits
Authors: Sochi Taha
Published: June 2015

We use a generic and general variational method to obtain solutions to the flow of generalized Newtonian fluids through circular pipes and plane slits. The new method is not based on the use of the Euler-Lagrange variational principle and hence it is totally independent of our previous approach which is based on this principle. Instead, the method applies a very generic and general optimization approach which can be justified by the Dirichlet principle although this is not the only possible theoretical justification. The results that were obtained from the new method using nine types of fluid are in total agreement, within certain restrictions, with the results obtained from the traditional methods of fluid mechanics as well as the results obtained from the previous variational approach. In addition to being a useful method in its own for resolving the flow field in circular pipes and plane slits, the new variational method lends more support to the old variational method as well as for the use of variational principles in general to resolve the flow of generalized Newtonian fluids and obtain all the quantities of the flow field which include shear stress, local viscosity, rate of strain, speed profile, and volumetric flow rate.
Stability and Time Delay Tolerance Analysis Approach for Networked Control Systems
Authors: Khalil Ashraf F. , Wang Jihong
Published: June 2015

Networked control system is a research area where the theory is behind practice. Closing the feedback loop through shared network induces time delay and some of the data could be lost. So the network induced time delay and data loss are inevitable in networked control Systems. The time delay may degrade the performance of control systems or even worse lead to system instability. Once the structure of a networked control system is confirmed, it is essential to identify the maximum time delay allowed for maintaining the system stability which, in turn, is also associated with the process of controller design. Some studies reported methods for estimating the maximum time delay allowed for maintaining system stability; however, most of the reported methods are normally overcomplicated for practical applications. A method based on the finite difference approximation is proposed in this paper for estimating the maximum time delay tolerance, which has a simple structure and is easy to apply.
Study on an Undershot Cross-Flow Water Turbine with Straight Blades
Authors: Nishi Yasuyuki , Inagaki Terumi , Li Yanrong , Hatano Kentaro
Published: June 2015

Small-scale hydroelectric power generation has recently attracted considerable attention. The authors previously proposed an undershot cross-flow water turbine with a very low head suitable for application to open channels. The water turbine was of a cross-flow type and could be used in open channels with the undershot method, remarkably simplifying its design by eliminating guide vanes and the casing. The water turbine was fitted with curved blades (such as the runners of a typical cross-flow water turbine) installed in tube channels. However, there was ambiguity as to how the blades’ shape influenced the turbine’s performance and flow field. To resolve this issue, the present study applies straight blades to an undershot cross-flow water turbine and examines the performance and flow field via experiments and numerical analyses. Results reveal that the output power and the turbine efficiency of the Straight Blades runner were greater than those of the Curved Blades runner regardless of the rotational speed. Compared with the Curved Blades runner, the output power and the turbine efficiency of the Straight Blades runner were improved by about 31.7% and about 67.1%, respectively.
Smart Demand Response Based on Smart Homes
Authors: Lai Jingang , Zhou Hong , Hu Wenshan , Zhou Dongguo , Zhong Liang
Published: June 2015

Smart homes (SHs) are crucial parts for demand response management (DRM) of smart grid (SG). The aim of SHs based demand response (DR) is to provide a flexible two-way energy feedback whilst (or shortly after) the consumption occurs. It can potentially persuade end-users to achieve energy saving and cooperate with the electricity producer or supplier to maintain balance between the electricity supply and demand through the method of peak shaving and valley filling. However, existing solutions are challenged by the lack of consideration between the wide application of fiber power cable to the home (FPCTTH) and related users’ behaviors. Based on the new network infrastructure, the design and development of smart DR systems based on SHs are related with not only functionalities as security, convenience, and comfort, but also energy savings. A new multirouting protocol based on Kruskal’s algorithm is designed for the reliability and safety of the SHs distribution network. The benefits of FPCTTH-based SHs are summarized at the end of the paper.
Caldariomyces fumago DSM1256 Contains Two Chloroperoxidase Genes, Both Encoding Secreted and Active Enzymes
Authors: Buchhaupt Markus , Hüttmann Sonja , Sachs Christian Carsten , Bormann Sebastian , Hannappel Achim , Schrader Jens
Published: June 2015

