bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamics of the Centromeric Histone CENH3 Structure in Rye-Wheat Amphidiploids (Secalotriticum)
Authors: Lipikhina Yulia A. , Evtushenko Elena V. , Lyusikov Oleg M. , Gordei Igor S. , Gordei Ivan A. , Vershinin Alexander V.
Published: November 2018

The centromeres perform integral control of the cell division process and proper distribution of chromosomes into daughter cells. The correct course of this process is often disrupted in case of remote hybridization, which is a stress factor. The combination of parental genomes of different species in a hybrid cell leads to a “genomic shock” followed by loss of genes, changes in gene expression, deletions, inversions, and translocations of chromosome regions. The created rye-wheat allopolyploid hybrids, which were collectively called secalotriticum, represent a new interesting model for studying the effect of remote hybridization on the centromere and its components. The main feature of an active centromere is the presence of a specific histone H3 modification in the centromeric nucleosomes, which is referred to as CENH3 in plants. In this paper the results of cytogenetic analysis of the secalotriticum hybrid karyotypes and the comparison of the CENH3 N-terminal domain structure of parent and hybrid forms are presented. It is shown that the karyotypes of the created secalotriticum forms are stable balanced hexaploids not containing minichromosomes with deleted arms, in full or in part. A high level of homology between rye and wheat enables to express both parental forms ofCENH3gene in the hybrid genomes of secalotriticum cultivars. The CENH3 structure in hybrids in each crossing combination has some specific features. The percentage of polymorphisms at several amino acid positions is much higher in one of the secalotriticum hybrids, STr VD, than in parental forms, whereas the other hybrid, STr VM, inherits a high level of amino acid substitutions at the position 25 from the maternal parent.
Traditional Chinese Medicine in Neuroprotection after Brain Insults with Special Reference to Radioprotection
Authors: Peng Xiao Chun , Huang Jiang Rong , Wang Si Wei , Liu Lian , Liu Zhen Zhen , Sethi Gautam , Ren Bo Xu , Tang Feng Ru
Published: November 2018

With rapidly increased construction of nuclear power plants worldwide to reduce energy shortage and subsequent environment contamination, routine use of radiotherapy and radiodiagnosis equipment in the clinical medicine, the research on the health effect of radiation exposure has become a very important area to explore. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) may be an ideal candidate therapy as it usually produces fewer side effects even with long‐term administration. In this paper, we reviewed current therapeutic approaches to prevent radiation‐induced brain neuropathological and functional changes. Neuroprotective effects of TCM in different brain injury models have been briefly summarized. We then reviewed the neuroprotective and radioprotective effect of TCM in different radiation exposure models and discussed the potential molecular mechanism(s) of the neuroprotective and radioprotective effect of TCM. The conclusions and future research directions were made in the last part of the paper.
Green Tea Seed Isolated Saponins Exerts Antibacterial Effects against Various Strains of Gram Positive and Gram Negative Bacteria, a Comprehensive Study In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Khan Muhammad Imran , Ahhmed Abdulatef , Shin Jin Hyuk , Baek Jun Soo , Kim Min Yong , Kim Jong Deog
Published: November 2018

