bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Size-Controlled Production of Silver Nanoparticles by Aspergillus fumigatus BTCB10: Likely Antibacterial and Cytotoxic Effects
Authors: Shahzad Asma , Saeed Hamid , Iqtedar Mehwish , Hussain Syed Zajif , Kaleem Afshan , Abdullah Roheena , Sharif Saima , Naz Shagufta , Saleem Faiza , Aihetasham Ayesha , Chaudhary Asma
Published: February 2019

The biogenesis of silver nanoparticles by fungi is an ecologically clean and nontoxic method compared to other physical and chemical methods. Thus, we aimed to discuss the mycosynthesis of extracellular size-controlled AgNPs. After comprehensive screening, Aspergillus fumigatus BTCB10 (KY486782) was selected for the synthesis of AgNPs of controlled size. Characterization was performed by UV-Vis spectrophotometer, Zetasizer, X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), FTIR (Fourier-transform infrared), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) along with functional assays—antibacterial and MTT assays. Data suggested that under optimized conditions, i.e., temperature 25°C, AgNO3 concentration 1 mM, biomass 7 g, fungal culture age 7 days, pH 6, ratio of cell-free filtrate (CFF)/silver nitrate (3 : 2), NaCl 20%, and under dark light, the smallest size AgNPs of 0.681 nm with 100% monodispersity was obtained as evident by a zeta potential of -23.4 mV, UV-Vis band at 400 nm, and the presence of O-H and C=O groups confirmed by ATR-FTIR; XRD revealed the crystalline nature of AgNPs; additionally, cube-shaped AgNPs were revealed by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Moreover, synthesized AgNPs exhibited antibacterial activity against multidrug-resistant bacterial strains, notably, Klebsiella pneumoniae BTCB04, Acinetobacter BTCB05, Pseudomonas aeruginosa BTCB01, and Escherichia coli BTCB03, while maximum 7-fold was observed with Acinetobacter BTCB05. AgNPs demonstrated no cytotoxic activity against HepG2 cells; however, in combination with cisplatin, antiproliferative and cytotoxic effects became more evident and significant in comparison to control and as single agent. Taken together, the data suggested that economical and smallest size AgNPs can be biosynthesized from Aspergillus fumigatus BTCB10 and be used as antibacterial and antiproliferative agents in combination with current drugs against clinically relevant multiple drug-resistant bacterial and tumoral cells. Further studies are required to confirm their effects employing in vivo disease models.
Successful Management of the Fetal Severe Anemia Associated with Jra Alloimmunization by Intrauterine Transfusion of Jr(a+) Red Blood Cells
Authors: Toshimitsu Masatake , Nagaoka Shinichi , Kobori Shuusaku , Takahashi Yuichiro , Murotsuki Jun
Published: February 2019

Objective. We present a case of fetal severe anemia associated with Jra alloimmunization, which was managed using Doppler measurement of the peak systolic velocity of the fetal middle cerebral artery (MCA-PSV) and intrauterine transfusion (IUT) of Jr(a+) red blood cells (RBCs). We also review the previous case reports on fetal or neonatal anemia associated with Jra alloimmunization.Case Report. A woman with Jra alloimmunization was referred to our department at 29 weeks of gestation. As fetal MCA-PSV exceeded 1.55 multiples of the median, fetal blood sampling was performed and demonstrated severe anemia. During the course, a total of two IUTs were performed using Jr(a+) RBCs. The neonate was delivered by repeated cesarean section at 35 weeks of gestation and showed no apparent signs of hemolysis.Conclusion. Based on the literature review, fetal anemia associated with Jra alloimmunization becomes severe during mid-gestation and may not develop during late gestation. The severity of fetal anemia is predicted by MCA-PSV Doppler assessment rather than the maternal anti-Jra titers. Timely IUT of Jr(a+) RBCs can help to prolong the pregnancy to term in emergency situations wherein compatible blood of Jr(a-) RBCs is not available soon.
Self-Compensation for Disturbances in Differential Vibratory Gyroscope for Space Navigation
Authors: Chikovani Valeriy , Sushchenko Olha
Published: February 2019

In order to meet in many aspects contradictory requirements to gyroscopes used in space applications, this paper proposes to use the multimode Coriolis vibratory gyroscope, which operates in a new differential mode in addition to well-known rate and rate-integrating modes. The differential mode of operation can provide high resistance to external disturbances acting on the gyroscope under operating in launch, docking, and landing regimes of spacecraft. The differential mode of operation differs from the other two known modes by the presence of two, X and Y, measurement channels. Each of the channel measures angle rate with opposite sign. This mode of operation can be implemented by the disposition of standing wave pattern between the drive and sense electrodes. The paper presents promising capabilities of the differential mode of operation to self-compensate for external disturbances. The condition for the standing wave angle disposition that provides maximum compensation for the disturbances is proposed. Numerical and graphical test results on the determination of shock suppression coefficient, vibration sensitivity reduction coefficient, and also reduction of sensitivity to constant and variable magnetic fields are presented.
Metastasis of Breast Lobular Carcinoma to Endometrium Presenting as Recurrent Abnormal Uterine Bleeding: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Franco-Márquez Rodolfo , Torres-Gaytán Adrián Gerardo , Narro-Martinez Marcela Anahí , Carrasco-Chapa Anahí , Núñez Benjamín Gómez , Boland-Rodriguez Estefanía
Published: February 2019

