bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of enriching the diet with menhaden oil or daily treatment with resolvin D1 on neuropathy in a mouse model of type 2 diabetes
Authors: Shevalye Hanna , Yorek Matthew S. , Coppey Lawrence J. , Holmes Amey , Harper Matthew M. , Kardon Randy H. , Yorek Mark A.
Published: April 2015

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of supplementing the diet of a mouse model of type 2 diabetes with menhaden (fish) oil or daily treatment with resolvin D1 on diabetic neuropathy. The end points evaluated included motor and sensory nerve conduction velocity, thermal sensitivity, innervation of sensory nerves in the cornea and skin, and the retinal ganglion cell complex thickness. Menhaden oil is a natural source for n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, which have been shown to have beneficial effects in other diseases. Resolvin D1 is a metabolite of docosahexaenoic acid and is known to have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. To model type 2 diabetes, mice were fed a high-fat diet for 8 wk followed by a low dosage of streptozotocin. After 8 wk of hyperglycemia, mice in experimental groups were treated for 6 wk with menhaden oil in the diet or daily injections of 1 ng/g body wt resolvin D1. Our findings show that menhaden oil or resolvin D1 did not improve elevated blood glucose, HbA1C, or glucose utilization. Untreated diabetic mice were thermal hypoalgesic, had reduced motor and sensory nerve conduction velocities, had decreased innervation of the cornea and skin, and had thinner retinal ganglion cell complex. These end points were significantly improved with menhaden oil or resolvin D1 treatment. Exogenously, resolvin D1 stimulated neurite outgrowth from primary cultures of dorsal root ganglion neurons from normal mice. These studies suggest that n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids derived from fish oil could be an effective treatment for diabetic neuropathy.
A highly polarized excitable cell separates sodium channels from sodium-activated potassium channels by more than a millimeter
Authors: Ban Yue , Smith Benjamin E. , Markham Michael R.
Published: April 2015

The bioelectrical properties and resulting metabolic demands of electrogenic cells are determined by their morphology and the subcellular localization of ion channels. The electric organ cells (electrocytes) of the electric fish Eigenmannia virescens generate action potentials (APs) with Na+currents >10 μA and repolarize the AP with Na+-activated K+(KNa) channels. To better understand the role of morphology and ion channel localization in determining the metabolic cost of electrocyte APs, we used two-photon three-dimensional imaging to determine the fine cellular morphology and immunohistochemistry to localize the electrocytes' ion channels, ionotropic receptors, and Na+-K+-ATPases. We found that electrocytes are highly polarized cells ∼1.5 mm in anterior-posterior length and ∼0.6 mm in diameter, containing ∼30,000 nuclei along the cell periphery. The cell's innervated posterior region is deeply invaginated and vascularized with complex ultrastructural features, whereas the anterior region is relatively smooth. Cholinergic receptors and Na+channels are restricted to the innervated posterior region, whereas inward rectifier K+channels and the KNachannels that terminate the electrocyte AP are localized to the anterior region, separated by >1 mm from the only sources of Na+influx. In other systems, submicrometer spatial coupling of Na+and KNachannels is necessary for KNachannel activation. However, our computational simulations showed that KNachannels at a great distance from Na+influx can still terminate the AP, suggesting that KNachannels can be activated by distant sources of Na+influx and overturning a long-standing assumption that AP-generating ion channels are restricted to the electrocyte's posterior face.
Evaluation of Three Satellite Precipitation Products TRMM 3B42, CMORPH, and PERSIANN over a Subtropical Watershed in China
Authors: Liu Junzhi , Duan Zheng , Jiang Jingchao , Zhu A-Xing
Published: April 2015

This study conducted a comprehensive evaluation of three satellite precipitation products (TRMM (Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission) 3B42, CMORPH (the Climate Prediction Center (CPC) Morphing algorithm), and PERSIANN (Precipitation Estimation from Remotely Sensed Information using Artificial Neural Networks)) using data from 52 rain gauge stations over the Meichuan watershed, which is a representative watershed of the Poyang Lake Basin in China. All the three products were compared and evaluated during a 9-year period at different spatial (grid and watershed) and temporal (daily, monthly, and annual) scales. The results showed that at daily scale, CMORPH had the best performance with coefficients of determination (R2) of 0.61 at grid scale and 0.74 at watershed scale. For precipitation intensities larger than or equal to 25 mm, RMSE% of CMORPH and TRMM 3B42 were less than 50%, indicating CMORPH and TRMM 3B42 might be useful for hydrological applications at daily scale. At monthly and annual temporal scales, TRMM 3B42 had the best performances, with highR2ranging from 0.93 to 0.99, and thus was deemed to be reliable and had good potential for hydrological applications at monthly and annual scales. PERSIANN had the worst performance among the three products at all cases.
Preparation and Microstructure Analysis of TiC‐Derived Carbons with Hierarchical Pore Structure
Authors: Jia Jin , Zhou Aiguo , Zhu Yuanyuan , Liu Jiang , Feng Shihao , Tao Yufan , Xing Baoling , Zhang Chuanxiang
Published: April 2015

