bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Toxoplasma gondii Infections Alter GABAergic Synapses and Signaling in the Central Nervous System
Authors: Brooks Justin M. , Carrillo Gabriela L. , Su Jianmin , Lindsay David S. , Fox Michael A. , Blader Ira J.
Published: October 2015

During infections with the protozoan parasiteToxoplasma gondii, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is utilized as a carbon source for parasite metabolism and also to facilitate parasite dissemination by stimulating dendritic-cell motility. The best-recognized function for GABA, however, is its role in the nervous system as an inhibitory neurotransmitter that regulates the flow and timing of excitatory neurotransmission. When this pathway is altered, seizures develop. Human toxoplasmosis patients suffer from seizures, suggesting thatToxoplasmainterferes with GABA signaling in the brain. Here, we show that while excitatory glutamatergic presynaptic proteins appeared normal, infection with type II ME49Toxoplasmatissue cysts led to global changes in the distribution of glutamic acid decarboxylase 67 (GAD67), a key enzyme that catalyzes GABA synthesis in the brain. Alterations in GAD67 staining were not due to decreased expression but rather to a change from GAD67 clustering at presynaptic termini to a more diffuse localization throughout the neuropil. Consistent with a loss of GAD67 from the synaptic terminals,Toxoplasma-infected mice develop spontaneous seizures and are more susceptible to drugs that induce seizures by antagonizing GABA receptors. Interestingly, GABAergic protein mislocalization and the response to seizure-inducing drugs were observed in mice infected with type II ME49 but not type III CEP strain parasites, indicating a role for a polymorphic parasite factor(s) in regulating GABAergic synapses. Taken together, these data support a model in which seizures and other neurological complications seen inToxoplasma-infected individuals are due, at least in part, to changes in GABAergic signaling.

IMPORTANCEInfections of the central nervous system can cause seizures. While inflammation in the brain has been proposed to initiate the onset of the seizures, relatively little is known about how inflammation impacts the structure and function of the neurons. Here we used a parasite calledToxoplasma gondiithat infects the brain and showed that seizures arise due to a defect in signaling of GABA, which is the neurotransmitter primarily responsible for preventing the onset of seizures.
Intrinsic Antimicrobial Resistance Determinants in the Superbug Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Murray Justine L. , Kwon Taejoon , Marcotte Edward M. , Whiteley Marvin
Published: October 2015

Antimicrobial-resistant bacteria pose a serious threat in the clinic. This is particularly true for opportunistic pathogens that possess high intrinsic resistance. Though many studies have focused on understanding the acquisition of bacterial resistance upon exposure to antimicrobials, the mechanisms controlling intrinsic resistance are not well understood. In this study, we subjected the model opportunistic superbugPseudomonas aeruginosato 14 antimicrobials under highly controlled conditions and assessed its response using expression- and fitness-based genomic approaches. Our results reveal that gene expression changes and mutant fitness in response to sub-MIC antimicrobials do not correlate on a genomewide scale, indicating that gene expression is not a good predictor of fitness determinants. In general, fewer fitness determinants were identified for antiseptics and disinfectants than for antibiotics. Analysis of gene expression and fitness data together allowed the prediction of antagonistic interactions between antimicrobials and insight into the molecular mechanisms controlling these interactions.

IMPORTANCEInfections involving multidrug-resistant pathogens are difficult to treat because the therapeutic options are limited. These infections impose a significant financial burden on infected patients and on health care systems. Despite years of antimicrobial resistance research, we lack a comprehensive understanding of the intrinsic mechanisms controlling antimicrobial resistance. This work uses two fine-scale genomic approaches to identify genetic loci important for antimicrobial resistance of the opportunistic pathogenPseudomonas aeruginosa. Our results reveal that antibiotics have more resistance determinants than antiseptics/disinfectants and that gene expression upon exposure to antimicrobials is not a good predictor of these resistance determinants. In addition, we show that when used together, genomewide gene expression and fitness profiling can provide mechanistic insights into multidrug resistance mechanisms.
Solitaire salvage: a stent retriever-assisted catheter reduction technical report
Authors: Parry Phillip Vaughan , Morales Alejandro , Jankowitz Brian Thomas
Published: October 2015

The endovascular management of giant aneurysms often proves difficult with standard techniques. Obtaining distal access to allow catheter reduction is often key to approaching these aneurysms, but several anatomic challenges make this task unsafe and not feasible. Obtaining distal anchor points and performing catheter reduction maneuvers using adjunctive devices is not a novel concept, however using the Solitaire in order to do so may have some distinct advantages compared with previously described methods. Here we describe our novel Solitaire salvage technique, which allowed successful reduction of a looped catheter within an aneurysm in three cases. While this technique is expensive and therefore best performed after standard maneuvers have failed, in our experience it was effective, safe, and more efficient than other methods.
Impella left ventricular assist device in cardiac arrest after spinal anaesthesia for caesarean section
Authors: Desai Nayan , Chaudhry Kunal , Aji Janah
Published: October 2015