There are few reports of breast cancer cases with uterine metastases. Here, we report a metastatic lobular carcinoma to endometrium presenting as abnormal uterine bleeding. Diagnosis was based in previous lobular breast carcinoma and immunohistochemistry.
Next Generation Data Infrastructures: Towards an Extendable Model of the Asset Management Data Infrastructure as Complex Adaptive System
Authors: Brous Paul , Janssen Marijn , Herder Paulien
Published: February 2019

Organizations are increasingly looking to adopt the Internet of Things (IoT) to collect the data required for data‐driven decision‐making. IoT might yield many benefits for asset management organizations engaged in infrastructure asset management, yet not all organizations are equipped to handle this data. IoT data is collected, stored, and analyzed within data infrastructures and there are many changes over time, resulting in the evolution of the data infrastructure and the need to view data infrastructures as complex adaptive systems (CAS). Such data infrastructures represent information about physical reality, in this case about the underlying physical infrastructure. Physical infrastructures are often described and analyzed in literature as CASs, but their underlying data infrastructures are not yet systematically analyzed, whereas they can also be viewed as CAS. Current asset management data models tend to view the system from a static perspective, posing constraints on the extensibility of the system, and making it difficult to adopt new data sources such as IoT. The objective of the research is therefore to develop an extensible model of asset management data infrastructures which helps organizations implement data infrastructures which are capable of evolution and aids the successful adoption of IoT. Systematic literature review and an IoT case study in the infrastructure management domain are used as research methods. By adopting a CAS lens in the design, the resulting data infrastructure is extendable to deal with evolution of asset management data infrastructures in the face of new technologies and new requirements and to steadily exhibit new forms of emergent behavior. This paper concludes that asset management data infrastructures are inherently multilevel, consisting of subsystems, links, and nodes, all of which are interdependent in several ways.
Dynamics of an Impulsive Stochastic Nonautonomous Chemostat Model with Two Different Growth Rates in a Polluted Environment
Authors: Li Yajie , Meng Xinzhu
Published: February 2019

This paper proposes a novel impulsive stochastic nonautonomous chemostat model with the saturated and bilinear growth rates in a polluted environment. Using the theory of impulsive differential equations and Lyapunov functions method, we first investigate the dynamics of the stochastic system and establish the sufficient conditions for the extinction and the permanence of the microorganisms. Then we demonstrate that the stochastic periodic system has at least one nontrivial positive periodic solution. The results show that both impulsive toxicant input and stochastic noise have great effects on the survival and extinction of the microorganisms. Furthermore, a series of numerical simulations are presented to illustrate the performance of the theoretical results.
Feasibility Pump Algorithm for Sparse Representation under Laplacian Noise
Authors: Miertoiu Florin Ilarion , Dumitrescu Bogdan
Published: February 2019

The Feasibility Pump is an effective heuristic method for solving mixed integer optimization programs. In this paper the algorithm is adapted for finding the sparse representation of signals affected by Laplacian noise. Two adaptations of the algorithm, regularized and nonregularized, are proposed, tested, and compared against the regularized least absolute deviation (RLAD) model. The obtained results show that the addition of the regularization factor always improves the algorithm. The regularized version of the algorithm also offers better results than the RLAD model in all cases. The Feasibility Pump recovers the sparse representation with good accuracy while using a very small computation time when compared with other mixed integer methods.
Three-Dimensional Impact Time and Angle Control Guidance Based on MPSP
Authors: Li Yang , Zhou Hao , Chen Wanchun
Published: February 2019

A new nonlinear guidance law for air-to-ground missile cooperation attacks is proposed in this paper. This guidance law enables missiles with different initial conditions to attack targets simultaneously, and it can also precisely satisfy the terminal impact angle conditions in both flight-path angle and heading angle. The guidance law is devised using the model predictive static programming (MPSP) method, and the control saturation constraint is incorporated in the MPSP algorithm. The first-order-lag acceleration of the missile is taken as the state variable to realize the convergence of the terminal acceleration to zero. Moreover, a collision avoidance strategy for three-dimensional missile cooperative flight is proposed. The simulation results show that the guidance law can make the missiles hit the target accurately at the same time with the ideal impact angles and can realize the control saturation constraints of the missiles. This can increase the attack effects and is significant for collaborative attacks.
Clinical Outcomes of Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement in Nonagenarians: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Liu Yan , Du Yu , Fu Mingjie , Ma Yue , Wang Deguang , Zhang Jinglin , Liu Wei , Zhao Yingxin , Zhou Yujie
Published: February 2019

Objectives. To compare the incidence of mortality and complications between nonagenarians and younger patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Background. TAVR has become an alternative treatment for nonagenarian patients with severe aortic stenosis. Previous studies have reported conflicting results regarding the clinical outcomes between nonagenarians and younger patients who underwent TAVR. Methods. We searched PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases with predefined criteria from the inception dates to July 8, 2018. The primary clinical endpoint was 30-day and 1-year all-cause mortalities. Secondary outcomes were considered the rates of stroke, myocardial infarction, any bleeding, any acute kidney injury, any vascular complications, new pacemaker implantation, and conversion to surgical aortic valve replacement. Results. A total of 5 eligible studies with 25,371 patients were included in this meta-analysis. Compared with younger patients who underwent TAVR, nonagenarians had a significantly higher mean Society of Thoracic Surgeons score (STS score) (MD, 2.80; 95%CI: 2.58, 3.30; P<0.00001) and logistic European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation (logistic EuroSCORE) (MD, 2.72; 95%CI: 1.01, 4.43; P=0.002). Nonagenarians were associated with significantly higher 30-day mortality (6.2% vs. 3.7%; OR, 1.73; 95%CI: 1.49, 2.00) and 1-year mortality (15.5% vs. 11.8%; OR, 1.39; 95%CI: 1.26, 1.53), without significant statistical heterogeneity. Nonagenarians were associated with significantly increased rates of major or life-threatening bleeding, vascular complications and stroke of 20%, 35%, and 32%, respectively. There were no significant differences in the rate of myocardial infarction, stage 2 or 3 acute kidney injury, new pacemaker implantation, or conversion to surgical aortic valve replacement. Conclusions. Nonagenarians showed worse clinical outcomes than younger patients after TAVR, while the incidence of mortality was acceptable. TAVR remains an option for nonagenarian patients with severe aortic stenosis and should be comprehensively evaluated by the heart valve team.
Association of Traditional Chinese Medicine Therapy with Risk of Total Hip Replacement in Patients with Nontraumatic Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head: A Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Yeh Yu-An , Chiang Jen-Huai , Wu Mei-Yao , Tsai Chun-Hao , Hsu Horng-Chaung , Hsu Hsin-Cheng , Lin Tsung-Li
Published: February 2019