Bacteria are one of the major causes of severe infections and diseases of plants and animals. Salmonella are crucially important due to infection in poultry leading to huge economical loses. Due to high cost and microbial resistance to the currently available chemical antibiotics, demand of screening natural products with antibiotics effects is increased. Plants are rich sources of natural bioactive compounds with antibiotic effects. Saponins are natural compounds of plant sources having a diverse range of applications. In present study we investigated the in vitro and in vivo antibacterial activities of green tea seed extracted saponins. Green tea seeds crude extract was prepared in 70% ethanol by continuous reflux in heating mantel for 5 hours. Crude saponins were extracted from the crude ethanolic extract of green tea seed by column chromatography using macroporous resin (D101). Saponin mixture in fraction 1 (Fr1) was obtained from crude saponins extract via column chromatography. Fr2 and Fr3 were isolated from saponins mixture by preparative HPLC. Antibacterial activities of the isolated saponins fractions were investigated against Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922), Streptococcus aureus (ATCC 12600), and six serovars of Salmonella. In vitro antibacterial activities were determined by disc‐diffusion method and growth inhibition in liquid culture using 96‐well plate. Results showed that the green tea isolated saponins fractions possess antibacterial effects in the following order Fr1>Fr2>Fr3. Antibacterial mechanism of saponins was elucidated by cell wall and membrane damaging potential of saponins determined by measuring AKP and soluble proteins levels. Fr1 was further used for in vivo antibacterial activities. Five‐week grown chickens were selected for in vivo work, divided into three groups as control, infected, and treatment groups. Infected and treatment groups chickens were infected with bacteria and only treatment group chickens were treated with saponins. The qRT‐ PCR analysis of the blood and feces samples of the different groups’ animals shows the presence of bacteria only in infected group while reduced expression levels of the bacterial pathogens were found in the samples of treatment group. Our results demonstrated that the green tea seed saponins used in this study possess strong antibacterial activities.
Advanced Analytical Methods for Phenolics in Fruits
Authors: Kafkas Nesibe Ebru , Kosar Müberra , Öz Ayşe Tülin , Mitchell Alyson E.
Published: November 2018

Phenolic compounds are a group of secondary plant metabolites, many with health-promoting properties that are present in all parts of plants. They have an aromatic structure, including either one or more hydroxyl groups giving them the ability to stabilize free radicals and protect biological tissues against damage related to reactive oxygen species. Phenolic compounds are concentrated in the fruit of plants, and therefore, the fruit can be an important dietary source of these phytochemicals, which exist as monomers, or bound to one another. Polyphenolic compounds are classified into different subclasses based upon the number of phenol ring systems that they contain, saturation, and length of the carbon chain that bind the rings to one another. The phenolic acids present in fruit tissues protect the plant against disease, infections, UV radiation, and insect damage. For this reason, the beneficiary effects of phenolic compounds are continually being investigated for their health-promoting properties and for meeting increased consumer demand for healthy nutritious food. Due to the functional properties of polyphenolic compounds, there is increased interest on improving extraction, separation, and quantification techniques of these valuable bioactive compounds, so they can be used as value-added ingredients in foods, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. This review provides information on the most advanced methods available for the analysis of phenolics in fruits.
Efficacy of an Emergency Cervical Cerclage Using Absorbable Monofilament Sutures
Authors: Sato Yuka , Hidaka Nobuhiro , Nakano Takahiro , Kido Saki , Hachisuga Masahiro , Fujita Yasuyuki , Kato Kiyoko
Published: November 2018

Introduction. Although nonabsorbable woven tape has been widely used for cervical cerclage, technical difficulties that can occur with an effaced cervix because of the thickness of the tape, and the risks of local infection are two major concerns. This study investigated perinatal outcomes of pregnancies involving an emergency cervical cerclage using absorbable monofilament polydioxanone sutures, which is a narrow thread and protects against bacterial infection.Materials and Methods. We performed a chart review of patients who underwent emergency McDonald cerclage with polydioxanone sutures at our institution between 2007 and 2015. Gestational age at delivery, duration between cerclage and delivery, and neonatal prognosis were evaluated as primary outcomes.Results. Among the 23 patients (18 singleton and five twin pregnancies) evaluated, ultrasound-indicated (progressive cervical length shortening) were eight (35%) and physical examination-indicated (fetal membranes that prolapsed into the vagina or dilated cervix) were 15 patients (65%). The median gestational age at cerclage was 22+3weeks (range, 17+5to 25+3weeks). Postoperative spontaneous abortion occurred in only one patient. The median gestational age at delivery was 32+5weeks (range, 20+5to 40+6weeks). Extremely preterm delivery before 28 weeks of gestation occurred in four (17%) cases. Full-term delivery was achieved in 10 (42%) cases. The duration between cerclage and delivery ranged from 5 to 136 days (median, 77 days). Except for one case of spontaneous abortion, all newborns survived till hospital discharge.Conclusions. Although our series included some patients at high risk for spontaneous abortion and preterm delivery, satisfactory prolongation and favorable neonatal outcomes were achieved for most patients by using absorbable monofilament sutures, thus suggesting the efficacy of this type of suture for emergency cervical cerclage.
First Report of Chlamydia abortus in Farmed Fur Animals
Authors: Li Zhaocai , Liu Ping , Cao Xiaoan , Lou Zhongzi , Zaręba-Marchewka Kinga , Szymańska-Czerwińska Monika , Niemczuk Krzysztof , Hu Bo , Bai Xue , Zhou Jizhang
Published: November 2018