Cardiac arrest after neuraxial anaesthesia is very well described. Inhibition of the sympathetic efferent system and vagal activation leading to decrease preload and severe bradycardia results in cardiac arrest. Pregnant patients undergoing spinal anaesthesia are at increased risk for vasovagal events due to aortocaval compression and higher level of spinal block. A 36-year-old pregnant woman at 39 weeks presented for an elective caesarean section. She underwent spinal anaesthesia. Immediately after, she had severe bradycardia followed by asystole cardiac arrest. She had spontaneous return of circulation. The patient was in cardiogenic shock causing pulmonary oedema and required four vasopressors to maintain her blood pressure. An Impella 2.5 percutaneous microaxial left ventricle (LV) support device was inserted to support her haemodynamics. She fully recovered and was discharged in stable condition. To the best of our knowledge, this is first case report of the use of an LV-assist device in a patient postcardiac arrest from spinal anaesthesia.
A comparison of volume-equated knee extensions to failure, or not to failure, upon rating of perceived exertion and strength adaptations
Authors: Fisher James Peter , Blossom Dominic , Steele James
Published: October 2015

The present study aimed to compare the effects of repetition duration-, volume-, and load-matched resistance training to muscular failure (MMF) or not to muscular failure (NMF) on maximal voluntary isometric knee extensor strength. This design also allowed testing of the efficacy of “5×5” training. Nine recreationally active males (age, 21.4 ± 1.2 years; height, 1.79 ± 0.07 m; weight, 78.4 ± 7.1 kg) performed unilateral resistance training at 80% of maximal torque at 2×/week for 6 weeks. Using their nondominant leg, participants performed 5 sets of 5 repetitions (NMF). Using their dominant leg, participants performed 25 repetitions in as few sets as possible (MMF). All repetitions were performed at a pace of 2 s concentric, 1 s isometric pause, and 2 s eccentric with a 2-min rest interval between sets. Analyses identified significant pre- to post-intervention strength increases for both MMF and NMF, with effect sizes (ESs) of 2.01 and 1.65, respectively, with no significant differences between conditions (p > 0.05). Peak and mean ratings of perceived exertion (RPEs) were significantly higher for MMF compared with NMF conditions (p < 0.0001), and a tendency for significantly higher RPE values reported for later sets for the NMF condition. Total training time per session was significantly longer for NMF compared with MMF (p < 0.001). The present study suggests that in untrained participants, resistance training NMF produces equivocally the same strength increases as training to MMF when volume-matched. However, resistance training to MMF appears to be a more time-efficient protocol and may produce greater strength gains as indicated by a larger ES.
Effects of loblolly pine litter, forest floor, and root exclusion on mineral soil carbon in a Florida Spodosol
Authors: Stoppe A.M. , Comerford N.B. , Jokela E.J. , Mackowiak C.L. , Higa R.C.V.
Published: October 2015

Quantifying soil organic carbon (SOC) inputs in the surface soil is a critical component for assessing the potential for carbon sequestration of managed pine forests. This study used a sequential exclusion of aboveground litter inputs (L, litter exclusion) and aboveground plus belowground inputs (LR, litter and root exclusion) to segregate carbon sources contributing to the development and maintenance of SOC in the surface soil supporting juvenile loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) in its rapid growth phase. The study spanned the 7th to 10th year of stand growth. Soil physical size fractions (>2 mm, ≤2 mm, 2000–250 μm, 250–150 μm, 150–53 μm, and <53 μm) were used to investigate the change in native SOC over time in the untreated control plots (UC, untreated control) and the effects of exclusion treatments. An accretion rate of 4.6 Mg SOC·ha−1of soil·year−1was observed in the fine earth fraction (≤2 mm), reflecting the rapid phase of stand growth. The accretion was primarily observed in the upper 10 cm of the soil. Treatment effects were most apparent in soil bulk density, SOC of the fine earth, and 150–53 μm size fractions. In general, changes in SOC observed in the L treatment was an intermediate increase between the UC and LR treatments, where only the removal of roots provided no change in SOC and was significantly different from the control (p = 0.05). We conclude that a major contributor to the maintenance and increase of SOC in this fast-growing pine ecosystem was due to root turnover (60%), with 40% due to aboveground litter inputs.
Paraventricular nucleus is involved in the central pathway of adipose afferent reflex in rats
Authors: Shi Zhen , Wang Yuan-fang , Wang Gui-hua , Wu Yu-long , Ma Chun-lei
Published: October 2015

Increasing evidence indicates a link between sympathetic nervous system activation and obesity, but the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. The adipose afferent reflex (AAR) is a sympathoexcitatory reflex that is activated by afferent neurotransmission from the white adipose tissue (WAT). This study aimed to investigate whether the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVH) is an important component of the central neurocircuitry of the AAR. In anesthetized rats, the discharge activity of individual PVH neurons was recorded in vivo. Activation of WAT afferents was initiated by capsaicin injection, and the AAR was evaluated by monitoring renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) responses. The responses of PVH neurons to activation of WAT afferents were evaluated by c-fos immunoreactivity and the discharge activity of individual PVH neurons, which was recorded using extracellular single-unit recording. After activation of WAT afferents, both individual PVH neuron discharge activity and c-fos immunoreactivity increased. Bilateral selective lesions of the neurons in the PVH with kainic acid abolished the AAR. These results indicate that PVH is an important component of the central neurocircuitry of the AAR.
Hepatoprotective activity of white horehound (Marrubium vulgare) extract against cyclophosphamide toxicity in male rats
Authors: Ettaya Amani , Dhibi Sabah , Samout Noura , Elfeki Abdelfettah , Hfaiedh Najla
Published: October 2015