Background. Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) contributes to 45% of total hip replacements (THRs) annually in Taiwan. Nontraumatic ONFH (NONFH) is multifactorial; no effective Western medicine is available to delay the disease process. This population-based cohort study investigated the association of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) therapy with risk of THR in patients with NONFH. Methods. This retrospective study was conducted using claims data from all insured residents covered by the National Health Insurance from 2000 to 2010. We enrolled 1,680 newly diagnosed ONFH patients who had not undergone THR, before or within 6 months after diagnosis of ONFH; these patients did not exhibit hip fracture or dislocation before the endpoint. In total, 595 propensity score-matched pairs were selected from among 1,028 TCM users and 652 non-TCM users. The association between TCM use and risk of THR was analyzed using a Cox proportional hazard model. Kaplan-Meier and log rank tests were performed to plot the cumulative incidence of THR. Results. The mean follow-up periods were 5.00 years and 3.57 years for TCM and non-TCM cohorts, respectively. Compared to the non-TCM cohort, the TCM cohort had fewer patients undergoing THR surgery (25.4% vs. 18.2%, adjusted hazard ratio: 0.60, p<0.0001). The risk of reduction was noted in the group aged 30–59 years (adjusted hazard ratio: 0.56, p<0.0001), but there was no association with gender nor socioeconomic status. There was a significantly lower cumulative incidence of THR in TCM users (p<0.0001). Shu-Jing-Huo-Xue-Tang and Yan Hu Suo were the most frequently prescribed formula and single herb, respectively. Conclusions. NONFH patients using TCM had a lower risk of THR; the risk of reduction was noted in the group aged 30–59 years but was not associated with gender nor socioeconomic status. TCM might be useful in conservative treatment for NONFH.
PG102 Upregulates IL-37 through p38, ERK, and Smad3 Pathways in HaCaT Keratinocytes
Authors: Kim Hyun-keun , Lim Seonung , Bae Min-Jung , Lee Wonwoo , Kim Sunyoung
Published: February 2019

IL-37 is an immunomodulatory cytokine that suppresses inflammation in various cell types and disease models. However, its role in keratinocytes has not been clearly understood, and there has been no report on the agents that can increase the expression of IL-37 in keratinocytes. In this study, we investigated the effects of silencing IL37 in HaCaT keratinocytes and the molecular mechanisms involved in the upregulation of IL-37 by PG102, a water-soluble extract from Actinidia arguta. It was found that knockdown of IL37 resulted in the augmented expression of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) in response to cytokine stimulation. PG102 increased the expression of IL-37 at both mRNA and protein levels presumably by enhancing the phosphorylation of Smad3, ERK, and p38. Indeed, when cells were treated with specific inhibitors for these signaling molecules, the expression level of IL-37 was reduced. PG102 also promoted colocalization of phospho-Smad3 and IL-37. Our results suggest that IL-37 inhibits the expression of AMPs and that PG102 upregulates IL-37 through p38, ERK, and Smad3 pathways in HaCaT cells.
Recognition and Optimization of Ingredients Treating Nitroglycerin-Induced Migraine Rats from Wuzhuyu Decoction
Authors: Xu Yongsong , Wu Sha , Wu Yanchuan , Gong Muxin , Wang Zhimin
Published: February 2019

Wuzhuyu decoction (WZYD) has been clinically used to treat migraine effectively since Eastern Han Dynasty of ancient China. However, its antimigrainic ingredients remain unclear. In present study, the antimigrainic ingredients of WZYD were explored and optimized in nitroglycerin-induced migraine rats through correlation analysis of decoction spectra-pharmacological effects and absorption spectra-pharmacological using entropy-weighted partial least squares regression method. The decoction spectra and absorption spectra were obtained through the determination of nine main ingredients in ten kinds of WZYDs and WZYDs’ single-pass intestinal perfusion samples using high performance liquid chromatography-diode array detector. The pharmacodynamics indexes related to migraine model rats were detected using high performance liquid chromatography method and kits after oral administration of WZYDs. Then, the key ingredients influencing indexes were achieved through the correlation analysis. And the optimization of key ingredients was acquired through uniform design experiment. The pharmacodynamic verification test was used to clarify the advantages of the optimized sample. The results showed that the final optimized sample, in which the concentrations of rutaecarpine, evodiamine, ginsendside Rb1, 6-gingerol, ginsendside Rg1, rutaevine, and limonin were 0.081, 0.565, 1.455, 0.159, 0.871, 0.178, and 0.009 mg·mL−1, respectively, provided the best comprehensive effect than another optimized sample and the best uniform design sample. Therefore, a new reliable method for rapidly recognizing and optimizing the effective constituents of WZYD treating migraine was established.
A New Differential Diagnosis: Synthetic Cannabinoid-Associated Gross Hematuria
Authors: Hasan Osamah , Patel Ankit A. , Siegert James J.
Published: February 2019

