bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reducing Magnetic Noise of an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle for High-Quality Magnetic Surveys
Authors: Sterligov Boris , Cherkasov Sergei
Published: March 2016

The use of light and ultralight unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for magnetic data acquisition can be efficient for resolving multiple geological and engineering tasks including geological mapping, ore deposits’ prospecting, and pipelines’ monitoring. The accuracy of the aeromagnetic data acquired using UAV depends mainly on deviation noise of electric devices (engine, servos, etc.). The goal of this research is to develop a nonmagnetic unmanned aerial platform (NUAP) for high-quality magnetic surveys. Considering parameters of regional and local magnetic survey, a fixed-wing UAV suits geological tasks better for plain area and copter type for hills and mountains. Analysis of the experimental magnetic anomalies produced by a serial light fixed-wing UAV and subsequent magnetic and aerodynamic modeling demonstrates a capacity of NUAP with internal combustion engine carrying an atomic magnetic sensor mounted on the UAV wings to facilitate a high-quality magnetic survey.
Asymmetric Shaped-Pattern Synthesis for Planar Antenna Arrays
Authors: Bruintjes T. M. , Kokkeler A. B. J. , Smit G. J. M.
Published: March 2016

A procedure to synthesize asymmetrically shaped beam patterns is developed for planar antenna arrays. As it is based on the quasi-analytical method of collapsed distributions, the main advantage of this procedure is the ability to realize a shaped (null-free) region with very low ripple. Smooth and asymmetrically shaped regions can be used for Direction-of-Arrival estimation and subsequently for efficient tracking with a single output (fully analog) beamformer.
Experimental Investigation into Vibration Characteristics for Damage Minimization in a Lapping Process
Authors: Suwatthikul J. , Sornmuang S. , Yaemglin T. , Cheowanish I. , Supavasuthi C.
Published: March 2016

Lapping machines are used in a hard disk rough lapping process where a workpiece (a wafer row bar) is locked with a robot arm and rubbed on a lap plate. In this process, the lap plate’s condition and lifetime are among important concerned factors. The lifetime can be too short due to the plate being accidentally scratched by the workpiece during lapping. This problem leads to undesired consequences such as machine downtime and excessive plate material usage. This paper presents an experimental investigation into vibration characteristics of passed and failed lapping scenarios and discusses a potential solution to minimize the serious damage so-called “plate scratch” which intermittently occurs in such process. The experimental results show that, by in situ monitoring vibration and utilizing artificial intelligence, damage minimization can be possible.
Study on Oil Pressure Characteristics and Trajectory Tracking Control in Shift Process of Wet-Clutch for Electric Vehicles
Authors: Li Junqiu , Wang Yihe , Chen Jianwen , He Zongping
Published: March 2016

Accurate control of oil pressure of wet-clutch is of great importance for improving shift quality. Based on dynamic models of two-gear planetary transmission and hydraulic control system, a trajectory tracking model of oil pressure was built by sliding mode control method. An experiment was designed to verify the validity of hydraulic control system, through which the relationship between duty cycle of on-off valve and oil pressure of clutch was determined. The tracking effect was analyzed by simulation. Results showed that oil pressure could follow well the optimal trajectory and the shift quality was effectively improved.
Retrieval of Individual Participant Data for Exercise Meta-Analyses May Not Be Worth the Time and Effort
Authors: Kelley George A. , Kelley Kristi S.
Published: March 2016

Purpose. While individual participant data (IPD) meta-analyses are considered the gold standard for meta-analysis, the feasibility of obtaining IPD may be problematic.Methods. Using data from a previous meta-analysis of 29 studies on exercise in adults with arthritis and other rheumatic diseases, the percentage of studies in which useable IPD was provided was calculated.Results. Eight of 29 authors (28%, 95% CI = 11% to 44%) provided IPD. Using logistic regression, neither year of publication (odds ratio = 1.05, 95% CI = 0.90 to 1.27,p=0.58) nor country (odds ratio = 1.36, 95% CI = 0.20 to 10.9,p=1.00) was significantly associated with the obtainment of IPD.Conclusions. The retrieval of IPD for exercise meta-analyses may not be worth the time and effort. However, further research is needed before any final recommendations can be made.
Effects of Jia‐Wei‐Xiao‐Yao‐San on the Peripheral and Lymphatic Pharmacokinetics of Paclitaxel in Rats
Authors: Hou Mei-Ling , Lu Chia-Ming , Tsai Tung-Hu
Published: March 2016

Paclitaxel is effective against breast cancer. The herbal medicine, Jia‐Wei‐Xiao‐Yao‐San (JWXYS), is the most frequent prescription used to relieve the symptoms of breast cancer treatments. The aim of the study was to investigate the herb‐drug interaction effects of a herbal medicine on the distribution of paclitaxel to lymph. A validated ultraperformance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC‐MS/MS) method was used to determine the paclitaxel levels in rat plasma and lymph after intravenous infusion of paclitaxel alone with or without 7 days of JWXYS pretreatment. The pharmacokinetic results indicate that paclitaxel concentrations in plasma exceeded those in lymph by approximately 3.6‐fold. The biodistribution of paclitaxel from plasma to lymph was 39 ± 5%; however, this increased to 45 ± 4% with JWXYS pretreatment. With JWXYS pretreatment, the AUC and Cmax of paclitaxel in plasma were significantly reduced by approximately 1.5‐fold, compared to paclitaxel alone. Additionally, JWXYS decreased the AUC and Cmax of paclitaxel in lymph. However, the lymph absorption rate of paclitaxel with or without JWXYS pretreatment was not significantly changed (27 ± 3 and 30 ± 2%, resp.). Our findings demonstrate that when paclitaxel is prescribed concurrently with herbal medicine, monitoring of the blood pharmacokinetics of paclitaxel is recommended.
Effect of Dangguibohyul-Tang, a Mixed Extract of Astragalus membranaceus and Angelica sinensis, on Allergic and Inflammatory Skin Reaction Compared with Single Extracts of Astragalus membranaceus or Angelica sinensis
Authors: Choi You Yeon , Kim Mi Hye , Hong Jongki , Kim Kyuseok , Yang Woong Mo
Published: March 2016

