bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Applications of Scheimpflug Imaging in Glaucoma Management: Current and Potential Applications
Authors: Nguyen Alexander T. , Liu Tiffany , Liu Ji
Published: December 2016

Scheimpflug photography is the basis for a variety of imaging devices that are highly versatile. The applications of Scheimpflug imaging are wide in scope, spanning from evaluation of corneal ectasia to quantifying density in nuclear sclerotic cataracts. The potential uses for Scheimpflug-based devices are expanding and a number of them are relevant in glaucoma. In particular, they can provide three-dimensional image reconstruction of the anterior segment which includes assessment of the iridocorneal angle. Photographic analyses allow also for a noncontact method of estimating central corneal thickness (CCT) and intraocular pressure (IOP), as well as the study of various corneal biomechanical properties, which may be useful for stratifying glaucoma risk.
Sectional and Ricci Curvature for Three-Dimensional Lie Groups
Authors: Thompson Gerard , Bhattarai Giriraj
Published: December 2016

Formulas for the Riemann and Ricci curvature tensors of an invariant metric on a Lie group are determined. The results are applied to a systematic study of the curvature properties of invariant metrics on three-dimensional Lie groups. In each case the metric is reduced by using the automorphism group of the associated Lie algebra. In particular, the maximum and minimum values of the sectional curvature function are determined.
Mechanotransduction and Metabolism in Cardiomyocyte Microdomains
Authors: Pasqualini Francesco S. , Nesmith Alexander P. , Horton Renita E. , Sheehy Sean P. , Parker Kevin Kit
Published: December 2016

Efficient contractions of the left ventricle are ensured by the continuous transfer of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) from energy production sites, the mitochondria, to energy utilization sites, such as ionic pumps and the force-generating sarcomeres. To minimize the impact of intracellular ATP trafficking, sarcomeres and mitochondria are closely packed together and in proximity with other ultrastructures involved in excitation-contraction coupling, such as t-tubules and sarcoplasmic reticulum junctions. This complex microdomain has been referred to as the intracellular energetic unit. Here, we review the literature in support of the notion that cardiac homeostasis and disease are emergent properties of the hierarchical organization of these units. Specifically, we will focus on pathological alterations of this microdomain that result in cardiac diseases through energy imbalance and posttranslational modifications of the cytoskeletal proteins involved in mechanosensing and transduction.
A Molar Pregnancy within the Fallopian Tube
Authors: Allen Laura , Dawson Charlotte , Nascu Patricia , Rouse Tyler
Published: December 2016

Background. Discussion of the incidence of molar pregnancy and ectopic pregnancy. Role of salpingostomy and special considerations for postoperative care.Case. The patient is a 29-year-old G7P4 who presented with vaginal bleeding in the first trimester and was initially thought to have a spontaneous abortion. Ultrasound was performed due to ongoing symptoms and an adnexal mass was noted. She underwent uncomplicated salpingostomy and was later found to have a partial molar ectopic pregnancy.Conclusion. This case illustrates the rare occurrence of a molar ectopic pregnancy. There was no indication of molar pregnancy preoperatively and this case highlights the importance of submitting and reviewing pathological specimens.
Comparative Analysis of the Interaction between Different Flavonoids and PDIA3
Authors: Giamogante Flavia , Marrocco Ilaria , Romaniello Donatella , Eufemi Margherita , Chichiarelli Silvia , Altieri Fabio
Published: December 2016

Flavonoids, plant secondary metabolites present in fruits, vegetables, and products such as tea and red wine, show antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, antithrombotic, antiviral, and antitumor activity. PDIA3 is a member of the protein disulfide isomerase family mainly involved in the correct folding of newly synthetized glycoproteins. PDIA3 is associated with different human pathologies such as cancer, prion disorders, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s diseases and it has the potential to be a pharmacological target. The interaction of different flavonoids with PDIA3 was investigated by quenching fluorescence analysis and the effects on protein activity were evaluated. A higher affinity was observed for eupatorin‐5‐methyl ether and eupatorin which also inhibit reductase activity of PDIA3 but do not significantly affect its DNA binding activity. The use of several flavonoids differing in chemical structure and functional groups allows us to make some consideration about the relationship between ligand structure and the affinity for PDIA3. The specific flavone backbone conformation and the degree of polarity seem to play an important role for the interaction with PDIA3. The binding site is probably similar but not equivalent to that of green tea catechins, which, as previously demonstrated, can bind to PDIA3 and prevent its interaction with DNA.
Effect of High-Irradiance Light-Curing on Micromechanical Properties of Resin Cements
Authors: Peutzfeldt Anne , Lussi Adrian , Flury Simon
Published: December 2016