Carbide‐derived carbons (CDCs) with hierarchical pore structure are prepared from commercial TiC powders by chlorination at temperature range of 600–1100°C. As‐synthesized CDCs mainly consist of amorphous carbon and there exists a graphitization trend at chlorinating temperature above 800°C. If chlorinating temperature is below 1000°C, CDC particles maintain the shape of original TiC particles. Above 1000°C, obvious cracks appear in CDC particles and some particles are broken into small parts. The specific surface area (SSA) of CDCs is in the range from 672 m2/g to 1609 m2/g. The highest SSA is 1609 m2/g for CDC chlorinated at 1000°C. Most pores in these CDCs are micropores with the size of 0.7–2 nm. However, some mesopores and macropores also exist.
Photocatalytic Activity in Phenol Removal of Water from Graphite and Graphene Oxides: Effect of Degassing and Chemical Oxidation in the Synthesis Process
Authors: Bustos-Ramirez Karina , Barrera-Diaz Carlos Eduardo , De Icaza Miguel , Martínez-Hernández Ana Laura , Velasco-Santos Carlos
Published: April 2015

Developing new materials or modifying the existing ones is an amply field studied in the world of research. Due to its outstanding physical and chemical properties, graphene is attractive material for new applications. The methodologies for obtaining graphene are diverse and have changed over time. Graphene oxide is a versatile form of graphene, due to the presence of oxygenated functional groups. Chemical oxidation of graphite and exfoliation by ultrasonic waves is one of the preferred methods to obtain graphene oxide; chemical oxidation time and the degassing effect in the ultrasonic bath are parameters that play an important role in the features and properties of graphene oxide. Thus, in this study, the conventional times used for the oxidation of graphite and degassing in an ultrasonic bath to obtain graphene oxide were modified. The structural changes in the carbon materials were evaluated based on their photocatalytic activity in the removal of an organic pollutant in water (removing up to 38% of phenol). The band gaps of the graphitic materials were obtained by UV-vis obtaining a value range of 1.5–4.7 eV and the structure and morphology of the carbon materials were characterized by infrared and Raman spectroscopies and transmission electron microscopy, respectively.
Frequency of Surgery in Black Patients with Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma
Authors: Taioli Emanuela , Wolf Andrea S. , Moline Jacqueline M. , Camacho-Rivera Marlene , Flores Raja M.
Published: April 2015

Introduction. Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma (MPM) is a rare disease, even less frequently described in minority patients. We used a large population-based dataset to study the role of race in MPM presentation, treatment, and survival.Methods. All cases of pathologically proven MPM were identified in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Age, sex, diagnosis year, stage, cancer-directed surgery, radiation, and vital status were analyzed according to self-reported race (black or white).Results. There were 13,046 white and 688 black MPM patients (incidence: 1.1 per 100,000 whites; 0.5 per 100,000 blacks; age-adjusted,p=0.01). Black patients were more likely to be female, younger, and with advanced stage and less likely to undergo cancer-directed surgery than whites, after adjustment by stage. On multivariable analysis, younger age and having surgery were associated with longer survival for both cohorts; female gender (HR 0.82 (0.77–0.88)) and early stage at diagnosis (HR 0.83 (0.76–0.90)) were predictive of longer survival in white, but not in black, patients.Conclusions. Surgery was associated with improved survival for both black and white MPM patients. However, black patients were less likely to undergo cancer-directed surgery. Increased surgical intervention in MPM black patients with early stage disease may improve their survival.
Noninvasive Assessment of Fibrosis in Patients with Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Buzzetti Elena , Lombardi Rosa , De Luca Laura , Tsochatzis Emmanuel A.
Published: April 2015

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is prevalent in 20–25% of the general population and is associated with metabolic risk factors such as obesity, diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemia. Histologically, NAFLD ranges from simple steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), fibrosis, and cirrhosis. As NASH develops in only 10–15% of patients with NAFLD, it is not practical to biopsy all patients who present with NAFLD. Noninvasive fibrosis tests have been extensively developed recently and offer alternatives for staging fibrosis. Despite their increasing use, such tests cannot adequately differentiate simple steatosis from NASH. At present, such tests can be used as first line tests to rule out patients without advanced fibrosis and thus prevent unnecessary secondary care referrals in a significant number of patients. In this review we present the evidence for the use of noninvasive fibrosis tests in patients with NAFLD.
Early Identification of Traumatic Durotomy Associated with Atlantooccipital Dislocation May Prevent Retropharyngeal Pseudomeningocele Development
Authors: Qiu Robert S. , Safain Mina G. , Shutran Max , Hernandez Alejandra M. , Hwang Steven W. , Riesenburger Ron I.
Published: April 2015

Atlantooccipital dislocation can be complicated by a traumatic durotomy that may lead to the rare development of a retropharyngeal pseudomeningocele. To our knowledge this has been reported only five times previously. We present the case of a 60-year-old man involved in a motor vehicle accident who suffered an atlantooccipital dislocation and C5-C6 three-column injury. A unique MRI image of a defect in the ventral dura posterior to C2 was appreciated. He underwent occiput to T2 internal fixation and arthrodesis. During surgery, CSF egress was seen caudal to the right C2 nerve root. A DuraMatrix onlay patch reinforced with DuraSeal was placed to stop the CSF leak. A lumbar subarachnoid drain was also placed. The patient made a satisfactory recovery with residual mild weakness of his right upper extremity. In this report, we demonstrate that careful MRI review can reveal a ventral durotomy in a traumatic atlantooccipital dislocation and, if discovered, effective treatment including a lumbar subarachnoid drain for CSF diversion may prevent progression to a retropharyngeal pseudomeningocele. The literature on this rare presentation and associated durotomy is provided.
Dynamics Modeling andL1Adaptive Control of a Transport Aircraft for Heavyweight Airdrop
Authors: Liu Ri , Sun Xiuxia , Dong Wenhan , Wang Dong , Chang Yungang
Published: April 2015