Dangguibohyul-tang (DBT), herbal formula composed of Astragalus membranaceus (AM) and Angelica sinensis (AS) at a ratio of 5 : 1, has been used for the treatment of various skin diseases in traditional medicine. We investigated the effect of DBT on allergic and inflammatory skin reaction in atopic dermatitis‐like model compared to the single extract of AM or AS. DBT treatment showed the remission of clinical symptoms, including decreased skin thickness and scratching behavior, the total serum IgE level, and the number of mast cells compared to DNCB group as well as the single extract of AM‐ or AS‐treated group. Levels of cytokines (IL‐4, IL‐6, IFN‐γ, TNF‐α, and IL‐1β) and inflammatory mediators (NF‐κB, phospho‐IκBα, and phospho‐MAPKs) were significantly decreased in AM, AS, and DBT groups. These results demonstrated that AM, AS, and DBT may have the therapeutic property on atopic dermatitis by inhibition of allergic and inflammatory mediators and DBT formula; a mixed extract of AM and AS based on the herb pairs theory especially might be more effective on antiallergic reaction as compared with the single extract of AM or AS.
Parasitaemia and Its Relation to Hematological Parameters and Liver Function among Patients Malaria in Abs, Hajjah, Northwest Yemen
Authors: Al-Salahy Mohamed , Shnawa Bushra , Abed Gamal , Mandour Ahmed , Al-Ezzi Ali
Published: March 2016

Plasmodium falciparummalaria is the most common infection in Yemen. The present study aims to investigate changes in hematological and hepatic function indices ofP. falciparuminfected individuals. This study included 67 suspectedfalciparummalarial patients attended in clinics and rural Abs Hospital (Tehama, Hajjah), Yemen, from October 2013 to April 2014. The diagnosis of malaria was confirmed by thick and thin film with Giemsa staining of malaria parasite. Hematological parameters and serum levels of aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and bilirubin (total and direct) as test indicators of liver function were studied. Patients with parasitaemia tended to have significantly lower hemoglobin, hematocrit, white blood cell count, lymphocytes, and platelets, compared with healthy normal subjects. Neutrophils levels were significantly higher in cases offalciparummalaria in comparison to healthy normal subjects. Serums AST, ALT, ALP, and bilirubin (total and direct) infalciparummalaria patients were significantly higher (p<0.0001) than those offalciparummalaria of free individuals. Hematological and liver dysfunctions measured parameters were seen associated with moderate and severe parasitaemia infection. This study concludes that hematological and hepatic dysfunction parameters could be indicator of malaria in endemic regions.
Unilateral Global Bifurcation from Intervals for Fourth-Order Problems and Its Applications
Authors: Shen Wenguo , He Tao
Published: March 2016

We establish a unilateral global bifurcation result from interval for a class of fourth-order problems with nondifferentiable nonlinearity. By applying the above result, we firstly establish the spectrum for a class of half-linear fourth-order eigenvalue problems. Moreover, we also investigate the existence of nodal solutions for the following half-linear fourth-order problems:x″″=αx++βx-+ratfx,0<t<1,x(0)=x(1)=x″(0)=x″(1)=0, wherer≠0is a parameter,a∈C([0,1],(0,∞)),x+=max⁡{x,0},x-=-min⁡{x,0},α,β∈C[0,1], andf∈C(R,R),sf(s)>0,fors≠0. We give the intervals for the parameterrwhich ensure the existence of nodal solutions for the above fourth-order half-linear problems iff0∈[0,∞)orf∞∈[0,∞],wheref0=lims→0f(s)/sandf∞=lims→+∞f(s)/s. We use the unilateral global bifurcation techniques and the approximation of connected components to prove our main results.
Performance Analysis of Interaction between Smart Glasses and Smart Objects Using Image-Based Object Identification
Authors: Rumiński Jacek , Bujnowski Adam , Kocejko Tomasz , Wtorek Jerzy , Andrushevich Alexey , Biallas Martin , Kistler Rolf
Published: March 2016

We propose the use of smart glasses to collaborate with smart objects in the Internet of Things environment. Particularly we are focusing on new interaction methods and the analysis of acceptable reaction times in the process of object recognition using smart glasses. We evaluated the proposed method using user studies and experiments with three different smart glasses: Google Glass, Epson Moverio, and the developed eGlasses platform. We conclude that using the proposed method it is possible to recognize objects and process information allowing object detection below the average acceptance response times specified by almost all participants in the user study. Additionally, we showed that eye-tracking can be used for simple interaction between a user and a graphical user interface presented in the near-to-eye display.
Linking CD11b+Dendritic Cells and Natural Killer T Cells to Plaque Inflammation in Atherosclerosis
Authors: Rombouts Miche , Ammi Rachid , Van Brussel Ilse , Roth Lynn , De Winter Benedicte Y. , Vercauteren Sven R. , Hendriks Jeroen M. H. , Lauwers Patrick , Van Schil Paul E. , De Meyer Guido R. Y. , Fransen Erik , Cools Nathalie , Schrijvers Dorien M.
Published: March 2016