The hepatoprotective activity of Marrubium vulgare against cyclophosphamide toxicity in Wistar rats was evaluated. Adult male rats were divided into 4 groups of 6 each: a control group, a group injected with cyclophosphamide (150 mg·kg−1) for 3 days, a group orally given a M. vulgare aqueous extract ((500 mg of dry leaves)·kg−1·day−1) for 30 days then treated with cyclophosphamide, and a group receiving only M. vulgare for 30 days. After 33 days of treatment, activities of alanine amino transferase (ALAT), aspartate amino transferase (ASAT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were determined in serum. Moreover, lipid peroxidation level and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities, catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were measured in liver. Alterations of these hepatic biomarkers and increased lipid peroxidation confirmed cyclophosphamide-induced liver toxicity. Cyclophosphamide also decreased the enzymatic defense system against oxidative stress. However, when this drug was administered in rats given M. vulgare extract, all the biological parameters underwent much less alteration. Administration of M. vulgare extract was found to be beneficial by attenuating cyclophosphamide-induced liver damage. The protective effect of the plant is mainly attributed to its antioxidant properties and the existence of phenolic acids and flavonoids, as highlighted by HPLC-based analysis.
Parity inversion property of the double ring-shaped oscillator in cylindrical coordinates
Authors: Sun Dong-Sheng , Lu Fa-Lin , You Yuan , Chen Chang-Yuan , Dong Shi-Hai
Published: October 2015

Using the functional analysis method, we present the exact solutions of the double ring-shaped oscillator (DRSO) potential with certain parity in the cylindrical coordinates. Such a quantum system is separated to two differential equations, i.e. a one-dimensional harmonic oscillator plus an inverse square term and a two-dimensional harmonic oscillator plus an inverse square term. The key point is how to find the adapted symmetrical solutions of the one-dimensional harmonic oscillator plus an inverse square term at the singular point [Formula: see text]. The obtained results are compared with those in the spherical coordinates. We also explore intimate connections [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] by substituting [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text].
Sequential suppression of quarkonia and high-energy nucleus–nucleus collisions
Authors: Dutta Nirupam , Borghini Nicolas
Published: October 2015

According to the usual application of the sequential-suppression picture to the dynamics of heavy quarkonia in the hot medium formed in ultrarelativistic nuclear collisions, quark–antiquark pairs created in a given bound or unbound state remain in that same state as the medium evolves. We argue that this scenario implicitly assumes an adiabatic evolution of the quarkonia and we show that the validity of the adiabaticity assumption is questionable.
Einstein–Heisenberg consistency condition interplay with cosmological constant prediction in resummed quantum gravity
Authors: Ward B. F. L.
Published: October 2015

We argue that our recent success in using our resummed quantum gravity (RQG) approach to Einstein’s general theory of relativity, in the context of the Planck scale cosmology formulation of Bonanno and Reuter, to estimate the value of the cosmological constant [Formula: see text] supports the use of quantum mechanical consistency requirements to constrain the main uncertainty in that very promising result. This main uncertainty, which is due to the uncertainty in the value of the time [Formula: see text] at which the transition from the Planck scale cosmology to the FRW model occurs, is shown to be reduced, by requiring consistency between the Heisenberg uncertainty principle and the known properties of the solutions of Einstein’s equations, from four orders of magnitude to the level of a factor of [Formula: see text]. This lends more credibility to the overall RQG approach itself, in general, and to our estimate of [Formula: see text] in particular.
MODELING AND HEMODYNAMIC SIMULATION OF HUMAN ARTERIAL STENOSIS VIA TRANSMISSION LINE MODEL
Authors: XIAO HANGUANG , AVOLIO ALBERTO , ZHAO MINGFU
Published: October 2015

Arterial stenosis plays a key role in the development and formation of cardiovascular diseases. The effects of arterial stenosis on the global hemodynamic characteristics of human artery tree were studied based on a previously proposed transmission line model of 55 segment arterial tree. Different position, degree and length of the arterial stenosis were simulated to discuss the changes of blood pressure and flow waveform in human arterial tree. The stenosis degree of 50% to 90% were specified to represent a mild, moderate or severe stenosis. Three representative stenosis positions: aorta, carotid and iliac artery were selected. The stenosis length was specified to be 1[Formula: see text]cm to 4[Formula: see text]cm. The results of simulation were compared with the literature data. And ankle branchial index (ABI) was calculated to show its relationship with the stenosis position. The results showed that the influence of aorta stenosis on the blood pressure and flow waveforms of upstream artery is more obvious than those of downstream artery; branch artery stenosis has more influence on the blood pressure and flow waveforms of downstream artery than those of upstream artery. When the stenosis degree increased to 80%, the blood pressure and flow waveforms are affected significantly. The stenosis length causes a obvious change in the pressure and flow waveforms of stenosis inlet and outlet. The comparisons of literature and ABI demonstrated that the modeling method is a feasible tool to simulate and study the hemodynamics of the human artery stenosis.
U–Pb and Lu–Hf zircon data in young sediments reflect sedimentary recycling in eastern South Africa
Authors: Andersen Tom , Elburg Marlina , Cawthorn-Blazeby Anton
Published: October 2015

