bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Treatment with Ginger on the Severity of Premenstrual Syndrome Symptoms
Authors: Khayat Samira , Kheirkhah Masoomeh , Behboodi Moghadam Zahra , Fanaei Hamed , Kasaeian Amir , Javadimehr Mani
Published: May 2014

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a common disorder. Although the etiology of PMS is not clear, to relieve from this syndrome different methods are recommended. One of them is use of medicinal herbs. This study was carried out to evaluate effects of ginger on severity of symptoms of PMS. This study was a clinical trial, double-blinded work, and participants were randomly allocated to intervention (n=35) and control (n=35) groups. To determine persons suffering from PMS, participants completed daily record scale questionnaire for two consecutive cycles. After identification, each participant received two ginger capsules daily from seven days before menstruation to three days after menstruation for three cycles and they recorded severity of the symptoms by daily record scale questionnaire. Data before intervention were compared with date 1, 2, and 3 months after intervention. Before intervention, there were no significant differences between the mean scores of PMS symptoms in the two groups, but after 1, 2, and 3 months of treatment, there was a significant difference between the two groups (P<0.0001). Based on the results of this study, maybe ginger is effective in the reduction of severity of mood and physical and behavioral symptoms of PMS and we suggest ginger as treatment for PMS.
Cervical Thymic Cyst in an Adult
Authors: Alzahrani Hassan A. , Iqbal Javeria M. , Abu Shaheen Amani K. , Al Harthi Bandar N.
Published: May 2014

Cervical thymic cysts (CTCs) are unusual lesions, representing only 1% of cystic cervical masses. Diagnosis of this condition in adults is even rarer. We report a 34-year-old female who presented with asymptomatic progressively growing left-sided neck swelling. Neck ultrasound (US) showed a large cystic lesion with septation, compressing the ipsilateral vessels. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) confirmed the US findings. Surgical excision was performed which subsequently showed findings consistent with CTC. CTC in adult is extremely rare, with few reported cases identified in the literature. Thymic gland anomalies in the neck are the consequences of an arrest in the descent of the gland, sequestration of the thymic tissue, or failure of involution. The diagnosis of this condition is rarely done prior to surgical excision. The clinical presentation, radiologic imaging, surgical findings, and histologic appearance are all essential components to make the correct diagnosis of this very rare differential diagnosis of cystic lateral neck swelling.
An Improved Substation Locating and Sizing Method Based on the Weighted Voronoi Diagram and the Transportation Model
Authors: Wang Shiju , Lu Zhiying , Ge Shaoyun , Wang Chengshan
Published: May 2014

Substation locating and sizing is an important component of urban power networks. In this paper, an improved method based on the weighted Voronoi diagram and transportation model for substation planning is proposed, which can optimize the location, capacity, and power supply range for each substation with the minimum investment which contains the cost of the lines, substations, and annual operation expense. The weighted Voronoi diagram (WVD) whose weights can be adaptively adjusted can calculate the location and the capacity for each substation with good performance of global convergence and better convergence speed. Transportation model can simulate the best correspondence relationship between the loads and substations. The impact of geographical factors is also considered in this paper. Large amount of experiments show that the improved method can get more reasonable and more optimized planning result within shorter time than the original WVD and other algorithms.
Some Existence Results of Positive Solutions forφ-Laplacian Systems
Authors: Xu Xianghui , Lee Yong-Hoon
Published: May 2014

We study the existence of positive solutions for the homogeneous Dirichlet boundary value problem ofφ-Laplacian systems with a singular weight which may not be inL1.
Analyzing the Impact of Storage Shortage on Data Availability in Decentralized Online Social Networks
Authors: Fu Songling , He Ligang , Liao Xiangke , Li Kenli , Huang Chenlin
Published: May 2014

Maintaining data availability is one of the biggest challenges in decentralized online social networks (DOSNs). The existing work often assumes that the friends of a user can always contribute to the sufficient storage capacity to store all data. However, this assumption is not always true in today’s online social networks (OSNs) due to the fact that nowadays the users often use the smart mobile devices to access the OSNs. The limitation of the storage capacity in mobile devices may jeopardize the data availability. Therefore, it is desired to know the relation between the storage capacity contributed by the OSN users and the level of data availability that the OSNs can achieve. This paper addresses this issue. In this paper, the data availability model over storage capacity is established. Further, a novel method is proposed to predict the data availability on the fly. Extensive simulation experiments have been conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the data availability model and the on-the-fly prediction.
Macrophages and Leydig Cells in Testicular Biopsies of Azoospermic Men
Authors: Goluža Trpimir , Boscanin Alexander , Cvetko Jessica , Kozina Viviana , Kosović Marin , Bernat Maja Marija , Kasum Miro , Kaštelan Željko , Ježek Davor
Published: May 2014

A number of studies have indicated that testicular macrophages play an important role in regulating steroidogenesis of Leydig cells and maintain homeostasis within the testis. The current paper deals with macrophages (CD68 positive cells) and Leydig cells in patients with nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA). Methods employed included histological analysis on semi- and ultrathin sections, immunohistochemistry, morphometry, and hormone analysis in the blood serum. Histological analysis pointed out certain structural changes of macrophages and Leydig cells in NOA group of patients when compared to controls. In the testis interstitium, an increased presence of CD68 positive cells has been noted. Leydig cells in NOA patients displayed a kind of a mosaic picture across the same bioptic sample: both normal and damaged Leydig cells with pronounced vacuolisation and various intensity of expression of testosterone have been observed. Stereological analysis indicated a significant increase in volume density of both CD68 positive and vacuolated Leydig cells and a positive correlation between the volume densities of these cell types. The continuous gonadotropin overstimulation of Leydig cells, together with a negative paracrine action of macrophages, could result in the damage of steroidogenesis and deficit of testosteronein situ.
Surgery for Complete Vertical Rectus Paralysis Combined with Horizontal Strabismus
Authors: Zou Leilei , Liu Rui , Liu Yan , Lin Jing , Liu Hong
Published: May 2014