Atherosclerosis remains the leading cause of death and disability in our Western society. To investigate whether the dynamics of leukocyte (sub)populations could be predictive for plaque inflammation during atherosclerosis, we analyzed innate and adaptive immune cell distributions in blood, plaques, and lymphoid tissue reservoirs in apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE−/−) mice and in blood and plaques from patients undergoing endarterectomy. Firstly, there was predominance of the CD11b+conventional dendritic cell (cDC) subset in the plaque. Secondly, a strong inverse correlation was observed between CD11b+cDC or natural killer T (NKT) cells in blood and markers of inflammation in the plaque (including CD3, T-bet, CCR5, and CCR7). This indicates that circulating CD11b+cDC and NKT cells show great potential to reflect the inflammatory status in the atherosclerotic plaque. Our results suggest that distinct changes in inflammatory cell dynamics may carry biomarker potential reflecting atherosclerotic lesion progression. This not only is crucial for a better understanding of the immunopathogenesis but also bares therapeutic potential, since immune cell-based therapies are emerging as a promising novel strategy in the battle against atherosclerosis and its associated comorbidities. The cDC-NKT cell interaction in atherosclerosis serves as a good candidate for future investigations.
Prognostic Value of Perineural Invasion in Esophageal and Esophagogastric Junction Carcinoma: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Gao Aiqin , Wang Linlin , Li Juan , Li Hongyu , Han Yali , Ma Xiaoxia , Sun Yuping
Published: March 2016

Objective. Here we aimed to clarify the prognostic significance of perineural invasion (PNI) in esophageal and esophagogastric junction (EGJ) carcinoma.Methods. A comprehensive literature search for relevant reports published up to July 2015 was performed using Pubmed and Embase databases. The pooled HR and 95% CI for overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were used to assess the prognostic value. The association of PNI with pathological characteristics was evaluated by OR and 95% CI.Results. A total of 13 cohorts were retrieved, covering 2770 patients treated by surgery. The cumulative analysis revealed a statistical correlation between PNI and poor OS (HR = 1.76, 95% CI: 1.54–2.20, andP<0.00001), as well as poor DFS (HR = 1.96, 95% CI: 1.42–2.71, andP<0.001). Moreover, analysis of 1475 patients showed improved PNI in T3 + T4 (OR = 0.39, 95% CI: 0.21–0.70, andP=0.002), N+ (OR = 0.52, 95% CI: 0.40–0.69, andP<0.00001), and G3 + G4 (OR = 0.66, 95% CI: 0.48–0.90, andP=0.008) patients compared with T1 + T2, N−, and G1 + G2 ones, respectively. No significant heterogeneity was found between the studies.Conclusions. PNI is an adverse prognostic biomarker in esophageal and EGJ carcinoma. Moreover, PNI implies advanced T, N stage and poor cell differentiation.
Recurrent Pseudomembranous Colitis in an Ovarian Cancer Patient Undergoing Carboplatin Chemotherapy
Authors: Allen Valerie A. , Manahan Kelly J. , Geisler John P.
Published: March 2016

Background. Diarrhea is a common problem in ovarian cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy andClostridium difficileinfection has been identified as a cause. The proper diagnosis and treatment of diarrhea are critical to patient care, especially to prevent the serious complications from a severeClostridium difficileinfection (CDI).Case. We present a heavily pretreated ovarian cancer patient who developed recurrent pseudomembranous colitis while receiving carboplatin chemotherapy. Despite treatment with oral metronidazole for fourteen days, the patient’s diarrhea relapsed and colonoscopy revealed extensive pseudomembranous colitis. The infection eventually resolved with the combination of oral vancomycin and metronidazole.Conclusions. Diarrhea is a common problem in patients undergoing chemotherapy for ovarian cancer. Management requires obtaining the proper diagnosis.Clostridium difficileassociated pseudomembranous colitis must be part of the differential diagnosis. Treatment must be sufficient to prevent relapses of theClostridium difficileinfection to prevent serious consequences in an already vulnerable patient population.
Vitamin B-6 Supplementation Could Mediate Antioxidant Capacity by Reducing Plasma Homocysteine Concentration in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma after Tumor Resection
Authors: Cheng Shao-Bin , Lin Ping-Ting , Liu Hsiao-Tien , Peng Yi-Shan , Huang Shih-Chien , Huang Yi-Chia
Published: March 2016

Vitamin B-6 has a strong antioxidative effect. It would be useful to determine whether vitamin B-6 supplementation had effects on antioxidant capacities in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) who had recently undergone tumor resection. Thirty-three HCC patients were randomly assigned to either the placebo(n=16)group or the vitamin B-6 50 mg/d(n=17)group for 12 weeks. Plasma pyridoxal 5′-phosphate, homocysteine, indicators of oxidative stress, and antioxidant capacities were measured. Plasma homocysteine in the vitamin B-6 group was significantly decreased at week 12, while the level of trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) was significantly increased at the end of the intervention period. Vitamin B-6 supplementation had a significant reducing effect on the change of plasma homocysteine (β=-2.4,p=0.02) but not on the change of TEAC level after adjusting for potential confounders. The change of plasma homocysteine was significantly associated with the change of TEAC after adjusting for potential confounders (β=-162.0,p=0.03). Vitamin B-6 supplementation seemed to mediate antioxidant capacity via reducing plasma homocysteine rather than having a direct antioxidative effect in HCC patients who had recently undergone tumor resection. The clinical trial number isNCT01964001, ClinicalTrials.gov.
Inhibition of α‐Glucosidase by Thiosulfinate as a Target for Glucose Modulation in Diabetic Rats
Authors: Al-Malki Abdulrahman L.
Published: March 2016