Inspection of transcriptome data from the chloroperoxidase (CPO)-producing fungus Caldariomyces fumago DSM1256 led to the discovery of two distinct CPO mRNA sequences. This strain could be shown to contain the newly identified isogene as well as produce and secrete both isoenzymes. The CPO2 enzyme bears high sequence similarity to the well-characterized CPO (87% identity for the mature proteins). It shows two insertions in the signal peptide and in the C-terminal propeptide, and one deletion in the mature polypeptide close to the C-terminus. Furthermore, it lacks one of the serine residues known to be O-glycosylated in the CPO sequence. The demonstration of a CPO isogene which is expressed as a secreted and active CPO clarifies the nature of this isoenzyme already identified in earlier reports. A structure model comparison shows a high conservation of the active site and the substrate channel, suggesting very similar catalytic properties.
Spontaneous Thrombosis of a Ruptured Brain Arteriovenous Malformation: The Argument for Early Conservative Management
Authors: Goyal Nitin , Hoit Daniel , Elijovich Lucas
Published: June 2015

Generally, definitive treatment of brain arteriovenous malformations (BAVM) presenting with hemorrhage is recommended to prevent recurrent hemorrhage. The risk of craniotomy and resection of BAVM has been well described using the Spetzler-Martin grading scale; however, the optimal timing for the definitive treatment of ruptured BAVM remains unclear. We report an interesting case of spontaneous BAVM thrombosis in which the patient presented with right occipital intracerebral hemorrhage caused by ruptured right occipital micro-BAVM. A preoperative angiogram 4 months later demonstrated spontaneous thrombosis of the AVM. Despite the risk of re-bleeding, the decision to defer treatment in the acute stage of illness in this case was based on the absence of high-risk angioarchitectural features in the arteriovenous malformations (AVM). It is important to emphasize the potential benefits of early conservative management, particularly in patients with low-risk angiographic features. We also review the literature of spontaneous BAVM thrombosis and discuss the potential benefit of early conservative management.
Comparison of Intraoperative Indocyanine Green Angiography and Digital Subtraction Angiography for Clipping of Intracranial Aneurysms
Authors: Doss Vinodh T. , Goyal Nitin , Humphries William , Hoit Dan , Arthur Adam , Elijovich Lucas
Published: June 2015

Background: Residual aneurysm after microsurgical clipping carries a risk of aneurysm growth and rupture. Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) remains the standard to determine the adequacy of clipping. Intraoperative indocyanine green (ICG) angiography is increasingly utilized to confirm optimal clip positioning across the neck and to evaluate the adjacent vasculature. Objective: We evaluated the correlation between ICG and DSA in clipped intracranial aneurysms. Methods: A retrospective study of patients who underwent craniotomy and microsurgical clipping of intracranial aneurysms with ICG for 2 years. Patient characteristics, presentation details, operative reports, and pre- and postclipping angiographic images were reviewed to determine the adequacy of the clipping. Results: Forty-seven patients underwent clipping with ICG and postoperative DSA: 57 aneurysms were clipped; 23 patients (48.9%) presented with subarachnoid hemorrhage. Nine aneurysms demonstrated a residual on DSA not identified on ICG (residual sizes ranged from 0.5 to 4.3 mm; average size: 1.8 mm). Postoperative DSA demonstrated no branch occlusions. Conclusion: Intraoperative ICG is useful in the clipping of intracranial aneurysms to ensure a gross patency of branch vessels; however, the presence of residual aneurysms and subtle changes in flow in branch vessels is best seen by DSA. This has important clinical implications with regard to follow-up imaging and surgical/endovascular management.
Should We Use Antibiotic Prophylaxis for Flexible Cystoscopy? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Carey Michelle M. , Zreik Abdullah , Fenn Neil J. , Chlosta Piotr L. , Aboumarzouk Omar M.
Published: June 2015

