bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combined Phacoemulsification and Intravitreal Dexamethasone Implant (Ozurdex®) in Diabetic Patients with Coexisting Cataract and Diabetic Macular Edema
Authors: Furino Claudio , Boscia Francesco , Niro Alfredo , Giancipoli Ermete , Grassi Maria Oliva , D’amico Ricci Giuseppe , Blasetti Francesco , Reibaldi Michele , Alessio Giovanni
Published: August 2017

Purpose. To investigate the effectiveness and safety of combined phacoemulsification and dexamethasone intravitreal implant in patients with cataract and diabetic macular edema. Methods. In this two-center, retrospective, single-group study, the charts of 16 consecutive patients who underwent combined phacoemulsification and intravitreal dexamethasone implant were retrospectively reviewed. These 16 patients, 7 men and 9 women, were observed at least 3 months of follow-up. Primary outcome was the change of the central retinal thickness (CRT); secondary outcome was the change of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA). Any ocular complications were recorded. Results. Mean CRT decreased significantly from 486 ± 152.4 μm at baseline to 365.5 ± 91 μm at 30 days (p=.005), to 326 ± 80 μm at 60 days (p=.0004), and to 362 ± 134 μm at 90 days (p=.001). Mean BCVA was 20/105 (logMAR, 0.72 ± 0.34) at baseline and improved significantly (p≤.007) at all postsurgery time points. One case of ocular hypertension was observed and successfully managed with topical therapy. No endophthalmitis or other ocular complications were observed. Conclusion. Intravitreal slow-release dexamethasone implant combined with cataract surgery may be an effective approach on morphologic and functional outcomes for patients with cataract and diabetic macular edema for at least three months after surgery.
Existence, Multiplicity, and Stability of Positive Solutions of a Predator‐Prey Model with Dinosaur Functional Response
Authors: Feng Xiaozhou , Shi Kenan , Tian Jianhui , Zhang Tongqian
Published: August 2017

We investigate the property of positive solutions of a predator‐prey model with Dinosaur functional response under Dirichlet boundary conditions. Firstly, using the comparison principle and fixed point index theory, the sufficient conditions and necessary conditions on coexistence of positive solutions of a predator‐prey model with Dinosaur functional response are established. Secondly, by virtue of bifurcation theory, perturbation theory of eigenvalues, and the fixed point index theory, we establish the bifurcation of positive solutions of the model and obtain the stability and multiplicity of the positive solution under certain conditions. Furthermore, the local uniqueness result is studied when b and d are small enough. Finally, we investigate the multiplicity, uniqueness, and stability of positive solutions when k > 0 is sufficiently large.
Advanced Oxidation Protein Products and Carbonylated Proteins as Biomarkers of Oxidative Stress in Selected Atherosclerosis-Mediated Diseases
Authors: Gryszczyńska Bogna , Formanowicz Dorota , Budzyń Magdalena , Wanic-Kossowska Maria , Pawliczak Elżbieta , Formanowicz Piotr , Majewski Wacław , Strzyżewski Krzysztof Wojciech , Kasprzak Magdalena P. , Iskra Maria
Published: August 2017

Objectives. The main question of this study was to evaluate the intensity of oxidative protein modification shown as advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP) and carbonylated proteins, expressed as protein carbonyl content (C=O) in abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA), aortoiliac occlusive disease (AIOD), and chronic kidney disease (CKD). Design and Methods. The study was carried out in a group of 35 AAA patients and 13 AIOD patients. However, CKD patients were divided into two groups: predialysis (PRE) included 50 patients or hemodialysis (HD) consisted of 34 patients. AOPP and C=O were measured using colorimetric assay kit, while C-reactive protein concentration was measured by high-sensitivity assay (hsCRP). Results. The concentration of AOPP in both AAA and AIOD groups was higher than in PRE and HD groups according to descending order: AAA~AIOD > HD > PRE. The content of C=O was higher in the PRE group in comparison to AIOD and AAA according to the descending order: PRE~HD > AAA~AIOD. Conclusions. AAA, AIOD, and CKD-related atherosclerosis (PRE and HD) contribute to the changes in the formation of AOPP and C=O. They may promote modification of proteins in a different way, probably due to the various factors that influence oxidative stress here.
Competence Models as a Tool for Conceptualizing the Systematic Process of Entrepreneurship Competence Development
Authors: Lilleväli Uku , Täks Marge
Published: August 2017

Entrepreneurship Education (EE) is believed to be an important key to supporting learners to become entrepreneurial, which means it needs to be approached systematically. Competence models provide a platform to meaningfully embed varying interpretations, learning outcomes, and roles of EE and allow educators and other stakeholders to apply EE systematically throughout all education levels. The aim of this study was to understand how systematic entrepreneurship competence development throughout the education levels is conceptualized in different EE competence models. In other words, what are the critical aspects to consider while constructing systematic competence models for EE purposes? The results of the analysis of the competence models help educators, school boards, policymakers, local municipalities, researchers, and other relevant stakeholders to obtain a clearer understanding of how EE learning outcomes can be systematically achieved at all education levels. However, lacking empirical proof regarding the impact of the models’ application, these models represent the “optimal set” of expected competencies for specific education levels and types. In its original form, a competence model established for a specific education system is unlikely to fit the needs and aims of other education systems. Thus, it is recommended that any model be adapted to a specific need and with a focus on learning outcomes.
Deviation of the Fecal Stream in Colonic Bowel Segments Results in Increased Numbers of Isolated Lymphoid Follicles in the Submucosal Compartment in a Novel Murine Model of Diversion Colitis
Authors: Kleinwort Annabel , Döring Paula , Hackbarth Christine , Heidecke Claus-Dieter , Schulze Tobias
Published: August 2017