Postprandial hyperglycemia is a predisposing factor for vascular dysfunction and organ damage. α‐glucosidase is a hydrolytic enzyme that increases the glucose absorption rate and subsequently elevates blood glucose levels. Garlic (Allium sativum L.) is a rich source of several phytonutrients, including thiosulfinate (THIO). The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of THIO, a potent inhibitor of intestinal α‐glucosidase, to reduce postprandial blood glucose. Male albino rats were randomly assigned to five different groups (n = 10/group). Group 1 served as the control group. Groups 2–5 were injected intraperitoneally with a single dose of streptozotocin (STZ) to induce diabetes. Group 2 comprised untreated diabetic rats. Groups 3 and 4 contained diabetic rats that were given THIO orally (20 mg/kg body weight/day and 40 mg/kg body weight/day, resp.). Group 5 was the positive control having diabetic rats treated orally with acarbose (10 mg/kg body weight/day; positive control). Diabetic rats treated with THIO displayed a significant blood glucose reduction (p < 0.001 and < 0.01 by analysis of variance, resp.) and a significant elevation in insulin compared with that of untreated rats. THIO is an effective noncompetitive intestinal α‐glucosidase inhibitor that promotes hypoglycemic action (p < 0.001) in STZ‐injected rats. THIO is a promising agent for the management of postprandial hyperglycemia.
Strategy for Improving Efficiency of Supply Chain Quality Management in Buyer-Supplier Dyads: The Suppliers’ Perspective
Authors: Kim Hyun Jung , Son Jiyoon , Kim Soo Wook
Published: March 2016

This study analyzes the efficiency of supply chain quality management (SCQM) by grouping buyers and suppliers and conducting an empirical analysis of aspects affecting SCQM efficiency from the supplier’s perspective. Two stages of data analysis were conducted: (1) classify buyer and supplier efficiency by means of data envelopment analysis (DEA) and sort the data results into a2×2matrix and (2) conduct a statistical analysis to verify influential aspects. The results depict the average value of Group I to be higher than that of Group II, while the average value of Group IV was found to be much lower than that of Group III. In addition, specific aspects have a significant impact on certain groups: Groups I and II are affected by infrastructure, delivery of quality, talent development, and risk management in that order; Groups II and III are likewise influenced by risk management, talent development, and delivery of quality, whereas Groups III and IV are influenced by talent development, delivery of quality, and risk management in that order.
A New Nonlinear Diffusion Equation Model for Noisy Image Segmentation
Authors: Chen Bo , Zhou Xiao-Hui , Zhang Li-Wei , Wang Jie , Zhang Wei-Qiang , Zhang Chen
Published: March 2016

Image segmentation and image denoising are two important and fundamental topics in the field of image processing. Geometric active contour model based on level set method can deal with the problem of image segmentation, but it does not consider the problem of image denoising. In this paper, a new diffusion equation model for noisy image segmentation is proposed by incorporating some classical diffusion equation denoising models into the segmental process. An assumption about the connection between the image intensity and level set function is given firstly. Some classical denoising models are employed to describe the evolution of level set function secondly. The final nonlinear diffusion equation model for noisy image segmentation is built thirdly. Then image segmentation and image denoising are combined in a united framework. The segmental results can be presented by level set function. Experimental results show that the new model has the advantage of noise resistance and is superior to traditional segmentation model.
Effect of Laser Acupuncture on Anthropometric Measurements and Appetite Sensations in Obese Subjects
Authors: Tseng Chi-Chuan , Tseng Alan , Tseng Jason , Chang Chia-Hao
Published: March 2016

Purpose. A patient‐assessor‐blinded, randomized, sham‐controlled crossover trial was performed to investigate the effectiveness of laser acupuncture on anthropometric measurements and appetite sensation in obese subjects. Methods. Fifty‐two obese subjects were randomly assigned to either the laser acupuncture group or the sham laser acupuncture group. Subjects within each group received the relevant treatment three times a week for 8 weeks. After a two‐week washout period, the subjects then received the treatment of the opposite group for another 8 weeks. BMI, body fat percentage, waist‐to‐hip ratio (WHR), waist circumference, hip circumference, and appetite sensations were measured before and after 8 weeks of treatment. Results. BMI, body fat percentage, WHR, waist circumference, and hip circumference decreased significantly (p < 0.05) in the laser acupuncture group compared to baseline but there was no decrease in those variables in the sham laser acupuncture group. Laser acupuncture significantly improved scores on the fullness, hunger, satiety, desire to eat, and overall well‐being relative to the baseline (p < 0.05). Conclusions. Laser acupuncture is well tolerated and improves anthropometric measurements and appetite sensations in obese subjects.
Perilla Oil Has Similar Protective Effects of Fish Oil on High-Fat Diet-Induced Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Gut Dysbiosis
Authors: Tian Yu , Wang Hualin , Yuan Fahu , Li Na , Huang Qiang , He Lei , Wang Limei , Liu Zhiguo
Published: March 2016