Chlamydia (C.) abortus, a globally distributed obligate intracellular bacterium, has attracted increasing interest according to its veterinary importance and zoonotic nature. C. abortus can infect a variety of animals and cause foetal loss in livestock resulting in economic loss. In this study, the samples collected from two farms of foxes (n=20), raccoon dogs (n=15) and minks (n=20), were investigated by Chlamydiaceae- and Chlamydia species-specific real-time PCR. The results showed that all the tested foxes (20/20) and raccoon dogs (15/15) harbored Chlamydia spp., while 5% of minks (1/20) were positive for Chlamydia spp. C. abortus was identified in all positive samples as the dominant Chlamydia species, with C. pecorum DNA coexistence in some of the rectal samples (7/20) taken from foxes. Phylogenetic analysis based on specific gene fragments of 16S rRNA, IGS-23S rRNA, and ompA revealed that all sequences obtained in this study were assigned to the Chlamydiaceae family with high similarity to C. abortus S26/3 and B577 previously identified in ruminants. This is the first report confirming that farmed foxes, raccoon dogs, and minks carry C. abortus. Further studies are needed to fully elucidate the epidemiology and pathogenicity of this pathogen in farmed fur animals as well as the potential risks to public health.
Whether Chinese Medicine Have Effect on Halitosis: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Wu Xinyu , Zhang Jie , Zhou Yikun , He Ze , Cai Qiaoyi , Nie Min
Published: November 2018

Object. Halitosis has great adverse impact on personal and social life. There is no strong evidence for the effect of Chinese medicine (CM) and combined Chinese and western medicine (CWM) on halitosis. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the effective rate of CM and CWM on halitosis. Materials and Methods. Literature search in English and Chinese was conducted in PubMed, Embase, CNKI, CBM, and Wanfang database. Study selection and data collection were conducted. Risks of bias were assessed by the Cochrane tool. Synthesis of results was done by RevMan 5.3. p<0.05 was considered significant difference. Subgroup analysis by classification of halitosis and sensitivity analysis were also conducted. Results. Seventeen studies were included. The follow‐up length ranged from five days to eight weeks. CM had significantly better effect than WM on intraoral halitosis (I2 =24%; RR=1.21 (95% CI, 1.04, 1.40), P=0.01) and extraoral halitosis (I2 =0; RR=1.39 (95% CI, 1.19, 1.63), P<0.0001). CWM had significantly better effect than WM on intraoral halitosis (I2 =0; RR=1.25 (95% CI, 1.16, 1.35), P<0.00001) and extraoral halitosis (I2 =0; RR=1.19 (95% CI, 1.08, 1.31), P=0.0004). Subgroup analysis and sensitivity analysis showed insignificant results. Conclusion. With the limitation of our study, both CM and CWM have significantly better effect on halitosis than WM. More effort should be made to explore long‐term effect of CM and CWM on halitosis. This study was registered with the PROSPERO (ID: CRD42018107229).
Approach to Neonates and Young Infants with Fever without a Source Who Are at Risk for Severe Bacterial Infection
Authors: Esposito Susanna , Rinaldi Victoria Elisa , Argentiero Alberto , Farinelli Edoardo , Cofini Marta , D’Alonzo Renato , Mencacci Antonella , Principi Nicola
Published: November 2018