Recreational use of synthetic cannabinoids (SCs), also known as “K2” or “Spice,” is becoming a major public-health concern due to their potential for abuse and harmful consequences. New substances are constantly being added to the content of SCs. The dearth of information on these newly added contents as they are introduced into the black market hinders risk assessments of these compounds. We report a highly unusual case of gross hematuria in a 28-year-old male patient after SC use. He was found to have a supratherapeutic INR with no history of prior anticoagulation. His hematuria resolved after four units of fresh-frozen plasma were administered. We include a literature review of the clinical effects of SCs and their possible mechanism of gross hematuria and management.
Corneal Endothelial Cell Density and Morphology in Healthy Egyptian Eyes
Authors: Abdellah Marwa Mahmoud , Ammar Hatem Gamal , Anbar Mohamed , Mostafa Engy Mohammed , Farouk Mahmoud Mohamed , Sayed Khulood , Alsmman Alahmady Hammad , Elghobaier Mohamed Gamal
Published: February 2019

Purpose. To evaluate the corneal endothelial cell density and morphology in normal Egyptian eyes. Methods. In total, 568 healthy eyes of 568 Egyptian volunteers aged 20 to 85 years were examined using noncontact specular microscopy for the central corneal thickness (CCT), mean endothelial cell density (MCD), coefficient of variation (CV) in cell area, mean cell area (MCA), and hexagonal cell (Hex) percentage. Variables were compared between sexes and between different age groups. Results. The mean CCT, MCD, and MCA were 514.45 ± 43.04 μm, 2647.50 ± 382.62 cells/mm2, and 390.59 ± 149.94 μm2, respectively. MCD and MCA showed no significant differences between men and women (P=0.171 and 0.099, respectively), whereas CV (%) and Hex (%) showed significant differences (P=0.024 and 0.015, respectively). CCT (P=0.007, r = −0.113) and MCD (P<0.001, r = −0.357) exhibited a significant negative correlation with age, whereas CV (%) (P<0.001, r = 0.341) and MCA (P=0.008, r = 0.111) exhibited a significant positive correlation. The mean rate of endothelial cell loss from 20 to 85 years of age was 0.3% per year. Conclusions. Our results provide normative data for the corneal endothelium in healthy Egyptian eyes, thus increasing the knowledge base for corneal endothelial cell parameters in healthy Egyptian eyes. Furthermore, our findings can be used as baseline values for comparisons between Egyptian and other populations and for studies of the endothelial cell reserve and capacity for intraocular surgery and corneal transplantation.
Multifeature Named Entity Recognition in Information Security Based on Adversarial Learning
Authors: Zhang Han , Guo Yuanbo , Li Tao
Published: February 2019

In order to obtain high quality and large-scale labelled data for information security research, we propose a new approach that combines a generative adversarial network with the BiLSTM-Attention-CRF model to obtain labelled data from crowd annotations. We use the generative adversarial network to find common features in crowd annotations and then consider them in conjunction with the domain dictionary feature and sentence dependency feature as additional features to be introduced into the BiLSTM-Attention-CRF model, which is then used to carry out named entity recognition in crowdsourcing. Finally, we create a dataset to evaluate our models using information security data. The experimental results show that our model has better performance than the other baseline models.
Ginsenoside Rg1 Regulates SIRT1 to Ameliorate Sepsis-Induced Lung Inflammation and Injury via Inhibiting Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Inflammation
Authors: Wang Qian-Lu , Yang Lei , Peng Yue , Gao Min , Yang Ming-Shi , Xing Wei , Xiao Xian-Zhong
Published: February 2019

Objectives. To investigate the protective effect of ginsenoside Rg1 on relieving sepsis-induced lung inflammation and injury in vivo and in vitro. Methods. Cultured human pulmonary epithelial cell line A549 was challenged with LPS to induce cell injury, and CLP mouse model was generated to mimic clinical condition of systemic sepsis. Rg1 was applied to cells or animals at indicated dosage. Apoptosis of cultured cells was quantified by flow cytometry, along with ELISA for inflammatory cytokines in supernatant. For septic mice, lung tissue pathology was examined, plus ELISA assay for serum cytokines. Western blotting was used to examine the activation of inflammatory pathways and ER stress marker proteins in both cells and mouse lung tissues. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) level was quantified by DCFDA kit. Results. Ginsenoside Rg1 treatment remarkably suppressed apoptosis rate of LPS-induced A549 cells, relieved mouse lung tissue damage, and elevated survival rate. Rg1 treatment also rescued cells from LPS-induced intracellular ROS. In both A549 cells and mouse lung tissues, further study showed that Rg1 perfusion significantly suppressed the secretion of inflammatory cytokines including tumor necrosis factor- (TNF-) alpha and interleukin- (IL-) 6 and relieved cells from ER stress as supported by decreased expression of marker proteins via upregulating sirtuin 1 (SIRT1). Conclusion. Our results showed that ginsenoside Rg1 treatment effectively relieved sepsis-induced lung injury in vitro and in vivo, mainly via upregulating SIRT1 to relieve ER stress and inflammation. These findings provide new insights for unrevealing potential candidate for severe sepsis accompanied with lung injury.
Spontaneous Pneumomediastinum and Subcutaneous Emphysema following Cocaine Inhalation and Ecstasy Ingestion
Authors: Jaensch Samantha , Hwang Sang , Kuo Tony Shih-Wei
Published: February 2019