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most prevalent chronic liver disease in developed countries. Recent studies indicated that the modification of gut microbiota plays an important role in the progression from simple steatosis to steatohepatitis. Epidemiological studies have demonstrated consumption of fish oil or perilla oil rich in n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) protects against NAFLD. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In the present study, we adopted 16s rRNA amplicon sequencing technique to investigate the impacts of fish oil and perilla oil on gut microbiomes modification in rats with high-fat diet- (HFD-) induced NAFLD. Both fish oil and perilla oil ameliorated HFD-induced hepatic steatosis and inflammation. In comparison with the low-fat control diet, HFD feeding significantly reduced the relative abundance of Gram-positive bacteria in the gut, which was slightly reversed by either fish oil or perilla oil. Additionally, fish oil and perilla oil consumption abrogated the elevated abundance ofPrevotellaandEscherichiain the gut from HFD fed animals. Interestingly, the relative abundance of antiobeseAkkermansiawas remarkably increased only in animals fed fish oil compared with HFD group. In conclusion, compared with fish oil, perilla oil has similar but slightly weaker potency against HFD-induced NAFLD and gut dysbiosis.
High Order Projection Plane Method for Evaluation of Supersingular Curved Boundary Integrals in BEM
Authors: Cui Miao , Feng Wei-zhe , Gao Xiao-wei , Yang Kai
Published: March 2016

Boundary element method (BEM) is a very promising approach for solving various engineering problems, in which accurate evaluation of boundary integrals is required. In the present work, the direct method for evaluating singular curved boundary integrals is developed by considering the third-order derivatives in the projection plane method when expanding the geometry quantities at the field point as Taylor series. New analytical formulas are derived for geometry quantities defined on the curved line/plane, and unified expressions are obtained for both two-dimensional and three-dimensional problems. For the two-dimensional boundary integrals, analytical expressions for the third-order derivatives are derived and are employed to verify the complex-variable-differentiation method (CVDM) which is used to evaluate the high order derivatives for three-dimensional problems. A few numerical examples are given to show the effectiveness and the accuracy of the present method.
Length of Individual Apnea Events Is Increased by Supine Position and Modulated by Severity of Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Leppänen Timo , Töyräs Juha , Muraja-Murro Anu , Kupari Salla , Tiihonen Pekka , Mervaala Esa , Kulkas Antti
Published: March 2016

Positional obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is common among OSA patients. In severe OSA, the obstruction events are longer in supine compared to nonsupine positions. Corresponding scientific information on mild and moderate OSA is lacking. We studied whether individual obstruction and desaturation event severity is increased in supine position in all OSA severity categories and whether the severity of individual events is linked to OSA severity categories. Polygraphic recordings of 2026 patients were retrospectively analyzed. The individual apnea, and hypopnea durations and desaturation event depth, duration, and area of 526 included patients were compared between supine and nonsupine positions in different OSA severity categories. Apnea events were 6.3%, 12.5%, and 11.1% longer (p<0.001) in supine compared to nonsupine position in mild, moderate, and severe OSA categories, respectively. In moderate and severe OSA categories desaturation areas were 5.7% and 25.5% larger (p<0.001) in supine position. In both positions the individual event severity was elevated along increasing OSA severity category (p<0.05). Supine position elevates apnea duration in all and desaturation area in moderate and severe OSA severity categories. This might be more hazardous for supine OSA patients and therefore, estimation of clinical severity of OSA should incorporate also information about individual event characteristics besides AHI.
Lassa Fever in Pregnancy: Report of 2 Cases Seen at the University College Hospital, Ibadan
Authors: Bello O. O. , Akinajo O. R. , Odubamowo K. H. , Oluwasola T. A. O.
Published: March 2016

Lassa fever (LF), an acute viral haemorrhagic fever, is an endemic zoonotic viral infection in West Africa countries with up to 15% case fatality rate. Though a rodent-borne infection, it can also be transmitted from person to person during the care of sick relations or more commonly in health care settings as a nosocomial infection. Vertical transmission from mother to child has been documented. We report 2 cases of LF among pregnant women which were managed at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, between September and October 2014. Both patients were in their early 20s with only one surviving the disease. Both had supportive therapy but none had antiviral therapy. This report emphasized the importance of early presentation, high index of suspicion, prompt diagnosis, and early commencement of supportive therapy in the management of patients suspected with LF especially in the era of other viral haemorrhagic infections.
DEA Game Cross-Efficiency Model to Urban Public Infrastructure Investment Comprehensive Efficiency of China
Authors: Sun Yu , Huang Huixia , Zhou Chi
Published: March 2016

In managerial application, data envelopment analysis (DEA) is used by numerous studies to evaluate performances and solve the allocation problem. As the problem of infrastructure investment becomes more and more important in Chinese cities, it is of vital necessity to evaluate the investment efficiency and assign the fund. In practice, there are competitions among cities due to the scarcity of investment funds. However, the traditional DEA model is a pure self-evaluation model without considering the impacts of the other decision-making units (DMUs). Even though using the cross-efficiency model can figure out the best multiplier bundle for the unit and other DMUs, the solution is not unique. Therefore, this paper introduces the game theory into DEA cross-efficiency model to evaluate the infrastructure investment efficiency when cities compete with each other. In this paper, we analyze the case involving 30 provincial capital cities of China. And the result shows that the approach can accomplish a unique and efficient solution for each city (DMU) after the investment fund is allocated as an input variable.
Human Metabolic Enzymes Deficiency: A Genetic Mutation Based Approach
Authors: Chaturvedi Swati , Singh Ashok K. , Keshari Amit K. , Maity Siddhartha , Sarkar Srimanta , Saha Sudipta
Published: March 2016