Aims.To report outcomes of the simultaneous surgical correction of vertical rectus paralysis combined with moderate-to-large angle horizontal strabismus.Methods.If a preoperative forced duction test was positive, antagonist muscle weakening surgery was performed, and then augmented partial rectus muscle transposition (APRMT) + partial horizontal rectus recession-resection was performed 2 months later. If a preoperative forced duction test was negative, APRMT + partial horizontal rectus recession-resection was performed. Antagonistic muscle weakening surgery and/or conventional recession-resection of the horizontal and/or vertical muscles of the contralateral eye was performed 2 months later, as needed.Results.Ten patients with a mean age of 22.3 ± 13.0 years were included and mean follow-up was 7.1 months. The mean vertical deviation that APRMT corrected was 21.4 ± 3.7 PD (prism diopter). The absolute deviation in horizontal significantly decreased from a preoperative value of 48.5 ± 27.4 PD to a value of 3.0 ± 2.3 PD 6 months postoperatively. The movement score decreased from a value of −5 ± 0 preoperatively to a value of −2.7 ± 0.8 at 6 months postoperatively.Conclusion.For patients with complete vertical rectus paralysis combined with a moderate- to-large angle of horizontal strabismus, combined APRMT and partial horizontal rectus recession-resection is safe and effective for correcting vertical and horizontal strabismus.
Perilipin Expression Reveals Adipogenic Potential of hADSCs inside Superporous Polymeric Cellular Delivery Systems
Authors: Dinescu Sorina , Galateanu Bianca , Lungu Adriana , Radu Eugen , Nae Sorin , Iovu Horia , Costache Marieta
Published: May 2014

Recent progress in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine envisages the use of cell-scaffold bioconstructs to best mimic the naturalin vivomicroenvironment. Our aim was not only to develop novel 3D porous scaffolds for regenerative applications by the association of gelatin (G), alginate (A), and polyacrylamide (PAA) major assets but also to evaluate theirin vitropotential to support human adipose-derived stem cells (hADSCs) adipogenesis. G-A-PAA biomatrix investigated in this work is an interesting substrate combining the advantages of the three individual constituents, namely, biodegradability of G, hydrophilicity of A and PAA, superior elasticity at compression with respect to the G-A and PAA controls, and the capacity to generate porous scaffolds. hADSCs inside these novel interpenetrating polymer networks (IPNs) were able to populate the entire scaffold structure and to display their characteristic spindle-likeshape as a consequence of a good interaction with G component of the matrices. Additionally, hADSCs proved to display the capacity to differentiate towards mature adipocytes, to accumulate lipids inside their cytoplasm, and to express perilipin late adipogenic marker inside novel IPNs described in this study. On long term, this newly designed biomatrix aims to represent a stem cell delivery system product dedicated for modern regenerative strategies.
Cartilage Repair Surgery: Outcome Evaluation by Using Noninvasive Cartilage Biomarkers Based on Quantitative MRI Techniques?
Authors: Jungmann Pia M. , Baum Thomas , Bauer Jan S. , Karampinos Dimitrios C. , Erdle Benjamin , Link Thomas M. , Li Xiaojuan , Trattnig Siegfried , Rummeny Ernst J. , Woertler Klaus , Welsch Goetz H.
Published: May 2014

Background. New quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques are increasingly applied as outcome measures after cartilage repair.Objective. To review the current literature on the use of quantitative MRI biomarkers for evaluation of cartilage repair at the knee and ankle.Methods. Using PubMed literature research, studies on biochemical, quantitative MR imaging of cartilage repair were identified and reviewed.Results. Quantitative MR biomarkers detect early degeneration of articular cartilage, mainly represented by an increasing water content, collagen disruption, and proteoglycan loss. Recently, feasibility of biochemical MR imaging of cartilage repair tissue and surrounding cartilage was demonstrated. Ultrastructural properties of the tissue after different repair procedures resulted in differences in imaging characteristics. T2 mapping, T1rho mapping, delayed gadolinium-enhanced MRI of cartilage (dGEMRIC), and diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) are applicable on most clinical 1.5 T and 3 T MR scanners. Currently, a standard of reference is difficult to define and knowledge is limited concerning correlation of clinical and MR findings. The lack of histological correlations complicates the identification of the exact tissue composition.Conclusions. A multimodal approach combining several quantitative MRI techniques in addition to morphological and clinical evaluation might be promising. Further investigations are required to demonstrate the potential for outcome evaluation after cartilage repair.
Interval-Valued Semiprime Fuzzy Ideals of Semigroups
Authors: Kar Sukhendu , Sarkar Paltu , Hila Kostaq
Published: May 2014

We introduce the notion of (i-v) semiprime (irreducible) fuzzy ideals of semigroups and investigate its different algebraic properties. We study the interrelation among (i-v) prime fuzzy ideals, (i-v) semiprime fuzzy ideals, and (i-v) irreducible fuzzy ideals and characterize regular semigroups by using these (i-v) fuzzy ideals.
Local Hopf Bifurcation in a Competitive Model of Market Structure with Consumptive Delays
Authors: Li Xuhui
Published: May 2014