Introduction.Diversion colitis is a significant health problem due to its high incidence in patients with diverting enterostomy. This mucosal inflammation presents characteristic histopathological features allowing for the differentiation of this entity from other inflammatory bowel diseases. The pathophysiology of this disease remains ill-defined, in part due to the lack of appropriate animal models. The present study was performed in order to develop and characterize a murine model of diversion colitis.Methods.A diverting loop colostomy was performed in C57BL/6 mice either in the ascending colon or in the transverse colon. Animals were assessed for clinical and histopathological parameters during short-term and long-term survival.Results.Animals with a colostomy in the transverse colon showed a good long-term survival and developed a mild colitis in the bypassed bowel closely resembling the human pathology on a histopathological level.Conclusion.This model is a promising tool to further elucidate the pathomechanism leading to impaired mucosal homeostasis in bypassed colonic segments. Moreover, the establishment of the model in the C57BL/6 background allows the combination of this colitis model with various transgenic mouse strains to investigate the effect of locally deregulated mucosal immunity on systemic immune homeostasis and to develop specific therapeutic strategies.
Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension: Prognostic Factors and Multidisciplinary Management
Authors: Chagot Claire , Blonski Marie , Machu Jean-Loup , Bracard Serge , Lacour Jean-Christophe , Richard Sébastien
Published: August 2017

Background. Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) mostly affects young obese women and can lead to permanent visual impairment. However, prognostic factors and therapeutic strategy remain unclear. Methods. We retrospectively collected data from all patients diagnosed and managed for IIH in our university center from January 2001 to December 2016. Results. Seventy-nine patients were diagnosed with IIH. Bilateral transverse sinus stenosis (TSS) was found in 74% of the population. Visual outcome at 6 months was poor for 46% of patients, including all patients presenting weight gain of at least 5% since diagnosis (p<0.001), whereas mean body mass index at diagnosis was not different between patients with poor versus good outcome (32.9±7.7 versus 34.6 ± 9.4 kg·m−2). Other significant factors of poor prognosis were bilateral TSS (OR = 5.2; 95 CI: 1.24–24.9; p=0.024). Thirteen patients with poor outcome after 6-month assessment underwent unilateral TSS stenting leading to visual improvement in 11 cases. Conclusion. Weight gain, rather than initial weight, emerged as the leading factor of poor visual outcome in patients with IIH, followed by presence of bilateral TSS. Consequently, first-line treatment must include dietary measures to control weight. Unilateral stenting appears to be a safe second-line treatment option for patients with bilateral TSS.
Role of the Hedgehog Signaling Pathway in Regulating the Behavior of Germline Stem Cells
Authors: Li Shiqin , Wang Meng , Chen Yanghui , Wang Wei , Wu Junying , Yu Chengpeng , Zheng Yuehui , Pan Zezheng
Published: August 2017

Germline stem cells (GSCs) are adult stem cells that are responsible for the production of gametes and include spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) and ovarian germline stem cells (OGSCs). GSCs are located in a specialized microenvironment in the gonads called the niche. Many recent studies have demonstrated that multiple signals in the niche jointly regulate the proliferation and differentiation of GSCs, which is of significance for reproductive function. Previous studies have demonstrated that the hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway participates in the proliferation and differentiation of various stem cells, including GSCs in Drosophila and male mammals. Furthermore, the discovery of mammalian OGSCs challenged the traditional opinion that the number of primary follicles is fixed in postnatal mammals, which is of significance for the reproductive ability of female mammals and the treatment of diseases related to germ cells. Meanwhile, it still remains to be determined whether the Hh signaling pathway participates in the regulation of the behavior of OGSCs. Herein, we review the current research on the role of the Hh signaling pathway in mediating the behavior of GSCs. In addition, some suggestions for future research are proposed.
Biomarkers and C and S Isotopes of the Permian to Triassic Solid Bitumen and Its Potential Source Rocks in NE Sichuan Basin
Authors: Cai Chunfang , Xu Chenlu , He Wenxiang , Zhang Chunming , Li Hongxia
Published: August 2017

The potential parent source rocks except from Upper Permian Dalong Formation (P3d) for Upper Permian and Lower Triassic solid bitumen show high maturity to overmaturity with equivalent vitrinite reflectance (ERo) from 1.7% to 3.1% but have extractable organic matter likely not contaminated by younger source rocks. P3d source rocks were deposited under euxinic environments as indicated by the pyrite δ34S values as light as -34.5‰ and distribution of aryl isoprenoids, which were also detected from the Lower Silurian (S1l) source rock and the solid bitumen in the gas fields in the west not in the east. All the solid bitumen not altered by thermochemical sulfate reduction (TSR) has δ13C and δ34S values similar to part of the P3l kerogens and within the S1l kerogens. Thus, the eastern solid bitumen may have been derived from the P3l kerogens, and the western solid bitumen was likely to have precracking oils from P3l kerogens mixed with the S1l or P3d kerogens. This case-study tentatively shows that δ13C and δ34S values along with biomarkers have the potential to be used for the purpose of solid bitumen and source rock correlation in a rapidly buried basin, although further work should be done to confirm it.
A Case of Lionfish Envenomation Presenting to an Inland Emergency Department
Authors: Schult Rachel F. , Acquisto Nicole M. , Stair Crystal K. , Wiegand Timothy J.
Published: August 2017