Detrital zircon from unconsolidated, Cenozoic sediments from eastern South Africa has been analysed for U–Pb and Lu–Hf isotopes by laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Identifiable bedrock sources have made local contributions to the detrital zircon populations, but the dominant zircon components are of regional distribution: late Mesoproterozoic (ε
Hf
 = –5 to +10), Neoproterozoic to early Palaeozoic (ε
Hf
 = –10 to +10), and minor late Palaeozoic (ε
Hf
 ≈ 0). Archaean zircons are scarce even in sediments deposited on exposed Archaean basement or by rivers eroding it. The dominant components cannot be tied to specific first-generation sources in southern Africa or its former Gondwana neighbours. Instead, we see the effect of mixing and remobilization of debris from large parts of the supercontinent in the early Phanerozoic, which was stored in the Karoo basin and other continental cover sequences and shed from there to the present site of deposition. Therefore, data from detrital zircon in these deposits tell us less about the path of detritus from source to sink in a recent sedimentary system than about processes in much earlier erosion–transport–deposition cycles. To facilitate comparison of detrital zircon age distribution patterns, a simple and intuitive method that takes sampling uncertainty explicitly into account is proposed.

Supplementary materials:

U–Pb and Lu–Hf data, and concordia diagrams and discussion of effects of discordance are available at
http://www.geolsoc.org.uk/SUP18884
.
The Natural History Museum Fossil Fish Collection: Smith Woodward’s role in the development and use of this priceless resource
Authors: Smith Mike
Published: October 2015

When an 18-year-old Arthur Smith Woodward arrived at the new home of the natural history collections of the British Museum on Cromwell Road, South Kensington in August 1882, he could not have envisaged the treasure trove of vertebrate fossils that awaited him. Even before the move to South Kensington, the collections already contained many fossil fish specimens first described and figured by the famous Swiss zoologist and geologist Louis Agassiz in his monumental work
Recherches sur les Poissons Fossiles
. The fabulous fossil fish collections of Lord Egerton and the Earl of Enniskillen arrived shortly after, including many more of Agassiz's type specimens. However, Agassiz had left much work undone and ideas on fossil fish systematics had changed in the 50 years since he had started publishing his research. Making full use of the collection, and adding to it, Smith Woodward embarked on a scientific career that was to see him become the world's leading authority on fossil fishes. When he retired from the Museum at the age of 60, his successors inherited the most extensive and well-documented collection of fossil fishes in the world.
When brain damage “improves” perception: neglect patients can localize motion-shifted probes better than controls
Authors: de Vito Stefania , Lunven Marine , Bourlon Clémence , Duret Christophe , Cavanagh Patrick , Bartolomeo Paolo
Published: October 2015

When we look at bars flashed against a moving background, we see them displaced in the direction of the upcoming motion (flash-grab illusion). It is still debated whether these motion-induced position shifts are low-level, reflexive consequences of stimulus motion or high-level compensation engaged only when the stimulus is tracked with attention. To investigate whether attention is a causal factor for this striking illusory position shift, we evaluated the flash-grab illusion in six patients with damaged attentional networks in the right hemisphere and signs of left visual neglect and six age-matched controls. With stimuli in the top, right, and bottom visual fields, neglect patients experienced the same amount of illusion as controls. However, patients showed no significant shift when the test was presented in their left hemifield, despite having equally precise judgments. Thus, paradoxically, neglect patients perceived the position of the flash more veridically in their neglected hemifield. These results suggest that impaired attentional processes can reduce the interaction between a moving background and a superimposed stationary flash, and indicate that attention is a critical factor in generating the illusory motion-induced shifts of location.
MPNs as Inflammatory Diseases: The Evidence, Consequences, and Perspectives
Authors: Hasselbalch Hans Carl , Bjørn Mads Emil
Published: October 2015

In recent years the evidence is increasing that chronic inflammation may be an important driving force for clonal evolution and disease progression in the Philadelphia‐negative myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs), essential thrombocythemia (ET), polycythemia vera (PV), and myelofibrosis (MF). Abnormal expression and activity of a number of proinflammatory cytokines are associated with MPNs, in particular MF, in which immune dysregulation is pronounced as evidenced by dysregulation of several immune and inflammation genes. In addition, chronic inflammation has been suggested to contribute to the development of premature atherosclerosis and may drive the development of other cancers in MPNs, both nonhematologic and hematologic. The MPN population has a substantial inflammation‐mediated comorbidity burden. This review describes the evidence for considering the MPNs as inflammatory diseases, A Human Inflammation Model of Cancer Development, and the role of cytokines in disease initiation and progression. The consequences of this model are discussed, including the increased risk of second cancers and other inflammation‐mediated diseases, emphasizing the urgent need for rethinking our therapeutic approach. Early intervention with interferon‐alpha2, which as monotherapy has been shown to be able to induce minimal residual disease, in combination with potent anti‐inflammatory agents such as JAK‐inhibitors is foreseen as the most promising new treatment modality in the years to come.
Fucoidans Disrupt Adherence ofHelicobacter pylorito AGS CellsIn Vitro
Authors: Chua Eng-Guan , Verbrugghe Phebe , Perkins Timothy T. , Tay Chin-Yen
Published: October 2015