This study investigated the influence of light-curing at high irradiances on micromechanical properties of resin cements. Three dual-curing resin cements and a light-curing flowable resin composite were light-cured with an LED curing unit in Standard mode (SM), High Power mode (HPM), or Xtra Power mode (XPM). Maximum irradiances were determined using a MARC PS radiometer, and exposure duration was varied to obtain two or three levels of radiant exposure (SM: 13.2 and 27.2 J/cm2; HPM: 15.0 and 30.4 J/cm2; XPM: 9.5, 19.3, and 29.7 J/cm2) (n=17). Vickers hardness (HV) and indentation modulus (EIT) were measured at 15 min and 1 week. Data were analyzed with nonparametric ANOVA, Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney tests, and Spearman correlation analyses (α=0.05). Irradiation protocol, resin-based material, and storage time and all interactions influenced HV and EIT significantly (p≤0.0001). Statistically significant correlations between radiant exposure and HV or EIT were found, indicating that high-irradiance light-curing has no detrimental effect on the polymerization of resin-based materials (p≤0.0021). However, one resin cement was sensitive to the combination of irradiance and exposure duration, with high-irradiance light-curing resulting in a 20% drop in micromechanical properties. The results highlight the importance of manufacturers issuing specific recommendations for the light-curing procedure of each resin cement.
Estimating Concrete Workability Based on Slump Test with Least Squares Support Vector Regression
Authors: Hoang Nhat-Duc , Pham Anh-Duc
Published: December 2016

Concrete workability, quantified by concrete slump, is an important property of a concrete mixture. Concrete slump is generally known to affect the consistency, flowability, pumpability, compactibility, and harshness of a concrete mix. Hence, an accurate prediction of this property is a practical need of construction engineers. This research proposes a machine learning model for predicting concrete slump based on the Least Squares Support Vector Regression (LS-SVR). LS-SVR is employed to model the nonlinear mapping between the mix components and slump values. Since the learning process of the LS-SVR necessitates two hyperparameters, the regularization and the kernel parameters, the grid search method is employed search for the most desirable set of hyperparameters. Furthermore, to construct the hybrid model, this research collected a dataset including actual concrete slump tests from a hydroelectric dam construction project in Vietnam. Experimental results show that the proposed model is capable of predicting concrete slump accurately.
Isolation, Characterization, and Multipotent Differentiation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells Derived from Meniscal Debris
Authors: Fu Weili , Xie Xing , Li Qi , Chen Gang , Zhang Chenghao , Tang Xin , Li Jian
Published: December 2016

This study aimed to culture and characterize mesenchymal stem cells derived from meniscal debris. Cells in meniscal debris from patients with meniscal injury were isolated by enzymatic digestion, cultured in vitro to the third passage, and analyzed by light microscopy to observe morphology and growth. Third‐passage cultures were also analyzed for immunophenotype and ability to differentiate into osteogenic, adipogenic, and chondrogenic lineages. After 4‐5 days in culture, cells showed a long fusiform shape and adhered to the plastic walls. After 10–12 days, cell clusters and colonies were observed. Third‐passage cells showed uniform morphology and good proliferation. They expressed CD44, CD90, and CD105 but were negative for CD34 and CD45. Cultures induced to differentiate via osteogenesis became positive for Alizarin Red staining as well as alkaline phosphatase activity. Cultures induced to undergo adipogenesis were positive for Oil Red O staining. Cultures induced to undergo chondrogenesis were positive for staining with Toluidine Blue, Alcian Blue, and type II collagen immunohistochemistry, indicating cartilage‐specific matrix. These results indicate that the cells we cultured from meniscal debris are mesenchymal stem cells capable of differentiating along three lineages. These stem cells may be valuable source for meniscal regeneration.
Hemiretinal Artery Occlusion in an 11-Year-Old Child with Dextrocardia
Authors: Arévalo Simental Diana E. , Roig Melo-Granados Enrique A. , Cortés Quezada Saúl , Páez Escamilla Manuel A. , Soria Orozco Carmen L. , Jacinto Buenrostro Jorge E.
Published: December 2016

Purpose. To report a case of hemiretinal artery occlusion in a child with dextrocardia, visceral heterotaxia, and secondary polycythemia. Methods. Complete clinical examination, fundus photography, and retinal fluorescein angiography were performed. Laboratory testing included complete blood cell count, homocysteine, protein c, protein s, activated protein s, methyltetrahydrofolate and homocysteine activator genes, factor leiden V gene, antithrombin III, and activated protein c resistance. In addition, transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiogram and cardiac catheterism were performed. Results. We report an 11-year-old boy with a sudden, painless visual loss in his right eye. His past medical history is remarkable for a congenital cardiac disease. He presented with vision of light perception in the right eye and a relative afferent pupillary defect. Fundus findings included a macular cherry-red spot and inferior hemiretinal whitening consistent with hemiretinal artery occlusion. Laboratory testing showed increased red blood cell (RBC) count, hemoglobin, and hematocrit. The patient was treated with four phlebotomies with improvement of RBC count and after one month reperfusion of the retina and a visual acuity of 20/200 were observed. Thrombophilia and cardiac screening were negative, except for secondary polycythemia. Conclusion. Hemiretinal artery occlusion is extremely rare in children and is often associated with congenital cardiac disease and hypercoagulative states.
New Technique for Automatic Segmentation of Blood Vessels in CT Scan Images of Liver Based on Optimized Fuzzy C-Means Method
Authors: Ahmadi Katayoon , Karimi Abbas , Fouladi Nia Babak
Published: December 2016