Spontaneous pneumomediastinum (SPM) and subcutaneous emphysema are rare complications of illicit drug abuse. Thorough history, examination, and investigations are required to rule out fatal complications such as oesophageal perforation. We present a case of a 21-year-old male presenting with pleuritic chest pain one day after cocaine inhalation and ingesting ecstasy. Conservative supportive management is appropriate when this occurs spontaneously without radiological evidence of visceral perforation.
Pardaxin Promoted Differentiation and Maturation of Leukemic Cells via Regulating TLR2/MyD88 Signal against Cell Proliferation
Authors: Uen Wu-Ching , Choong Chen-Yen , Tai Chen-Jei , Tai Cheng-Jeng
Published: February 2019

Objective. Leukemia is a cancer of the blood cells. Leukemic THP-1 and U937 cells were used in this study as monocytic effectors cells for proliferation responses and macrophage-like cells induction in leukemia. Pardaxin is an antimicrobial peptide isolated from the marine fish species.Methods. After treatment for 5 days, pardaxin significantly suppressed cell viability and arrested cell cycle at G0/G1 phase in leukemic cells which were evaluated.Results. Pardaxin also induced cell differentiation and maturation of THP-1 and U937 cells into macrophage-like cells with phagocytotic ability. Moreover, pardaxin elevated the expression of MyD88 but not toll-like receptor (TLR)-2 in both leukemic cells. TLR-2 blocking peptide was used to confirm that pardaxin attenuated phagocytotic ability and superoxide anion production in leukemic cells via activating MyD88 protein.Conclusions. These findings suggested that pardaxin has a therapeutic potential for leukemia.
Identification and Mapping of a 2,009-bp DNA Deletion inSERPING1of a Hereditary Angioedema Patient
Authors: Wong Wai-Yu , Wong Helen , Au Elaine , Chan Eric
Published: February 2019

We report a heterozygous, 2,009 base pairs (bps) genomic DNA deletion within theSERPING1gene that has not previously been reported in a case of type I hereditary angioedema (HAE). The patient is a 28-year-old Han Chinese female living in Hong Kong who has suffered from recurrent angioedema since adolescence, with increasing attack frequency as she entered adulthood; in the past, episodes occurred annually, but now occur every two to three months. The affected areas are not itchy and include common sites such as the left and right forearms, but without throat involvement. The patient also experiences epigastric pain. The patient’s mother suffers from similar symptoms. A mutation in the serine protease inhibitor, clade G, member 1 (SERPING1) gene is associated with HAE. Patients with HAE type I commonly carry either a small deletion withinSERPING1or a truncated transcript. We performed a multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) assay on our indexed patient. Our result suggests a 2,009 bps deletion spanning across exons 5 and 6 withinSERPING1. Although earlier literature has described other large DNA deletions encasing exons 5 and 6 inSERPING1, these DNA rearrangements were larger in size between 4 and 6 kbps, and the breakpoint locations were generally not determined due to technical constraints (Pappalardo et al., 2000; Duponchel et al., 2001; Roche et al., 2005; Loules et al., 2018; and Göβwein et al., 2008). Our report describes mapping of this 2,009 bps inSERPING1. Using a combination of molecular techniques, we were able to confirm and locate this large heterozygous genomic DNA deletion that includes both exons 5 and 6 ofSERPING1.
Effects of Bioactive Packaging Films Incorporated with Bifidocin A on Microbial Reduction and Quality Parameters of Chill-Stored Spanish Mackerel (Scomberomorus niphonius) Fillets
Authors: Liu Guorong , Li Xue , Hao Xu , Wang Chengtao , Sun Baoguo
Published: February 2019

To evaluate the potential of bifidocin A for preservation of fresh Spanish mackerel fillets, the bioactive packaging films incorporated with bifidocin A (1 × minimal inhibition concentration (MIC), 2 × MIC and 4 × MIC) were developed, and their effects on the microbiological and physicochemical properties and sensory profile of mackerel fillets at refrigerated storage were investigated. Results showed that the incorporation of bifidocin A in cellulosic matrix films did not affect the thickness and elongation of the films, but reduced slightly the tension strength. The films incorporated with 2 × MIC and 4 × MIC bifidocin A presented a broad spectrum of activity against most tested bacteria, including some fish-borne specific spoilage bacteria such as Pseudomonas fluorescens, Shewanella putrefaciens, Brochothrix thermosphacta, and Micrococcus luteus, and maintained their 100% activity for 28 days during storage at 4°C. The bioactive packaging films incorporated with bifidocin A could generally suppress the growth of microflora, especially Pseudomonas and Enterobacteriaceae, as well as substantially inhibit the accumulation of total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and hypoxanthine, during chilled mackerel fillets storage. Overall, from a microbiological and physicochemical point of view, a much more effective treatment was achieved with 4 × MIC bifidocin A, extending the shelf life to 12 days and maintaining the relatively low TVB-N value (≤13.2 mg/100 g), TBARS value (≤0.45 mg MDA/kg), and K-value (≤32.8%), as well as a relatively high sensory score (≥7.1) during the whole storage. Hence, the bioactive packaging films incorporated with bifidocin A could be a promising hurdle technology and alternative to conventional processes used for improving the safety and quality of chilled mackerel fillets.
Genome-Wide Identification, Characterization, and Expression Analysis of the Grapevine Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) Family
Authors: Hu Xiaoxuan , Hao Chenyu , Cheng Zong-Ming , Zhong Yan
Published: February 2019