Introduction. Among neonates and infants <3 months of age with fever without a source (FWS), 5% to 15% of cases are patients with fever caused by a serious bacterial infection (SBI). To favour the differentiation between low- and high-risk infants, several algorithms based on analytical and clinical parameters have been developed. The aim of this review is to describe the management of young infants with FWS and to discuss the impact of recent knowledge regarding FWS management on clinical practice.Materials and Methods. PubMed was used to search for all of the studies published over the last 35 years using the keywords: “fever without source” or “fever of unknown origin” or “meningitis” or “sepsis” or “urinary tract infection” and “neonate” or “newborn” or “infant <90 days of life” or “infant <3 months”.Results and Discussion. The selection of neonates and young infants who are <3 months old with FWS who are at risk for SBI remains a problem without a definitive solution. The old Rochester criteria remain effective for identifying young infants between 29 and 60 days old who do not have severe bacterial infections (SBIs). However, the addition of laboratory tests such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin (PCT) can significantly improve the identification of children with SBI. The approach in evaluating neonates is significantly more complicated, as their risk of SBIs, including bacteremia and meningitis, remains relevant and none of the suggested approaches can reduce the risk of dramatic mistakes. In both groups, the best antibiotic must be carefully selected considering the clinical findings, the laboratory data, the changing epidemiology, and increasing antibiotic resistance of the most common infectious bacteria.
Association between Hand Digit Ratio (2D : 4D) and Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Dias Verônica O. , Santos Maria L. , Mendes Patrícia Helena C. , Fonseca Claudia A. D. , Martelli Daniella R. B. , de Andrade Rodrigo S. , Martelli Júnior Hercílio
Published: November 2018

Objective. Digit ratio (2D : 4D) has been suggested as a biomarker for prenatal hormone activity and has been linked to several types of cancer. This study investigated the possible correlation between 2D : 4D ratios and acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Methods. A case-control study was performed with Brazilian subjects. Direct measurements of the lengths of index and ring fingers of both hands of patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (n=43) and controls matched by age and gender (n=86) were obtained by using a digital vernier caliper. Mean ratios between the second and fourth digits were compared. Data were analyzed by Student’s t-test with a significance level of 5%. Results. No significant difference was found between the mean digit ratios of the right and left hands between the groups for any analysis (p>0.05), neither for the whole sample nor for the distribution by gender. Conclusions. We observed that patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia do not have a different digit pattern when compared with unaffected individuals, which may suggest that exposure to prenatal sex hormone is similar between groups.
The Application of the exp⁡(-Φ(ξ))-Expansion Method for Finding the Exact Solutions of Two Integrable Equations
Authors: Sajid Naila , Akram Ghazala
Published: November 2018

In this article, the exp⁡-Φξ method is connected to search for new hyperbolic, periodic, and rational solutions of (1+1)-dimensional fifth-order nonlinear integrable equation and (2+1)-dimensional Date-Jimbo-Kashiwara-Miwa equation. The obtained solutions consist of trigonometric, hyperbolic, rational functions and W-shaped soliton. Furthermore, 3D and 2D graphs are plotted by choosing the suitable values of the parameters involved.
Nontyphoidal Salmonella as a Cause of Mediastinal Abscess after Aortic Valve Replacement: A Case Report and Review of Postoperative Salmonella Infections
Authors: Spottiswoode Natasha , Peluso Michael J. , Deuse Tobias , Babik Jennifer M.
Published: November 2018

Background. Nontyphoidal Salmonella (NTS) is a pathogen that causes several human clinical illnesses, most commonly gastroenteritis. Focal infections are rare and are generally reported in the gastrointestinal and genitourinary systems. Very few studies have reported NTS abscess as a postoperative complication. Case report. We describe an elderly patient who developed NTS bacteremia and mediastinal abscess after aortic valve replacement. Conclusions. This report describes an extremely rare occurrence of an NTS mediastinal abscess complicating a surgical procedure. The patient may have acquired the pathogen from a snake kept as a family pet and likely developed bacteremia followed by seeding of the surgically damaged tissues.
Finite‐Time Stabilization of Memristive Cohen‐Grossberg Neural Networks with Time‐Varying Delay
Authors: Li Ge , Li Yaqiong , Yuan Zhaohui
Published: November 2018

In this paper, the finite‐time stabilization problem for memristive Cohen‐Grossberg neural networks with time‐varying delay is discussed. By using the novel fixed point theory of set‐valued maps, we establish the existence theorem of equilibrium point. In order to realize the finite‐time stabilization, two different kinds of discontinuous state feedback controllers whether including time‐varying delay are designed. Based on the extended Filippov framework and two different kinds of methods whether using finite‐time stability theory, some novel sufficient conditions and the upper bound of the settling time for finite‐time stabilization are proposed. Finally, two numerical examples are given to demonstrate the validity of theoretical results.
The Structure ofampGGene inPseudomonas aeruginosaand Its Effect on Drug Resistance
Authors: Chang Qingli , Wu Chongyang , Lin Chaoqing , Li Peizhen , Zhang Kaibo , Xu Lei , Liu Yabo , Lu Junwan , Cheng Cong , Bao Qiyu , Hu Yunliang , Lu Shunfei , Li Jinsong
Published: November 2018