Automatic segmentation of medical CT scan images is one of the most challenging fields in digital image processing. The goal of this paper is to discuss the automatic segmentation of CT scan images to detect and separate vessels in the liver. The segmentation of liver vessels is very important in the liver surgery planning and identifying the structure of vessels and their relationship to tumors. Fuzzy C-means (FCM) method has already been proposed for segmentation of liver vessels. Due to classical optimization process, this method suffers lack of sensitivity to the initial values of ​​class centers and segmentation of local minima. In this article, a method based on FCM in conjunction with genetic algorithms (GA) is applied for segmentation of liver’s blood vessels. This method was simulated and validated using 20 CT scan images of the liver. The results showed that the accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and CPU time of new method in comparison with FCM algorithm reaching up to 91%, 83.62, 94.11%, and 27.17 were achieved, respectively. Moreover, selection of optimal and robust parameters in the initial step led to rapid convergence of the proposed method. The outcome of this research assists medical teams in estimating disease progress and selecting proper treatments.
Stress Coupling Effect on Ideal Shear Strength: Tungsten as a Case Study
Authors: Černý Miroslav , Šesták Petr , Pokluda Jaroslav
Published: December 2016

Mechanical response of a perfect bcc tungsten crystal to a multiaxial loading was investigated from first principles. The multiaxial stress state consisted of the shear stress and a superimposed compressive triaxial stress with various levels of differential stresses. The studied shear system was 111110. Results obtained within a relatively wide range of the compressive stresses showed that increasing hydrostatic triaxial stress (with zero differential stresses) increased the shear strength almost linearly. On the other hand, triaxial stresses with greater portion of the differential components did not have such a simple effect on the shear strength: we found a certain optimum value of the superimposed triaxial stress yielding the maximum shear strength. Any change (both increase and decrease) in the triaxial stress then reduced the ideal shear strength value.
Existence of Solutions for Fractional Impulsive Integrodifferential Equations in Banach Spaces
Authors: Gou Haide , Li Baolin
Published: December 2016

We investigate the existence of solutions for a class of impulsive fractional evolution equations with nonlocal conditions in Banach space by using some fixed point theorems combined with the technique of measure of noncompactness. Our results improve and generalize some known results corresponding to those obtained by others. Finally, two applications are given to illustrate that our results are valuable.
ZnSnS3: Structure Prediction, Ferroelectricity, and Solar Cell Applications
Authors: Jishi Radi A. , Lucas Marcus A.
Published: December 2016

The rapid growth of the solar energy industry is driving a strong demand for high performance, efficient photoelectric materials. In particular, ferroelectrics composed of earth-abundant elements may be useful in solar cell applications due to their large internal polarization. Unfortunately, wide band gaps prevent many such materials from absorbing light in the visible to mid-infrared range. Here, we address the band gap issue by investigating the effects of substituting sulfur for oxygen in the perovskite structure ZnSnO3. Using evolutionary methods, we identify the stable and metastable structures of ZnSnS3and compare them to those previously characterized for ZnSnO3. Our results suggest that the most stable structure of ZnSnS3is the monoclinic structure, followed by the metastable ilmenite and lithium niobate structures. The latter structure is highly polarized, possessing a significantly reduced band gap of 1.28 eV. These desirable characteristics make it a prime candidate for solar cell applications.
Buttock Necrosis after Uterine Artery Embolization for Delayed Hysterectomy in Placenta Percreta
Authors: Smith Devin D. , Perez-Delboy Annette , Burke William M. , Tergas Ana I.
Published: December 2016

Background. Morbidly adherent placenta (MAP) is increasing in incidence and is commonly associated with maternal hemorrhage and cesarean hysterectomy. Uterine artery embolization (UAE) may be utilized in the conservative management of placenta percreta to potentially reduce blood loss. The incidence of complications from UAE in the conservative management of placenta percreta is poorly described. To our knowledge, we present the first reported case of buttock necrosis in this setting. Case. A 39-year-old gravida nine para two with placenta percreta who underwent conservative management with UAE complicated by right buttock necrosis. Conclusion. While UAE may potentially decrease blood loss, it is not without risk. More studies must be performed in order to quantify those risks and determine the clinical utility of UAE.
Preference Mining Using Neighborhood Rough Set Model on Two Universes
Authors: Zeng Kai
Published: December 2016

Preference mining plays an important role in e-commerce and video websites for enhancing user satisfaction and loyalty. Some classical methods are not available for the cold-start problem when the user or the item is new. In this paper, we propose a new model, called parametric neighborhood rough set on two universes (NRSTU), to describe the user and item data structures. Furthermore, the neighborhood lower approximation operator is used for defining the preference rules. Then, we provide the means for recommending items to users by using these rules. Finally, we give an experimental example to show the details of NRSTU-based preference mining for cold-start problem. The parameters of the model are also discussed. The experimental results show that the proposed method presents an effective solution for preference mining. In particular, NRSTU improves the recommendation accuracy by about 19% compared to the traditional method.
Detection of Anti-LeptospiraIgM Antibody in Serum Samples of Suspected Patients Visiting National Public Health Laboratory, Teku, Kathmandu
Authors: Dahal Krishna Prasad , Sharma Supriya , Sherchand Jeevan Bahadur , Upadhyay Bishnu Prasad , Bhatta Dwij Raj
Published: December 2016