One of the extreme challenges in biology is to ameliorate the understanding of the mechanisms which emphasize metabolic enzyme deficiency (MED) and how these pretend to have influence on human health. However, it has been manifested that MED could be either inherited as inborn error of metabolism (IEM) or acquired, which carries a high risk of interrupted biochemical reactions. Enzyme deficiency results in accumulation of toxic compounds that may disrupt normal organ functions and cause failure in producing crucial biological compounds and other intermediates. The MED related disorders cover widespread clinical presentations and can involve almost any organ system. To sum up the causal factors of almost all the MED-associated disorders, we decided to embark on a less traveled but nonetheless relevant direction, by focusing our attention on associated gene family products, regulation of their expression, genetic mutation, and mutation types. In addition, the review also outlines the clinical presentations as well as diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
CRM1 Inhibition Promotes Cytotoxicity in Ewing Sarcoma Cells by Repressing EWS-FLI1–Dependent IGF-1 Signaling
Authors: Sun Haibo , Lin De-Chen , Cao Qi , Guo Xiao , Marijon Helene , Zhao Zhiqiang , Gery Sigal , Xu Liang , Yang Henry , Pang Brendan , Lee Victor Kwan Min , Lim Huey Jin , Doan Ngan , Said Jonathan W. , Chu Peiguo , Mayakonda Anand , Thomas Tom , Forscher Charles , Baloglu Erkan , Shacham Sharon , Rajalingam Raja , Koeffler H. Phillip
Published: March 2016

Ewing sarcoma (EWS) is an aggressive bone malignancy that mainly affects children and young adults. The mechanisms by which EWS (EWSR1) fusion genes drive the disease are not fully understood. CRM1 (XPO1) traffics proteins from the nucleus, including tumor suppressors and growth factors, and is overexpressed in many cancers. A small-molecule inhibitor of CRM1, KPT-330, has shown therapeutic promise, but has yet to be investigated in the context of EWS. In this study, we demonstrate that CRM1 is also highly expressed in EWS. shRNA-mediated or pharmacologic inhibition of CRM1 in EWS cells dramatically decreased cell growth while inducing apoptosis, cell-cycle arrest, and protein expression alterations to several cancer-related factors. Interestingly, silencing of CRM1 markedly reduced EWS–FLI1 fusion protein expression at the posttranscriptional level and upregulated the expression of the well-established EWS-FLI1 target gene, insulin-like growth factor binding protein 3 (IGFBP3), which inhibits IGF-1. Accordingly, KPT-330 treatment attenuated IGF-1–induced activation of the IGF-1R/AKT pathway. Furthermore, knockdown of IGFBP3 increased cell growth and rescued the inhibitory effects on IGF-1 signaling triggered by CRM1 inhibition. Finally, treatment of EWS cells with a combination of KPT-330 and the IGF-1R inhibitor, linsitinib, synergistically decreased cell proliferation both in vitro and in vivo. Taken together, these findings provide a strong rationale for investigating the efficacy of combinatorial inhibition of CRM1 and IGF-1R for the treatment of EWS. Cancer Res; 76(9); 2687–97. ©2016 AACR.
Structure and Function of the Unusual Tungsten Enzymes Acetylene Hydratase and Class II Benzoyl-Coenzyme A Reductase
Authors: Boll Matthias , Einsle Oliver , Ermler Ulrich , Kroneck Peter M.H. , Ullmann G. Matthias
Published: March 2016

In biology, tungsten (W) is exclusively found in microbial enzymes bound to a bis-pyranopterin cofactor (bis-WPT). Previously known W enzymes catalyze redox oxo/hydroxyl transfer reactions by directly coordinating their substrates or products to the metal. They comprise the W-containing formate/formylmethanofuran dehydrogenases belonging to the dimethyl sulfoxide reductase (DMSOR) family and the aldehyde:ferredoxin oxidoreductase (AOR) families, which form a separate enzyme family within the Mo/W enzymes. In the last decade, initial insights into the structure and function of two unprecedented W enzymes were obtained: the acetaldehyde forming acetylene hydratase (ACH) belongs to the DMSOR and the class II benzoyl-coenzyme A (CoA) reductase (BCR) to the AOR family. The latter catalyzes the reductive dearomatization of benzoyl-CoA to a cyclic diene. Both are key enzymes in the degradation of acetylene (ACH) or aromatic compounds (BCR) in strictly anaerobic bacteria. They are unusual in either catalyzing a nonredox reaction (ACH) or a redox reaction without coordinating the substrate or product to the metal (BCR). In organic chemical synthesis, analogous reactions require totally nonphysiological conditions depending on Hg2+ (acetylene hydration) or alkali metals (benzene ring reduction). The structural insights obtained pave the way for biological or biomimetic approaches to basic reactions in organic chemistry.
Ethylbenzene Dehydrogenase and Related Molybdenum Enzymes Involved in Oxygen-Independent Alkyl Chain Hydroxylation
Authors: Heider Johann , Szaleniec Maciej , Sünwoldt Katharina , Boll Matthias
Published: March 2016

