bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of cardiovascular risk-lowering health benefits accruing from laboratory-based, community-based and exercise-referral exercise programmes
Authors: Webb R , Thompson J E S , Ruffino J-S , Davies N A , Watkeys L , Hooper S , Jones P M , Walters G , Clayton D , Thomas A W , Morris K , Llewellyn D H , Ward M , Wyatt-Williams J , McDonnell B J
Published: March 2016

Background

To evaluate the ability of community-based exercise programmes to facilitate public participation in exercise and hence improved cardiovascular health, we assessed the respective impacts of: a continuously monitored exercise programme based within our university (study 1); a Valleys Regional Park-facilitated community-based outdoor exercise programme (study 2); a Wales National Exercise Referral Scheme-delivered exercise-referral programme (study 3).

Methods

Biomolecular (monocytic PPARγ target gene expression), vascular haemodynamic (central/peripheral blood pressure, arterial stiffness), clinical (insulin sensitivity, blood lipids) and anthropometric (body mass index, waist circumference, heart rate) parameters were investigated using RT-PCR, applanation tonometry, chemical analysis and standard anthropometric techniques.

Results

In studies 1–3, 22/28, 32/65 and 11/14 participants adhered to their respective exercise programmes, and underwent significant increases in physical activity levels. Importantly, beneficial effects similar to those seen in our previous studies (eg, modulations in expression of monocytic PPARγ target genes, decreases in blood pressure/arterial stiffness, improvements in blood lipids/insulin sensitivity) were observed (albeit to slightly differing extents) only in participants who adhered to their respective exercise programmes. While study 1 achieved more intense exercise and more pronounced beneficial effects, significant cardiovascular risk-lowering health benefits related to biomolecular markers, blood pressure, arterial stiffness and blood lipids were achieved via community/referral-based delivery modes in studies 2 and 3.

Conclusions

Because cardiovascular health benefits were observed in all 3 studies, we conclude that the majority of benefits previously reported in laboratory-based studies can also be achieved in community-based/exercise-referral settings. These findings may be of use in guiding policymakers with regard to introduction and/or continued implementation of community/referral-based exercise programmes.
Rhodococcus equihyperimmune plasma decreases pneumonia severity after a randomised experimental challenge of neonatal foals
Authors: Sanz M. G. , Loynachan A. , Horohov D. W.
Published: March 2016

Since a vaccine is not available againstRhodococcus equi,R equi‐specific hyperimmune plasma (HIP) is commonly used, although its efficacy remains controversial. The objective of this study was to evaluate the ability of a commercially available HIP to prevent clinical rhodococcal pneumonia in neonatal foals after experimental challenge.
Variation in fuel structure of boreal fens
Authors: Schiks T.J. , Wotton B.M. , Turetsky M.R. , Benscoter B.W.
Published: March 2016

Wildfire frequency and severity in boreal peatlands can be limited by wet fuel conditions, but increases in burn severity can occur when lower water table positions cause drying of fuels. To date, most studies on northern peatland fires have focused on ombrotrophic bogs. Though minerotrophic fens are the most common type of peatland in North America, the influence of fuel structure and loading on potential fire behaviour in boreal fens is poorly understood. To investigate the potential for widespread flame front propagation across boreal fens, we quantified the fuel components present in three generalized boreal fen types (open, shrub, and treed fens) in northern Alberta, Canada. The loadings of aerial fuels, tall shrubs, and downed woody debris varied significantly among fen types. Fuel loads tended to be smallest in the open fens and largest in the treed fens. Open and shrub fens had larger loads of total surface fuels relative to treed fens, with short-statured shrubs being the dominant contributor to surface fuel load. Based on our observations of available fuel loads, each of the fen types may support moderate- to high-intensity fire following long-term drying, which may not only consume some fraction of the aboveground biomass, but also provide a substantial downward pulse of energy to initiate smouldering in the organic layer.
Canopy cover and anurans: nutrients are the most important predictor of growth and development
Authors: Rowland Freya E. , Tuttle Sara K. , González María J. , Vanni Michael J.
Published: March 2016

Bottom-up effects such as the availability of light and nutrients can have large impacts on primary producer quantity and quality, which is then translated into the growth and development of consumers. The use of “canopy cover” as a bottom-up predictive factor is a broad categorization, as canopy cover controls both the amount of light allowed into a pond and the nutrient load through leaf litter. To test how light and nutrients influence pond ecosystems, we manipulated inorganic nutrients and light in a 2 × 3 full-factorial, large-scale mesocosm experiment. Larval American Bullfrogs (Lithobates catesbeianus (Shaw, 1802)) were reared for 6 weeks at low densities and then assessed for development, growth, and survival at the end of the experiment. We also collected weekly samples of potential food resources (phytoplankton and periphyton) for the estimation of algal production and stoichiometric quality (carbon:nitrogen:phosphorus). Light had strong effects on food resource quality; however, resource quality did not significantly predict tadpole growth or development. Instead, nutrients seemed to be the most important factor as a stimulator of total algal primary production and some unknown pathway, which in turn affected tadpole development. Ours is the first study to investigate canopy cover using a comprehensive causal model, and our results suggest in regards to tadpole growth and development, canopy cover is important mainly as a source of nutrients to ponds.
Multifractal rigidity for piecewise linear Markov maps
Authors: Nakagawa Katsukuni
Published: March 2016