Fucoidans are complex sulphated polysaccharides derived from abundant and edible marine algae.Helicobacter pyloriis a stomach pathogen that persists in the hostile milieu of the human stomach unless treated with antibiotics. This study aims to provide preliminary data to determine,in vitro, if fucoidans can inhibit the growth ofH. pyloriand its ability to adhere to gastric epithelial cells (AGS). We analysed the activity of three different fucoidan preparations (FucusA,FucusB, andUndariaextracts). Bacterial growth was not arrested or inhibited by the fucoidan preparations supplemented into culture media. All fucoidans, when supplemented into tissue culture media at 1000 µg mL−1, were toxic to AGS cells and reduced the viable cell count significantly. Fucoidan preparations at 100µg mL−1were shown to significantly reduce the number of adherentH. pylori. Thesein vitrofindings provide the basis for further studies on the clinical use of sulphated polysaccharides as complementary therapeutic agents.
Simultaneous Invariants of Strain and Rotation Rate Tensors and Their Admitted Region
Authors: Vigdorovich Igor , Foysi Holger
Published: October 2015

The purpose of this paper is to establish the admitted region for five simultaneous, functionally independent invariants of the strain rate tensorSand rotation rate tensorΩand calculate some simultaneous invariants of these tensors which are encountered in the theory of constitutive relations for turbulent flows. Such a problem, as far as we know, has not yet been considered, though it is obviously an integral part of any problem in which scalar functions of the tensorsSandΩare studied. The theory provided inside this paper is the building block for a derivation of new algebraic constitutive relations for three-dimensional turbulent flows in the form of expansions of the Reynolds-stress tensor in a tensorial basis formed by the tensorsSandΩ, in which the scalar coefficients depend on simultaneous invariants of these tensors.
Genetic Polymorphisms of Multidrug Resistance Gene‐1 (MDR1/ABCB1) and Glutathione S‐Transferase Gene and the Risk of Inflammatory Bowel Disease among Moroccan Patients
Authors: Senhaji Nezha , Kassogue Yaya , Fahimi Mina , Serbati Nadia , Badre Wafaa , Nadifi Sellama
Published: October 2015

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are multifactorial disorders resulting from environmental and genetic factors. Polymorphisms in MDR1 and GSTs genes might explain individual differences in susceptibility to IBD. We carried out a case‐control study to examine the association of MDR1 (C1236T and C3435T), GSTT1, and GSTM1 polymorphisms with the risk of IBD. Subjects were genotyped using PCR‐RFLP for MDR1 gene and multiplex PCR for GSTT1 and GSTM1. Meta‐analysis was performed to test the association of variant allele carriage with IBD risk. We report that GSTT1 null genotype is significantly associated with the risk of CD (OR: 2.5, CI: 1.2–5, P = 0.013) and UC (OR: 3.5, CI: 1.5–8.5, P = 0.004) and can influence Crohn’s disease behavior. The interaction between GSTT1 and GSTM1 genes showed that the combined null genotypes were associated with the risk of UC (OR: 3.1, CI: 1.1–9, P = 0.049). Furthermore, when compared to combined 1236CC/CT genotypes, the 1236TT genotype of MDR1 gene was associated with the risk of UC (OR: 3.7, CI: 1.3–10.7, P = 0.03). Meta‐analysis demonstrated significantly higher frequencies of 3435T carriage in IBD patients. Our results show that GSTT1 null and MDR1 polymorphisms could play a role in susceptibility to IBD.
Cardiac and Pulmonary Ultrasound for Diagnosing TRALI
Authors: Alonso-Fernández J. I. , Prieto-Recio J. R. , García-Bernardo C. , García-Saiz I. , Rico-Feijoo J. , Aldecoa C.
Published: October 2015

Unexpected acute respiratory failure after anesthesia is a diagnostic challenge: residual neuromuscular blockade, bronchial hyperresponsiveness, laryngospasm, atelectasis, aspiration pneumonitis, and other more uncommon causes should be taken into account at diagnosis. Lung ultrasound and echocardiography are diagnostic tools that would provide the differential diagnosis. We report a suspected case of a transfusion related acute lung injury (TRALI) following administration of platelets. The usefulness of lung and cardiac ultrasound is discussed to facilitate the challenging diagnosis of the acute early postoperative respiratory failure.
Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita: Multiple Congenital Joint Contractures
Authors: Sucuoglu Hamza , Ornek Nurettin Irem , Caglar Cagkan
Published: October 2015

Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) is a syndrome characterized by nonprogressive multiple congenital joint contractures. The etiology of disease is multifactorial; it is most commonly suspected from absent fetal movements and genetic defects. AMC affects mainly limbs; also it might present with other organs involvement. It is crucial that the diagnosis of AMC should be kept in mind by musculoskeletal physicians in newborns with multiple joint contractures and patients must begin rehabilitation in early stage after accurate diagnosis in terms of functional independence. We present the diagnosis, types, clinical features, and treatment approaches of this disease in our case with literature reviews.
Effect of Processing Parameters on the Protective Quality of Electroless Nickel-Phosphorus on Cast Aluminium Alloy
Authors: Ajibola Olawale Olarewaju , Oloruntoba Daniel Toyin , Adewuyi Benjamin O.
Published: October 2015