Leptospirosis is a globally distributed zoonosis with varied clinical outcomes and multiorgan involvement in humans. In this study conducted from July 2011 to December 2011, 178 serum samples from patients suspected of leptospirosis were tested by Panbio IgM ELISA at National Public Health Laboratory, Kathmandu, out of which 51 (28.65%) were positive for anti-LeptospiraIgM antibody. Leptospirosis was more common in people in their 2nd and 3rd decades of their life which together comprised 56.86% of the total positive cases. Most of those tested positive were farmers followed by students and housewives. Both animal contact and water contact seemed to play significant roles in disease transmission. Symptoms were vague with the most common being fever, headache, myalgia, abdominal pain, vomiting, jaundice, and diarrhoea. Life style heavily dominated by agronomical and farming activities in Nepal is conducive to leptospirosis transmission. Leptospirosis seems to be a significant public health problem in Nepal but is underestimated. In resource poor countries like Nepal where laboratories performing MAT or maintaining cultures are rarely available, serological test like ELISA could well depict the scenario of the disease prevalence.
Current Epidemiological Assessment of Bancroftian Filariasis in Tanga Region, Northeastern Tanzania
Authors: Mshana Happyness J. , Baraka Vito , Misinzo Gerald , Makunde Williams H.
Published: December 2016

Background. Tanzania started a countrywide lymphatic filariasis elimination programme in 2000 adopting the mass drug administration (MDA) strategy. The drug used for the programme was the combination of ivermectin and albendazole. However, there is limited information on the current epidemiological trend of the infections, where MDA implementation is ongoing. The present study aimed at assessing the current status of Bancroftian filariasis infection rate and morbidity where MDA has been distributed and administered for over eight rounds. Methodology. The study was a cross-sectional descriptive study involving 272 individuals (>18 years) from endemic communities in Tanga region where MDA has been implemented. Clinical, sociodemographic, and circulating filarial antigen (CFA) test was undertaken using immune chromatographic card test according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Results. A total of 472 individuals were screened: 307/472 (65.1%) were males while 165/472 (34.9%) were females. The overall prevalence of CFA was 5.51%, that of hydrocoele was 73.2%, and that of lymphoedema was 16.0%. The prevalence of hydrocoele combined with lymphoedema was 5.5%. Conclusion. Our findings demonstrate a considerable reduction in filarial infection. However, there is clear evidence of ongoing transmission despite the 8 rounds of MDA. It is unlikely that the annual MDA would interrupt filarial transmission; therefore, additional strategies are needed to accelerate lymphatic filariasis control and elimination.
Forgotten but Not Gone! Syphilis Induced Tenosynovitis
Authors: Ratnaraj Felicia , Brooks David , Walton Mollie , Nagabandi Arun , Abu Hazeem Mahmoud
Published: December 2016

Objective. Tenosynovitis, inflammation of a tendon and its synovial sheath, is a rare manifestation of secondary syphilis and if diagnosed early is reversible.Background. A 52-year-old male with past medical history of untreated syphilis presented with gradual onset of swelling and pain of the right fourth metacarpophalangeal joint (MCP). He reported a history of painless penile lesions after having sexual intercourse with a new partner approximately five months ago which was treated with sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim. An RPR done at that time came back positive with a high titer; however, patient was lost to follow-up. On examination, patient had an edematous, nonerythematous right fourth proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint. Urgent irrigation, debridement, and exploration of the right hand into the tendon sheath were performed. With his history of syphillis, an RPR was done, which was reactive with a titer of 1 : 64. A confirmatory FTA-ABS test was completed, rendering a positive result. Based on his history of untreated syphilis, dormancy followed by clinical scenario of swelling of the right fourth finger, and a high RPR titer, he was diagnosed with secondary syphilis manifesting as tenosynovitis.
DOA Estimation of Cylindrical Conformal Array Based on Geometric Algebra
Authors: Wu Minjie , Zhang Xiaofa , Huang Jingjian , Yuan Naichang
Published: December 2016

Due to the variable curvature of the conformal carrier, the pattern of each element has a different direction. The traditional method of analyzing the conformal array is to use the Euler rotation angle and its matrix representation. However, it is computationally demanding especially for irregular array structures. In this paper, we present a novel algorithm by combining the geometric algebra with Multiple Signal Classification (MUSIC), termed as GA-MUSIC, to solve the direction of arrival (DOA) for cylindrical conformal array. And on this basis, we derive the pattern and array manifold. Compared with the existing algorithms, our proposed one avoids the cumbersome matrix transformations and largely decreases the computational complexity. The simulation results verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.
The Analysis of Plantar Pressure Data Based on Multimodel Method in Patients with Anterior Cruciate Ligament Deficiency during Walking
Authors: Li Xiaoli , Huang Hongshi , Wang Jie , Yu Yuanyuan , Ao Yingfang
Published: December 2016

The movement information of the human body can be recorded in the plantar pressure data, and the analysis of plantar pressure data can be used to judge whether the human body motion function is normal or not. A two-meter footscan® system was used to collect the plantar pressure data, and the kinetic and dynamic gait characteristics were extracted. According to the different description of gait characteristics, a set of models was established according to various people to present the movement of lower limbs. By the introduction of algorithm in machine learning, the FCM clustering algorithm is used to cluster the sample set and create a set of models, and then the SVM algorithm was used to identify the new samples, so as to complete the normal and abnormal motion function identification. The multimodel presented in this paper was carried out into the analysis of the anterior cruciate ligament deficiency. This method demonstrated being effective and can provide auxiliary analysis for clinical diagnosis.
Diversity of Woody Plant Species of Gamuwa and Oda Forests of Humbo Carbon Project, Wolaita, Ethiopia: For Conservation and Management of Forests
Authors: Kuma Markos
Published: December 2016