A competitive model of market structure with consumptive delays is considered. The local stability of the positive equilibrium and the existence of local Hopf bifurcation are investigated by analyzing the distribution of the roots of the associated characteristic equation. The explicit formulas determining the stability and other properties of bifurcating periodic solutions are derived by using normal form theory and center manifold argument. Finally, numerical simulations are given to support the analytical results.
Numerical Study of Natural Convection in a Heated Enclosure with Two Wavy Vertical Walls Using Finite Element Method
Authors: Sompong Pensiri , Witayangkurn Supot
Published: May 2014

The effects of wavy geometry on natural convection in an enclosure with two wavy vertical walls and filled with fluid saturated porous media are investigated numerically by using finite element method. The wavy enclosure is transformed to a unit square in the computational domain and the finite element formulations are solved in terms ofξη-coordinate based on iterative method. In order to investigate the effects of interested parameters, the values of wave amplitude (λ= 0.05 and 0.1) and number of undulations (n= 1 and 2) are chosen with constants Ra = 105, Da = 10−3, and Pr = 0.71. It is found that the increase in number of undulations has small effect on natural convection inside the enclosure whereas the increase in wave amplitude reduces the strength of convection because higher wave volume plays a barricade role.
A Survey of Standard Protocols for Endodontic Treatment in North of KSA
Authors: Iqbal Azhar , Akbar Iftikhar , Qureshi Beenish , Sghaireen Mohd G. , AL-Omiri Mahmoud K.
Published: May 2014

The objective of this study was to collect information regarding methods, materials, and attitudes employed during the endodontic treatment by dentists in north of Saudi Arabia. A questionnaire was designed and distributed among 300 dentists in north of Saudi Arabia to collect the data about the standard protocols of endodontic treatment. The collected data was analyzed by using the SPSS 10 computer software. Out of a total of 300 surveyed dentists, the 66% response rate showed that this study was true representation of the endodontic treatment performed by the dentists in north of Saudi Arabia. 152 (76%) were general dentists and 48 (24%) were endodontists. 18 (9%) were using rubber dam as the method of isolation during endodontic treatment. 173 (86.5%) were using only measurement radiographs for working length determination and 27 (13.5%) were using both electronic apex locator and measurement radiographs. 95 (47.5%) of the respondents were using standardized technique and 25 (12.5%) were using step-down as a root canal preparation technique. 127 (63.5%) of the respondents were using lateral condensation technique, with gutta percha points for root canal obturation.
Evaluation of the Antihyperuricemic Activity of Phytochemicals from Davallia formosana by Enzyme Assay and Hyperuricemic Mice Model
Authors: Chen Chen-Yu , Huang Chi-Chang , Tsai Keng-Chang , Huang Wei-Jan , Huang Wen-Ching , Hsu Yu-Chen , Hsu Feng-Lin
Published: May 2014

Abnormal serum urate levels are recognized as a critical factor in the progression of several chronic diseases. To evaluate the antihyperuricemic effect of Davallia formosana, the inhibitory activities of 15 isolated phytochemicals, including five novel compounds of 6,8‐dihydroxychromone‐7‐C‐β‐d‐glucopyranoside (1), 6,8,3′,4′‐tetrahydroxyflavanone‐7‐C‐β‐d‐glucopyranoside (2), 6,8,4′‐trihydroxyflavanone‐7‐C‐β‐d‐glucopyranoside (3), 8‐(2‐pyrrolidinone‐5‐yl)‐catechin‐3‐O‐β‐d‐allopyranoside (4), and epiphyllocoumarin‐3‐O‐β‐d‐allopyranoside (5), were examined against xanthine oxidase (XOD) and in a potassium oxonate‐(PTO‐) induced acute hyperuricemic mice model. The results indicated that compounds 3 and 5 significantly inhibited XOD activity in vitro and reduced serum uric acid levels in vivo. This is the first report providing new insights into the antihyperuricemic activities of flavonoid glycosides which can possibly be developed into potential hypouricemic agents.
Anodic CaO‐TiO2 Nanotubes Composite Film for Low Temperature CO2 Adsorption
Authors: Lai Chin Wei
Published: May 2014

A novel one‐dimensional anodic CaO‐TiO2 nanotubes composite film was prepared using a rapid‐anodic oxidation electrochemical anodization technique for low temperature CO2 absorption application. This study aims to determine the optimum concentration of Ca(NO3)2·4H2O used as the CaO precursor for loading CaO species on TiO2 nanotubes. In this study, an optimum content of CaO on TiO2 nanotubes (0.15 at% of Ca element) could enhance the CO2 adsorption capacity up to 2.45 mmol/g at 400°C. This behavior was attributed to the large active surface area of CaO species were covered on the surface of TiO2 nanotubes. The conversion of CaO into CaCO3 could be achieved effectively for CO2 absorption during the carbonate looping process.
Novel Tools for Prostate Cancer Prognosis, Diagnosis, and Follow-Up
Authors: Dimakakos Andreas , Armakolas Athanasios , Koutsilieris Michael
Published: May 2014