In order to study the relationship between the structure and function of AmpG, structure, site-specific mutation, and gene complementary experiments have been performed against the clinical isolates ofPseudomonas aeruginosa. We found that there are 51 nucleotide variations at 34 loci over theampGgenes from 24 of 35P. aeruginosastrains detected, of which 7 nucleotide variations resulted in amino acid change. TheampGvariants with the changed nucleotides (amino acids) could complement the function ofampGdeleted PA01 (PA01ΔG). The ampicillin minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of PA01ΔG complemented with 32ampGvariants was up to 512 μg/ml, similar to the original PA01 (P. aeruginosa PA01). Furthermore, site-directed mutation of two conservative amino acids (I53 and W90) showed that when I53 was mutated to 53S or 53T (I53S or I53T), the ampicillin MIC level dropped drastically, and the activity of AmpCβ-lactamase decreased as well. By contrast, the ampicillin MIC and the activity of AmpCβ-lactamase remained unchanged for W90R and W90S mutants. Our studies demonstrated that although nucleotide variations occurred in most of theampGgenes, the structure of AmpG protein in clinical isolates is stable, and conservative amino acid is necessary to maintain normal function of AmpG.
Dynamic Phasors Estimation Based on Taylor-Fourier Expansion and Gram Matrix Representation
Authors: Petrović Predrag , Damljanović Nada
Published: November 2018

The paper presents a new approach to estimation of the dynamic power phasors parameters. The observed system is modelled in algebra of matrices related to its Taylor-Fourier-trigonometric series representation. The proposed algorithm for determination of the unknown phasors parameters is based on the analytical expressions for elements of the Gram’s matrix associated with this system. The numerical complexity and algorithm time are determined and it is shown that new strategy for calculation of Gram’s matrix increases the accuracy of estimation, as well as the speed of the algorithm with respect to the classical way of introducing the Gram’s matrix. Several simulation examples of power system signals with a time-varying amplitude and phase parameters are given by which the robustness and accuracy of the new algorithm are confirmed.
Reasons for Declining Consent in a Population-Based Cohort Study Conducted in a Rural South American Community
Authors: Del Brutto Oscar H. , Castillo Pablo R. , Sedler Mark J. , Del Brutto Victor J. , Zambrano Mauricio , Mera Robertino M. , Wright Clinton B. , Rundek Tatjana
Published: November 2018

There is limited information on participants’ adherence and reasons for declining consent in observational cohort studies conducted in remote rural communities. We aimed at sharing lessons learned during the Atahualpa Project, a population-based cohort study conducted in a rural Ecuadorian village. Atahualpa residents aged ≥40 years identified during door-to-door surveys who signed a consent form were enrolled. Annual surveys were conducted to assess the number of participants who moved out of the village, as well as those who died, declined consent, and newly entered the study. Reasons for declining consent were tabulated. Abstracted data included age, sex, education, disability, time between enrollment and declining consent, and reasons for withdrawal. We also counted participants who, despite expressing their willingness to continue in the study, refused specific procedures. After five years of follow-up, 54 (6.3%) of 863 enrolled individuals declined consent. Increasing age and disability had no impact on declining consent. In contrast, refusal was higher among relatives or neighbors of a given participant declining consent. Most people who declined consent did so after one or two years of enrollment. Less than 20% of enrolled individuals refused certain procedures. “Fear of the needle” was the most frequent reason for refusing blood tests, and common reasons for declining complimentary exams were lack of interest and time constraints. Cohort retention in the Atahualpa Project is high. Main reasons for this adherence include adequate selection of the village, detailed planning of procedures, assurance of sponsorship, and field personnel who continuously engage with study participants. This trial is registered with NCT01627600.
JYYS Granule Mitigates Renal Injury in Clinic and in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats by Inhibiting NF‐κB Signaling‐Mediated Microinflammation
Authors: Yan Dong , Yue Bowen , Qian Muyan , Zhao Lili , Zhang Zihan , Qian Hui , Yan Shihai , Qian Yuliang , Fang Zhuyuan
Published: November 2018