The longitudinal nonlinear aircraft model with cargo extraction is derived using theoretical mechanics and flight mechanics. Furthermore, the nonlinear model is approximated by a semilinear time-varying system with the cargo disturbances viewed as unknown nonlinearities, both matched and unmatched types. On this basis, a novel autopilot inner-loop based on the LQR andL1adaptive theory is developed to reject the unknown nonlinear disturbances caused by the cargo and also to accommodate uncertainties. Analysis shows that the controller can guarantee robustness in the presence of fast adaptation, without exciting control signal oscillations and gain scheduling. The overall control system is completed with the outer-loop altitude-hold control based on a PID controller. Simulations are conducted under the condition that one transport aircraft performs maximum load airdrop mission at the height of 82 ft, using single row single platform mode. The results show the good performance of the control scheme, which can meet the airdrop mission performance indexes well, even in the presence of±20% aerodynamic uncertainties.
An Alternating Direction Method for Convex Quadratic Second-Order Cone Programming with Bounded Constraints
Authors: Mu Xuewen , Zhang Yaling
Published: April 2015

An alternating direction method is proposed for convex quadratic second-order cone programming problems with bounded constraints. In the algorithm, the primal problem is equivalent to a separate structure convex quadratic programming over second-order cones and a bounded set. At each iteration, we only need to compute the metric projection onto the second-order cones and the projection onto the bound set. The result of convergence is given. Numerical results demonstrate that our method is efficient for the convex quadratic second-order cone programming problems with bounded constraints.
Fractal Dimension Calculation of a Manganese‐Chromium Bimetallic Nanocomposite Using Image Processing
Authors: Lashgari Amir , Ghamami Shahriar , Shahbazkhany Saeedeh , Salgado-Morán Guillermo , Glossman-Mitnik Daniel
Published: April 2015

Bimetallic materials, which have the ability to convert heat change into mechanical movement, normally consist of two bonded strips of dissimilar metals that expand at different rates. We describe how we made a manganese‐chromium (Mn‐Cr) bimetallic nanocomposite using the centrifuge method and a low‐to‐high approach. We conducted scanning electron microscope (SEM) imaging, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis, and X‐ray diffraction spectra of the nanocomposite to prove its identity. We examined how centrifuge speed, process time, and the use of an “intruder agent” affected the properties of the material. The fractal dimension is a significant factor that can be used to approximate the surface roughness, the texture segmentation, and an image of the studied compounds. We calculated the technique of fractal dimensions using image‐processing values on a computer and histogram plot with the SEM image of the Mn‐Cr bimetallic nanocomposite using MATLAB software. We applied the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software for statistics data extracted from the SEM image of the nanocomposite and obtained the following results: mean = 1.778, median = 1.770, max = 1.98, min = 1.60, skewness = 0.177, range = 0.38, and harmonic mean = 1.771 for fractal dimension of the SEM image.
Kinetic Study and Thermal Decomposition Behavior of Lignite Coal
Authors: Heydari Mehran , Rahman Moshfiqur , Gupta Rajender
Published: April 2015

A thermogravimetric analyzer was employed to investigate the thermal behavior and extract the kinetic parameters of Canadian lignite coal. The pyrolysis experiments were conducted in temperatures ranging from 298 K to 1173 K under inert atmosphere utilizing six different heating rates of 1, 6, 9, 12, 15, and 18 K min−1, respectively. There are different techniques for analyzing the kinetics of solid-state reactions that can generally be classified into two categories: model-fitting and model-free methods. Historically, model-fitting methods are broadly used in solid-state kinetics and show an excellent fit to the experimental data but produce uncertain kinetic parameters especially for nonisothermal conditions. In this work, different model-free techniques such as the Kissinger method and the isoconversional methods of Ozawa, Kissinger-Akahira-Sunose, and Friedman are employed and compared in order to analyze nonisothermal kinetic data and investigate thermal behavior of a lignite coal. Experimental results showed that the activation energy values obtained by the isoconversional methods were in good agreement, but Friedman method was considered to be the best among the model-free methods to evaluate kinetic parameters for solid-state reactions. These results can provide useful information to predict kinetic model of coal pyrolysis and optimization of the process conditions.
A Rare Case of Undifferentiated Carcinoma of the Colon with Rhabdoid Features: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Moussaly E. , Atallah J. P.
Published: April 2015

Malignant rhabdoid tumors were originally described in children. Subsequently, the same histological pattern was described in adults. Malignant rhabdoid tumors are aggressive neoplasms that have been reported in multiple organs. To our best knowledge, only 16 previous cases of rhabdoid tumor in the colon have been described in the literature. We present the case of an 87-year-old lady who was diagnosed with a rhabdoid tumor of the colon that relapsed rapidly after surgical resection. The literature concerning this unusual neoplasm was subsequently reviewed with comparison of all known cases in the literature.
Comparison of Xpert MTB/RIF Assay and the Conventional Sputum Microscopy in DetectingMycobacterium tuberculosisin Northern Thailand
Authors: Pinyopornpanish Kanokwan , Chaiwarith Romanee , Pantip Chansom , Keawvichit Rassamee , Wongworapat Kanlaya , Khamnoi Phadungkiat , Supparatpinyo Khuanchai , Sirisanthana Thira
Published: April 2015