Introduction: The role of antibiotic prophylaxis for routine flexible cystoscopy (FC) is not clear due to the varying practices of individual clinicians. There are no formal guidelines, and this may be due to a lack of formal summary of the data. Methods: A systematic review was conducted in April 2014 including all randomised control trials on prophylactic antibiotic use for FC. The main outcome measures were confirmed bacteriuria on mid-stream urine (MSU), asymptomatic bacteriuria and symptomatic bacteriuria. A meta-analysis was conducted with difference between groups expressed as an odds ratio (OR) and control group risk. Results: 5,107 patients were included, 2,173 in placebo and 2,934 in the antibiotic group. The OR for all three outcomes favoured the antibiotic group; the risk of developing symptomatic bacteriuria was 0.06 times more likely in the control group (OR 0.34), 0.054 (OR 0.40) for developing asymptomatic bacteriuria and 0.109 for confirming bacteriuria on MSU (OR 0.36). The number needed to treat (NNT) was 15 (13-19) for MSU positive bacteriuria; 32 (27-42) for symptomatic bacteriuria and 26 (23-33) for asymptomatic bacteriuria. Conclusions: Antibiotic prophylaxis did confer a reduction in cases of symptomatic and asymptomatic bacteriuria but the NNT were high. Therefore, the authors cannot advocate the use of antibiotic prophylaxis for routine FC procedures.
In vitro Antifungal Activity and Mechanism of Action of Tea Polyphenols and Tea Saponin against Rhizopus stolonifer
Authors: Jiang Xiaodong , Feng Kejue , Yang Xiaoping
Published: June 2015

The in vitro antifungal activities and mechanism of action of tea polyphenols (TP), tea saponin (TS) and their combination were evaluated against Rhizopus stolonifer. The results showed that both TP and TS inhibited the mycelial growth in a dose-dependent manner, and their combination at the ratio of 7:3 exhibited synergistic antifungal interaction. We also observed that the treatment of TP or TS significantly induced the production of H2O2 and resulted in membrane lipid peroxidation, thus leading to an increase in cell membrane permeability and the leakage of K+, soluble protein and soluble sugar. Moreover, combining them for treatment increased the induction of H2O2 production and oxidative damage. Scanning electron microscopic observations also showed the damage to the hyphal cell structure. It was concluded that TP, TS and their combination inhibit the growth of R. stolonifer through the induction of H2O2 production, leading to cell membrane oxidative damage and intracellular constituent leakage. These findings suggest that TP and TS can potentially be used as an alternative to control postharvest fruit diseases caused by R. stolonifer.
A Case Report of a Direct Catheterization of Tunneled Cuffed Catheter via Superior Vena Cava: A Choice after Vascular Access Exhaustion
Authors: Cui Tianlei , Zhao Qiuyan , Zhou Li , Li Xiao , Fu Ping
Published: June 2015

Purpose: To establish a new way for long-term vascular access for dialysis patient with vascular access exhaustion. Materials and Methods: A patient with diabetes was found with edema of right arm and high venous pressure of AVF during hemodialysis. Intervention operations were performed to establish a tunneled cuffed catheterization. Results: Occlusion of innominate vein was confirmed by MDCTV. Puncture to superior vena cava was successful 0.5 cm below the lateral head of sternocleidomastoid muscle directly via the right neck area. Conclusion: Direct puncture via superior vena cava might be the last choice for catheter insertion site. choice for catheter insertion site.
Image Creation through Manipulation of Transform Space Representations
Authors: Brownrigg David
Published: June 2015

The author utilizes the mode space of certain transforms for digital image data to change and combine images in ways that cannot be visualized directly by an artist. The author’s methods include a novel use of nonmatched transform pairs in forward and backward processing. The results retain some broad predictability of effect, while the outcomes of using a particular method vary by image. This demonstrates that an artist can guide the choice of techniques used while obtaining unexpected results that suggest variations in the creative process. Results of this research illustrate some of the systematic and individual effects obtainable in several dimensions using such techniques.
Mestizo Robotics
Authors: Crembil Gustavo , Adi Paula Gaetano
Published: June 2015

With a cultural and material “cannibalistic” approach, the authors aim to revise certain technological discourses by introducing TZ’IJK, a “mestizo” robotic artwork developed in the Peruvian Amazon. Far from the utopian visions of Hollywood sci-fi movies populated by highly intelligent, anthropomorphic and responsive machines, TZ’IJK employs a combination of high and low technologies that embody Latin America’s anthropophagic, postcolonial and hybrid nature. Mestizo Robotics proposes an alternative approach to the development of embodied artificial life forms, from both theoretical and technological viewpoints.
Nomenclatural notes on Stelis ciliaris (Pleurothallidinae, Orchidaceae)
Authors: IGNOWSKI HELENA , BRITO A. L. V. TOSCANO DE , BONA CLEUSA , SMIDT ERIC DE CAMARGO
Published: June 2015