Introduction. Hypertensive renal damage is a chronic and life‐threatening kidney disease all over the world. The traditional Chinese medicine Jiang Ya Yi Shen (JYYS) granule has been a perfect drug for patients with hypertensive renal injury in clinic for 20 years in China. However, the molecular mechanism of JYYS granule remains unknown in treatment of this disease. Methods. The clinic data were from this study’s patients. The clinical symptoms of patients were indicated by (N‐Acetyl‐β‐D‐Glucosaminidase) NAG, (albumin) Alb, and (β2‐microglobin) β2‐MG content in urinary of patients, and renal artery’s hemodynamic parameters including (pulse index) PI, mean velocity of the arterial blood (Vm), minimum velocity of the diastolic stage (Vdmin) and peak velocity of the systolic wave (Vsmax). To further observe the effect of JYYS granule on renal damage, the rats were included in six groups: normal rats (WKY), spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), positive drug‐treated rats (Benazepril), low dose JYYS (L), middle dose JYYS (M), and high dose JYYS (H). Then, we observed the effect of JYYS on renal function, renal tubules, inflammatory cell infiltration, and small artery thickening, and we explored the potential mechanism of JYYS in treatment of renal injury. Results. JYYS significantly improved the clinic symptoms of patients with hypertensive nephropathy by downregulating NAG, Alb, and β2‐MG content in urinary of patients and by decreasing renal artery’s hemodynamic parameters including PI, Vm, Vdmin, and Vsmax. In SHR, JYYS significantly improved renal function including creatinine clearance rate, urinary albumin/creatinine, β2‐MG/creatinine and arteria caudalis pressure in SHR. Secondly, light and electron microscopic examinations told that after administration of JYYS and Benazepril, the mesangial region exhibited no hyperplasia and renal capsule did not expanded, and there no abnormalities were observed in renal tubules, inflammatory cell infiltration and small artery thickening in SHR. Thirdly, JYYS exhibited its protective role by inhibiting nuclear factor kappa beta signaling‐mediated micro‐inflammation cytokines including interleukin 6 (IL‐6), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF‐α), intercellular cell adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1), and monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (MCP‐1) in SHR. Conclusion. JYYS is a promising prescription of Chinese medicine for patients with hypertension and hypertensive renal damage.
Neural Plastic Changes in the Subcortical Auditory Neural Pathway after Single-Sided Deafness in Adult Mice: A MEMRI Study
Authors: Kim So Young , Heo Hwon , Kim Doo Hee , Kim Hyun Jin , Oh Seung-ha
Published: November 2018