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is the main diagnostic tool when it comes to prostate cancer but it possesses serious limitations. Therefore, there is an urgent need for more sensitive and specific biomarkers for prostate cancer prognosis and patient follow-up. Recent advances led to the discovery of many novel diagnostic/prognostic techniques and provided us with many worthwhile candidates. This paper briefly reviews the most promising biomarkers with respect to their implementation in screening, early detection, diagnostic confirmation, prognosis, and prediction of therapeutic response or monitoring disease and recurrence; and their use as possible therapeutic targets. This review also examines the possible future directions in the field of prostate cancer marker research.
Autologous Graft versus Host Disease: An Emerging Complication in Patients with Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Batra Anu , Cottler-Fox Michele , Harville Terry , Rhodes-Clark Bobbie S. , Makhoul Issam , Nakagawa Mayumi
Published: May 2014

Autologous graft versus host disease (autoGVHD) is a rare transplant complication with significant morbidity and mortality. It has been hypothesized that patients with multiple myeloma might be predisposed to autoGVHD through dysregulation of the immune response resulting from either their disease, the immunomodulatory agents (IMiDs) used to treat it, or transplant conditioning regimen. Hematopoietic progenitor cell (HPC) products were available from 8 multiple myeloma patients with biopsy-proven autoGVHD, 16 matched multiple myeloma patients who did not develop autoGVHD, and 7 healthy research donors. The data on number of transplants prior to developing autoGVHD, mobilization regimens, exposure to proteasome inhibitors, use of IMiDs, and class I human leukocyte antigen types (HLA A and B) were collected. The HPC products were analyzed by flow cytometry for expression of CD3, CD4, CD8, CD25, CD56, and FoxP3. CD3+ cell number was significantly lower in autoGVHD patients compared to unaffected controls (P=0.047). On subset analysis of CD3+ cells, CD8+ cells (but not CD4+ cells) were found to be significantly lower in patients with autoGVHD (P=0.038). HLA-B55 expression was significantly associated with development of autoGVHD (P=0.032). Lower percentages of CD3+ and CD8+ T-cells and HLA-B55 expression may be predisposing factors for developing autoGVHD in myeloma.
Life Cycle Impact of Rare Earth Elements
Authors: Koltun P. , Tharumarajah A.
Published: May 2014

The diverse properties of rare earth elements have seen broad and growing applications in clean energy technologies, hybrid vehicles, pollution control, optics, refrigeration, and so on. This study presents a “cradle-to-gate” life cycle assessment of the energy use, resource depletion, and global warming potential resulting from the production of rare earth elements (REEs) using the Bayan Obo rare earth operation in Inner Mongolia, China, as a representative system. The study aggregates data from the literature, LCI databases, and reasonable estimations. A novel economic value-based allocation method for the multiple coproducts of the process is proposed. It is found that four of the high priced REEs scandium, europium, terbium, and dysprosium have very high GWPs from production relative to the rest. A mass-based allocation is also provided for comparison. Impacts on immediate local environment from waste streams that can be toxic are not included in this study.
Effect of the Die Temperature and Blank Thickness on the Formability of a Laser-Welded Blank of a Boron Steel Sheet with Removing Al-Si Coating Layer
Authors: Lee M. S. , Moon J. H. , Kang C. G.
Published: May 2014

Reducing carbon emissions has been a major focus in the automobile industry to address various environmental issues. In particular, studies on parts comprised of high strength sheets and light car bodies are ongoing. Accordingly, this study examined the use of boron steel, which is commonly used in high strength sheets. Boron steel is a type of sheet used for hot stamping parts. Although it has high strength, the elongation is inferior, which reduces its crash energy absorption capacity. To solve this problem, two sheets of different thickness were welded so the thin sheet would absorb crash energy and the thick sheet would work as a support. Boron steel, however, may show weakening at the welding spot due to the Al-Si coating layer used to prevent oxidation from occurring during the welding process. Therefore, a certain part of the coating layer of a double-thickness boron steel sheet that is welded in the hot stamping process is removed through laser ablation, and the formability of the hot-work was examined.
A Study of Bending Mode Algorithm of Adaptive Front‐Lighting System Based on Driver Preview Behavior
Authors: Gao Zhenhai , Li Yang
Published: May 2014

The function of adaptive front‐lighting system is to improve the lighting condition of the road ahead and driving safety at night. The current system seldom considers characteristics of the driver’s preview behavior and eye movement. To solve this problem, an AFS algorithm modeling a driver’s preview behavior was proposed. According to the vehicle’s state, the driver’s manipulating input, and the vehicle’s future state change which resulted from the driver’s input, a dynamic predictive algorithm of the vehicle’s future track was established based on an optimal preview acceleration model. Then, an experiment on the change rule of the driver’s preview distance with different speeds and different road curvatures was implemented with the eye tracker and the calibration method of the driver’s preview time was established. On the basis of these above theories and experiments, the preview time was introduced to help predict the vehicle’s future track and an AFS algorithm modeling the driver’s preview behavior was built. Finally, a simulation analysis of the AFS algorithm was carried out. By analyzing the change process of the headlamp’s lighting region while bend turning which was controlled by the algorithm, its control effect was verified to be precise.
The Efficacy of Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transplantation in Caustic Esophagus Injury: An Experimental Study
Authors: Kantarcioglu Murat , Caliskan Bahadir , Demirci Hakan , Karacalioglu Ozgur , Kekilli Murat , Polat Zulfikar , Gunal Armagan , Akinci Melih , Uysal Cagri , Eksert Sami , Gurel Hasan , Celebi Gurkan , Avcu Ferit , Ural Ali Ugur , Bagci Sait
Published: May 2014