Lionfish envenomation can cause erythema, edema, necrosis, and severe pain at the exposed site. Treatment often includes supportive wound care, pain management, and hot water immersion. We report a case of lionfish exposure presenting to an inland emergency department treated successfully with these measures.
A Controversial Medicolegal Issue: Timing the Onset of Perinatal Hypoxic-Ischemic Brain Injury
Authors: Fineschi Vittorio , Viola Rocco Valerio , La Russa Raffaele , Santurro Alessandro , Frati Paola
Published: August 2017

Perinatal hypoxic-ischemic brain injury, as a result of chronic, subacute, and acute insults, represents the pathological consequence of fetal distress and birth or perinatal asphyxia, that is, “nonreassuring fetal status.” Hypoxic-ischemic injury (HII) is typically characterized by an early phase of damage, followed by a delayed inflammatory local response, in an apoptosis-necrosis continuum. In the early phase, the cytotoxic edema and eventual acute lysis take place; with reperfusion, additional damage should be assigned to excitotoxicity and oxidative stress. Finally, a later phase involves all the inflammatory activity and long-term neural tissue repairing and remodeling. In this model mechanism, loss of mitochondrial function is supposed to be the hallmark of secondary injury progression, and autophagy which is lysosome-mediated play a role in enhancing brain injury. Early-induced molecules driven by hypoxia, as chaperonins HSPs and ORP150, besides common markers for inflammatory responses, have predictive value in timing the onset of neonatal HII; on the other hand, clinical biomarkers for HII diagnosis, as CK-BB, LDH, S-100beta, and NSE, could be useful to predict outcomes.
The Pattern of Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer and Macular Ganglion Cell-Inner Plexiform Layer Thickness Changes in Glaucoma
Authors: Choi Jin A , Shin Hye-Young , Park Hae-Young Lopilly , Park Chan Kee
Published: August 2017

Background/Aims. To investigate the patterns of retinal ganglion cell damage at different stages of glaucoma, using the circumpapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and macula ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer (GCIPL) thicknesses. Methods. In 296 eyes of 296 glaucoma patients and 55 eyes of 55 healthy controls, the correlations of mean deviation (MD) with the superior and inferior quadrant RNFL/GCIPL thickness (defined as the average of three superior and inferior sectors, resp.) were analyzed. Results. In early to moderate glaucoma, most of the RNFL/GCIPL thicknesses had significant positive correlations with the MD. In advanced glaucoma, the superior GCIPL thickness showed the highest correlation with MD (r=0.495), followed by the superior RNFL (r=0.452) (all; P<0.05). The correlation coefficient of the inferior RNFL thickness with MD (r<0.471) was significantly stronger in early to moderate glaucoma compared to that in advanced glaucoma (r=0.192; P<0.001). In contrast, the correlations of the superior GCIPL thickness with MD (r=0.452) in advanced glaucoma was significantly stronger compared to that in early to moderate glaucoma (r=0.159; P<0.001). Conclusions. The most preserved region in advanced glaucoma appears to be the superior macular GCIPL, whereas the most vulnerable region for initial glaucoma is the inferior RNFL around the optic disc.
Incorporation of Polymers into Calcined Clays as Improved Thermal Insulating Materials for Construction
Authors: Ng Serina , Jelle Bjørn Petter
Published: August 2017

Calcined clay is a Type Q supplementary cementing material according to EN197-1:2000. It possesses lower thermal conductivity than cement. To further improve its thermal insulation property, polymer-calcined clay complexes (PCCs) were produced in a one-pot synthesis. Two contrasting polymers, polystyrene (PS) and polyethylene glycol (PEG), were employed. The hydrophilicity of the polymers influenced the thermal conductivity of PCC. Hydrophilic PEG entrapped more water molecules on clay layers than the hydrophobic PS, making PEG-PCC more thermally conducting than PS-PCC. Contaminants in calcined clays played a role in affecting the overall thermal conductivity. PCC can improve thermal insulation properties for future construction applications.
Stability and Multiscroll Attractors of Control Systems via the Abscissa
Authors: Díaz-González Edgar-Cristian , Aguirre-Hernández Baltazar , López-Rentería Jorge Antonio , Campos-Cantón Eric , Loredo-Villalobos Carlos Arturo
Published: August 2017

We present an approach to generate multiscroll attractors via destabilization of piecewise linear systems based on Hurwitz matrix in this paper. First we present some results about the abscissa of stability of characteristic polynomials from linear differential equations systems; that is, we consider Hurwitz polynomials. The starting point is the Gauss–Lucas theorem, we provide lower bounds for Hurwitz polynomials, and by successively decreasing the order of the derivative of the Hurwitz polynomial one obtains a sequence of lower bounds. The results are extended in a straightforward way to interval polynomials; then we apply the abscissa as a measure to destabilize Hurwitz polynomial for the generation of a family of multiscroll attractors based on a class of unstable dissipative systems (UDS) of affine linear type.
Synthesis and Characterization of the Optical Properties of Pt-TiO2Nanotubes
Authors: Jiang Zhuwu , Li Jingling , Liao Wei , Fan Gongduan , Yu Hualiang , Chen Lihong , Su Zhaoyue
Published: August 2017