The effects of temperature, pH, and time variations on the protective amount and quality of electroless nickel (EN) deposition on cast aluminium alloy (CAA) substrates were studied. The temperature, pH, and plating time were varied while the surface condition of the substrate was kept constant in acid or alkaline bath. Within solution pH of 5.0–5.5 range, the best quality is obtained in acid solution pH of 5.2. At lower pH (5.0–5.1), good adhesion characterised the EN deposition. Within the range of plating solution pH of 7.0 to 11.5, the highest quantity and quality of EN deposition are obtained on CAA substrate in solution pH of 10.5. It is characterised with few pores and discontinuous metallic EN film. The quantity of EN deposition is time dependent, whereas the adhesion and brightness are not time controlled. The best fit models were developed from the trends of result data obtained from the experiments. The surface morphologies and the chemical composition of the coating were studied using the Jeol JSM-7600F field emission scanning electron microscope.
Vibration and Long-Term Performance Analysis of Pile-Plank-Supported Low Subgrade of Ballastless Track under Excitation Loads
Authors: Huang Junjie , Su Qian , Liu Ting , Wang Xun
Published: October 2015

Pile-plank structures are widely applied for high-speed railway built in soft ground in China. It can be used as a reinforcement to improve the behavior of subgrade by providing vertical confinement to increase their stiffness and strength and reduce the subgrade settlement of ballastless track. However, the use of pile-board structure for soft ground reinforcement of high-speed railway is hindered by the existing gap between applications and theories. To verify vibration characteristics and long-term performance of pile-plank-supported low subgrade of ballastless track and the benefit of pile-board structure, an experimental study was conducted on low subgrade of pile-board under excitation loads using both in situ frequency sweeping and cyclic loading experiments. The frequency sweeping experimental results show that the pile-plank-supported low subgrade has smooth stiffness along the longitudinal subgrade and can effectively control the progressive effects of train speed on dynamic stiffness of the subgrade, which ensures driving safety and comfort. The cycle loading experimental results show that the pile-plank-supported low subgrade has favorable long-term dynamic stability, and its dynamic response is uniform along the longitudinal subgrade.
Association of theNOTCH4Gene Polymorphism rs204993 with Schizophrenia in the Chinese Han Population
Authors: Zhang Bao , Fan Qian Rui , Li Wen Hao , Lu Ning , Fu Dong Ke , Kang Yan Jie , Wang Na , Li Teng , Wen Xiao Peng , Li Da Xu
Published: October 2015

NOTCH4 regulates signaling pathways associated with neuronal maturation, a process involved in the development and patterning of the central nervous system. TheNOTCH4gene has also been identified as a possible susceptibility gene for schizophrenia (SCZ). The objective of this study was to examine the relationship betweenNOTCH4polymorphisms and SCZ in the Chinese Han population. The rs2071287 and rs204993 polymorphisms of theNOTCH4gene were analyzed in 443 patients with SCZ and 628 controls of Han Chinese descent. Single SNP allele-, genotype-, and gender-specific associations were analyzed using different models (i.e., additive, dominant, and recessive models). This association study revealed that the rs204993 polymorphism is significantly associated with susceptibility for SCZ and that the AA genotype of rs204993 is associated with a higher risk for SCZ (P=0.027; OR = 1.460; 95% CI, 1.043–2.054). Our data are consistent with those obtained in previous studies that suggested that rs204993 is associated with SCZ and that the AA genotype of rs204993 demonstrates a higher risk. Further large-scale association analyses in Han Chinese populations are warranted.
The Hankel Transform ofq-Noncentral Bell Numbers
Authors: Corcino Cristina B. , Corcino Roberto B. , Ontolan Jay M. , Perez-Fernandez Charrymae M. , Cantallopez Ednelyn R.
Published: October 2015

We define two forms ofq-analogue of noncentral Stirling numbers of the second kind and obtain some properties parallel to those of noncentral Stirling numbers. Certain combinatorial interpretation is given for the second form of theq-analogue in the context of 0-1 tableaux which, consequently, yields certain additive identity and some convolution-type formulas. Finally, aq-analogue of noncentral Bell numbers is defined and its Hankel transform is established.
Feasibility of Telerehabilitation Implementation as a Novel Experience in Rehabilitation Academic Centers and Affiliated Clinics in Tehran: Assessment of Rehabilitation Professionals’ Attitudes
Authors: Movahedazarhouligh Sara , Vameghi Roshanak , Hatamizadeh Nikta , Bakhshi Enayatollah , Moosavy Khatat Seyed Muhammad
Published: October 2015

Introduction. This study aimed to assess rehabilitation professionals’ attitude toward implementation and application of telerehabilitation technology as a novel study in rehabilitation academic centers and affiliated clinics in Tehran.Methods. It was a descriptive cross-sectional study. To collect data, a researcher-designed questionnaire was developed. 141 rehabilitation experts participated in the study.Results. A majority of faculty members (78%) and clinicians (89.7%) either were in “definite agreement” or “somewhat agreed” with implementation and application of this technology, which demonstrates an overall positive attitude.Discussion. Based on the positive attitudes of the majority of participants toward implementation and application of this technology and their preferences in offering different telerehabilitation services, it seems that there is an appropriate and desirable acceptance and administrative culture to implement this technology among rehabilitation experts in Tehran. It is thus expected that implementation and application of this technology will be a promising experience in rehabilitation academic centers and affiliate clinics in Tehran.
Existence for Elliptic Equation Involving Decaying Cylindrical Potentials with Subcritical and Critical Exponent
Authors: El Mokhtar Mohammed El Mokhtar Ould
Published: October 2015