We give an answer to the multifractal rigidity problem presented by Barreira, Pesin and Schmeling for the dimension spectra of Markov measures on the repellers of piecewise linear Markov maps with two branches. Thermodynamic formalism provides us with a one-parameter family of measures. Zero-temperature limit measures of this family and the concept of nondegeneracy of spectra play important roles.
Theoretical prediction on the addition reaction of germylenoid H2GeFMgF with ethylene
Authors: Zhang Ming-Xia , Yan Bing-Fei , Li Wen-Zuo , Li Qing-Zhong , Cheng Jian-Bo
Published: March 2016

The addition reaction of germylenoid H2GeFMgF with ethylene (C2H4) was first investigated in this work. All of the stationary points were optimized using the M062X method in conjunction with the 6-311[Formula: see text]G (d, p) basis set and the corresponding energies were calculated using the QCISD method with the 6-311[Formula: see text]G (d, p) basis set. The calculated results demonstrated that there are two different channels in the addition reaction of H2GeFMgF with C2H4, while only the channel I is feasible once the C2H4approaches H2GeFMgF in the proper conditions. The solvent effect upon the addition reaction was also investigated using PCM model. The results demonstrated that the tetrahydrofuran (THF) solvent could accelerate the addition reaction.
On Nash equilibria in Eisert–Lewenstein–Wilkens game
Authors: Bolonek-Lasoń Katarzyna , Kosiński Piotr
Published: March 2016

Landsburg method of classifying mixed Nash equilibria for maximally entangled Eisert–Lewenstein–Wilkens (ELW) game is analyzed with special emphasis on symmetries inherent to the problem. Nash equilibria for the original ELW game are determined.
Carl Wiman and the foundation of Mesozoic vertebrate palaeontology in Sweden
Authors: Ebbestad Jan Ove R.
Published: March 2016

In 1908, Carl Wiman of Uppsala University, Sweden, discovered rich horizons with Triassic vertebrate remains in Spitsbergen on Svalbard, Norway. This marked the beginning of vertebrate palaeontology as a science in Sweden, subsequently developed mainly through the collection and study of non-Swedish fossil remains. Wiman's accomplishments, resolute personality and a tight network of influential friends and supporters enabled him to become the first person in Sweden to hold a university chair in Palaeontology and Historical Geology. He also managed to amass large numbers of unique fossil vertebrate specimens culminating in an extensive Chinese collection of both world famous dinosaurs and Neogene mammals deposited at Uppsala University. Joint scientific Sino-Swedish collaboration and a deliberate Swedish scientific agenda ensured this unprecedented situation in an opportune moment. Governmental support and initiative allowed Uppsala University and Carl Wiman's Palaeontological Institute to erect a museum building dedicated foremost to the Chinese material, now known as the Lagrelius Collection in recognition of the patron behind Wiman's ambitious endeavours. In addition, the museum served as a permanent repository for seminal collections of Mesozoic fossils from Svalbard and North America. Collectively, these represent a landmark research and teaching resource that remains of intense scientific interest even today.
Ischemic preconditioning reduces hemodynamic response during metaboreflex activation
Authors: Mulliri Gabriele , Sainas Gianmarco , Magnani Sara , Palazzolo Girolamo , Milia Nicola , Orrù Andrea , Roberto Silvana , Marongiu Elisabetta , Milia Raffaele , Crisafulli Antonio
Published: March 2016

Ischemic preconditioning (IP) has been shown to improve exercise performance and to delay fatigue. However, the precise mechanisms through which IP operates remain elusive. It has been hypothesized that IP lowers the sensation of fatigue by reducing the discharge of group III and IV nerve endings, which also regulate hemodynamics during the metaboreflex. We hypothesized that IP reduces the blood pressure response during the metaboreflex. Fourteen healthy males (age between 25 and 48 yr) participated in this study. They underwent the following randomly assigned protocol: postexercise muscle ischemia (PEMI) test, during which the metaboreflex was elicited after dynamic handgrip; control exercise recovery session (CER) test; and PEMI after IP (IP-PEMI) test. IP was obtained by occluding forearm circulation for three cycles of 5 min spaced by 5 min of reperfusion. Hemodynamics were evaluated by echocardiography and impedance cardiography. The main results were that after IP the mean arterial pressure response was reduced compared with the PEMI test (means ± SD +3.37 ± 6.41 vs. +9.16 ± 7.09 mmHg, respectively). This was the consequence of an impaired venous return that impaired the stroke volume during the IP-PEMI more than during the PEMI test (−1.43 ± 15.35 vs. +10.28 ± 10.479 ml, respectively). It was concluded that during the metaboreflex, IP affects hemodynamics mainly because it impairs the capacity to augment venous return and to recruit the cardiac preload reserve. It was hypothesized that this is the consequence of an increased nitric oxide production, which reduces the possibility to constrict venous capacity vessels.
Macaque retinal ganglion cell responses to visual patterns: harmonic composition, noise, and psychophysical detectability
Authors: Cooper Bonnie , Lee Barry B. , Cao Dingcai
Published: March 2016