Composite Pt-doped TiO2nanotubes (Pt-TNTs) were synthesized via alkaline fusion-hydrothermal method (AFHM) under ambient atmosphere pressure. Further systematic characterization of Pt-TNTs was performed by using XPS, surface photovoltage spectroscopy (SPS), electric field-induced surface photovoltage spectroscopy (FISPS), UV-Vis diffuse reflectance spectrophotometry (UV-Vis), TEM, and XRD. XPS spectrum showed double peaks which accounted for the presence of platinum dioxide and platinum oxide (PtO2and PtO,PtOxδ+). Composition analysis showed that the particulate matters on surface of Pt-TNTs were composed ofPtOxδ+and TiO2. The results of SPS and FISPS demonstrated that the bound exciton showed sub-band gap transition characteristics with the asymmetric changes of photoelectric property corresponding to changes in polarity and strength of the external electric field. Furthermore, the influence of the changed microstructure morphology of Pt-doped TNTs on both the photovoltage spectroscopy and the lifetime of photogenerated carriers which occurred at the interfaces of Pt-TNTs was observed. Result of XRD indicated that a mixture of anatase and rutile phases prevailed in Pt-TNTs. Contact potential barriers consisting ofPtOxδ+, anatase, rutile, andPtOxδ+are presumed to form uponPtOxδ+particle that deposited on the surface of Pt-TNTs.
High-Grade B-Cell Neoplasm with Surface Light Chain Restriction and Tdt Coexpression Evolved in aMYC-Rearranged Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma: A Dilemma in Classification
Authors: Soliman Dina Sameh , Al-Sabbagh Ahmad , Ibrahim Feryal , Taha Ruba Y. , Nawaz Zafar , Elkourashy Sarah , Haider Abdulrazzaq , Akiki Susanna , Yassin Mohamed
Published: August 2017

According to World Health Organization (WHO) classification (2008), B-cell neoplasms are classified into precursor B-cell or a mature B-cell phenotype and this classification was also kept in the latest WHO revision (2016). We are reporting a male patient in his fifties, with tonsillar swelling diagnosed as diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), germinal center. He received 6 cycles of RCHOP and showed complete metabolic response. Two months later, he presented with severe CNS symptoms. Flow cytometry on bone marrow (BM) showed infiltration by CD10-positive Kappa-restricted B-cells with loss of CD20 and CD19, and downregulation of CD79b. Moreover, the malignant population showed Tdt expression. BM Cytogenetics revealed t(8;14)(q24;q32) within a complex karyotype. Retrospectively, MYC and Tdt immunostains performed on original diagnostic tissue and came negative for Tdt and positive for MYC. It has been rarely reported that mature B-cell neoplasms present with features of immaturity; however the significance of Tdt acquisition during disease course was not addressed before. What is unique in this case is that the emerging disease has acquired an immaturity marker while retaining some features of the original mature clone. No definitive WHO category would adopt high-grade neoplasms that exhibit significant overlapping features between mature and immature phenotypes.
Centella asiatica Attenuates Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Oxidative Stress in Aβ‐Exposed Hippocampal Neurons
Authors: Gray Nora E. , Zweig Jonathan A. , Matthews Donald G. , Caruso Maya , Quinn Joseph F. , Soumyanath Amala
Published: August 2017

Centella asiatica has been used for centuries to enhance memory. We have previously shown that a water extract of Centella asiatica (CAW) protects against the deleterious effects of amyloid‐β (Aβ) in neuroblastoma cells and attenuates Aβ‐induced cognitive deficits in mice. Yet, the neuroprotective mechanism of CAW has yet to be thoroughly explored in neurons from these animals. This study investigates the effects of CAW on neuronal metabolism and oxidative stress in isolated Aβ‐expressing neurons. Hippocampal neurons from amyloid precursor protein overexpressing Tg2576 mice and wild‐type (WT) littermates were treated with CAW. In both genotypes, CAW increased the expression of antioxidant response genes which attenuated the Aβ‐induced elevations in reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxidation in Tg2576 neurons. CAW also improved mitochondrial function in both genotypes and increased the expression of electron transport chain enzymes and mitochondrial labeling, suggesting an increase in mitochondrial content. These data show that CAW protects against mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress in Aβ‐exposed hippocampal neurons which could contribute to the beneficial effects of the extract observed in vivo. Since CAW also improved mitochondrial function in the absence of Aβ, these results suggest a broader utility for other conditions where neuronal mitochondrial dysfunction occurs.
Practice of Comparative Effectiveness Research to Identify Treatment Characteristics of Similar Chinese Patent Medicine for Angina Pectoris
Authors: Cao Hongbo , Wang Ping , Li Nan , Liu Dan , Ma Junshao , Fan Ruihong , Zhou Zhihuan
Published: August 2017

Objective. Individualized application of TCM is not easy and may lead to undesirable results, such as poor effect or even adverse reactions. This trial aims to compare two common Chinese patent medicines with similar effects. Background of the Research. Four hospitals carried out the test at the same time in Tianjin city of China. Participants. 144 patients were involved in this study; all patients must meet the diagnostic criteria. Interventions. Qishen Yiqi pills, compound danshen pills, and their placebos; an efficacy analysis was conducted after the first medication and after crossover medication. Primary Outcome Measures. The primary index of end point includes Seattle Angina Questionnaire score‐7 and score of 7‐point Likert Scale; the curative effect was compared with minimal clinically important differences value. Result. Two drugs have their respective advantages in treating SAP. In practical application, the two drugs shall be discriminated in use based on patients’ specific symptoms. Trial Registration. Chinese clinical trials register is ChiCTR-TTRCC-14004406 (registered 23 March 2014).
Ginsenoside Rg1 Attenuates Cigarette Smoke-Induced Pulmonary Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition via Inhibition of the TGF-β1/Smad Pathway
Authors: Guan Sibin , Xu Weiguo , Han Fengfeng , Gu Wen , Song Lin , Ye Wenjing , Liu Qian , Guo Xuejun
Published: August 2017