Superoxide dismutase (SOD) is an essential enzyme of the plant antioxidant system that responds to oxidative damage caused by adverse conditions. However, little is known about the SOD gene family in Vitis vinifera (Vv). In the present study, ten SOD genes, including 6 copper/zinc SODs, 2 iron SODs, and 2 manganese SODs, were identified in the grapevine genome where they were unevenly distributed on 12 chromosomes. Ten VvSOD genes were divided into three main groups based on phylogenetic analysis, subcellular localization, and the distribution of conserved protein motifs. Additionally, many cis-elements related to different stresses were found in the promoters of the 10 VvSOD genes. Syntenic analysis revealed that VvMSD1 and VvMSD2 were derived from segmental duplication, and VvCSD4 and VvCSD5 belong to a pair of tandemly duplicated genes. Gene expression analysis based on microarray data showed that the 10 VvSOD genes were expressed in all the tested tissues. Interestingly, the segmentally duplicated gene pair (VvMSD1 and VvMSD2) exhibited differential expression patterns in various organs. In contrast, the tandemly duplicated gene pair (VvCSD4 and VvCSD5) displayed similar expression patterns in the tested organs. Our results provide a basis for further functional research on the SOD gene family in grapevine.
The Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine among Korean Young Adult Members of Fitness Centers
Authors: Kim Seung-Nam , Kim Bokmin , Kim Jaehee
Published: February 2019

In general, the pattern and perception of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use in young people are little known. Particularly, given South Korea’s dual health care system that includes both Korean traditional medicine and Western medicine, young adults in South Korea may be unique for the study of CAM use. Accordingly, this study investigated the modality, purpose, and perceptions of CAM use among young adults in South Korea and determined the predictors of CAM use. In addition, reasons for CAM use were compared to those for exercise. A survey was conducted among 649 young members of fitness centers (aged 20-39 years). The structured written questionnaire included the questions related to use of 30 CAM modalities, satisfaction with CAM use, factors associated with CAM use, reasons for exercise and CAM use, and perceptions of CAM. The most common therapies used in lifetime were acupuncture, massage, moxibustion/cupping, yoga, and diet-based therapies. The most satisfied therapy was massage followed by aroma therapy. The main reasons for using CAM were to relieve musculoskeletal pains while those for doing exercise were to lose weight, to promote health, and to have a positive body image. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that higher education level, having a religion, and having a health problem were significant independent predictors of CAM use after controlling for other factors. The majority of respondents reported “relief of pain and symptoms” as the perceived effect of CAM and “lack of advertising” as the weakness of CAM. The majority of respondents got CAM information from mass media and Internet. In conclusion, CAM use is significantly associated with education level, religious status, and health status in Korean young adult members of fitness centers. The main purposes of utilizing CAM and performing exercise are different.
Compensatory Function of the Subtalar Joint for Lower Extremity Malalignment
Authors: Yoshimoto Kensei , Noguchi Masahiko , Yamada Akifumi , Nasu Yuki
Published: February 2019

It is important to evaluate the subtalar joint and hip-knee-ankle alignment to understand lower extremity alignment. In this review, we focused on the compensatory changes in the subtalar joint alignment for the deformity of the knee and ankle joint, reviewing previous research. The subtalar joint alignment was compensatory valgus in patients with varus knee and ankle deformity, whereas it was uncertain whether the subtalar joint alignment was compensatory varus in patients with valgus knee and ankle deformity. The subtalar joint valgus alignment improved after total knee arthroplasty or high tibial osteotomy for varus knee deformity, even if the deformity was severe. In contrast, whether the subtalar joint alignment changed after the surgery for ankle or valgus knee deformity has not been considered. Further research on the compensatory function of the subtalar joint is needed.
Ethnocentrism, Trust, and the Willingness to Pay of Chinese Consumers for Organic Labels from Different Countries and Certifiers
Authors: Yin Shijiu , Han Fei , Wang Yiqin , Hu Wuyang , Lv Shanshan
Published: February 2019

Although numerous studies have examined consumer preference for organic foods, few have focused on consumer willingness to pay (WTP) for organic labels from dissimilar countries or certifiers. We conducted a choice experiment to examine how Chinese consumer ethnocentrism and trust on organic labels and certifiers may affect their WTP for organic labels from different countries as well as for different certifiers. Chinese consumers did not show a high level of ethnocentrism, and this may lead to inconsistencies in their WTP for organic labels. Significantly, consumer preferences for certifiers did not change remarkably with the increase in consumer ethnocentrism. Chinese consumers generally preferred organic labels from developed countries (or US-invested organic certifiers). With increases in the trust in labels, consumer WTP for each type of organic label increased in general, but the difference between WTPs for organic labels from different countries decreased. Similar results were observed in consumer WTP for certifiers. Determining distinct preferences for organic labels from various sources and countries can be a valuable reference for manufacturers or international certification service providers to choose target markets and for governments to establish their certification systems.
Narrow-Band Imaging Colonoscopy to Assess Mucosal Angiogenesis in Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Guo Tao , Qian Jia-Ming , Yang Ai-Ming , Li Yue , Zhou Wei-Xun
Published: February 2019