Background.Despite low sensitivity in detection ofMycobacterium tuberculosis, sputum acid-fast smear remains the main diagnostic method. This study aimed to compare the diagnostic performance of Xpert MTB/RIF assay versus conventional sputum acid-fast smear.Materials and Methods.A cross-sectional study was conducted at Chiang Mai University Hospital, Thailand. Patients who were ≥15 years old and had clinically suspected pulmonary tuberculosis were included.Results.109 specimens from 57 patients were included. Using MGIT sputum culture as a reference standard, the sensitivity (SEN) and specificity (SPEC) for Xpert were 95.3% (95% CI, 84.2%, 99.4%) and 86.4% (95% CI, 75.7%, 93.6%). The SEN and SPEC for sputum acid-fast smear were 60.5% (95% CI, 44.4%, 75.0%) and 98.5% (95% CI, 91.8%, 100%). Xpert had significantly higher sensitivity (pvalue < 0.001) and lower specificity (pvalue = 0.022) than sputum acid-fast smear. Among 43 culture-provenM. tuberculosisspecimens, sensitivity of Xpert was 100% (95% CI, 86.7%, 100%) in acid-fast positive smears (n=26) and 88.2% (95% CI, 63.5%, 98.5%) in acid-fast negative smears (n=17).Conclusions.The good sensitivity and specificity of Xpert assay in detectingM. tuberculosisfrom sputum specimens may help in early diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis, particularly among patients who had acid-fast negative sputum smear.
Chemical and Microbiological Characterization for PDO Labelling of Typical East Piedmont (Italy) Salami
Authors: Gianotti V. , Panseri S. , Robotti E. , Benzi M. , Mazzucco E. , Gosetti F. , Frascarolo P. , Oddone M. , Baldizzone M. , Marengo E. , Chiesa L. M.
Published: April 2015

This study is focused on the characterisation of typical salami produced in Alessandria province (North West of Italy). Seventeen small or medium salami producers from this area were involved in the study and provided the samples investigated. The aim is double and consists in obtaining a screening of the characteristics of different products and following their evolution along ripening. The study involved five types of typical salami that were characterised for aroma components and nutritional features. This approach could provide a basis for a possible PDO or PGI label request. Principal Component Analysis and cluster analysis were used as multivariate statistical tools for data treatment. The overall results obtained point out that the products investigated do not deviate from analogous European products and show the possibility of characterising by specific parameters three main groups of samples:Salamini di Mandrogne,Muletta, andNobile Giarolo; moreover some considerations can also be drawn with respect to the nutritional characterization considering the biogenic amines profile.
Causes for Withdrawal in an Urban Peritoneal Dialysis Program
Authors: Workeneh Biruh , Guffey Danielle , Minard Charles G. , Mitch William E.
Published: April 2015

Background. Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is an underutilized dialysis modality in the United States, especially in urban areas with diverse patient populations. Technique retention is a major concern of dialysis providers and might influence their approach to patients ready to begin dialysis therapy.Methods. Records from January 2009 to March 2014 were abstracted for demographic information, technique duration, and the reasons for withdrawal.Results. The median technique survival of the 128 incident patients during the study window was 781 days (2.1 years). The principle reasons for PD withdrawal were repeated peritonitis (30%); catheter dysfunction (18%); ultrafiltration failure (16%); patient choice or lack of support (16%); or hernia, leak, or other surgical complications (6%); and a total of 6 patients died during this period. Of the patients who did not expire and were not transplanted, most transferred to in-center hemodialysis and 8% transitioned to home-hemodialysis.Conclusions. Our findings suggest measures to ensure proper catheter placement and limiting infectious complications should be primary areas of focus in order to promote technique retention. Lastly, more focused education about home-hemodialysis as an option may allow those on PD who are beginning to demonstrate signs of technique failure to stay on home therapy.
An Efficient Bypassing Void Routing Algorithm for Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Fan Xunli , Du Feifei
Published: April 2015

Since the sensor node’s distribution in a wireless sensor network (WSN) is irregular, geographic routing protocols using the greedy algorithm can cause local minima problem. This problem may fail due to routing voids and lead to failure of data transmission. Based on the virtual coordinate mapping, this paper proposes an efficient bypassing void routing protocol to solve the control packet overhead and transmission delay in routing void of WSN, which is called EBVRPVCM. The basic idea is to transfer the random structure of void edge to a regular one through mapping the coordinates on a virtual circle. In EBVRPVCM, some strategies, executed in different regions, are selected through virtual coordinates to bypass routing void efficiently. The regular edge is established by coordinate mapping that can shorten the average routing path length and decrease the transmission delay. The virtual coordinate mapping is not affected by the real geographic node position, and the control packet overhead can be reduced accordingly. Compared with RGP and GPSR, simulation results demonstrate that EBVRPVCM can successfully find the shortest routing path with higher delivery ratio and less control packet overhead and energy consumption.
The Exact Linearization and LQR Control of Semiactive Connected Hydropneumatic Suspension System
Authors: Cao Xuyang , Cao Linlin , Wang Dianlong
Published: April 2015