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a process associated with airway remodeling in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which leads to progressive pulmonary destruction.Panax ginsengis a traditional herbal medicine that has been shown to improve pulmonary function and exercise capacity in patients with COPD. Ginsenoside Rg1 is one of the main active components and was shown to inhibit oxidative stress and inflammation. The present study investigated the hypothesis that ginsenoside Rg1 attenuates EMT in COPD rats induced by cigarette smoke (CS) and human bronchial epithelial (HBE) cells exposed to cigarette smoke extract (CSE). Our data showed that CS or CSE exposure increased expression of the mesenchymal markerα-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and decreased expression of the epithelial marker epithelial cadherin (E-cad) in both lung tissues and HBE cells, which was markedly suppressed by ginsenoside Rg1. Importantly, CS-induced upregulation of TGF-β1/Smad pathway components, including TGF-β1, TGF-βR1, phospho-Smad2, and phospho-Smad3, was also inhibited by ginsenoside Rg1. Additionally, ginsenoside Rg1 mimicked the effect of SB525334, a TGF-βR1-Smad2/3 inhibitor, on suppression of EMT in CSE-induced HBE cells. Collectively, we concluded that ginsenoside Rg1 alleviates CS-induced pulmonary EMT, in both COPD rats and HBE cells, via inhibition of the TGF-β1/Smad pathway.
Chelated Nitrogen-Sulphur-Codoped TiO2: Synthesis, Characterization, Mechanistic, and UV/Visible Photocatalytic Studies
Authors: Khan Hayat , Swati Imran Khan , Younas Mohammad , Ullah Asmat
Published: August 2017

This study presents in detail the physicochemical, photoluminescent, and photocatalytic properties of carboxylic acid chelated nitrogen-sulphur-codoped TiO2. From the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic study, it was revealed that the formate group formed bidentate bridging linkage while the acetate group coordinated in a bidentate chelating mode with a titanium precursor. In compliance with X-ray diffraction data, the anatase to rutile transformation temperature was extended due to carboxylic acid chelation and NS codoping. Raman analysis indicated four Raman peaks at 146, 392, 512, and 632 cm−1 for the precalcined chelated TiO2; on incorporation with NS dopants, an increase in Raman intensity for these peaks was recorded, indicating the structure stability of the anatase phase. Furthermore, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic study revealed the presence of anionic doping of nitrogen and cationic doping of sulphur in the lattice of TiO2. When evaluating the UV-visible photodegradation rate of 4-chlorophenol, the modified TiO2 (NS0.06-TFA) showed the highest photocatalytic activity. In connection with the activity tests, several scavenger agents were employed to elucidate the significance of the different reactive oxidizing species during the photocatalytic process. Moreover, the transfer pathways of photogenerated carriers and the photocatalytic reaction mechanism of modified TiO2 were also explained in detail.
Antifibrotic Effect of Lactulose on a Methotrexate-Induced Liver Injury Model
Authors: Taskin Banu , Erdoğan Mümin Alper , Yiğittürk Gürkan , Günenç Damla , Erbaş Oytun
Published: August 2017

The most severe side effect of prolonged MTX treatment is hepatotoxicity. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of lactulose treatment on MTX-induced hepatotoxicity in a rat model. Twenty-four male rats were included in the study. Sixteen rats were given a single dose of 20 mg/kg MTX to induce liver injury. Eight rats were given no drugs. 16 MTX-given rats were divided into two equal groups. Group 1 subjects were given lactulose 5 g/kg/day, and group 2 subjects were given saline 1 ml/kg/day for 10 days. The rats were then sacrificed to harvest blood and liver tissue samples in order to determine blood and tissue MDA, serum ALT, plasma TNF-α, TGF-β, and PTX3 levels. Histological specimens were examined via light microscopy. Exposure to MTX caused structural and functional hepatotoxicity, as evidenced by relatively worse histopathological scores and increased biochemical marker levels. Lactulose treatment significantly reduced the liver enzyme ALT, plasma TNF-α, TGF-β, PTX3, and MDA levels and also decreased histological changes in the liver tissue with MTX-induced hepatotoxicity in the rat model. We suggest that lactulose has anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic effects on an MTX-induced liver injury model. These effects can be due to the impact of intestinal microbiome.
Determination of Isoflavones in Soybean Flour by Matrix Solid-Phase Dispersion Extraction and Liquid Chromatography with UV-Diode Array Detection
Authors: Aresta Antonella , Cotugno Pietro , Massari Federica , Zambonin Carlo
Published: August 2017