Background and Aim. It has been documented that angiogenesis is a largely unstudied component of the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis (UC). Under narrow-band imaging (NBI) colonoscopy, the mucosal vascular pattern (MVP) can be visualized without the use of dyes. The aim of this study was to assess the grade of mucosal angiogenesis based on the MVP in UC. Methods. A total of 119 colorectal segments taken from 42 patients with UC were observed using NBI colonoscopy. The MVP was classified as follows: clear, obscure, or absent. Quantification of the degree of inflammation was performed using histological colitis scoring. Potent angiogenic activity was assessed by immunohistochemical staining for vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Microvascular density was assessed using vessel counts as revealed by CD31 staining. The correlation between the MVP and histological grades of inflammation and angiogenesis was evaluated. Results. The MVP correlated well with the histological severity of inflammation. We also demonstrated an increasing level of microvascular density and VEGF staining along with the ordered types of MVPs. In addition, a statistically strong association existed between microvascular density and VEGF staining. Conclusions. NBI colonoscopy might be a useful tool for the in vivo assessment of the grade of mucosal angiogenesis in UC.
Single-End Adaptive Optics Compensation for Emulated Turbulence in a Bi-Directional 10-Mbit/s per Channel Free-Space Quantum Communication Link Using Orbital-Angular-Momentum Encoding
Authors: Liu Cong , Pang Kai , Zhao Zhe , Liao Peicheng , Zhang Runzhou , Song Haoqian , Cao Yinwen , Du Jing , Li Long , Song Hao , Ren Yongxiong , Xie Guodong , Zhao Yifan , Zhao Jiapeng , Rafsanjani Seyed M. H. , Willner Ari N. , Shapiro Jeffrey H. , Boyd Robert W. , Tur Moshe , Willner Alan E.
Published: February 2019

A single-end adaptive-optics (AO) module is experimentally demonstrated to mitigate the emulated atmospheric turbulence effects in a bi-directional quantum communication link, which employs orbital angular momentum (OAM) for data encoding. A classical Gaussian beam is used as a probe to detect the turbulence-induced wavefront distortion in the forward direction of the link. Based on the detected wavefront distortion, an AO system located on one end of the link is used to simultaneously compensate for the forward and backward channels. Specifically, with emulated turbulence and when the probe is turned on, the mode purity of photons carrying OAM l=1 is improved by ~ 21 % with AO mitigation. We also measured the performance when encoding data using OAM {l=-1,+2} and {l=-2,+1} in the forward and backward channels, respectively, at 10 Mbit/s per channel with one photon per pulse on average. For this case, we found that the AO system could reduce the turbulence effects increased quantum-symbol-error-rate (QSER) by ~ 76 % and ~ 74 %, for both channels in the uni-directional and bi-directional cases, respectively. Similar QSER improvement is observed for the opposite direction channels in the bi-directional case.
Fresh and Mechanical Properties of Self-Compacting Rubber Lightweight Aggregate Concrete and Corresponding Mortar
Authors: Lv Jing , Du Qiang , Zhou Tianhua , He Zuoqian , Li Kunlun
Published: February 2019

Increasing amount of waste tires caused huge environment issues in recent years. Recycling concrete is an effective way. In this paper, waste tires are crushed into particles and incorporated in lightweight aggregate concrete to prepare a special concrete (self-compacting rubber lightweight aggregate concrete (SCRLC)). A detailed experimental research of effects of rubber particles on the properties of SCRLC and corresponding mortar is conducted. The results show that increasing the rubber particles replacement ratio leads to a raising of yield stress and plastic viscosity of mortar pastes. Flowability, filling capacity, and passing ability of SCRLC decline and the segregation resistance property of SCRLC improves as the rubber particles replacement ratio increases. Well, linear correlations between slump flow of SCRLC and shear stress of corresponding mortar pastes and segregation ratio of SCRLC and plastic viscosity of corresponding mortar pastes are obtained. In order to ensure that rubber lightweight aggregate concrete can compact by itself, the upper limit of shear stress of corresponding mortar pastes is 231.7 Pa and the lower limit of plastic viscosity of corresponding mortar pastes is 3.72 Pa·s. Compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, flexural strength, and elastic modulus of SCRLC and compressive strength of corresponding mortar decrease as the rubber particles replacement ratio increases. The 28-day compressive strength of SCRLC can meet the requirements of lightweight aggregate concrete structures until the rubber particles replacement ratio reaches 50%.
Ginsenoside Rg3 Inhibits Migration and Invasion of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Cells and Suppresses Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition
Authors: Wang Dingkun , Wu Cheng , Liu Dongbo , Zhang Linli , Long Guoxian , Hu Guangyuan , Sun Wei
Published: February 2019

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a highly invasive and metastatic head and neck cancer. Distant metastasis becomes the predominant mode of treatment failure in NPC patients. Ginsenoside Rg3 (Rg3), an active pharmaceutical component extracted from traditional Chinese medicine ginseng, shows antitumor effects in various cancers. In this study, we aimed to determine whether Rg3 inhibits the migration and invasion activity of NPC cells and to explore the possible mechanisms. Our results revealed that Rg3 hampers cell migration and invasion in both HNE1 and CNE2 cell lines. A reduced level of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and MMP-9 was induced by Rg3 treatment. In addition, Rg3 significantly altered the expression of epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers with increased E-cadherin but decreased Vimentin and N-cadherin expression. Transforming growth factorβ- (TGF-β-) induced morphological transition and marker proteins change of EMT were reversed by Rg3. What is more, Rg3 suppressed the expression of EMT-related transcription factors, especially the Zinc Finger E-Box Binding Homeobox 1 (ZEB1). In summary, our data suggested that Rg3 could inhibit migration and invasion of NPC cells. This effect of Rg3 might be mediated through regulating MMP-2 and MMP-9 expressions and suppressing EMT. Thus, Rg3 may be a potentially effective agent for the treatment of NPC.
Screening Colonoscopy Unmasking Colonic Metastasis from an Occult Breast Ductal Carcinoma: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Samra Bachar , Ghanem Sassine , Ilyas Ghulam , Taiwo Evelyn
Published: February 2019