Ethylbenzene dehydrogenase initiates the anaerobic bacterial degradation of ethylbenzene and propylbenzene. Although the enzyme is currently only known from a few closely related denitrifying bacterial strains affiliated to the Rhodocyclaceae, it clearly marks a universally occurring mechanism used for attacking recalcitrant substrates in the absence of oxygen. Ethylbenzene dehydrogenase belongs to subfamily 2 of the DMSO reductase-type molybdenum enzymes together with paralogous enzymes involved in the oxygen-independent hydroxylation of p-cymene, the isoprenoid side chains of sterols and even possibly n-alkanes; the subfamily also extends to dimethylsulfide dehydrogenases, selenite, chlorate and perchlorate reductases and, most significantly, dissimilatory nitrate reductases. The biochemical, spectroscopic and structural properties of the oxygen-independent hydroxylases among these enzymes are summarized and compared. All of them consist of three subunits, contain a molybdenum-bis-molybdopterin guanine dinucleotide cofactor, five Fe-S clusters and a heme b cofactor of unusual ligation, and are localized in the periplasmic space as soluble enzymes. In the case of ethylbenzene dehydrogenase, it has been determined that the heme b cofactor has a rather high redox potential, which may also be inferred for the paralogous hydroxylases. The known structure of ethylbenzene dehydrogenase allowed the calculation of detailed models of the reaction mechanism based on the density function theory as well as QM-MM (quantum mechanics - molecular mechanics) methods, which yield predictions of mechanistic properties such as kinetic isotope effects that appeared consistent with experimental data.
Activation of Acetone and Other Simple Ketones in Anaerobic Bacteria
Authors: Heider Johann , Schühle Karola , Frey Jasmin , Schink Bernhard
Published: March 2016

Acetone and other ketones are activated for subsequent degradation through carboxylation by many nitrate-reducing, phototrophic, and obligately aerobic bacteria. Acetone carboxylation leads to acetoacetate, which is subsequently activated to a thioester and degraded via thiolysis. Two different types of acetone carboxylases have been described, which require either 2 or 4 ATP equivalents as an energy supply for the carboxylation reaction. Both enzymes appear to combine acetone enolphosphate with carbonic phosphate to form acetoacetate. A similar but more complex enzyme is known to carboxylate the aromatic ketone acetophenone, a metabolic intermediate in anaerobic ethylbenzene metabolism in denitrifying bacteria, with simultaneous hydrolysis of 2 ATP to 2 ADP. Obligately anaerobic sulfate-reducing bacteria activate acetone to a four-carbon compound as well, but via a different process than bicarbonate- or CO2-dependent carboxylation. The present evidence indicates that either carbon monoxide or a formyl residue is used as a cosubstrate, and that the overall ATP expenditure of this pathway is substantially lower than in the known acetone carboxylase reactions.
Dose-Dense Chemotherapy in Metastatic Breast Cancer: Shortening the Time Interval for a Better Therapeutic Index
Authors: Schmidt Marcus
Published: March 2016

Despite the advancement of targeted therapies in metastatic breast cancer, chemotherapy is still of pivotal importance. The concept of dose density is known to increase the efficacy of chemotherapy. In metastatic disease, preservation of the quality of life is equally important. Because of this, weekly regimens are a cornerstone in metastatic disease. Taxanes like paclitaxel or nab-paclitaxel as well as antracyclines are often used in palliative treatment. Further advances to increase dose density have led to the concept of daily metronomic schedules with oral chemotherapeutic drugs like cyclophosphamide, capecitabine, or vinorelbine. Metronomic chemotherapy affects tumor angiogenesis and also weakens immunosuppressive regulatory T cells, promoting better control of tumor progression. Weekly or daily dose-dense regimens are a reasonable compromise between efficacy and toxicity to improve the therapeutic index. This is most important for the treatment of chronic disease where palliation and preservation of quality of life are vital.
Mutated Huntingtin Causes Testicular Pathology in Transgenic Minipig Boars
Authors: Macakova Monika , Bohuslavova Bozena , Vochozkova Petra , Pavlok Antonin , Sedlackova Miroslava , Vidinska Daniela , Vochyanova Klara , Liskova Irena , Valekova Ivona , Baxa Monika , Ellederova Zdenka , Klima Jiri , Juhas Stefan , Juhasova Jana , Klouckova Jana , Haluzik Martin , Klempir Jiri , Hansikova Hana , Spacilova Jana , Collins Ryan , Blumenthal Ian , Talkowski Michael , Gusella James F. , Howland David S. , DiFiglia Marian , Motlik Jan
Published: March 2016

Background: Huntington's disease is induced by CAG expansion in a single gene coding the huntingtin protein. The mutated huntingtin (mtHtt) primarily causes degeneration of neurons in the brain, but it also affects peripheral tissues, including testes. Objective: We studied sperm and testes of transgenic boars expressing the N-terminal region of human mtHtt. Methods: In this study, measures of reproductive parameters and electron microscopy (EM) images of spermatozoa and testes of transgenic (TgHD) and wild-type (WT) boars of F1 (24-48 months old) and F2 (12-36 months old) generations were compared. In addition, immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, Western blot, hormonal analysis and whole-genome sequencing were done in order to elucidate the effects of mtHtt. Results: Evidence for fertility failure of both TgHD generations was observed at the age of 13 months. Reproductive parameters declined and progressively worsened with age. EM revealed numerous pathological features in sperm tails and in testicular epithelium from 24- and 36-month-old TgHD boars. Moreover, immunohistochemistry confirmed significantly lower proliferation activity of spermatogonia in transgenic testes. mtHtt was highly expressed in spermatozoa and testes of TgHD boars and localized in all cells of seminiferous tubules. Levels of fertility-related hormones did not differ in TgHD and WT siblings. Genome analysis confirmed that insertion of the lentiviral construct did not interrupt any coding sequence in the pig genome. Conclusions: The sperm and testicular degeneration of TgHD boars is caused by gain-of-function of the highly expressed mtHtt.
Therapeutic Opportunities for Caffeine and A2A Receptor Antagonists in Retinal Diseases
Authors: Boia Raquel , Ambrósio António Francisco , Santiago Ana Raquel
Published: March 2016