A new analytical method, based on liquid chromatography (LC) with UV-diode array detection, for the simultaneous determination of daidzein, genistein, and glycitein and their 7-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (daidzin, genistin, and glycitin, resp.) has been successfully developed. All the calibration curves showed good linearity within the concentration range 0.02–2 μg/ml. The limits of detection and quantitation were 0.057 (genistin and glycitein), 0.124 μg/ml (genistein), 0.190 μg/ml (genistin and glycitein), and 0.410 μg/ml (genistein), respectively. Within-day and between-days precision were found not to be significantly different according to an F-test; values (% RSD) ranged from 2.0 to 2.9%. Extraction and clean-up of soybean flour samples were carried out using matrix solid-phase dispersion extraction (MSPD). The main parameters affecting extraction yield, such as dispersant, type and amount of additives, cosorbent, and extractive solvent, were evaluated and optimized. The average recovery values were between 85.7 and 102.6%. The target isoflavone concentration levels estimated in this work fit existing literature data and were comprised between 39.3 and 345.3 μg/g. The whole procedure has proved to be simple, accurate, precise, and cheap.
Design and Characterization of a Small-Scale Solar Sail Prototype by Integrating NiTi SMA and Carbon Fibre Composite
Authors: Costanza Girolamo , Leoncini Gabriele , Quadrini Fabrizio , Tata Maria Elisa
Published: August 2017

Solar sails are propellantless systems where the propulsive force is given by the momentum exchange of reflecting photons. In this study, a self-deploying system based on NiTi shape memory wires and sheets has been designed and manufactured. A small-scale prototype of solar sail with carbon fibre loom has been developed. Different configurations have been tested to optimize material and structure design of the small-scale solar sail. In particular the attention has been focused on the surface/weight ratio and the deployment of the solar sail. By reducing weight and enlarging the surface, it is possible to obtain high values of characteristic acceleration that is one of the main parameters for a successful use of the solar sail as propulsion system. Thanks to the use of shape memory alloys for self-actuation of the system, complexity of the structure itself decreases. Moreover, sail deployment is simpler.
Hierarchical Shared Control of Cane-Type Walking-Aid Robot
Authors: Tao Chunjing , Yan Qingyang , Li Yitong
Published: August 2017

A hierarchical shared-control method of the walking-aid robot for both human motion intention recognition and the obstacle emergency-avoidance method based on artificial potential field (APF) is proposed in this paper. The human motion intention is obtained from the interaction force measurements of the sensory system composed of 4 force-sensing registers (FSR) and a torque sensor. Meanwhile, a laser-range finder (LRF) forward is applied to detect the obstacles and try to guide the operator based on the repulsion force calculated by artificial potential field. An obstacle emergency-avoidance method which comprises different control strategies is also assumed according to the different states of obstacles or emergency cases. To ensure the user’s safety, the hierarchical shared-control method combines the intention recognition method with the obstacle emergency-avoidance method based on the distance between the walking-aid robot and the obstacles. At last, experiments validate the effectiveness of the proposed hierarchical shared-control method.
Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Diabetic Atherosclerosis: Herbal Medicines as a Potential Therapeutic Approach
Authors: Tian Jinfan , Liu Yanfei , Liu Yue , Chen Keji , Lyu Shuzheng
Published: August 2017

An increasing number of patients diagnosed with diabetes mellitus eventually develop severe coronary atherosclerosis disease. Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus increase the risk of cardiovascular disease associated with atherosclerosis. The cellular and molecular mechanisms affecting the incidence of diabetic atherosclerosis are still unclear, as are appropriate strategies for the prevention and treatment of diabetic atherosclerosis. In this review, we discuss progress in the study of herbs as potential therapeutic agents for diabetic atherosclerosis.
Neurological Manifestations of X-Linked Ichthyosis: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Baek William S. , Aypar Umut
Published: August 2017

A 5-year-old boy presented with mild autism and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Chromosomal microarray demonstrated a 1.7 Mb deletion at Xp22.31, which was consistent with X-linked ichthyosis (XLI). Further exam revealed dry, scaly skin on his abdomen and pretibial areas. Patients with mutations involving solely the STS gene or the recurrent ~2 Mb deletion may present with ADHD, whereas those with larger deletions including the NLGN4 gene can present with both ADHD and autism. However, our patient presented with mild autism in addition to ADHD despite having only the recurrent deletion without loss of NLGN4. Such neurological manifestations of XLI warrant attention as practical targets of clinical management.
Ameloblastic Fibroodontoma: Uncommon Case Presentation in a 6-Year-Old Child with Review of the Literature
Authors: Abdulla Anshad Mohamed , Sivadas G. , Surej Kumar L. K. , Sheejith Hari Peeceeyen C. S. , Vedam Vaishnavi
Published: August 2017

Ameloblastic fibroodontoma is a benign mixed odontogenic neoplasm considered in patients with asymptomatic swelling and unerupted teeth that exhibit histologic features between ameloblastic fibroma and complex odontoma. Radiographically, this lesion appears as radiolucency admixed with focal radio opaque masses of irregular shapes and sizes. This lesion is confirmed by the presence of proliferating odontogenic epithelium, ectomesenchyme, and dental hard tissue formation on pathological analysis supplementing clinical and radiographic findings. As this tumour is less commonly seen in routine clinical practice, ameloblastic fibroodontoma with detailed orofacial features and periodic approach to its diagnosis is discussed. This paper reports a case of ameloblastic fibroodontoma of the mandible in a 6-year-old male patient with an uncommon case presentation and review of the literature.
Class of Quadratic Almost Bent Functions That Is EA-Inequivalent to Permutations
Authors: Zhang Xinyang , Zhou Meng
Published: August 2017