Based on differential geometry theory, the nonlinear system of connected hydropneumatic suspension was transformed to a linear one. What is more, it realized the decoupling and inverter between the control variables and system outputs. With LQR (Linear Quadratic Regulator) control theory, a semiactive system has been developed for connected hydropneumatic suspension in this paper. By AMESim/Simulink cosimulation, the results show that the semiactive connected hydropneumatic suspension decreases the vibration of upper vehicle quickly and reduces the impact acceleration strongly both in displacement and inroll angle. Moreover, the semiactive suspension could increase the suspension dynamic deflection, which would make the system reach balance quickly and keep small vibration amplitude under the effect of disturbance.
A Novel Multiobjective Optimization Algorithm for Home Energy Management System in Smart Grid
Authors: Zhang Yanyu , Zeng Peng , Li Shuhui , Zang Chuanzhi , Li Hepeng
Published: April 2015

Demand response (DR) is an effective method to lower peak-to-average ratio of demand, facilitate the integration of renewable resources (e.g., wind and solar) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, and strengthen the reliability of power system. In smart grid, implementing DR through home energy management system (HEMS) in residential sector has a great significance. However, an algorithm that only optimally controls parts of HEMS rather than the overall system cannot obtain the best results. In addition, single objective optimization algorithm that minimizes electricity cost cannot quantify user’s comfort level and cannot take a tradeoff between electricity cost and comfort level conveniently. To tackle these problems, this paper proposes a framework of HEMS that consists of grid, load, renewable resource (i.e., solar resource), and battery. In this framework, a user has the ability to sell electricity to utility grid for revenue. Different comfort level indicators are proposed for different home appliances according to their characteristics and user preferences. Based on these comfort level indicators, this paper proposes a multiobjective optimization algorithm for HEMS that minimizes electricity cost and maximizes user’s comfort level simultaneously. Simulation results indicate that the algorithm can reduce user’s electricity cost significantly, ensure user’s comfort level, and take a tradeoff between the cost and comfort level conveniently.
Frictional Performance and Temperature Rise of a Mining Nonasbestos Brake Material during Emergency Braking
Authors: Bao Jiusheng , Li Zengsong , Hu Dongyang , Yin Yan , Liu Tonggang
Published: April 2015

By simulating emergency braking conditions of mine hoisters, tribological experiments of a mining nonasbestos brake material sliding on E355CC steel friction disc investigated a pad-on-disc friction tester. It is shown that, under combined influence of braking velocity and pressure, the lubricating film and micro-convex-apices on wear surface would have complex physicochemical reactions which make the instant friction coefficient rise gradually while the instant surface temperature rises first and then falls. With the antifriction effect from lubricating film and the desquamating of composite materials, the mean friction coefficient decreases first, then rises, and decreases again with the increasing of initial braking velocity. And with the existence of micro-convex-apices and variation from increment ratio of load and actual contacting area, it rises first and then falls with the increasing of braking pressure. However, the mean surface temperature rises obviously with the increasing of both initial braking velocity and braking pressure for growth of transformed kinetic energy. It is considered that the friction coefficient cannot be considered as a constant when designing brake devices for mine hoisters. And special attention should be paid to the serious influence of surface temperature on tribological performance of brake material during emergency braking.
Analytical Modeling and Contradictions in Limestone Reservoirs: Breccias, Vugs, and Fractures
Authors: Barros-Galvis Nelson , Villaseñor Pedro , Samaniego Fernando
Published: April 2015

Modeling of limestone reservoirs is traditionally developed applying tectonic fractures concepts or planar discontinuities and has been simulated dynamically without considering nonplanar discontinuities as sedimentary breccias, vugs, fault breccias, and impact breccias, assuming that all these nonplanar discontinuities are tectonic fractures, causing confusion and contradictions in reservoirs characterization. The differences in geometry and connectivity in each discontinuity affect fluid flow, generating the challenge to develop specific analytical models that describe quantitatively hydrodynamic behavior in breccias, vugs, and fractures, focusing on oil flow in limestone reservoirs. This paper demonstrates the differences between types of discontinuities that affect limestone reservoirs and recommends that all discontinuities should be included in simulation and static-dynamic characterization, because they impact fluid flow. To demonstrate these differences, different analytic models are developed. Findings of this work are based on observations of cores, outcrops, and tomography and are validated with field data. The explanations and mathematical modeling developed here could be used as diagnostic tools to predict fluid velocity and fluid flow in limestone reservoirs, improving the complex reservoirs static-dynamic characterization.
Hyperthermia-Induced Febrile Seizures Have Moderate and Transient Effects on Spatial Learning in Immature Rats
Authors: Yagoubi Nawel , Jomni Yosra , Sakly Mohsen
Published: April 2015