We consider the existence of nontrivial solutions to elliptic equations with decaying cylindrical potentials and subcritical exponent. We will obtain a local minimizer by using Ekeland’s variational principle.
Myopia Control with a Novel Peripheral Gradient Soft Lens and Orthokeratology: A 2-Year Clinical Trial
Authors: Pauné Jaime , Morales Hari , Armengol Jesús , Quevedo Lluisa , Faria-Ribeiro Miguel , González-Méijome José M.
Published: October 2015

Objective.To evaluate the degree of axial elongation with soft radial refractive gradient (SRRG) contact lenses, orthokeratology (OK), and single vision (SV) spectacle lenses (control) during a period of 1 year before treatment and 2 years after treatment.Methods.This was a prospective, longitudinal, nonrandomized study. The study groups consisted of 30, 29, and 41 children, respectively. The axial length (AL) was measured during 2 years after recruitment and lens fitting.Results.The baseline refractive sphere was correlated significantly (Spearman’s Rho (ρ) correlation = 0.542;P< 0.0001) with the amount of myopia progression before baseline. After 2 years, the mean myopia progression values for the SRRG, OK, and SV groups were −0.56 ± 0.51, −0.32 ± 0.53, and −0.98 ± 0.58 diopter, respectively. The results represent reductions in myopic progression of 43% and 67% for the SRRG and OK groups, respectively, compared to the SV group. The AL increased 27% and 38% less in the SRRG and OK groups, respectively compared with the SV group at the 2-year visit (P< 0.05). Axial elongation was not significantly different between SRRG and OK (P= 0.430).Conclusion.The SRRG lens significantly decreased AL elongation compared to the SV control group. The SRRG lens was similarly effective to OK in preventing myopia progression in myopic children and adolescent.
MIMO Passive Control Systems Are Not Necessarily Robust
Authors: Liceaga-Castro Jesús U. , Siller-Alcalá Irma I. , Liceaga-Castro Eduardo , Amézquita-Brooks Luis A.
Published: October 2015

Via several cases of study it is shown that a passive multivariable linear control system, contrary to its single input single output counterpart, may not be robust. Moreover, it is shown that lack of robustness can be exposed via the multivariable structure function.
Oral Antineoplastic Agents: Assessing the Delay in Care
Authors: Anders Brandi , Shillingburg Alexandra , Newton Michael
Published: October 2015

The study was undertaken to determine the length of time between when a prescription for an oral antineoplastic agent is written by the provider and when the medication is received by the patient and to identify risk factors that significantly increase time to medication receipt. First-time fill prescriptions for oral antineoplastic agents were identified. The date the prescription was written and received by the patient was determined. A retrospective review was completed to gather additional information, including prescribed medication, indication, insurance coverage, patient assistance program use, dispensing pharmacy, and prior authorization requirements. The data was analyzed through multivariate statistical analysis and used to identify risk factors that may significantly increase the time to medication receipt. A total of 58 patients were included in the study. A median of 8 days elapsed between when the medication was prescribed and when it was received by the patient. Medication prescribed, absence of a Risk Evaluation Mitigation Strategies (REMS) program, and insurance type are factors that increased time to medication receipt. An understanding of the median time involved, as well as factors affecting the time to delivery of prescriptions, will help healthcare providers better plan and prepare for the use of oral antineoplastic agents.
Associations between Wage System and Risk Factors for Musculoskeletal Disorders among Construction Workers
Authors: Ajslev Jeppe Zielinski Nguyen , Persson Roger , Andersen Lars Louis
Published: October 2015

Piece rate and performance based wage systems are common in the construction industry. Construction workers are known to have an increased risk of pain and musculoskeletal disorders (MSD). In this cross-sectional questionnaire study, we examined the association between wage system and (1) physical exertion, (2) time pressure, (3) pain, and (4) fatigue. The participants comprised 456 male Danish construction workers working on one of three different wage systems: group based performance wage, individually based performance wage, and time based wage system. The statistical analyses indicated differences between the wage systems in relation to physical exertion (ηp=0.05) and time pressure (ηp=0.03) but not to pain or fatigue. Workers on group based performance wage scored higher (i.e., worse) than workers on individual performance based wage and workers with an hourly/monthly wage. In conclusion, group performance based wage was associated with higher levels of physical exertion and time pressure. Accordingly, group performance based wage can be viewed as a factor that has the potential to complicate prevention of MSD among construction workers. Since performance based wage systems are common in many countries across the world, more attention should be paid to the health effects of these types of payment.
Formal Kinematic Analysis of a General 6R Manipulator Using the Screw Theory
Authors: Wu Aixuan , Shi Zhiping , Li Yongdong , Wu Minhua , Guan Yong , Zhang Jie , Wei Hongxing
Published: October 2015