The permutation relationship for the almost bent (AB) functions in the finite field is a significant issue. Li and Wang proved that a class of AB functions with algebraic degree 3 is extended affine- (EA-) inequivalent to any permutation. This study proves that another class of AB functions, which was developed in 2009, is EA-inequivalent to any permutation. This particular AB function is the first known quadratic class EA-inequivalent to permutation.
Cardiac Computed Tomography Angiographic Findings as Predictors of Late Heart Failure in an Asymptomatic Diabetic Cohort: An 8-Year Prospective Follow-Up Study
Authors: Halon David A. , Ayman Jubran , Rubinshtein Ronen , Zafrir Barak , Azencot Mali , Lewis Basil S.
Published: August 2017

Objectives: Predictive models for heart failure (HF) in heterogeneous populations have had limited success. We examined cardiac computed tomography angiography (CTA) predictors of HF or cardiovascular death (HF-CVD) in a prospective study of asymptomatic diabetics undergoing baseline assessment by CTA. Methods: The subjects (n = 735, aged 55-74 years, 51.2% women) had no clinical history of cardiovascular disease at study entry. Coronary artery calcium (CAC) score, CTA-defined coronary atherosclerosis, cardiac chamber volumes, and clinical data were collected and late outcome events recorded over 8.4 ± 0.6 years (range 7.3-9.3). Results: HF-CVD occurred in 41 (5.6%) subjects, with HF occurring mostly (19/23, 82.6%) in subjects without preceding myocardial infarction. Baseline univariate clinical outcome predictors of HF-CVD included older age (p = 0.027), the duration of diabetes (p = 0.004), HbA1c (p < 0.0001), microvascular disease (retinopathy, microalbuminuria) (p < 0.0001), and systolic blood pressure (p = 0.035). Baseline univariate CTA predictors included CAC score (p = 0.004), coronary stenosis (p = 0.047), and a CTA-defined left/right atrial (LA/RA) volume ratio >1 (p < 0.0001). Independent predictors were an LA/RA volume ratio >1, microvascular disease, and systolic blood pressure (model C-statistic 0.792, 95% CI 0.758-0.824). Measures of the extent of coronary artery disease (CAD) were not independent predictors of HF-CVD. Conclusions: In a low- to moderate-risk asymptomatic diabetic population, CTA LA enlargement (LA/RA volume ratio) but not the extent of CAD had independent prognostic value for HF-CVD in addition to the clinical variables.
Parametric Linkage Analysis Identifies Five Novel Genome-Wide Significant Loci for Familial Lung Cancer
Authors: Musolf Anthony M. , Simpson Claire L. , de Andrade Mariza , Mandal Diptasri , Gaba Colette , Yang Ping , Li Yafang , You Ming , Kupert Elena Y. , Anderson Marshall W. , Schwartz Ann G. , Pinney Susan M. , Amos Christopher I. , Bailey-Wilson Joan E.
Published: August 2017

Objective: One of four American cancer patients dies of lung cancer. Environmental factors such as tobacco smoking are known to affect lung cancer risk. However, there is a genetic factor to lung cancer risk as well. Here, we perform parametric linkage analysis on family-based genotype data in an effort to find genetic loci linked to the disease. Methods: 197 individuals from families with a high-risk history of lung cancer were recruited and genotyped using an Illumina array. Parametric linkage analyses were performed using an affected-only phenotype model with an autosomal dominant inheritance using a disease allele frequency of 0.01. Three types of analyses were performed: single variant two-point, collapsed haplotype pattern variant two-point, and multipoint analysis. Results: Five novel genome-wide significant loci were identified at 18p11.23, 2p22.2, 14q13.1, 16p13, and 20q13.11. The families most informative for linkage were also determined. Conclusions: The 5 novel signals are good candidate regions, containing genes that have been implicated as having somatic changes in lung cancer or other cancers (though not in germ line cells). Targeted sequencing on the significant loci is planned to determine the causal variants at these loci.
Exosomes Derived from Human Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells Promote Tumor Growth Through Hedgehog Signaling Pathway
Authors: Qi Jin , Zhou Yali , Jiao Zuoyi , Wang Xu , Zhao Yang , Li Yangbin , Chen Huijuan , Yang Luxi , Zhu Hongwen , Li Yumin
Published: August 2017

Background/Aims: Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) are known to home to sites of tumor microenvironments where they participate in the formation of the tumor microenvironment and to interplay with tumor cells. However, the potential functional effects of MSCs on tumor cell growth are controversial. Here, we, from the view of bone marrow MSC-derived exosomes, study the molecular mechanism of MSCs on the growth of human osteosarcoma and human gastric cancer cells. Methods: MSCs derived from human bone marrow (hBMSCs) were isolated and cultured in complete DMEM/F12 supplemented with 10% exosome-depleted fetal bovine serum and 1% penicillin-streptomycin, cell culture supernatants containing exosomes were harvested and exosome purification was performed by ultracentrifugation. Osteosarcoma (MG63) and gastric cancer (SGC7901) cells, respectively, were treated with hBMSC-derived exosomes in the presence or absence of a small molecule inhibitor of Hedgehog pathway. Cell viability was measured by transwell invasion assay, scratch migration assay and CCK-8 test. The expression of the signaling molecules Smoothened, Patched-1, Gli1 and the ligand Shh were tested by western blot and RT-PCR. Results: In this study, we found that hBMSC-derived exosomes promoted MG63 and SGC7901 cell growth through the activation of Hedgehog signaling pathway. Inhibition of Hedgehog signaling pathway significantly suppressed the process of hBMSC-derived exosomes on tumor growth. Conclusion: Our findings demonstrated the new roles of hedgehog signaling pathway in the hBMSCs-derived exosomes induced tumor progression.
PPARα Agonist Stimulated Angiogenesis by Improving Endothelial Precursor Cell Function Via a NLRP3 Inflammasome Pathway
Authors: Deng Yaping , Han Xue , Yao Zheng , Sun Yuannan , Yu Jiawen , Cai Jian , Ren Guofei , Jiang Guojun , Han Feng , Zhejiang Xiaoshan Hospital
Published: August 2017