Introduction.Ingestion of corrosive substances may lead to stricture formation in esophagus as a late complication. Full thickness injury seems to exterminate tissue stem cells of esophagus. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can differentiate into specific cell lineages and have the capacity of homing in sites of injury.Aim and Methods.We aimed to investigate the efficacy of MSC transplantation, on prevention of esophageal damage and stricture formation after caustic esophagus injury in rats. 54 rats were allocated into four groups; 4 rats were sacrificed for MSC production. Group 1, untreated controls (n: 10). Group 2, membrane labeled MSCs-treated rats (n: 20). Group 3, biodistribution of fluorodeoxyglucose labeled MSCs via positron emission tomography (PET) imaging (n: 10). Group 4, sham operated (n: 10). Standard caustic esophageal burns were created and MSCs were transplanted 24 hours after. All rats were sacrificed at the 21st days.Results.PET scan images revealed the homing behavior of MSCs to the injury site. The histopathology damage score was not significantly different from controls. However, we demonstrated Dil labeled epithelial and muscle cells which were originating from transplanted MSCs.Conclusion.MSC transplantation after caustic esophageal injury may be a helpful treatment modality; however, probably repeated infusions are needed.
Frequency of PiroplasmsBabesia microtiandCytauxzoon felisin Stray Cats from Northern Italy
Authors: Spada Eva , Proverbio Daniela , Galluzzo Paola , Perego Roberta , Bagnagatti De Giorgi Giada , Roggero Nora , Caracappa Santo
Published: May 2014

Emerging diseases caused by piroplasms pose a health risk for man and other animals, and domestic cats have been proposed as potential reservoirs for some piroplasm infections. The aim of this study was to identify the frequency of the piroplasmsBabesia microtiandCytauxzoon felisin stray cats from northern Italy and to identify possible risk factors associated with these infections. Blood samples from 260 stray cats enrolled in a trap-neuter-release (TNR) program in northern Italy were examined with conventional PCR for the presence ofBabesia microtiandCytauxzoon felisDNA. No sample (0.0%) tested positive forC. felis, whilstB. microtiDNA was detected in two samples (0.8%). Both infected cats were in good clinical condition and recovered well from the neutering surgery. One of these two cats had a triple coinfection withBabesia microti,CandidatusMycoplasma haemominutum, andAnaplasma phagocytophilum. Evidence presented in this study indicates that the blood borne protozoansBabesia microtiandCytauxzoon felisare not widely distributed in stray cat populations in Milan, northern Italy, and that the significance of cats as a reservoir host forB. microtiin this area is limited.
Integrative Effects of FeedingAspergillus awamoriandfructooligosaccharideon Growth Performance and Digestibility in Broilers: Promotion Muscle Protein Metabolism
Authors: Saleh Ahmed A. , Amber Khairy , El-Magd Mohammed A. , Atta Mostafa S. , Mohammed Ahmed A. , Ragab Mohamed M. , Abd El-Kader Hanaa
Published: May 2014

This study was conducted to show the effect ofAspergillus awamori(AA),fructooligosaccharide(FOS), and combinedAspergillus awamoriandfructooligosaccharide(AA + FOS) on growth, digestibility, blood parameters, and expression of some growth-related genes. A total of 60 broiler chicks at the age of 15 d were divided into a control group (n=15) and 3 treatment groups. The control group was fed a basal diet, and the treatment groups were fed basal diets supplemented with 0.05% AA, 0.05% FOS, and combined of 0.05% AA and 0.05% FOS. Results from measurement of growth performance and digestibility revealed a significant increase in the body weight gain with improved feed conversion rate in the experimental groups. Interestingly, dry matter digestibility (DMD) and crude protein utilization (CPU) were improved. In addition, plasma total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) were decreased, while plasma high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) was increased by feeding AA, FOS, and AA + FOS. Expressions of growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR), insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), and insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R) were increased in experimental groups. In conclusion, the supplementation of eitherAspergillus awamoriorfructooligosaccharideor both improves digestibility and growth performance probably by promoting skeletal muscle protein metabolism.
Dielectric Spectroscopy of Nanostructured Polypyrrole-NiO Composites
Authors: Seema Syeda , Prasad M. V. N. Ambika
Published: May 2014

Conducting polypyrrole-nickel oxide (polypyrrole-NiO) composites were synthesized by in situ deposition technique by placing different weight percentages of NiO powder (10, 20, 30, 40, and 50%) during the polymerisation of pyrrole. The polypyrrole-NiO composites were later characterised with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) which confirms the presence of polypyrrole in the composite. AC conductivity was studied in the frequency range from 102 to 107 Hz. From these studies it is found that AC conductivity remains constant at low frequency and increases rapidly at higher frequency, which is the characteristic behavior of disordered materials. The dielectric behavior of these composites was also investigated in the frequency range 102–107 Hz. It is observed from these studies that the dielectric constant and dielectric tangent loss decrease exponentially with frequency. The composites exhibit a low value of dielectric loss at higher frequency.
Prospective Analysis of18F-FDG PET/CT Predictive Value in Patients with Low Rectal Cancer Treated with Neoadjuvant Chemoradiotherapy and Conservative Surgery
Authors: Niccoli-Asabella Artor , Altini Corinna , De Luca Raffaele , Fanelli Margherita , Rubini Domenico , Caliandro Cosimo , Montemurro Severino , Rubini Giuseppe
Published: May 2014