Metastatic spread from breast cancer to the gastrointestinal tract is rare. Such cases are predominantly lobular carcinomas and they usually occur later on during the course of disease progression with the stomach being the most common site involved. Furthermore, occult breast primary tumor is extremely uncommon. To the best of our knowledge, we describe here the first case of incidental colonic metastasis as first presentation of an occult breast ductal carcinoma. We also provide a review of the literature on gastrointestinal—and specifically colonic—involvement from breast ductal carcinoma.
Cuban Sugar Cane Wax Acid and Policosanol Showed Similar Atheroprotective Effects with Inhibition of LDL Oxidation and Cholesteryl Ester Transfer via Enhancement of High-Density Lipoproteins Functionality
Authors: Cho Kyung-Hyun , Bae Myung-Ae , Kim Jae-Ryong
Published: February 2019

Background. Cuban sugarcane wax acids (SCWA) and policosanol (PCO) are mixtures of higher aliphatic acids and alcohols, respectively, purified from sugarcane wax with different chief components. Although it has been known that they have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, physiological properties on molecular mechanism of SCWA have been less studied than PCO. Methods. In this study, we compared antiatherogenic activities of SCWA and PCO via encapsulation with reconstituted high-density lipoproteins (rHDL). Results. After reconstitution, SCWA-rHDL showed smaller particle size than PCO-rHDL with increase of content. PCO-rHDL or SCWA-rHDL showed distinct inhibition of glycation with similar extent in the presence of fructose. PCO-rHDL or SCWA-rHDL showed strong antioxidant activity against cupric ion-mediated oxidation of low-density lipoproteins (LDL), and inhibition of oxLDL uptake into macrophages. Although PCO-rHDL showed 1.2-fold stronger inhibition against cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) activity than SCWA-rHDL, SCWA-rHDL enhanced 15% more brain cell (BV-2) growth and 23% more regeneration of tail fin in zebrafish. Conclusion. PCO and SCWA both enhance the beneficial functions of HDL to maximize its antioxidant, antiglycation, and antiatherosclerotic activities and the inhibition of CETP. These enhancements of HDL functionality by PCO and SCWA could exert antiaging and rejuvenation activity.
Skin Biophysical Parameters and Patch Test Results in People Predisposing to Xiaotong Tiegao Induced Irritant Contact Dermatitis
Authors: Cheng Hai-yan , Li Lin-feng
Published: February 2019

Background. Xiaotong Tiegao (XTT) is an ancient topical Tibetan medicine plaster which is widely used in China. Irritant contact dermatitis (ICD) caused by XTT is very common. It is still unclear why some people are more prone to develop ICD. The aim of this study is to study the baseline skin biophysical parameters and patch test results in individuals predisposing to XTT induced ICD. Methods. During a four-month period, 149 healthy volunteers with ICD and 50 volunteers without ICD after applying XTT were recruited. The skin biophysical parameters were measured, and contact allergy to 20 common allergens was patch tested, at two weeks after the ICD was recovered. Results. There were no significant differences in age and sex between ICD and control groups. It was found that skin median melanin value (176.50 vs 189.50, P < 0.05, Mann-Whitney U-test) and erythema value (319.90 ± 70.49 vs 347.93 ± 84.55, P < 0.05, Independent-Samples T test) were much lower in ICD than control group. Overall patch test results were not different, but the positivity rate of nickel sulfate (15.44% vs 4.00%, P < 0.05, Fisher’s exact test) was significantly higher in ICD group. Conclusions. In conclusion, people with nickel allergy, lower values of skin melanin, and erythema are predisposing to develop ICD.
BRM270 Inhibits the Proliferation of CD44 Positive Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Cells via Downregulation of Sonic Hedgehog Signaling
Authors: Huynh Do Luong , Koh Hyebin , Chandimali Nisansala , Zhang Jiao Jiao , Kim Nameun , Kang Tae Yoon , Ghosh Mrinmoy , Gera Meeta , Park Yang-Ho , Kwon Taeho , Jeong Dong Kee
Published: February 2019

Pancreatic cancer has a poor survival rate as compared to other types of cancer. Surface marker CD44 plays important role in epithelial-mesenchymal transition and cancer stem cell phenotype. Therefore, targeting CD44 positive pancreatic cancer cells might enhance therapies effectiveness. Our previous studies indicated the antitumorigenesis effect of BRM270 in osteosarcoma, lung cancer, and glioblastoma; however there is no evidence on BRM270 impacts on pancreatic cancer growth. In this study, we investigated the effect of BRM270 on the isolated CD44 positive pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cells (CD44+PDAC). Results showed that CD44 positive cells undergo apoptosis induced by BRM270. Moreover, BRM270 also inhibits stemness and metastasis traits in CD44+PDAC via Sonic hedgehog signaling pathway and SALL4 expression.In vivostudy indicated that tumor growth derived from CD44+PDAC was suppressed as daily uptake by BRM270 5 mg/kg. These data suggest the alternative approach in antipancreatic tumorigenesis via herbal plants extract and selectively targeting CD44+PDAC cells in tumor.