This study was conducted in the Community Managed Forests of Gamuwa and Oda of Carbon Project of Humbo, Wolaita, Ethiopia. The objective of the study was to explore diversity of woody species for conservation and management of the forests. A total of 64 (20 m × 20 m) quadrats were sampled to gather data of species cover abundance, altitude, aspect, and slope. Vegetation clustering was performed from cover abundance using XLSTAT version 2015.2.03 software package. Similarity coefficient was computed using number of species that existed in each community and had been common to them. Diversity indices were computed from number of individuals of each species using Multivariate Variate Statistical Package (MVSP) version 3.1. The General Linear Model (GLM) analysis confirmed the presence of significant difference (p value = 0.001) of species distribution, altitude, and slope among the quadrates of the three community types. However, except aspect in community 3 (p value = 0.005) slope, aspect, land cover, and altitude insignificantly affected the distribution of species in communities. Therefore, a priori management and conservation should be given for families with only one species, community with high dominance (D′), and the area with less land cover.
Polyvinylpolypyrrolidone Supported Brønsted Acidic Catalyst for Esterification
Authors: Wang Song , Tian Chengcheng
Published: December 2016

A polyvinylpolypyrrolidone (PVPP) supported Brønsted acidic catalyst ([PVPP-BS]HSO4) was prepared by coupling SO3H-functionalized polyvinylpolypyrrolidone with H2SO4in this work. After the characterization through FT-IR, FESEM, TG, BET, and elemental analysis, it was found that 1,4-butane sultone (BS) and sulfuric acid reacted with PVPP and were immobilized on PVPP surface. The prepared[PVPP-BS]HSO4catalyst shows high catalytic activity for a series of esterification reactions and could be separated from the reacted mixture easily. Moreover, this catalyst could be recycled and reused for six times without significant loss of catalytic performance.
The Comprehensive Study of Electrical Faults in PV Arrays
Authors: Sabbaghpur Arani M. , Hejazi M. A.
Published: December 2016

The rapid growth of the solar industry over the past several years has expanded the significance of photovoltaic (PV) systems. Fault analysis in solar photovoltaic (PV) arrays is a fundamental task to increase reliability, efficiency, and safety in PV systems and, if not detected, may not only reduce power generation and accelerated system aging but also threaten the availability of the whole system. Due to the current-limiting nature and nonlinear output characteristics of PV arrays, faults in PV arrays may not be detected. In this paper, all possible faults that happen in the PV system have been classified and six common faults (shading condition, open-circuit fault, degradation fault, line-to-line fault, bypass diode fault, and bridging fault) have been implemented in 7.5 KW PV farm. Based on the simulation results, both normal operational curves and fault curves have been compared.
Secondary Myelitis in Dermal Sinus Causing Paraplegia in a Child with Previously Normal Neurological Function
Authors: Rashid Sakina , Kinabo Grace , Kellogg Marissa , Howlett William P. , Dekker Marieke C. J.
Published: December 2016

Neural tube defects result from failure of neural tube fusion during early embryogenesis, the fourth week after conception. The spectrum of severity is not uniform across the various forms of this congenital anomaly as certain presentations are not compatible with extrauterine life (anencephaly) while, on the other hand, other defects may remain undiagnosed as they are entirely asymptomatic (occult spina bifida). We report a child with previously normal neurological development, a devastating clinical course following superinfection of a subtle spina bifida defect which resulted in a flaccid paralysis below the level of the lesion and permanent neurological deficits following resolution of the acute infection and a back closure surgery.
Molecular Evolution of the Glycosyltransferase 6 Gene Family in Primates
Authors: Evanovich Eliane , Mendonça-Mattos Patricia Jeanne de Souza , Harada Maria Lúcia
Published: December 2016

Glycosyltransferase 6 gene family includes ABO, Ggta1, iGb3S, and GBGT1 genes and by three putative genes restricted to mammals, GT6m6, GTm6, and GT6m7, only the latter is found in primates. GT6 genes may encode functional and nonfunctional proteins. Ggta1 and GBGT1 genes, for instance, are pseudogenes in catarrhine primates, while iGb3S gene is only inactive in human, bonobo, and chimpanzee. Even inactivated, these genes tend to be conversed in primates. As some of the GT6 genes are related to the susceptibility or resistance to parasites, we investigated (i) the selective pressure on the GT6 paralogs genes in primates; (ii) the basis of the conservation of iGb3S in human, chimpanzee, and bonobo; and (iii) the functional potential of the GBGT1 and GT6m7 in catarrhines. We observed that the purifying selection is prevalent and these genes have a low diversity, though ABO and Ggta1 genes have some sites under positive selection. GT6m7, a putative gene associated with aggressive periodontitis, may have regulatory function, but experimental studies are needed to assess its function. The evolutionary conservation of iGb3S in humans, chimpanzee, and bonobo seems to be the result of proximity to genes with important biological functions.
Research on a Risk Assessment Method considering Risk Association
Authors: Zhang Zhan , Li Kai , Zhang Lei
Published: December 2016