The goal of these experiments was to test how well cell responses to visual patterns can be predicted from the sinewave tuning curve. Magnocellular (MC) and parvocellular (PC) ganglion cell responses to different spatial waveforms (sinewave, squarewave, and ramp waveforms) were measured across a range of spatial frequencies. Sinewave spatial tuning curves were fit with standard Gaussian models. From these fits, waveforms and spatial tuning of a cell's responses to the other waveforms were predicted for different harmonics by scaling in amplitude for the power in the waveform's Fourier expansion series over spatial frequency. Since higher spatial harmonics move at a higher temporal frequency, an additional scaling for each harmonic by the MC (bandpass) or PC (lowpass) temporal response was included, together with response phase. Finally, the model included a rectifying nonlinearity. This provided a largely satisfactory estimation of MC and PC cell responses to complex waveforms. As a consequence of their transient responses, MC responses to complex waveforms were found to have significantly more energy in higher spatial harmonic components than PC responses. Response variance (noise) was also quantified as a function of harmonic component. Noise increased to some degree for the higher harmonics. The data are relevant for psychophysical detection or discrimination of visual patterns, and we discuss the results in this context.
Approximate Solution of Nonlinear Klein-Gordon Equation Using Sobolev Gradients
Authors: Raza Nauman , Butt Asma Rashid , Javid Ahmad
Published: March 2016

The nonlinear Klein-Gordon equation (KGE) models many nonlinear phenomena. In this paper, we propose a scheme for numerical approximation of solutions of the one-dimensional nonlinear KGE. A common approach to find a solution of a nonlinear system is to first linearize the equations by successive substitution or the Newton iteration method and then solve a linear least squares problem. Here, we show that it can be advantageous to form a sum of squared residuals of the nonlinear problem and then find a zero of the gradient. Our scheme is based on the Sobolev gradient method for solving a nonlinear least square problem directly. The numerical results are compared with Lattice Boltzmann Method (LBM). TheL2,L∞, and Root-Mean-Square (RMS) values indicate better accuracy of the proposed method with less computational effort.
A Possible Role of Anhedonia as Common Substrate for Depression and Anxiety
Authors: Grillo Luigi
Published: March 2016

Depression and anxiety are often comorbid, in up to 70% of cases, and the level of one or the other may fluctuate, leading now to a diagnosis of depression, now to a diagnosis of anxiety. For these reasons, and for the presence of many other common factors, it has been suggested that both are part of the same continuum of problems and that they have a common substrate. This paper proposes the possibility that anhedonia may be an important component of this possible common substrate, and it tries to identify the mechanism with which anhedonia could contribute to causing both depression and anxiety. It also proposes an explanation why an intense pleasure could improve both depression and anxiety.
Influenza A Virus and Influenza B Virus Can Induce Apoptosis via Intrinsic or Extrinsic Pathways and Also via NF-κB in a Time and Dose Dependent Manner
Authors: El-Sayed Ibrahim , Bassiouny Khalid , Nokaly Aziz , Abdelghani Ahmed S. , Roshdy Wael
Published: March 2016

Influenza viruses are able to cause annual epidemics and pandemics due to their mutation rates and reassortment capabilities leading to antigenic shifts and drifts. To identify host response to influenza A and B viruses on A549 and MDCK II cells at low and high MOIs, expressions of MxA and caspases 3, 8, and 9 and BAD, TNFα, and IκBαgenes were measured in the cells supernatants. H1N1 and H3N2 prefer to initially enhance the intrinsic pathway, determined by higher caspase 9 activity in MDCK II cells compared to caspase 8 activity and vice versa in A549 cells at different MOIs, while INF B prefers extrinsic pathway in A549 cells according to significant low or undetectable caspase 9 activity and high activity of caspase 8 but also can induce intrinsic pathway in MDCK II cells as determined by significant low or undetectable activity of caspase 8 and high caspase 9 activity at different MOIs; the considerable MxA expression was found in influenza A and B viruses infected A549 and MDCK II cells at low MOIs. In conclusion, influenza A and B viruses induced extrinsic and intrinsic apoptosis in parallel, and the induction was associated with viral infection in a dose dependent manner.
Model Aspects of Open Access to Multimedia Broadcast Services in the Evolved Packet System
Authors: Atanasov Ivaylo , Pencheva Evelina
Published: March 2016

Multimedia broadcast is the most efficient method to distribute identical content to multiple users in the Evolved Packet System (EPS). EPS enables efficient usage of network resources and provisioning of quality of service for every user. Third-party control allows applications in an enterprise domain to invoke network functions like multimedia broadcast. In this paper, an approach to modeling the behavior of Service Capability Server (SCS) for multimedia broadcast in EPS is presented. Third-party applications can access multimedia broadcasting capabilities by using Parlay X Web Service interfaces. The SCS for multimedia broadcast exposes Parlay X interfaces toward 3rd-party applications and control protocols toward the network. The SCS functional behavior has to be synchronized with the application view on message broadcast and the state of the network resources intended for the broadcast session. Models of multicast session, IP connectivity session, and bearers’ and charging session are proposed and formally described using the notation of Label Transition Systems. The concept of weak bisimilarity is used to prove that models expose equivalent behavior; that is, they are synchronized.
Transcatheter Mitral Valve Repair in Surgical High-Risk Patients: Gender-Specific Acute and Long-Term Outcomes
Authors: Tigges Eike , Kalbacher Daniel , Thomas Christina , Appelbaum Sebastian , Deuschl Florian , Schofer Niklas , Schlüter Michael , Conradi Lenard , Schirmer Johannes , Treede Hendrik , Reichenspurner Hermann , Blankenberg Stefan , Schäfer Ulrich , Lubos Edith
Published: March 2016