This study prospectively assessed18F-FDG PET/CT in predicting the response of locally advanced low rectal cancer (LRC) to neoadjuvant chemoradiation (nCRT).Methods. 56 patients treated with chemoradiation underwent two18F-FDG PET/CT scans (baseline and 5-6 weeks post-nCRT).18F-FDG uptake (SUVmax and SUVmean) and differences between baseline (SUV1) and post-nCRT (SUV2) scans (ΔSUV and RI%) were evaluated. Results were related to the Mandard’s TRG and (y)pTNM.Results.18F-FDG PET/CT sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, PPV and NPV resulted in 88.6%, 66.7%, 83.92%, 90.7%, and 61.5%. SUV2 resulted in better than SUV1 to predict nCRT response by TRG, with no significant statistical difference between the SUVmax2 and SUVmean2 AUC (0.737 versus 0.736;P=0.928). The same applies to the (y)pTNM (0.798 versus 0.782;P=0.192). In relation to the TRG, RI values had a higher AUC than ΔSUV, with no significant difference between RImax and RImean (0.672 versus 0.695;P=0.292). The same applied to the (y)pTNM (0.742 versus 0.741;P=0.940). In both cases ΔSUV does not appear to be a good predictive tool. Logistic regression confirmed the better predictive role of SUVmax2 for the (y)pTNM (odds ratio = 1.58) and SUVmean2 for the TRG (odds ratio = 1.87).Conclusions.18F-FDG PET/CT can evaluate response to nCRT in LRC, even if more studies are required to define the most significant parameter for predicting pathologic tumor changes.
Antidepressant-Like Effect ofIlex paraguariensisin Rats
Authors: Reis Elizete De Moraes , Neto Francisco Waldomiro Schreiner , Cattani Vitória Berg , Peroza Luis Ricardo , Busanello Alcindo , Leal Caroline Queiroz , Boligon Aline Augusti , Lehmen Tássia Fontana , Libardoni Milena , Athayde Margareth Linde , Fachinetto Roselei
Published: May 2014

In this study, we investigated the possible antidepressant-like effect ofI. paraguariensisin rats. Rats were treated for four weeks with an aqueous extract ofI. paraguariensisin drinking water, following the traditional preparation of this beverage. After the period of treatment, behavioral (elevated plus-maze, open field test, and forced swimming test) and biochemical parameters (lipid peroxidation assay, thiol content, vitamin C levels, and monoamine oxidase activity) were evaluated. Animals were also analyzed on forced swimming test after 24 hours ofI. paraguariensisintake. An additional group was injected with selegiline 24 hours and 30 minutes before forced swimming test as positive control. HPLC analysis revealed the profile ofI. paraguariensisextract.I. paraguariensisreduced the immobility time on forced swimming test without significant changes in locomotor activity in the open field test. Any anxiolytic/anxiogenic effect ofI. paraguariensiswas observed in rats through the elevated plus-maze test. The antidepressant-like effect ofI. paraguariensiswas not accompanied by inhibitory effect on monoamine oxidase activity. There were no significant alterations on lipid peroxidation, thiol content, and vitamin C levels among the groups. In conclusion, aqueous extract ofI. paraguariensisdecreases the time of immobility in rats suggesting an antidepressant-like effect.
Radiolytic Preparation of Electrocatalysts with Pt‐Co and Pt‐Sn Nanoparticles for a Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell
Authors: Kim Sang Kyum , Park Ji Yun , Hwang Soon Choel , Lee Do Kyun , Lee Sang Heon , Han Moon Hee , Rhee Young Woo
Published: May 2014

Nanosized Pt‐Sn/VC and Pt‐Co/VC electrocatalysts were prepared by a one‐step radiation‐induced reduction (30 kGy) process using distilled water as the solvent and Vulcan XC72 as the supporting material. While the Pt‐Co/VC electrodes were compared with Pt/VC (40 wt%, HiSpec 4000), in terms of their electrocatalytic activity towards the oxidation of H2, the Pt‐Co/VC electrodes were evaluated in terms of their activity towards the hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR) and compared with Pt/VC (40 wt%, HiSpec 4000), Pt‐Co/VC, and Pt‐Sn/VC in a single cell. Additionally, the prepared electrocatalyst samples (Pt‐Co/VC and Pt‐Sn/VC) were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), electrochemical surface area (ECSA), and fuel cell polarization performance.
Bortezomib Induced Hepatitis B Reactivation
Authors: Hussain Salwa , Jhaj Ruby , Ahsan Samira , Ahsan Muhammad , Bloom Robert E. , Jafri Syed-Mohammed R.
Published: May 2014

Background. It has recently been reported that hepatitis B (HBV) reactivation often occurs after the use of rituximab and stem cell transplantation in patients with lymphoma who are hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) negative. However, clinical data on HBV reactivation in multiple myeloma (MM) is limited to only a few reported cases. Bortezomib and lenalidomide have remarkable activity in MM with manageable toxicity profiles, but reactivation of viral infections may emerge as a problem. We present a case of MM that developed HBV reactivation after bortezomib and lenalidomide therapy.Case Report. A 73-year-old female with a history of marginal cell lymphoma was monitored without requiring therapy. In 2009, she developed MM, presenting as a plasmacytoma requiring vertebral decompression and focal radiation. While receiving radiation she developed renal failure and was started on bortezomib and liposomal doxorubicin. After a transient response to 5 cycles, treatment was switched to lenalidomide. Preceding therapy initiation, her serology indicated resolved infection. Serial monitoring for HBV displayed seroconversion one month after change in therapy.Conclusion. Bortezomib associated late HBV reactivation appears to be a unique event that requires further confirmation and brings to discussion whether hepatitis B core positive individuals would benefit from monitoring of HBV activation while on therapy.
Understanding the Process of Fibrosis in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Kharraz Yacine , Guerra Joana , Pessina Patrizia , Serrano Antonio L. , Muñoz-Cánoves Pura
Published: May 2014