Regarding risk assessment problems with multiple associated risks, a risk assessment method (RAM) is proposed in this paper. According to the risk-associated assessment information offered by expert panel, a comprehensive associated matrix is constructed to identify the influence relationship among risks so as to determine the hierarchical structure of risks. Then, based on the determined divided or undivided risk hierarchical structure as well as the possibility and loss of risks provided by expert panel, each value at risk (VAR) is calculated through knowledge related to probability theory. Finally, the feasibility and efficiency of the proposed method are demonstrated through a calculating case.
Midkine Is a Novel Regulator of Amphetamine-Induced Striatal Gliosis and Cognitive Impairment: Evidence for a Stimulus-Dependent Regulation of Neuroinflammation by Midkine
Authors: Vicente-Rodríguez Marta , Fernández-Calle Rosalía , Gramage Esther , Pérez-García Carmen , Ramos María P. , Herradón Gonzalo
Published: December 2016

Midkine (MK) is a cytokine that modulates amphetamine-induced striatal astrogliosis, suggesting a possible role of MK in neuroinflammation induced by amphetamine. To test this hypothesis, we studied astrogliosis and microglial response induced by amphetamine (10 mg/kg i.p. four times, every 2 h) in different brain areas of MK−/− mice and wild type (WT) mice. We found that amphetamine-induced microgliosis and astrocytosis are enhanced in the striatum of MK−/− mice in a region-specific manner. Surprisingly, LPS-induced astrogliosis in the striatum was blocked in MK−/− mice. Since striatal neuroinflammation induced by amphetamine-type stimulants correlates with the cognitive deficits induced by these drugs, we also tested the long-term effects of periadolescent amphetamine treatment (3 mg/kg i.p. daily for 10 days) in a memory task in MK−/− and WT mice. Significant deficits in the Y-maze test were only observed in amphetamine-pretreated MK−/− mice. The data demonstrate for the first time that MK is a novel modulator of neuroinflammation depending on the inflammatory stimulus and the brain area considered. The data indicate that MK limits amphetamine-induced striatal neuroinflammation. In addition, our data demonstrate that periadolescent amphetamine treatment in mice results in transient disruption of learning and memory processes in absence of endogenous MK.
A Phase II Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial of OralN-acetylcysteine for Protection of Melanocytic Nevi against UV-Induced Oxidative StressIn Vivo
Authors: Cassidy Pamela B. , Liu Tong , Florell Scott R. , Honeggar Matthew , Leachman Sancy A. , Boucher Kenneth M. , Grossman Douglas
Published: December 2016

Oxidative stress plays a role in UV-induced melanoma, which may arise from melanocytic nevi. We investigated whether oral administration of the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC) could protect nevi from oxidative stress in vivo in the setting of acute UV exposure. The minimal erythemal dose (MED) was determined for 100 patients at increased risk for melanoma. Patients were randomized to receive a single dose (1,200 mg) of NAC or placebo, in double-blind fashion, and then one nevus was irradiated (1–2 MED) using a solar simulator. One day later, the MED was redetermined and the irradiated nevus and a control unirradiated nevus were removed for histologic analysis and examination of biomarkers of NAC metabolism and UV-induced oxidative stress. Increased expression of 8-oxoguanine, thioredoxin reductase-1, and γ-glutamylcysteine synthase modifier subunit were consistently seen in UV-treated compared with unirradiated nevi. However, no significant differences were observed in these UV-induced changes or in the pre- and postintervention MED between those patients receiving NAC versus placebo. Similarly, no significant differences were observed in UV-induced changes between subjects with germline wild-type versus loss-of-function mutations in the melanocortin-1 receptor. Nevi showed similar changes of UV-induced oxidative stress in an open-label post-trial study in 10 patients who received NAC 3 hours before nevus irradiation. Thus, a single oral dose of NAC did not effectively protect nevi from UV-induced oxidative stress under the conditions examined. Cancer Prev Res; 10(1); 36–44. ©2016 AACR.
Integrin αIIbβ3-Dependent ERK Signaling Is Regulated by Src and Rho Kinases in Both Leu33 and Pro33 Polymorphic Isoforms
Authors: Huynh Khon C. , Nguyen Thi-Hiep , Pham Dinh Chuong , Nguyen Huong T.T. , Van Vo Toi , Gyenes Marianna , Stoldt Volker R.
Published: December 2016

Platelet integrin αIIbβ3 possesses a Leu/Pro polymorphism at residue 33 (Leu33/HPA-1a or Pro33/HPA-1b). The Pro33 isoform has been suggested to exhibit prothrombotic features. αIIbβ3-expressing CHO (Chinese hamster ovary) cells on immobilized fibrinogen show activation of the MAP kinase family member ERK2, with an enhanced ERK2 activity in Pro33 cells compared to Leu33 cells. In our present work, we examined how the Leu/Pro polymorphism modulates the ERK2 activation stimulated by 2 differently triggered outside-in signalings. We either treated the CHO cells with Mn2+ or allowed them to adhere to fibrinogen. Moreover, we studied which signaling cascades are involved in ERK2 activation. In contrast to immobilized fibrinogen, Mn2+ did not significantly increase ERK2 activation. However, Mn2+ had a synergistic effect on ERK2 phosphorylation when combined with immobilized fibrinogen. Pro33 cells adherent to fibrinogen exhibited a significantly greater ERK2 activity than Leu33 cells in the presence of Mn2+, which peaked after 10 min of adhesion. Our data showed that Src family and rho kinases play a crucial role in the integrin αIIbβ3-dependent outside-in signaling to ERK2.
Differential Regulation of BMAL1, CLOCK, and Endothelial Signaling in the Aortic Arch and Ligated Common Carotid Artery
Authors: Shang Xia , Pati Paramita , Anea Ciprian B. , Fulton David J.R. , Rudic R. Daniel
Published: December 2016