Background. Analyses emphasizing gender-related differences in acute and long-term outcomes following MitraClip therapy for significant mitral regurgitation (MR) are rare.Methods. 592 consecutive patients (75±8.7years, 362 men, 230 women) underwent clinical and echocardiographic follow-up for a median of 2.13 (0.99–4.02) years.Results.Significantly higher prevalence of cardiovascular comorbidities, renal failure, and adverse echocardiographic parameters in men resulted in longer device time(p=0.007)and higher numbers of implanted clips(p=0.0075), with equal procedural success(p=1.0). Rehospitalization for heart failure did not differ(p[logrank]=0.288)while survival was higher in women(p[logrank]=0.0317). Logarithmic increase of NT-proBNP was a common independent predictor of death. Hypercholesterolemia and peripheral artery disease were predictors of death only in men while ischemic and dilative cardiomyopathy (CM) and age were predictors in women. Independent predictors of rehospitalization for heart failure were severely reduced ejection fraction and success in men while both ischemic and dilative CM, logistic EuroSCORE, and MR severity were predictive in women.Conclusions. Higher numbers of implanted clips and longer device time are likely related to more comorbidities in men. Procedural success and acute and mid-term clinical outcomes were equal. Superior survival for women in long-term analysis is presumably attributable to a comparatively better preprocedural health.
The Role of Protein Arginine Methyltransferases in Inflammatory Responses
Authors: Kim Ji Hye , Yoo Byong Chul , Yang Woo Seok , Kim Eunji , Hong Sungyoul , Cho Jae Youl
Published: March 2016

Protein arginine methyltransferases (PRMTs) mediate the methylation of a number of protein substrates of arginine residues and serve critical functions in many cellular responses, including cancer development, progression, and aggressiveness, T-lymphocyte activation, and hepatic gluconeogenesis. There are nine members of the PRMT family, which are divided into 4 types (types I–IV). Although most PRMTs do not require posttranslational modification (PTM) to be activated, fine-tuning modifications, such as interactions between cofactor proteins, subcellular compartmentalization, and regulation of RNA, via micro-RNAs, seem to be required. Inflammation is an essential defense reaction of the body to eliminate harmful stimuli, including damaged cells, irritants, or pathogens. However, chronic inflammation can eventually cause several types of diseases, including some cancers, atherosclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and periodontitis. Therefore, inflammation responses should be well modulated. In this review, we briefly discuss the role of PRMTs in the control of inflammation. More specifically, we review the roles of four PRMTs (CARM1, PRMT1, PRMT5, and PRMT6) in modulating inflammation responses, particularly in terms of modulating the transcriptional factors or cofactors related to inflammation. Based on the regulatory roles known so far, we propose that PRMTs should be considered one of the target molecule groups that modulate inflammatory responses.
Bone Mineral Density in the Noninstitutionalized Elderly: Influence of Sociodemographic and Anthropometric Factors
Authors: Cristina de Sousa e Silva Araujo Ellen , Pagotto Valéria , Silveira Erika Aparecida
Published: March 2016

Objective. Analysis of bone mineral density (BMD) in the elderly and its associated factors according to sex.Methods. A cross-sectional study is presented herein, with a random sample of 132 noninstitutionalized elderly people. Individuals who did not use diuretics were excluded. BMD was obtained from examination of total body densitometry and its association with sociodemographic variables, lifestyle, anthropometric, and body composition was verified.Results. Mean BMD for men was1.17±0.12 g/cm2and for women was1.04±0.11 g/cm2. Higher education was associated with higher BMD values ​​in men (p<0.05). There was a reduction in BMD in the age group 75–79 years of age in women and over 80 years of age in men (p<0.05). Underweight was associated with significantly low BMD for both sexes (p<0.01), while normal weight was associated with low BMD in women (p<0.001).Discussion. The elderly with low schooling and in older age groups are more probable to also present low BMD. Lower levels of body mass index also indicated towards low BMD.
Novel Use for DOG1 in Discriminating Breast Invasive Carcinoma from Noninvasive Breast Lesions
Authors: Cheng Henghui , Yang Shouhua , Qu Zhiling , Zhou Sheng , Ruan Qiurong
Published: March 2016

Aims. DOG1 has proven to be a useful marker of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs). Recently, DOG1 expression has also been reported in some non-GIST malignant tumors, but the details related to DOG1 expression in breast tissue remain unclear. The aim of this study was to detect the expression of DOG1 in the human breast and to evaluate the feasibility of using DOG1 to discriminate between invasive breast carcinoma and noninvasive breast lesions.Methods and Results. A total of 210 cases, including both invasive and noninvasive breast lesions, were collected to assess DOG1 expression immunohistochemically. DOG1 expression was consistently positive in breast myoepithelial cells (MECs), which was similar to the results obtained for three other MEC markers: calponin, smooth muscle myosin heavy chain (SMMHC), and P63 (P>0.05in all). Importantly, DOG1 was useful in discriminating invasive breast carcinoma from noninvasive breast lesions (P<0.05).Conclusions. DOG1 is a useful marker of breast MECs, and adding DOG1 to the MEC identification panel will provide more sophisticated information when diagnosing uncertain cases in the breast.
Effect of Over Zone Feeding on Rail Potential and Stray Current in DC Mass Transit System
Authors: Du Guifu , Wang Chonglin , Liu Jianhua , Li Guoxin , Zhang Dongliang
Published: March 2016