The aim of this study was to characterize a novel animal model hyperthermia-induced febrile seizure and to investigate the impacts of repetitive febrile seizures on spatial learning and memory performances in immature rats.Methods. Rats were subjected to hyperthermia exposure one, two, or three times in 10-day intervals during 30 min in a water bath warmed at 45–50°C and their behaviour was monitored. Morris water maze spatial learning and memory were examined for control and treated groups. Results showed that rats subjected to 30-minute hyperthermia hot water developed rapidly myoclonic jerks and then generalized seizures. After a single hyperthermia exposure, the time for generalised tonic-clonic seizures appearance was 16.08 ± 0.60 min and it decreased gradually with repetitive exposure to reach 12.46 ± 0.39 min by the third exposure. Febrile seizures altered the spatial learning and memory abilities in Morris water maze and increased the time spent to attain the platform after one or two exposures, while after a third exposure rats exhibited the same latency compared to controls. Similar results were obtained in probe test where rats, subjected to hyperthermia for one or two episodes, spent less time in the target quadrant compared to corresponding controls. Further, when platform was moved from northwest to southwest quadrant, memory transfer test indicated that after one or two hyperthermia exposures cognitive performances were slightly altered, while after a third exposure the latency to escape increased significantly compared to untreated group. It was concluded that 30 min of hyperthermia hot water was sufficient to induce febrile seizures in immature rats and an increase of susceptibility was observed with repetitive hyperthermia exposure. Hyperthermia treatment impaired cognitive performances but the effects were mostly transient and moderate.
Cytoplasmic Accumulation of Sequestosome 1 (p62) Is a Predictor of Biochemical Recurrence, Rapid Tumor Cell Proliferation, and Genomic Instability in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Burdelski Christoph , Reiswich Viktor , Hube-Magg Claudia , Kluth Martina , Minner Sarah , Koop Christina , Graefen Markus , Heinzer Hans , Tsourlakis Maria Christina , Wittmer Corinna , Huland Hartwig , Simon Ronald , Schlomm Thorsten , Sauter Guido , Steurer Stefan
Published: April 2015

Purpose: Sequestosome 1 (p62) is a multifunctional adapter protein accumulating in autophagy-defective cells.

Experimental Design: To evaluate the clinical impact and relationship with key genomic alterations in prostate cancer, p62 protein levels were analyzed by immunohistochemistry on a tissue microarray containing 12,427 prostate cancers. Data on ERG status and deletions of PTEN, 3p13, 5q21, and 6q15 were available from earlier studies.

Results: p62 immunostaining was absent in benign prostatic glands but present in 73% of 7,822 interpretable prostate cancers. Strong cytoplasmic p62 staining was tightly linked to high Gleason grade, advanced pathologic tumor (pT) stage, positive nodal status, positive resection margin, and early PSA recurrence (P < 0.0001 each). Increased levels of p62 were significantly linked to TMPRSS2–ERG fusions, both by FISH and immunohistochemical analysis (P < 0.0001 each). For example, moderate or strong p62 immunostaining was seen in 28.5% of cancers with TMPRSS2–ERG fusion detected by FISH and in 23.1% of cancers without such rearrangements (P < 0.0001). Strong p62 staining was significantly linked to the presence of all tested deletions, including PTEN (P < 0.0001), 6q15 (P < 0.0001), 5q21 (P = 0.0002), 3p13 (P = 0.0088), and 6q15 (P < 0.0001), suggesting a link between p62 accumulation and loss of genomic stability. The prognostic role of p62 protein accumulation was striking and independent of Gleason grade, pT stage, pN stage, surgical margin status, and preoperative PSA, regardless of whether preoperative or postoperative parameters were used for modeling.

Conclusions: Our study identifies cytoplasmic accumulation of p62 as a strong predictor of an adverse prognostic behavior of prostate cancer independently from established clinicopathologic findings. Clin Cancer Res; 21(15); 3471–9. ©2015 AACR.
Autophagy Protects Renal Tubular Cells Against Ischemia / Reperfusion Injury in a Time-Dependent Manner
Authors: Guan Xuejing , Qian Yingying , Shen Yue , Zhang Lulu , Du Yi , Dai Huili , Qian Jiaqi , Yan Yucheng
Published: April 2015

Background/Aims: Autophagy is a dynamic catabolic process that maintains cellular homeostasis. Whether it plays a role in promoting cell survival or cell death in the process of renal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) remains controversial, partly because renal autophagy is usually examined at a certain time point. Therefore, monitoring of the whole time course of autophagy and apoptosis may help better understand the role of autophagy in renal I/R. Methods: Autophagy and apoptosis were detected after mice were subjected to bilateral renal ischemia followed by 0-h to 7-day reperfusion, exposure of TCMK-1 cells to 24-h hypoxia, and 2 to 24-h reoxygenation. The effect of autophagy on apoptosis was assessed in the presence of autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine (3-MA) and autophagy activator rapamycin. Results: Earlier than apoptosis, autophagy increased from 2-h reperfusion, reached the maximum at day 2, and then began declining from day 3 when renal damage had nearly recovered to normal. Exposure to 24-h hypoxia induced autophagy markedly, but it decreased drastically after 4 and 8-h reoxygenation, which was accompanied with increased cell apoptosis. Inhibition of autophagy with 3-MA increased the apoptosis of renal tubular cells during I/R in vivo and hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) in vitro. In contrast, activation of autophagy by rapamycin significantly alleviated renal tissue damage and tubular cell apoptosis in the two models. Conclusion: Autophagy was induced in a time-dependent manner and occurred earlier than the onset of cell apoptosis as an early response that played a renoprotective role during renal I/R and cell H/R. Up-regulation of autophagy may prove to be a potential strategy for the treatment of acute kidney injury.
Gout after Living Kidney Donation: Correlations with Demographic Traits and Renal Complications
Authors: Lam Ngan N. , Garg Amit X. , Segev Dorry L. , Schnitzler Mark A. , Xiao Huiling , Axelrod David , Brennan Daniel C. , Kasiske Bertram L. , Tuttle-Newhall Janet E. , Lentine Krista L.
Published: April 2015