The circadian clock is rhythmically expressed in blood vessels, but the interaction between the circadian clock and disturbed blood flow remains unclear. We examined the relationships between BMAL1 and CLOCK and 2 regulators of endothelial function, AKT1 and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), in vascular regions of altered blood flow. We found that the aortic arch from WT mice exhibited reduced sensitivity to acetylcholine (Ach)-mediated relaxation relative to the thoracic aorta. In Clock-mutant (mut) mice the aorta exhibited a reduced sensitivity to Ach. In WT mice, the phosphorylated forms of eNOS and AKT were decreased in the aortic arch, while BMAL1 and CLOCK expression followed a similar pattern of reduction in the arch. In conditions of surgically induced flow reduction, phosphorylated-eNOS (serine 1177) increased, as did p-AKT in the ipsilateral left common carotid artery (LC) of WT mice. Similarly, BMAL1 and CLOCK exhibited increased expression after 5 days in the remodeled LC. eNOS expression was increased at 8 p.m. versus 8 a.m. in WT mice, and this pattern was abolished in mut and Bmal1-KO mice. These data suggest that the circadian clock may be a biomechanical and temporal sensor that acts to coordinate timing, flow dynamics, and endothelial function.
Intraoperative Tumoral Bleeding of Hypervascular Medulloblastoma after Ventricular Drainage: A Case Report
Authors: Ryu Han-Seung , Jung Tae-Young , Han Moon-Soo , Kim Seul-Ki , Lee Kyung-Hwa
Published: December 2016

We report a rare case of intraoperative tumoral bleeding of a hypervascular medulloblastoma. A 12-year-old girl presented with dizziness and nausea. Brain magnetic resonance (MR) images revealed an approximately 4.2-cm enhanced mass on the cerebellar vermis associated with mild perilesional edema and increased cerebral blood volume. Angiography showed tumoral staining and developed occipital and circular dural sinuses in the venous phase. A suboccipital craniotomy was performed. To relieve the intracranial pressure, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was drained via a lateral ventricular catheter in the occipital horn. During the opening of the dura, the brain swelling had progressed, and brain computed tomography revealed an intratumoral hemorrhage with brainstem compression. The patient was in a stuporous mental state. A reoperation was performed, and the mass was totally removed. The pathologic findings revealed a medulloblastoma with abnormal enlarged arterial vascular structures. Postoperatively, the patient recovered to an alert mental state. She underwent chemotherapy and radiotherapy. There was no recurrence after 1 year. Pre-resectional CSF drainage should not be routinely performed in posterior fossa tumors, especially with increased cerebral blood volume on MR perfusion images. Complete removal should be performed quickly while CSF drainage should be performed slowly. An intratumoral hemorrhage should be considered in posterior fossa tumors when severe brain swelling suddenly develops after CSF drainage.
A Female Patient with FMR1 Premutation and Mosaic X Chromosome Aneuploidy and Two Sons with Intellectual Disability
Authors: Galanina Ekaterina M. , Tulupov Andrey A. , Lemskaya Natalya A. , Korostyshevskaya Aleksandra M. , Maksimova Yuliya V. , Shorina Asia R. , Savelov Andrey A. , Sergeeva Irina G. , Isanova Evgeniya R. , Grishchenko Irina V. , Yudkin Dmitry V.
Published: December 2016

In this report, we describe a molecular cytogenetic study of a family burdened with intellectual disability (ID) and suicide. Our study revealed that the mother has a heterozygous premutation in the FMR1 gene and supernumerary X chromosomes as well as X-derived marker chromosomes. Both of her sons have ID and a normal chromosome number. One of the sons has fragile X syndrome, and the other has ID of an unclear nature.
Immunogenicity and Safety of Pandemic Influenza H5N1 Vaccines in Healthy Adults through Meta-Analysis
Authors: Guo Qi , Liu Ze , Gao Jingxia , Zhou Jian , Hu Wenzhu , Cun Yina , Li Weidong , Liao Guoyang
Published: December 2016

Background: There are sporadic cases and local outbreaks of H5N1 avian influenza virus worldwide every year. The World Health Organization (WHO) has paid close attention to the avian influenza epidemic trend. Avian influenza vaccines (AIV) are considered to be useful when an epidemic occurs. However, the use of AIV for humans is not yet widespread. Methods: This study assessed the immunogenicity and safety of pandemic influenza H5N1 vaccines with inactivated whole virus, split virus and subunit virus vaccines for healthy adults. We searched the databases of the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Medline, Excerpata Medica Database (EMBASE) and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI). The data from randomized trials regarding the immunogenicity and safety of AIV with or without different types of adjuvants for healthy adults (with an age range from 18 to 60 years) were collected. Results: According to this study, the most effective doses of H5N1 AIV ranged from 3.75 µg to 7.5 µg Hemagglutinin (HA) antigen. Aluminium adjuvants were administered with the same vaccine dose as a no-adjuvant group and induced the same immune effects. However, novel adjuvants (MF59 and AS03) were used with a smaller dose of vaccine than the no-adjuvant groups and successfully stimulated the body to produce more effective antibodies. Conclusion: All of the H5N1 AIV surveyed in this study were well tolerated without serious adverse reactions.
Salvianolic Acid B Ameliorates Hyperglycemia and Dyslipidemia in db/db Mice through the AMPK Pathway
Authors: Huang Ming-Qing , Zhou Cai-Jie , Zhang Yi-Ping , Zhang Xiao-Qin , Xu Wen , Lin Jing , Wang Pei-Jian
Published: December 2016