In the course of preparing a generic treatment of the genus Stelis for Flora do Paraná, southern Brazil, historical material and literature of several taxa related to Stelis ciliaris have been studied and their morphologies and nomenclature elucidated. Stelis leinigii, S. mystax-felis, and Stelis uhlii are herein proposed as new synonyms for Stelis ciliaris. A lectoptype is selected for Stelis jimenezii and a brief nomenclatural note on Stelis confusa is provided. Illustrations, updated synonym list, and taxonomic discussions are also presented for Stelis ciliaris.
The identity of Casearia membranacea f. nigrescens (Salicaceae)
Authors: Liao Shuai , JI XIANGYU , PENG YANSONG , LIANG TONGJUN , ZHANG ZHIXIANG
Published: June 2015

The valid publication, type and identity of Casearia membranacea f. nigrescens are reviewed. After detailed study of the types, related specimens and publications, Casearia membranacea f. nigrescens is proposed as a synonym of Bridelia balansae (Phyllanthaceae).
Nomenclatural corrections to Australian species of Cricotopus (Wulp) (Diptera; Chironomidae)
Authors: CRANSTON PETER S. , KROSCH MATT N.
Published: June 2015

Our attention has been drawn to lapsi and errors in a recent publication in this journal concerning Cricotopus Wulp (Diptera: Chironomidae) (Drayson et al., 2015).
A new epigean harvestman of the genus Guerrobunus (Laniatores: Phalangodidae), from Hidalgo, Mexico, with taxonomic notes about the genus
Authors: CRUZ-LÓPEZ JESÚS A. , UBICK DARRELL
Published: June 2015

The fifth species of the genus Guerrobunus, Guerrobunus barralesi sp. nov. is described from specimens collected in Hidalgo, Mexico. This species represents the first eastern record from the country and unlike other species of the genus, is completely epigean. Guerrobunus barralesi sp. nov. is compared with the most similar species, Guerrobunus minutus, which also has well developed and pigmented eyes. Finally, external morphology, including male genitalia, taxonomy of the genus, and familial assignment into the family Phalangodidae are discussed.
A new species of the cardinalfish genus Jaydia (Teleostei: Apogonidae) from the Philippines
Authors: GON OFER , LIAO YUN-CHIH , KWANG-TSAO SHAO
Published: June 2015

Jaydia erythrophthalma n. sp. is described from specimens collected during two recent biodiversity surveys along the east and west coasts of Luzon, Philippines. It is characterized by a first dorsal fin with eight spines, serrated posterior and crenulated ventral preopercular edges, reddish orange iris and two series of brown spots tinged in orange on the upper part of the body.
MSE Minus CAPE is the True Conserved Variable for an Adiabatically Lifted Parcel
Authors: Romps David M.
Published: June 2015

For an adiabatic parcel convecting up or down through the atmosphere, it is often assumed that its moist static energy (MSE) is conserved. Here, it is shown that the true conserved variable for this process is MSE minus convective available potential energy (CAPE) calculated as the integral of buoyancy from the parcel’s height to its level of neutral buoyancy and that this variable is conserved even when accounting for full moist thermodynamics and nonhydrostatic pressure forces. In the calculation of a dry convecting parcel, conservation of MSE minus CAPE gives the same answer as conservation of entropy and potential temperature, while the use of MSE alone can generate large errors. For a moist parcel, entropy and equivalent potential temperature give the same answer as MSE minus CAPE only if the parcel ascends in thermodynamic equilibrium. If the parcel ascends with a nonisothermal mixed-phase stage, these methods can give significantly different answers for the parcel buoyancy because MSE minus CAPE is conserved, while entropy and equivalent potential temperature are not.
The Influence of Atmospheric Cloud Radiative Effects on the Large-Scale Atmospheric Circulation
Authors: Li Ying , Thompson David W. J. , Bony Sandrine
Published: June 2015