Background: Impaired wound healing is a common complication of diabetes and is the leading cause of lower extremity amputation. Treatment with fenofibrate, a peroxisome proliferators–activated receptor α (PPARα) agonist, was associated with a lower risk of amputations, particularly minor amputations without known large-vessel diseases, probably through non-lipid mechanisms. The current study aimed to test our hypothesis that fenofibrate stimulates angiogenesis and restores endothelial precursor cell (EPC) function via inhibiting Nod-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice. Methods: Male C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into three groups: control, STZ-induced diabetic mice and fenofibrate treated diabetic group. Wound closure was assessed by wound area and CD31 positive capillaries. Both the migration and tube formation capacities of EPCs were measured. Intracellular nitric oxide (NO) and superoxide (O2-) levels were determined. Activity of NLRP3 inflammasome in EPCs was assessed by measuring thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP), NLRP3, and caspase-1 expression. Results: Compared with the untreated diabetic mice, wound closure and capillary densities were significantly increased in fenofibrate treated group. Fenofibrate treatment restored EPC function, increased NO production, and decreased O2- level in EPCs of diabetic mice. Furthermore, fenofibrate deregulated the activity of NLRP3 inflammasome by reducing TXNIP, NLRP3 and caspase-1 expression in EPCs of diabetic mice. In vitro, fenofibrate prevented high glucose induced EPC dysfunction, deregulated NLRP3 inflammasome activity. In addition, fenofibrate inhibited IL-1β expression caused by combination use of high glucose and lipopolysaccharide. Conclusion: Fenofibrate can accelerate wound healing in diabetic mice, which at least in part was mediated by improving the impaired EPC function via a NLRP3 inflammasome pathway, suggesting the significance of PPARα agonists in the treatment of diabetes.
The rediscovery and redescription of Epigomphus pechumani Belle, 1970 (Odonata: Gomphidae), with a description of its female from the Western Colombian Andes
Authors: BOTA-SIERRA CORNELIO A. , NOVELO-GUTIÉRREZ RODOLFO , AMAYA-VALLEJO VANESSA
Published: August 2017

Epigomphus pechumani Belle, 1970, was described based upon a single male specimen in poor condition, lacking specific locality in Colombia. Here the male is redescribed and the female is described and illustrated for the first time based on a total of 18 adults collected in Tatamá National Park, Risaralda Department, and Farallones de Cali National Park, Valle del Cauca Department, Colombia. A diagnosis, notes on its biology and a distributional map are presented. All material is deposited in the Entomological collection of Universidad de Antioquia.
Torture and the limits of democratic institutions
Authors: Conrad Courtenay R , Hill Daniel W , Moore Will H
Published: August 2017

What are the limits of democracy’s positive influence on human rights? In this article, we argue that contested elections and powerful courts provide leaders with different incentives with regard to hiding torture. Because government torture is generally targeted at individuals that voters find threatening, institutions that reflect public opinion – like electoral contestation – are associated with higher levels of government abuse that leave scars on the victim’s body. Other institutions – like powerful courts – protect the rights of political minorities. Leaders in countries with powerful courts prefer plausible deniability of rights violations and consequently employ higher levels of clean torture, which leaves no scars. We test our hypotheses using data from the Ill-Treatment and Torture (ITT) Data Collection Project that distinguish between Amnesty International (AI) allegations of scarring and clean torture. We employ an undercount negative binomial that accounts for AI’s (in)ability to obtain information about torture. The model assumes that some incidents of torture go unreported and allows the extent of underreporting to vary across countries/years. Estimates from the model yield considerable statistical and substantive support for our hypotheses.
Zooming in on Verbs in the Progressive: A Collostructional and Correspondence Analysis Approach
Authors: Deshors Sandra C.
Published: August 2017

Quantitative corpus-linguistic approaches that are compatible with cognitive-constructional theories of language are on the increase in variationist English studies, but remain rare when it comes to study of the progressive aspect. The purpose of this study is therefore to road-test a two-step methodological approach in the investigation of over 6000 progressive constructions in five comparable corpora: the British, US, India, and Singapore components of the International Corpus of English (ICE), in addition to the recently released Corpus of Dutch English. Because the latter corpus followed the ICE design, it provides a valuable opportunity to investigate an as yet virtually unexplored population of non-native English users across seven different genres. First, successive covarying collexeme analyses were conducted of the variables verb and variety and then semantic domain and variety. The results confirmed several previous findings about, among other things, the strong association of progressive knowing with Indian English. Next, the results were fed into a correspondence analysis to explore, for the first time, the interactions between three variables in the use of progressive marking, semantic domain, variety and genre, revealing complex interplay between them. Ultimately, by contributing to the stock of methodological approaches used in variationist studies of the progressive aspect, the study provides a first step towards the development of detailed constructional profiles of the progressive across English varieties.