Background: The demographic and clinical correlates of gout after living kidney donation are not well described. Methods: Using a unique database that integrates national registry identifiers of U.S. living kidney donors (1987-2007) with billing claims from a private health insurer (2000-2007), we identified post-donation gout based on medical diagnosis codes or pharmacy fills for gout therapies. The frequencies and demographic correlates of gout after donation were estimated by Cox regression with left- and right-censoring. We also compared the rates of renal diagnoses among donors with and without gout, matched in the ratio 1:3 by age, sex, and race. Results: The study sample of 4,650 donors included 13.1% African Americans. By seven years, African Americans were almost twice as likely to develop gout as Caucasian donors (4.4 vs. 2.4%; adjusted hazard ratio, aHR, 1.8; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.0-3.2). Post-donation gout risk also increased with older age at donation (aHR per year 1.05) and was higher in men (aHR 2.80). Gout rates were similar in donors and age- and sex-matched general non-donors (rate ratio 0.86; 95% CI 0.66-1.13). Compared to matched donors without gout, donors with gout had more frequent renal diagnoses, reaching significance for acute kidney failure (rate ratio 12.5; 95% CI 1.5-107.0), chronic kidney disease (rate ratio 5.0; 95% CI 2.1-11.7), and other disorders of the kidney (rate ratio 2.2; 95% CI 1.2-4.2). Conclusion: Donor subgroups at increased risk of gout include African Americans, older donors, and men. Donors with gout have a higher burden of renal complications after demographic adjustment.
The Novelty of the 2015 Guidelines of the Taiwan Society of Cardiology and the Taiwan Hypertension Society for the Management of Hypertension
Authors: Cheng Hao-Min , Chiang Chern-En , Chen Chen-Huan
Published: April 2015

The prevalence rate of hypertension in Asian countries grows faster than in other parts of the world, where stroke exceeds coronary heart disease in causing morbidities and mortalities. The optimal management of hypertension is therefore an especially important task in Asia. In a transparent and rigorous guideline development process, the most updated information available on the management of hypertension was summarized in the 2015 Taiwan Society of Cardiology (TSOC)/Taiwan Hypertension Society (TSH) hypertension guideline. In contradiction with the ESH/ESH joint hypertension guidelines and the 2014 Joint National Committee (JNC) report, this updated guideline suggests some different blood pressure (BP) targets. In brief, the BP target is 150/90 mm Hg for very elderly patients (≥ 80 years), 130/80 mm Hg for patients with diabetes, coronary heart disease, proteinuric chronic kidney disease or those receiving antithrombotics for stroke prevention, and 140/90 mm Hg for all the other hypertension patients with or without the aforementioned comorbidities. To facilitate the adherence to the guideline, the following was proposed: mnemonics for lifestyle modifications: S-ABCDE (Sodium restriction, Alcohol limitation, Body weight reduction, Cigarette smoking cessation, Diet adaptation, and Exercise adoption), treatment algorithm: PROCEED (Previous experience, Risk factors, Organ damage, Contraindications or unfavorable conditions, Expert's or doctor's judgment, Expenses or cost, and Delivery and compliance issue), and medication adjustment algorithm: AT GOALs (Adherence, Timing of administration, Greater doses, Other classes of drugs, Alternative combination or single-pill combination, and Lifestyle modification + Laboratory tests). In particular, the effort of translating the concept of central BP into clinical practice may stand out from all other hypertension guidelines. In summary, our guidelines may deliver useful information and guidance to clinicians in managing hypertensive patients, including the approach to a more accurate diagnosis, treatment and adjustment algorithm, and evidence-based recommendations.
Dose-Dense Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy plus Radical Surgery in Locally Advanced Cervical Cancer: A Phase II Study
Authors: Benedetti Panici Pierluigi , Palaia Innocenza , Marchetti Claudia , Ruscito Ilary , Fischetti Margherita , Musella Angela , Di Donato Violante , Perniola Giorgia , Vertechy Laura , Muzii Ludovico
Published: April 2015

Objective: To assess the efficacy and toxicity profile of dose-dense cisplatin-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) followed by radical surgery in patients affected by locally advanced cervical cancer. Methods: Patients affected by carcinoma of the uterine cervix FIGO (International Federation of Obstetrics and Gynecology) stage IB2-IIIB were enrolled into the study. The treatment schedule consisted of 5 cycles of intravenous paclitaxel 60 mg/m2 plus cisplatin 60 mg/m2 every 10 days; patients were then submitted to radical hysterectomy and pelvic lymphadenectomy. Results: From January 2011 to March 2013, 22 patients were enrolled. Median age was 47 (26-83) years. FIGO stages included 1 IIA, 15 IIB, 1 IIIA, and 5 IIIB. Ninety-one percent of patients completed all the 5 planned cycles of NACT. Three patients experienced allergic reactions to paclitaxel. Grade 3-4 hematological toxicity was observed in 18% of cases. In 3 cases, grade 3-4 extra-hematological adverse and life-threatening events were reported (1 ototoxicity, 1 transient ischemic attack, and 1 myocardial infarction). No treatment-related death occurred. The operability rate was 86.4%. The overall response rate was 52.6%: 5 patients (26.3%) experienced clinical complete response, and 5 (26.3%) showed a clinical partial response. Stable disease was observed in 47.4% of patients, with no progressive disease recorded. Pathological response was observed in 57.9% of cases. Six out of 19 (31.6%) patients were submitted to adjuvant treatment. Conclusion: Dose-dense cisplatin-based NACT showed a response rate in approximately half of patients. However, in consideration of the reported extra-hematological toxicity, further studies on and new strategies with dose-dense platinum-based NACT are required to improve outcome in cervical cancer patients.
Is There a Measurable Difference between the Left and Right Modified Myocardial Performance Indices, and Does This Change to Reflect Unilateral Myocardial Dysfunction in Pathology?
Authors: Welsh Alec W. , Henry Amanda , Meriki Neama , Mahajan Aditi , Wu Linda , Alphonse Jennifer
Published: April 2015