The influence of clouds on the large-scale atmospheric circulation is examined in numerical simulations from an atmospheric general circulation model run with and without atmospheric cloud radiative effects (ACRE). In the extratropics of both hemispheres, the primary impacts of ACRE on the circulation include 1) increases in the meridional temperature gradient and decreases in static stability in the midlatitude upper troposphere, 2) strengthening of the midlatitude jet, 3) increases in extratropical eddy kinetic energy by up to 30%, and 4) increases in precipitation at middle latitudes but decreases at subtropical latitudes. In the tropics, the primary impacts of ACRE include 1) eastward wind anomalies in the tropical upper troposphere–lower stratosphere (UTLS) and 2) reductions in tropical precipitation. The impacts of ACRE on the atmospheric circulation are interpreted in the context of a series of dynamical and physical processes. The changes in the extratropical circulation and precipitation are consistent with the influence of ACRE on the baroclinicity and eddy fluxes of momentum in the extratropical upper troposphere, the changes in the zonal wind in the UTLS with the influence of ACRE on the amplitude of the equatorial planetary waves, and the changes in the tropical precipitation with the energetic constraints on the tropical troposphere. The results make clear that ACRE have a pronounced influence on the atmospheric circulation not only at tropical latitudes, but at extratropical latitudes as well. They highlight the critical importance of correctly simulating ACRE in global climate models.
Instability and Mixing of Zonal Jets along an Idealized Continental Shelf Break
Authors: Stern Alon , Nadeau Louis-Philippe , Holland David
Published: June 2015

The interaction between an Antarctic Circumpolar Current–like channel flow and a continental shelf break is considered using eddy-permitting simulations of a quasigeostrophic and a primitive equation model. The experimental setup is motivated by the continental shelf of the West Antarctic Peninsula. Numerical experiments are performed to study how the width and slope of an idealized continental shelf topography affect the characteristics of the flow. The main focus is on the regime where the shelfbreak width is slightly greater than the eddy scale. In this regime, a strong baroclinic jet develops on the shelf break because of the locally stabilizing effect of the topographic slope. The velocity of this jet is set at first order by the gradient of the background barotropic geostrophic contours, which is dominated by the slope of the topography. At statistical equilibrium, an aperiodic cycle is observed. Initially, over a long stable period, an upper-layer jet develops over the shelf break. Once the vertical shear reaches the critical condition for baroclinic instability, the jet becomes unstable and drifts away from the shelf break. The cross-shelf mixing is intrinsically linked with the jet drifting, as most of the meridional flux occurs during this instability period. Investigation of the zonal momentum budget reveals that a strong Reynolds stress divergence inversion across the jet is associated with a drifting event, accelerating one flank of the jet and decelerating the other. The hypothesis that jet drifting may be due to one flank of the jet being more baroclinically unstable than the other is tested using topographic profiles with variable curvatures.
Airway and Respiration Parameters Improve Following Vocal Fold Medialization
Authors: Asik M. Burak , Karasimav Ozlem , Birkent Hakan , Merati Albert L. , Gerek Mustafa , Yildiz Yavuz
Published: June 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Laryngeal medialization procedures such as injection laryngoplasty (IL) and thyroplasty type 1 (TT1) are standard techniques for the treatment of glottic insufficiency related to unilateral vocal fold paralysis (UVFP). These procedures reliably improve the voice and may also improve swallowing function. Despite the association of laryngeal paralysis with airway regulation, there is little published on the effect of UVFP and its surgical treatment on respiration. The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the aerodynamic outcomes of UVFP patients before and after vocal fold medialization, either by IL or TT1.

Methods:

Consecutive patients with dysphonia due to UVFP were included in this prospective study between 2012 and 2014. Nineteen patients were investigated (5 females, 14 males) with a mean age of 37.05 ± 17.8 years. Eight patients were treated by IL while 11 patients received TT1. The patients were subjected to Modified Medical Research Council (MMRC) and Borg dyspnea scales, maximum phonation time (MPT) measurement, spirometry, and cycle ergometry, pre- and postoperatively at 2 months.

Results:

There was a statistically significant increase in MPT from 5.5 ± 3 seconds to 11.2 ± 4.9 seconds postoperatively ( P < .001). The MMRC and Borg dyspnea scales also showed significant improvement postoperatively ( P < .001, P = .006, respectively). The change in spirometric parameters (peak expiratory flow, forced expiratory volume in 1 second, forced vital capacity, and peak inspiratory flow) were nonsignificant, while there was a significant improvement in cycle ergometry test postoperatively ( P = .018).

Conclusion:

Laryngeal medialization procedures such as IL and TT1 improve UVFP patients’ respiration-related quality of life and aerodynamic performance with no significant changes in spirometry.