Fibrosis is the aberrant deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) components during tissue healing leading to loss of its architecture and function. Fibrotic diseases are often associated with chronic pathologies and occur in a large variety of vital organs and tissues, including skeletal muscle. In human muscle, fibrosis is most readily associated with the severe muscle wasting disorder Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), caused by loss of dystrophin gene function. In DMD, skeletal muscle degenerates and is infiltrated by inflammatory cells and the functions of the muscle stem cells (satellite cells) become impeded and fibrogenic cells hyperproliferate and are overactivated, leading to the substitution of skeletal muscle with nonfunctional fibrotic tissue. Here, we review new developments in our understanding of the mechanisms leading to fibrosis in DMD and several recent advances towards reverting it, as potential treatments to attenuate disease progression.
The Liquid Chromatographic Determination of Chlorogenic and Caffeic Acids in Xu Duan (Dipsacus asperoides) Raw Herb
Authors: Pearson Jarryd L. , Lee Samiuela , Suresh Harsha , Low Mitchell , Nang Marnilar , Singh Swastika , Lamin Franklin , Kazzem Magdy , Sullivan Shaun , Khoo Cheang S.
Published: May 2014

A validated analytical method is reported for the analysis of chlorogenic and caffeic acids in Xu Duan (Dipsacus asperoides) in the dried raw herb. The ground samples were extracted by ultrasonication in water and the extract was analysed by LC-PDA with identity confirmation by (+)ESI-MS/MS. A C18 column was used with a 0.1% aqueous formic acid : methanol gradient mobile phase. The analytes were quantified 325 nm. With the MS detector, using the chlorogenic acid precursor ion with m/z 354, ions with m/z 191, and 85 were produced. For caffeic acid the precursor ion with m/z 181, ions with m/z 163, 135, and 89 were produced. The amount of chlorogenic and caffeic acids in the raw herb was found to be 4.46 and 0.63 mg/g, respectively, and the method LOD was 0.13 and 0.02 mg/g, respectively.
A New Privacy-Preserving Scheme for Continuous Query in Location-Based Social Networking Services
Authors: Wang Eric Ke , Ye Yunming
Published: May 2014

With continuous queries that are used widely in location based mobile social networking services, how to protect the location privacy effectively for continuous query has been a hot topic for researchers. In this paper, we analyze the existing location privacy protection systems and algorithms for location based services; considering their disadvantages of slow responding time and high anonymization costs, we propose a new enhanced greedy cloaking algorithm which predicts a cloaking area at the initial query to be the cloaking region in the whole query lifetime by the comprehensive computation of privacy monitor, quality monitor, and dynamic adjuster. Privacy monitor and quality monitor charge the privacy protection level and service quality degree respectively; dynamic adjuster can adjust the cycle center point dynamically. We employ cycle as cloaking region form which can effectively alleviate the computation overhead. And we compare it with the earlier algorithm on three aspects. The experimental result shows that the enhanced greedy cloaking algorithm is better than the original greedy algorithm on average responding time or anonymization cost.
Association between Follicular Fluid Leptin and Serum Insulin Levels in Nonoverweight Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Garruti G. , de Palo R. , Rotelli M. T. , Nocera S. , Totaro I. , Nardelli C. , Panzarino M. A. , Vacca M. , Selvaggi L. E. , Giorgino F.
Published: May 2014

Aims. We evaluated the links between leptin and visfatin levels and fertilization rates in nonoverweight (NOW) women with PCOS (NOW-PCOS) from Apulia undergoing in vitro fertilization/embryo transfer (IVF).Materials and Methodology. We recruited 16 NOW women with PCOS (NOW-PCOS) and 10 normally ovulating NOW women (control-NOW). All women underwent IVF. Androgens, 17-β-estradiol (17β-E2), and insulin levels were measured in plasma and/or serum and leptin and visfatin levels were assayed in both serum and follicular fluid (FF-leptin, FF-visfatin).Results. In NOW-PCOS, both serum and FF-leptin were significantly lower than in control-NOW. In NOW-PCOS, significant correlations were found between BMI and serum leptin and insulinemia and FF-leptin. By contrast, in control-NOW, FF-leptin levels were not correlated with insulinemia. Serum visfatin levels were not significantly different in NOW-PCOS and control-NOW, but FF-visfatin levels were 1.6-fold higher, although not significantly, in NOW-PCOS than in control-NOW.Conclusions. Both serum leptin levels and FF-leptin are BMI- and insulin-related in Southern Italian NOW-PCOS from Apulia. In line with other reports showing that FF-leptin levels are predictive of fertilization rates, lower than normal FF-leptin levels in NOW-PCOS may explain their lower fertilization rate and this may be related to the level of insulin and/or insulin resistance.
The Global Burden of Disease for Skin, Lung, and Bladder Cancer Caused By Arsenic in Food
Authors: Oberoi Shilpi , Barchowsky Aaron , Wu Felicia
Published: May 2014

Background: Arsenic is a ubiquitous, naturally occurring metalloid that poses a significant human cancer risk. While water consumption provides the majority of human exposure, millions of individuals worldwide are significantly exposed to arsenic through naturally occurring levels of arsenic in grains, vegetables, meats and fish, as well as through food processed with water containing arsenic. Thus, we estimated the global burdens of disease for bladder, lung, and skin cancers attributable to inorganic arsenic in food.