DC traction power system with running rails as reflux conductor has been adopted in Guangzhou Metro Line 8. During the operation of the Guangzhou Metro Line, a high rail potential has been observed, and the leakage of stray current increases significantly. Because of the electrical connectivity of the catenary, over zone feeding of traction current may exist when multiple trains run in multiple traction substations. Guangzhou Metro Line 8 suspects that over zone feeding of traction current is the major cause of the high rail potential. In this paper, a unified chain model of DC traction power system is proposed to simulate the distribution of rail potential and stray current. Field tests and simulations have been carried out to study whether over zone feeding has an impact on rail potential and stray current. Results show that over zone feeding widely exists in DC traction power system and that the rail potential and stray current can be reduced effectively by preventing the over zone feeding of traction current.
Automatic Representation and Segmentation of Video Sequences via a Novel Framework Based on the nD-EVM and Kohonen Networks
Authors: Luis-García José-Yovany , Pérez-Aguila Ricardo
Published: March 2016

Recently in the Computer Vision field, a subject of interest, at least in almost every video application based on scene content, is video segmentation. Some of these applications are indexing, surveillance, medical imaging, event analysis, and computer-guided surgery, for naming some of them. To achieve their goals, these applications need meaningful information about a video sequence, in order to understand the events in its corresponding scene. Therefore, we need semantic information which can be obtained from objects of interest that are present in the scene. In order to recognize objects we need to compute features which aid the finding of similarities and dissimilarities, among other characteristics. For this reason, one of the most important tasks for video and image processing is segmentation. The segmentation process consists in separating data into groups that share similar features. Based on this, in this work we propose a novel framework for video representation and segmentation. The main workflow of this framework is given by the processing of an input frame sequence in order to obtain, as output, a segmented version. For video representation we use the Extreme Vertices Model in the n-Dimensional Space while we use the Discrete Compactness descriptor as feature and Kohonen Self-Organizing Maps for segmentation purposes.
MEMS Technology Sensors as a More Advantageous Technique for Measuring Foot Plantar Pressure and Balance in Humans
Authors: Morère Clara Sanz , Surażyński Łukasz , Pérez-Tabernero Ana Rodrigo , Vihriälä Erkki , Myllylä Teemu
Published: March 2016

Locomotor activities are part and parcel of daily human life. During walking or running, feet are subjected to high plantar pressure, leading sometimes to limb problems, pain, or foot ulceration. A current objective in foot plantar pressure measurements is developing sensors that are small in size, lightweight, and energy efficient, while enabling high mobility, particularly for wearable applications. Moreover, improvements in spatial resolution, accuracy, and sensitivity are of interest. Sensors with improved sensing techniques can be applied to a variety of research problems: diagnosing limb problems, footwear design, or injury prevention. This paper reviews commercially available sensors used in foot plantar pressure measurements and proposes the utilization of pressure sensors based on the MEMS (microelectromechanical systems) technique. Pressure sensors based on this technique have the capacity to measure pressure with high accuracy and linearity up to high pressure levels. Moreover, being small in size, they are highly suitable for this type of measurement. We present two MEMS sensor models and study their suitability for the intended purpose by performing several experiments. Preliminary results indicate that the sensors are indeed suitable for measuring foot plantar pressure. Importantly, by measuring pressure continuously, they can also be utilized for body balance measurements.
Physical Non-Contact Communication between Microscopic Aquatic Species: Novel Experimental Evidences for an Interspecies Information Exchange
Authors: Fels Daniel
Published: March 2016

Previous experiments on physical non-contact communication within same species gave rise to test for this type of communication also across the species border, which was the aim of the present study. It was found that autotrophic unicellular organisms (Euglena viridis), separated by cuvettes, affected the proliferation rate of heterotrophic unicellular organisms (Paramecium caudatum). Further, the heterotrophic unicellular organism affected also the proliferation rate of a multicellular heterotrophic organism (Rotatoria sp.) and vice versa. In the case when populations (of Euglena viridis and Paramecium caudatum) were shielded against electromagnetic fields in the optical spectrum from each other, no effects were measured. The results may support the notion that the organisation of ecosystems relies also on the exchange of electromagnetic fields from their constituting biosystems.
An ANN-Based Synthesis Model for Parallel Coupled Microstrip Lines with Floating Ground-Plane Conductor and Its Applications
Authors: Cao Yuan , Wang Zhongbao , Fang Shaojun
Published: March 2016

To directly obtain physical dimensions of parallel coupled microstrip lines with a floating ground-plane conductor (PCMLFGPC), an accurate synthesis model based on an artificial neural network (ANN) is proposed. The synthesis model is validated by using the conformal mapping technique (CMT) analysis contours. Using the synthesis model and the CMT analysis, the PCMLFGPC having equal even- and odd-mode phase velocities can be obtained by adjusting the width of the floating ground-plane conductor. Applying the method, a 7 dB coupler with the measured isolation better than 27 dB across a wide bandwidth (more than 120%), a 90° Schiffman phase shifter with phase deviation ±2.5° and return loss more than 17.5 dB covering 63.4% bandwidth, and a bandpass filter with completely eliminated second-order spurious band are implemented. The performances of the current designs are superior to those of the previous components configured with the PCMLFGPC.
Seasonality Impact on the Transmission Dynamics of Tuberculosis
Authors: Yang Yali , Guo Chenping , Liu Luju , Zhang Tianhua , Liu Weiping
Published: March 2016