Background/Aims: Salvianolic acid B (Sal B), a major polyphenolic compound of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge, has been shown to possess potential antidiabetic activities. However, the action mechanism of SalB in type 2 diabetes has not been investigated extensively. The present study was designed to investigate the effects of Sal B on diabetes-related metabolic changes in a spontaneous model of type 2 diabetes, as well as its potential molecular mechanism. Methods: Male C57BL/KsJ-db/db mice were orally treated with Sal B (50 and 100 mg/kg) or metformin (positive drug, 300 mg/kg) for 6 weeks. Results: Both doses of Sal B significantly decreased fasting blood glucose, serum insulin, triglyceride and free fatty acid levels, reduced hepatic gluconeogenic gene expression and improved insulin intolerance in db/db mice. High dose Sal B also significantly improved glucose intolerance, increased hepatic glycolytic gene expression and muscle glycogen content, and ameliorated histopathological alterations of pancreas, similar to metformin. Sal B treatment resulted in increased phosphorylated AMP-activated protein kinase (p-AMPK) protein expression in skeletal muscle and liver, increased glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) and glycogen synthase protein expressions in skeletal muscle, and increased peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα) and phosphorylated acetyl CoA carboxylase (p-ACC) protein expressions in liver. Conclusion: Our data suggest that Sal B displays beneficial effects in the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes at least in part via modulation of the AMPK pathway.
Synergistic Effect of Lipoprotein-Associated Phospholipase A2 with Classical Risk Factors on Coronary Heart Disease: A Multi-Ethnic Study in China
Authors: Ge Peng-Cheng , Chen Zhao-Hong , Pan Ren-You , Ding Xiao-Qing , Liu Jie-Yin , Jia Qiao-Wei , Liu Zhe , He Shi-zhao , An Feng-Hui , Li Li-Hua , Li Zhao-Yang , Gu Yan , Zhu Tie-Bing , Li Chun-Jian , Wang Lian-Sheng , Ma Wen-Zhu , Yang Zhi-Jian , Jia En-Zhi
Published: December 2016

Aims: We evaluated the synergistic effect of lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) in association with classical risk factors in predicting coronary heart disease (CHD) and demonstrated the diagnostic value of Lp-PLA2 for predicting coronary stenotic lesions in subjects with CHD. Methods: Blood samples were acquired from 911 consecutive adult subjects (662 males and 249 females) from 11 ethnic groups. Lp-PLA2 plasma levels were detected using a commercially available turbidimetric immunoassay (TIA). CHD in patients was confirmed using coronary angiography, and the severity of coronary atherosclerosis was assessed using the Gensini scoring system. Results: A binary logistic regression was performed to analyse the relationships between Lp-PLA2 and other risk factors. A multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that Lp-PLA2 levels were significantly associated with CHD (OR, 1.882; 95% CI, 1.369-2.587, p=0.000).The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for Lp-PLA2 was 0.589 (95%CI, 0.549-0.629, p=0.000).The synergism between Lp-PLA2 and other risk factors was also investigated. The proportion of CHD attributable to the interaction between Lp-PLA2 and age was as high as 64%. Conclusions: Lp-PLA2 levels in human plasma were positively associated with the severity of CHD, and there was a clear positive interaction between Lp-PLA2 and classical risk factors in predicting CHD.
Antihypertensive Medication Postpones the Onset of Glaucoma
Authors: Horwitz Anna , Klemp Marc , Jeppesen Jørgen , Tsai James C. , Torp-Pedersen Christian , Kolko Miriam
Published: December 2016

The aim was to investigate the impact of antihypertensive medication on the onset of glaucoma. Data from the complete Danish population between 40 and 95 years of age were used in the period from 1996 to 2012, covering >2.6 million individuals. The National Danish Registry of Medicinal Products Statistics was used to identify all claimed prescriptions for glaucoma medication and antihypertensive drugs. We first investigated basic correlations in the data and found that patients treated with antihypertensive medication, at any time during the study period, had a significantly higher overall relative risk (RR) of glaucoma, even when controlling for age and sex (with a RR of 1.31 and
P
<0.0001). Furthermore, our data confirm the well-known positive association between age and glaucoma. To investigate the causal effect of antihypertensive treatment on the onset of treatment for glaucoma, we used a regression discontinuity study design. This analysis provides our main finding, namely that prescription of antihypertensive medication leads to a significant reduction in the risk of developing glaucoma. Therefore, although hypertension—as indicated by the use of antihypertensive medication—is positively correlated with glaucoma, our study indicates that antihypertensive medication itself may have a preventive effect on the development of glaucoma.