Methods: To determine foodborne inorganic arsenic exposures worldwide, we used World Health Organization estimates of food consumption in thirteen country clusters, in conjunction with reported measurements of total and inorganic arsenic in different foods. We estimated slope factors for arsenic-related bladder and lung cancers, and used the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency skin cancer slope factor, to calculate the annual risk of the cancer incidence in males and females within each country cluster.

Results: We estimated that each year 9,129 to 119,176 additional cases of bladder cancer, 11,844 to 121,442 of lung cancer, and 10,729 to 110,015 of skin cancer worldwide are attributable to inorganic arsenic in food.

Conclusions: These estimates indicate that foodborne arsenic exposure causes a significant global burden of human disease.

Impact: Estimating the global cancer burden caused by arsenic exposure in food will support policies that reduce exposure to disease-promoting environmental hazards. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(7); 1187–94. ©2014 AACR.
Exposure to Infections and Risk of Leukemia in Young Children
Authors: Marcotte Erin L. , Ritz Beate , Cockburn Myles , Yu Fei , Heck Julia E.
Published: May 2014

Background: Epidemiologic studies indicate that infections in early childhood may protect against pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).

Methods: We identified 3,402 ALL cases among children 0 to 5 years of age using the California Cancer Registry. From California birth records we randomly selected controls in a 20:1 ratio and frequency matched them to cases by birth year. We investigated markers of exposure to infections, including month of birth, timing of birth in relation to influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) seasons, and birth order based on data from California birth certificates and national infection surveillance systems.

Results: We observed an increased risk of ALL for spring and summer births, and for those first exposed to an influenza or RSV season at nine to twelve months of age compared with those exposed during the first three months of life, and this association was stronger among first born children [odds ratios (OR), 1.44 and 95% confidence intervals (CI), 1.13–1.82, for influenza exposure at nine to twelve months of age]. Decreased risk was observed with increasing birth order among non-Hispanic whites but not Hispanics (OR, 0.76 and 95% CI, 0.59–096, for fourth or higher birth order among whites).

Conclusion: Our results support the hypothesis that infections in early childhood decrease risk of ALL.

Impact: Our findings implicate early life exposure to infections as protective factors for ALL in young children. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(7); 1195–203. ©2014 AACR.
Patterns of Colorectal Cancer Screening Uptake in Newly Eligible Men and Women
Authors: Wernli Karen J. , Hubbard Rebecca A. , Johnson Eric , Chubak Jessica , Kamineni Aruna , Green Beverly B. , Rutter Carolyn M.
Published: May 2014

Background: We describe patterns of colorectal cancer screening uptake in a U.S. insured population as individuals become newly eligible for screening at age 50 and assess temporal trends and patient characteristics with screening uptake.

Methods: We identified a cohort of 81,223 men and women who were members of Group Health and turned 50 years old from 1996 to 2010. We ascertained receipt of colorectal cancer screening within five years. Time to screening was estimated by year of cohort entry using cumulative incidence curves and Cox proportional hazards models–estimated patient characteristics associated with screening uptake.

Results: Stool-based screening tests were the most common, 72% of first screening tests. The proportion of individuals initiating colorectal cancer screening via colonoscopy increased from 8% in 1996 to 1998 to 33% in 2008 to 2010. Patient factors associated with increased colorectal cancer screening were: turning 50 more recently (2008–2010; Ptrend < 0.0001) or Asian race [HR, 1.14; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.10–1.19]. Patient factors associated with decreased screening were: being a woman (HR, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.68–0.72), Native American (HR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.60–0.78), or Pacific Islander race (HR, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.72–0.95), and having prevalent diabetes (HR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.75–0.82) and higher body mass index (Ptrend < 0.0001).

Conclusions: Patient characteristics associated with initiation of colorectal cancer screening in a newly eligible population are similar to characteristics associated with overall screening participation in all age-eligible adults. Our results identify patient populations to target in outreach programs.

Impact: Disparities in receipt of colorectal cancer screening are evident from onset of an age-eligible cohort, identifying key groups for future interventions for screening. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(7); 1230–7. ©2014 AACR.
The Potential for Markers of Epithelial–Mesenchymal Transition to Improve Colorectal Cancer Outcomes: A Systematic Review
Authors: Busch Evan L. , McGraw Kathleen A. , Sandler Robert S.
Published: May 2014

Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) is thought to be an important mechanism of cancer cell metastasis. Clinical measurement of EMT markers in primary tumors could improve risk stratification and treatment decisions by identifying patients who potentially have metastatic disease. To evaluate the potential of EMT markers that could be used for risk stratification for patients with colorectal cancer, we conducted a systematic review of studies (N = 30) that measured at least one of a selection of EMT markers in primary tumors and patient outcomes. Fifteen of 30 studies (50%) reported at least one statistically significant result supporting a role for one of the selected EMT markers in identifying patients at risk for worse outcomes. Importantly, however, we identified design inconsistencies that limited inferences and prevented meta-analysis of data. We offer a number of recommendations to make future studies more informative and standardized, including consistent sampling of different parts of the primary tumor, larger sample sizes, and measurement of both protein and RNA expression of a given EMT marker in the same tumors. Strengthening the literature per our recommendations could facilitate translating EMT markers to clinical use. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(7); 1164–75. ©2014 AACR.