The statistical data of monthly pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) incidence cases from January 2004 to December 2012 show the seasonality fluctuations in Shaanxi of China. A seasonality TB epidemic model with periodic varying contact rate, reactivation rate, and disease-induced death rate is proposed to explore the impact of seasonality on the transmission dynamics of TB. Simulations show that the basic reproduction number of time-averaged autonomous systems may underestimate or overestimate infection risks in some cases, which may be up to the value of period. The basic reproduction number of the seasonality model is appropriately given, which determines the extinction and uniform persistence of TB disease. If it is less than one, then the disease-free equilibrium is globally asymptotically stable; if it is greater than one, the system at least has a positive periodic solution and the disease will persist. Moreover, numerical simulations demonstrate these theorem results.
Matrix Metalloproteinases and Subclinical Atherosclerosis in Chronic Kidney Disease: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kousios Andreas , Kouis Panayiotis , Panayiotou Andrie G.
Published: March 2016

Background.Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a significant problem in Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). Subclinical atherosclerosis identified by noninvasive methods could improve CVD risk prediction in CKD but these methods are often unavailable. We therefore systematically reviewed whether circulating levels of Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors (TIMPs) are associated with subclinical atherosclerosis in CKD, as this would support their use as biomarkers or pharmacologic targets.Methods.All major electronic databases were systematically searched from inception until May 2015 using appropriate terms. Studies involving CKD patients with data on circulating MMPs levels and atherosclerosis were considered and subjected to quality assessment.Results.Overall, 16 studies were identified for qualitative synthesis and 9 studies were included in quantitative synthesis. MMP-2 and TIMP-1 were most frequently studied while most studies assessed carotid Intima-Media Thickness (cIMT) as a measure of subclinical atherosclerosis. Only MMP-2 demonstrated a consistent positive association with cIMT. Considerable variability in cIMT measurement methodology and poor plaque assessment was found.Conclusions.Although MMPs demonstrate great potential as biomarkers of subclinical atherosclerosis, they are understudied in CKD and not enough data existed for meta-analysis. Larger studies involving several MMPs, with more homogenized approaches in determining the atherosclerotic burden in CKD, are needed.
Identification of RNA-Binding Protein LARP4B as a Tumor Suppressor in Glioma
Authors: Koso Hideto , Yi Hungtsung , Sheridan Paul , Miyano Satoru , Ino Yasushi , Todo Tomoki , Watanabe Sumiko
Published: March 2016

Transposon-based insertional mutagenesis is a valuable method for conducting unbiased forward genetic screens to identify cancer genes in mice. We used this system to elucidate factors involved in the malignant transformation of neural stem cells into glioma-initiating cells. We identified an RNA-binding protein, La-related protein 4b (LARP4B), as a candidate tumor-suppressor gene in glioma. LARP4B expression was consistently decreased in human glioma stem cells and cell lines compared with normal neural stem cells. Moreover, heterozygous deletion of LARP4B was detected in nearly 80% of glioblastomas in The Cancer Genome Atlas database. LARP4B loss was also associated with low expression and poor patient survival. Overexpression of LARP4B in glioma cell lines strongly inhibited proliferation by inducing mitotic arrest and apoptosis in four of six lines as well as in two patient-derived glioma stem cell populations. The expression levels of CDKN1A and BAX were also upregulated upon LARP4B overexpression, and the growth-inhibitory effects were partially dependent on p53 (TP53) activity in cells expressing wild-type, but not mutant, p53. We further found that the La module, which is responsible for the RNA chaperone activity of LARP4B, was important for the growth-suppressive effect and was associated with BAX mRNA. Finally, LARP4B depletion in p53 and Nf1-deficient mouse primary astrocytes promoted cell proliferation and led to increased tumor size and invasiveness in xenograft and orthotopic models. These data provide strong evidence that LARP4B serves as a tumor-suppressor gene in glioma, encouraging further exploration of the RNA targets potentially involved in LARP4B-mediatd growth inhibition. Cancer Res; 76(8); 2254–64. ©2016 AACR.
Rab11-FIP1C Is a Critical Negative Regulator in ErbB2-Mediated Mammary Tumor Progression
Authors: Boulay Pierre-Luc , Mitchell Louise , Turpin Jason , Huot-Marchand Julie-Émilie , Lavoie Cynthia , Sanguin-Gendreau Virginie , Jones Laura , Mitra Shreya , Livingstone Julie M. , Campbell Shirley , Hallett Michael , Mills Gordon B. , Park Morag , Chodosh Lewis , Strathdee Douglas , Norman Jim C. , Muller William J.
Published: March 2016