Introduction: Fetal cardiac dysfunction may manifest itself unilaterally as right and left ventricles differing in design, function and load, measurable as differing in myocardial performance indices (MPIs). We wished to define this difference (‘delta-MPI' or DMPI), present its normal range and pilot its use in pathological pregnancy. Material and Methods: Prospective cross-sectional study of 324 normal singleton fetuses (16-38 weeks of gestation). Left and right modified MPI (LMPI and RMPI) were performed during a single examination using the ‘peak' valve click technique. Thirty-seven pathological singleton and monochorionic diamniotic twin pregnancies were compared as pilot data. Results: Modified MPIs (mean ± SD) were 0.45 ± 0.06 (LMPI) and 0.47 ± 0.09 (RMPI), being similar at 18 weeks' gestation with DMPI increasing slightly throughout pregnancy (0.02 ± 0.08). Both singleton intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and recipient twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) showed significantly elevated RMPI, LMPI and DMPI, most pronounced for DMPI (450 and 500% increase, respectively; p < 0.01). DMPI acquisition rates were 83.3% normal and 87.0% pathological. Discussion: We demonstrate for the first time differing intrafetal LMPI and RMPI in a large gestational cohort, with this difference increasing with gestational age. Pilot data confirm the potential for DMPI as a tool to assess unilateral myocardial function in singleton IUGR and recipient twins in TTTS, and further studies are under way to evaluate its clinical utility.
The Korean Society of Hypertension Guidelines for the Management of Hypertension in 2013: Its Essentials and Key Points
Authors: Lee Hae-Young , Park Jeong Bae
Published: April 2015

The Korean Society of Hypertension published new guidelines for the management of hypertension in 2013 which fully revised the first Korean hypertension treatment guideline published in 2004. Due to shortage of Korean data, the Committee decided to establish the guideline in the form of an ‘adaptation' of the recently released guidelines. The prevalence of hypertension was 28.5% in the recent Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey in 2011, and the awareness, treatment, and control rates are generally improving. However, the risks for cerebrovascular disease and coronary artery disease which are attributable to hypertension were the highest in Korea. The classification of hypertension is the same as in other guidelines. The remarkable difference is that prehypertension is further classified as stage 1 and 2 prehypertension because the cardiovascular risk is significantly different within the prehypertensive range. Although the decision-making was based on office blood pressure (BP) measured by the auscultation method using a stethoscope, the importance of home BP measurement and ambulatory BP monitoring is also stressed. The Korean guideline does not recommend a drug therapy in patients within the prehypertensive range, even in patients with prediabetes, diabetes mellitus, stroke, or coronary artery disease. In an elderly population over 65 years old, drug therapy can be initiated when the systolic BP (SBP) is ≥160 mm Hg. The target BP is generally an SBP of <140 mm Hg and a diastolic BP (DBP) of <90 mm Hg regardless of previous cardiovascular events. However, in patients with hypertension and diabetes, the lower DBP control <85 mm Hg is recommended. Also, in patients with hypertension with prominent albuminuria, a more strict SBP control <130 mm Hg can be recommended. In lifestyle modification, sodium reduction is the most important factor in Korea. Five classes of antihypertensive drugs, including angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, β-blockers, calcium antagonists, and diuretics, are equally recommended as a first-line treatment, whereas a combination therapy chosen from renin-angiotensin system inhibitors, calcium antagonists, and diuretics is preferentially recommended.
Human Cytokine-Induced Memory-Like Natural Killer Cells
Authors: Berrien-Elliott Melissa M. , Wagner Julia A. , Fehniger Todd A.
Published: April 2015

Natural killer (NK) cells are innate lymphoid cells that are important for host defense against infection and mediate antitumor responses. Recent reports from several laboratories have identified that NK cells can remember a prior activation event and consequently respond more robustly when restimulated, a property termed innate NK cell memory. NK cell memory has now been identified following hapten exposure, viral infection, and combined cytokine preactivation with IL-12, IL-15, and IL-18. Many questions in the field remain regarding the cellular and molecular mechanisms regulating memory NK cells and their responses, as well as their formation and function in mice and humans. Here we review our current understanding of cytokine-induced memory-like (CIML) NK cells that are generated by combined preactivation with IL-12, IL-15, and IL-18. These cells exhibit enhanced NK cell effector functions weeks after the initial cytokine preactivation. Further, we highlight the preclinical rationale and ongoing therapeutic application of CIML NK cells for adoptive immunotherapy in patients with hematologic malignancies.
Apresentação
Authors: Leme Maria Cristina Da Silva , Lanna Ana Lucia Duarte
Published: April 2015

Apresentação