Caffeine, the major component of coffee, is the most consumed psychostimulant in the world. Caffeine is an adenosine analog and acts as a nonselective adenosine receptor antagonist. The majority of the effects of caffeine are mainly mediated by the blockade of adenosine receptors, and the proved neuroprotective effects of caffeine in brain disorders have been mimicked by the blockade of adenosine A2A receptor (A2AR). A growing body of evidence demonstrates that microglia-mediated neuroinflammation plays a key role in the pathophysiology of brain and retinal diseases. Moreover, the control of microglia reactivity by blocking A2AR has been proposed to be the mechanism underlying the observed protective effects of caffeine. Hence, it is conceivable that caffeine and A2AR antagonists offer therapeutic value for the treatment of retinal diseases, mainly those involving microglia-mediated neuroinflammation.
Digoxin in Heart Failure with a Reduced Ejection Fraction: A Risk Factor or a Risk Marker?
Authors: Konstantinou Dimitrios M. , Karvounis Haralambos , Giannakoulas George
Published: March 2016

Digoxin is one of the oldest compounds used in cardiovascular medicine. Nevertheless, its mechanism of action and most importantly its clinical utility have been the subject of an endless dispute. Positive inotropic and neurohormonal modulation properties are attributed to digoxin, and it was the mainstay of heart failure therapeutics for decades. However, since the institution of β-blockers and aldosterone antagonists as part of modern heart failure medical therapy, digoxin prescription rates have been in free fall. The fact that digoxin is still listed as a valid therapeutic option in both American and European heart failure guidelines has not altered clinicians' attitude towards the drug. Since the publication of original Digitalis Investigation Group trial data, a series of reports based predominately on observational studies and post hoc analyses have raised concerns about the clinical efficacy and long-term safety of digoxin. In the present review, we will attempt a critical appraisal of the available clinical evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of digoxin in heart failure patients with a reduced ejection fraction. The methodological issues, strengths, and limitations of individual studies will be highlighted.
Increased PR Interval in Fetuses of Patients with Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy
Authors: Rodríguez Marcelo , Moreno Jose , Márquez Rolando , Eltit Ricardo , Martinez Felipe , Sepúlveda-Martínez Alvaro , Parra-Cordero Mauro
Published: March 2016

Objective: To evaluate the fetal mechanical PR interval in fetuses from pregnancies with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP). Methods: A case-control study was conducted in the Maternal-Fetal Medicine Unit at Hospital Carlos Van Buren between 2011 and 2013. Fetal echocardiography was performed in patients with ICP and normal pregnancies. Demographic and clinical characteristics were compared using the Mann-Whitney U test for continuous variables. A p value <0.05 was considered significant. Results: 51 patients with ICP were compared with 51 unaffected pregnancies. There were no significant differences in neither demographic nor clinical characteristics between the two groups. The fetal PR interval was significantly longer in the ICP group when compared to the control group (134.6 ± 12 vs. 121.4 ± 10 ms, p < 0.001). Moreover, four fetuses from the ICP group had a mechanical PR interval >150 ms, which is compatible with a first-degree atrioventricular block. Two fetuses were identified in the neonatal period and were transferred to pediatric cardiology for follow-up, with a normal mechanical PR after the first month of life. Conclusions: We demonstrated that the fetal cardiac conduction system is altered in fetuses of patients with ICP. Further research is necessary to determine whether this alteration is related to stillbirths seen in ICP.
Antipsychotic Drugs Differentially Affect mRNA Expression of Genes Encoding the Neuregulin 1-Downstream ErbB4-PI3K Pathway
Authors: Karbownik Michał Seweryn , Szemraj Janusz , Wieteska Łukasz , Antczak Adam , Górski Paweł , Kowalczyk Edward , Pietras Tadeusz
Published: March 2016

Background/Aims: The PIK3CD gene encodes the delta catalytic subunit of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K), an element of the neuregulin 1-downstream ErbB4-PI3K signaling pathway, which was recently identified as a molecular target for the treatment of schizophrenia. The aim of the study was to examine the effect of haloperidol (HALO), clozapine (CLO), olanzapine (OLA), quetiapine (QUE) and amisulpride (AMI) on the mRNA and protein expression of genes encoding the elements of ErbB4-PI3K pathway, in a human central nervous system cell line. Methods: The U-87MG human glioblastoma cell line was used as an experimental model. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to examine the expression of mRNA and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for protein expression. Results: At concentrations reached in clinical settings in the brain, CLO, as well as OLA and QUE to a lesser extent, but not AMI and probably not HALO, decreased the mRNA expression of PIK3CD. Protein expression of the gene did not confirm the mRNA expression profile. Conclusions: The tested antipsychotic drugs (APDs) in the U-87MG glioblastoma cell line differentially regulates the mRNA expression of PIK3CD; however, the protein expression does not confirm these findings. The results of the study may help deepen the understanding of the mechanism of action of APDs.