Kinematic analysis is a significant method when planning the trajectory of robotic manipulators. The main idea behind kinematic analysis is to study the motion of the robot based on the geometrical relationship of the robotic links and their joints, such as the Denavit-Hartenberg parameters. Given the continuous nature of kinematic analysis and the shortcoming of the traditional verification methods, we propose to use high-order-logic theorem proving for conducting formal kinematic analysis. Based on the screw theory in HOL4, which is newly developed by our research institute, we utilize the geometrical theory of HOL4 to develop formal reasoning support for the kinematic analysis of a robotic manipulator. To illustrate the usefulness of our fundamental formalization, we present the formal kinematic analysis of a general 6R manipulator.
A Humanized Anti-CD22-Onconase Antibody-Drug Conjugate Mediates Highly Potent Destruction of Targeted Tumor Cells
Authors: Weber Tobias , Mavratzas Athanasios , Kiesgen Stefan , Haase Stephanie , Bötticher Benedikt , Exner Evelyn , Mier Walter , Grosse-Hovest Ludger , Jäger Dirk , Arndt Michaela A. E. , Krauss Jürgen
Published: October 2015

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) have evolved as a new class of potent cancer therapeutics. We here report on the development of ADCs with specificity for the B-cell lineage specific (surface) antigen CD22 being expressed in the majority of hematological malignancies. As targeting moiety a previously generated humanized anti-CD22 single-chain variable fragment (scFv) derivative from the monoclonal antibody RFB4 was reengineered into a humanized IgG1 antibody format (huRFB4). Onconase (ranpirnase), a clinically active pancreatic-type ribonuclease, was employed as cytotoxic payload moiety. Chemical conjugation via thiol-cleavable disulfide linkage retained full enzymatic activity and full binding affinity of the ADC. Development of sophisticated purification procedures using size exclusion and ion exchange chromatography allowed the separation of immunoconjugate species with stoichiometrically defined number of Onconase cargos. A minimum of two Onconase molecules per IgG was required for achieving significantin vitrocytotoxicity towards lymphoma and leukemia cell lines. Antibody-drug conjugates with an Onconase to antibody ratio of 3 : 1 exhibited an IC50of 0.08 nM, corresponding to more than 18,400-fold increased cytotoxicity of the ADC when compared with unconjugated Onconase. These results justify further development of this ADC as a promising first-in-class compound for the treatment of CD22-positive malignancies.
Efficient Multicriteria Protein Structure Comparison on Modern Processor Architectures
Authors: Sharma Anuj , Manolakos Elias S.
Published: October 2015

Fast increasing computational demand for all-to-all protein structures comparison (PSC) is a result of three confounding factors: rapidly expanding structural proteomics databases, high computational complexity of pairwise protein comparison algorithms, and the trend in the domain towards using multiple criteria for protein structures comparison (MCPSC) and combining results. We have developed a software framework that exploits many-core and multicore CPUs to implement efficient parallel MCPSC in modern processors based on three popular PSC methods, namely, TMalign, CE, and USM. We evaluate and compare the performance and efficiency of the two parallel MCPSC implementations using Intel’s experimental many-core Single-Chip Cloud Computer (SCC) as well as Intel’s Core i7 multicore processor. We show that the 48-core SCC is more efficient than the latest generation Core i7, achieving a speedup factor of 42 (efficiency of 0.9), making many-core processors an exciting emerging technology for large-scale structural proteomics. We compare and contrast the performance of the two processors on several datasets and also show that MCPSC outperforms its component methods in grouping related domains, achieving a highF-measure of 0.91 on the benchmark CK34 dataset. The software implementation for protein structure comparison using the three methods and combined MCPSC, along with the developed underlyingrckskelalgorithmic skeletons library, is available via GitHub.
A Modified FNN Fault Diagnosis on PCVD Microwave System
Authors: Li Zhenyu , Li Hongsheng
Published: October 2015

A modified FNN fault diagnosis algorithm is presented in this paper for microwave subsystem of Plasma Chemical Vapor Deposition (PCVD). The symptom variables are selected as the crisp inputs, and the corresponding membership functions are obtained from premeasured data as well as experts’ diagnostic experience/knowledge. The prior probability and the restriction coefficients are combined into the FNN algorithm via matrix operator. This modified FNN algorithm is verified for PCVD fault diagnosis application and realizes the MIMO for multifault mode diagnosis.
Effects of Dexterity Level and Hand Anthropometric Dimensions on Smartphone Users’ Satisfaction
Authors: Ozkan N. Firat , Gokalp-Yavuz Fulya
Published: October 2015

The usage of smartphones instead of simple mobile phones increases sharply in our era, especially among young people, because they do multiple tasks with single equipment. This study mainly focuses on smartphone satisfaction by combining hand measurements, smartphone users’ survey results, and hand dexterity levels of corresponding users acquired from Minnesota Manual Dexterity Test (MMDT). Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) is used as a statistical tool to discover the potential direct and indirect relations among user satisfaction, hand dimensions, and dexterity scores. Results indicates that thumb length, hand length, and dexterity level of the users have notable effects on users’ satisfaction with smartphones. Based on the results, a new approach that includes both gross motor skills and physical measurements is suggested to see hidden indirect relations with satisfaction.