Rab coupling protein (FIP1C), an effector of the Rab11 GTPases, including Rab25, is amplified and overexpressed in 10% to 25% of primary breast cancers and correlates with poor clinical outcome. Rab25 is also frequently silenced in triple-negative breast cancer, suggesting its ability to function as either an oncogene or a tumor suppressor, depending on the breast cancer subtype. However, the pathobiologic role of FIP family members, such as FIP1C, in a tumor-specific setting remains elusive. In this study, we used ErbB2 mouse models of human breast cancer to investigate FIP1C function in tumorigenesis. Doxycycline-induced expression of FIP1C in the MMTV-ErbB2 mouse model resulted in delayed mammary tumor progression. Conversely, targeted deletion of FIP1C in the mammary epithelium of an ErbB2 model coexpressing Cre recombinase led to accelerated tumor onset. Genetic and biochemical characterization of these FIP1C-proficient and -deficient tumor models revealed that FIP1C regulated E-cadherin (CDH1) trafficking and ZONAB (YBX3) function in Cdk4-mediated cell-cycle progression. Furthermore, we demonstrate that FIP1C promoted lysosomal degradation of ErbB2. Consistent with our findings in the mouse, the expression of FIP1C was inversely correlated with ErbB2 levels in breast cancer patients. Taken together, our findings indicate that FIP1C acts as a tumor suppressor in the context of ErbB2-positive breast cancer and may be therapeutically exploited as an alternative strategy for targeting aberrant ErbB2 expression. Cancer Res; 76(9); 2662–74. ©2016 AACR.
Oncogenic ALK Fusion in Rare and Aggressive Subtype of Colorectal Adenocarcinoma as a Potential Therapeutic Target
Authors: Yakirevich Evgeny , Resnick Murray B. , Mangray Shamlal , Wheeler Michael , Jackson Cynthia L. , Lombardo Kara A. , Lee Jeeyun , Kim Kyoung-Mee , Gill Anthony J. , Wang Kai , Gowen Kyle , Sun James , Miller Vincent A. , Stephens Philip J. , Ali Siraj M. , Ross Jeffrey S. , Safran Howard
Published: March 2016

Purpose: Chromosomal translocations in the anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene have been identified as oncogenic drivers in lung adenocarcinomas and other tumors, recently including rare cases of colorectal carcinoma. We identified a patient with refractory metastatic colorectal carcinoma harboring a STRN–ALK gene fusion who achieved an exceptional clinical benefit to the ALK inhibitor ceritinib. Our goal was to further define the clinicopathologic features of ALK-rearranged colorectal carcinoma in a large cohort.

Experimental Design: Clinical cases of colorectal carcinoma evaluated by comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) or by ALK immunohistochemistry (IHC) were reviewed retrospectively. FISH and microsatellite instability (MSI) analyses were performed.

Results: Nine colorectal carcinoma cases harbored ALK gene fusions. Six cases were identified by CGP of 3,157 colorectal carcinoma (0.2%) and three by IHC of 2,980 colorectal carcinoma (0.1%). The ALK fusions involved known ALK partners EML4, C2orf44, CAD, and the novel STRN, PPP1R21, SENPF, MAPRE3, and PRKAP1B partners. These advanced-stage colorectal carcinomas lacked mutations in other oncogenic drivers, predominantly involved the proximal colon, and often exhibited MSI and mucinous phenotype. The index patient was treated with the ALK inhibitor ceritinib, resulting in a marked decrease in size of a skin metastasis, and resolution by computerized tomography of all contrast enhancing tumor. After 9 months of treatment, biopsy of progressive disease demonstrated a KRAS mutation, consistent with acquired resistance to ceritinib.

Conclusions: Colorectal carcinoma harboring ALK fusions represent a rare aggressive subtype of colorectal carcinoma with distinct clinicopathologic features. This report provides the first clinical evidence that such patients may benefit from targeted monotherapy with ALK inhibitors. Clin Cancer Res; 22(15); 3831–40. ©2016 AACR.
Limitations of the Driver/Passenger Model in Cancer Prevention
Authors: Kuhner Mary K. , Kostadinov Rumen , Reid Brian J.
Published: March 2016

Mutations detected in cancers are often divided into “drivers” and “passengers.” We suggest that this classification is potentially misleading for purposes of early detection and prevention. Specifically, some mutations are frequent in tumors and thus appear to be drivers, but are poor predictors of cancer; other mutations are individually rare and thus appear to be passengers, but may collectively explain a large proportion of risk. The assumptions bundled into the terms “driver” and “passenger” can lead to misunderstandings of neoplastic progression, with unintended consequences including overdiagnosis, overtreatment, and failure to identify the true sources of risk. We argue that samples from healthy, benign, or neoplastic tissues are critical for evaluating the risk of future cancer posed by mutations in a given gene. Cancer Prev Res; 9(5); 335–8. ©2016 AACR.
Electrolytes-Enriched Hemodiafiltration Solutions for Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy in Acute Kidney Injury: A Crossover Study
Authors: Besnard Noemie , Serveaux Marianne , Machado Sonia , Daubin Delphine , Brunot Vincent , Amigues Laurent , Landreau Liliane , Jonquet Olivier , Klouche Kada
Published: March 2016

Aims: To evaluate the capability of an electrolytes-enriched solution to prevent metabolic disorders during continuous veno-venous hemodiafiltration (CVVHDF). Methods: Serum biochemistry and clinical tolerance were compared during CVVHDF treatments with an electrolyte-enriched (Phoxilium) or standard solutions in 10 acute renal failure patients. Results: As compared to standard fluids, serum potassium and phosphate levels were maintained in the normal range with Phoxilium without any supplementation but total serum calcium levels were significantly lower. Bicarbonatemia was slightly higher (24-26 vs. 21.5-24.5 mmol/l, p < 0.05) with conventional solutions and was associated with a significant increased level of pH (>7.44). Despite the absence of glucose in the Phoxilium solution, blood glucose levels and glucose supplementation were similar between treatments. Clinical tolerance and efficiency of CVVHDF sessions were comparable. Conclusion: Phoxilium effectively prevented hypophosphatemia and hypokalemia during CVVHDF. It was, however, associated with a slight metabolic acidosis and hypocalcemia compared with conventional solutions.
Ocular Gnathostomiasis in Brazil: A Case Report
Authors: Chaves Cláudia M. , Chaves Claudio , Zoroquiain Pablo , Belfort Jr. Rubens , Burnier Jr. Miguel N.
Published: March 2016

Gnathostomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by nematode larvae ingestion of 15 known species of the genus Gnathostoma (one of the Gnathostomatidae family members). This parasite uses freshwater fish as a host and can infect - through the consumption of raw fish or their viscera - other animals such as dogs, cats, chickens, pigs, and humans. This parasitic disease, with humans acting as hosts, has been known since 1945 (India), and ocular complications have been known since 2004 (intravitreal; also described in India). Latin American countries, especially Mexico and Peru, have reported cases of the disease since 1970. The first dermatological case was reported in Brazil in 2009 (the individual had acquired the disease in Peru). This article describes the first reported ophthalmic case of the disease in Brazil and refers to a male patient, 30 years old, living in the municipality of Juruá, Amazonas State. The disease evolved within 30 days through a fistulized tumor in the inner corner of the lower eyelid. Following excision, the anatomical and histopathological examination revealed the presence of a different parasite species from other previously known genera.
Elevated Lipid Profiles in Patients with Acute Transverse Myelitis
Authors: Liu Jia , Li Min , Wang Xuan , Yi Huan , Xu Li , Peng Fu-hua
Published: March 2016

Background: The associations and clinical relevance of serum lipid profiles in patients with acute transverse myelitis (ATM) are unknown. Our study aimed at investigating the status of serum lipid variables (including total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TGs), high/low density lipoproteins (HDL/LDL), apolipoprotein A-I (ApoA-I), apolipoprotein B (ApoB) and cholesterol to HDL ratio) in ATM, and to explore whether there was a correlation between serum lipid levels and disease characteristics of ATM. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated serum lipid levels of 92 patients with ATM, 43 with multiple sclerosis (MS) on relapse and 112 healthy controls (HC). The changes of serum lipid profiles were analyzed. Results: We found that ATM patients had higher serum TC, TG, LDL levels and T/H ratio than HC, but had lower levels of serum ApoA-I and ApoB. Besides, there were no significant differences between ATM and MS on relapse (except ApoB). Third, longer disease duration was associated with higher TG; higher HDL was associated with a trend for lower Expanded Disability Status Scale scores. Conclusions: Our findings showed that serum lipid levels were elevated in patients with ATM, among serum TG and HDL might be associated with clinical features. These results illustrate that a long-term follow-up and regular monitoring of serum lipid profiles are important for ATM patients.
Acute Renal Failure Secondary to Rhabdomyolysis as a Complication of Major Urological Surgery: The Experience of a High-Volume Urological Center
Authors: De Gracia-Nieto Armando E. , Angerri Oriol , Bover Jordi , Salas Daniel , Villamizar Juan Manuel , Villavicencio Humberto
Published: March 2016

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of acute renal failure secondary to rhabdomyolysis (ARFSR) as a complication of major urological surgery (MUS), as well as to describe the clinical characteristics and identify possible risk and protective factors. Subjects and Methods: Cases of ARFSR due to MUS between January 1997 and August 2011 were identified using the institutional database. The incidence was estimated and the clinical characteristics were analyzed using simple scatterplot graphs to identify possible risk and protective factors. Results: In this period, 14,337 MUS procedures were performed, in which 4 cases suffered from ARFSR (the incidence rate was 0.03%). The incidence rates after radical cystectomy and urethroplasty were 0.26% (3/1,175 cases) and 0.15% (1/651 cases), respectively. No case of rhabdomyolysis was reported among the patients who underwent other major surgical procedures. Two patients required dialysis, and all 4 patients recovered to their baseline renal function at an average of 11 days (7-17) with the appropriate treatment. Male gender, younger age, lower ASA score, prolonged operative time, high body mass index, elevated preoperative serum creatinine and estimated blood loss were possible risk factors for developing ARFSR due to MUS. We found that a higher intraoperative administered volume was a possible protective factor. The operative position and type of surgery seemed to play minor roles. Early diagnosis and treatment possibly leads to an improved outcome. Conclusion: In our study, ARFSR due to MUS was a rare entity and had a good prognosis. It was more frequent as a complication of radical cystectomy. Further studies are required to confirm our findings.
Giant Posttraumatic Cervical Hematoma: Acute Presentation of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma in an Adolescent
Authors: Marković Miroslav , Paunović Ivan , Dragaš Marko , Božić Vesna , Ilić Nikola , Končar Igor , Davidović Lazar
Published: March 2016

Objective: To describe a rare case of acute presentation of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). Clinical Presentation and Intervention: A 19-year-old male presented with an expanding cervical mass following blunt trauma. A computed tomography scan revealed a mass suspected to be hematoma that was compressing the vessels and thereby deviating the trachea. Immediate surgery was performed. Neither vascular injury nor active bleeding was seen; instead, a solid, hematoma-like tumefaction in the right thyroid lobe was revealed. A total thyroid lobectomy was performed. A histologic paraffin section confirmed a PTC that was permeated by hematoma. Conclusion: This was a unique case of an acute, life-threatening presentation of previously asymptomatic PTC in an adolescent.