Single-sided deafness (SSD) induces cortical neural plastic changes according to duration of deafness. However, it is still unclear how the auditory cortical changes accompany the subcortical neural changes. The present study aimed to find the neural plastic changes in the cortical and subcortical auditory system following adult-onset single-sided deafness (SSD) using Mn-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MEMRI). B57BL/6 mice (postnatal 8-week-old) were divided into three groups: the SSD-4-week group (postnatal 12-week-old, n = 11), the SSD-8-week group (postnatal 16-week-old, n = 11), and a normal-hearing control group (postnatal 8-week-old, n = 9). The left cochlea was ablated in the SSD groups. White Gaussian noise was delivered for 24 h before MEMRI acquisition. T1-weighted MRI data were analyzed from the cochlear nucleus (CN), superior olivary complex (SOC), lateral lemniscus (LL), inferior colliculus (IC), medial geniculate body (MG), and auditory cortex (AC). The differences in relative Mn2+-enhanced signal intensities (Mn2+SI) and laterality were analyzed between the groups. Four weeks after the SSD procedure, the ipsilateral side of the SSD showed significantly lower Mn2+SI in the CN than the control group. On the other hand, the contralateral side of the SSD demonstrated significantly lower Mn2+SI in the SOC, LL, and IC. These decreased Mn2+SI values were partially recovered at 8 weeks after the SSD procedure. The interaural Mn2+SI differences representing the interaural dominance were highest in CN and then became less prominently higher in the auditory neural system. The SSD-8-week group still showed interaural differences in the CN, LL, and IC. In contrast, the MG and AC did not show any significant intergroup or interaural differences in Mn2+SI. In conclusion, subcortical auditory neural activities were decreased after SSD, and the interaural differences were diluted in the higher auditory nervous system. These findings were attenuated with time. Subcortical auditory neural changes after SSD may contribute to the change in tinnitus severity and the outcomes of cochlear implantation in SSD patients.
Myeloablative Haploidentical Transplantation Is Superior to Chemotherapy for Patients with Intermediate-risk Acute Myelogenous Leukemia in First Complete Remission
Authors: Lv Meng , Wang Yu , Chang Ying-Jun , Zhang Xiao-Hui , Xu Lan-Ping , Jiang Qian , Jiang Hao , Lu Jin , Chen Huan , Han Wei , Wang Feng-Rong , Wang Jing-Zhi , Chen Yao , Yan Chen-Hua , Zhang Yuan-Yuan , Sun Yu-Qian , Mo Xiao-Dong , Zhu Hong-Hu , Jia Jin-Song , Zhao Ting , Wang Jing , Liu Kai-Yan , Huang Xiao-Jun
Published: November 2018

Purpose:

Although myeloablative HLA haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (haplo-HSCT) following pretransplant anti-thymocyte globulin (ATG) and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) stimulated grafts (ATG+G-CSF) has been confirmed as an alternative to HSCT from HLA-matched sibling donors (MSD), the effect of haplo-HSCT on postremission treatment of patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with intermediate risk (int-risk AML) who achieved first complete remission (CR1) has not been defined.

Patients and Methods:

In this prospective trial, among 443 consecutive patients ages 16–60 years with newly diagnosed de novo AML with int-risk cytogenetics, 147 patients with molecular int-risk AML who achieved CR1 within two courses of induction and remained in CR1 at 4 months postremission either received chemotherapy (n = 69) or underwent haplo-HSCT (n = 78).

Results:

The 3-year leukemia-free survival (LFS) and overall survival (OS) were significantly higher in the haplo-HSCT group than in the chemotherapy group (74.3% vs. 47.3%; P = 0.0004 and 80.8% vs. 53.5%; P = 0.0001, respectively). In the multivariate analysis with propensity score adjustment, postremission treatment (haplo-HSCT vs. chemotherapy) was an independent risk factor affecting the LFS [HR 0.360; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.163–0.793; P = 0.011], OS (HR 0.361; 95% CI, 0.156–0.832; P = 0.017), and cumulative incidence of relapse (HR 0.161; 95% CI, 0.057–0.459; P = 0.001) either in entire cohort or stratified by minimal residual disease after the second consolidation.

Conclusions:

Myeloablative haplo-HSCT with ATG+G-CSF is superior to chemotherapy as a postremission treatment in patients with int-risk AML during CR1. Haplo-HSCT might be a first-line postremission therapy for int-risk AML in the absence of HLA-MSDs. Haplo-HSCT might be superior to chemotherapy as a first-line postremission treatment of intermediate-risk AML in CR1.
3D Growth of Cancer Cells Elicits Sensitivity to Kinase Inhibitors but Not Lipid Metabolism Modifiers
Authors: Jones Dylan T. , Valli Alessandro , Haider Syed , Zhang Qifeng , Smethurst Elizabeth A. , Schug Zachary T. , Peck Barrie , Aboagye Eric O. , Critchlow Susan E. , Schulze Almut , Gottlieb Eyal , Wakelam Michael J.O. , Harris Adrian L.
Published: November 2018

Tumor cells exhibit altered lipid metabolism compared with normal cells. Cell signaling kinases are important for regulating lipid synthesis and energy storage. How upstream kinases regulate lipid content, versus direct targeting of lipid-metabolizing enzymes, is currently unexplored. We evaluated intracellular lipid concentrations in prostate and breast tumor spheroids, treated with drugs directly inhibiting metabolic enzymes fatty acid synthase (FASN), acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC), diacylglyceride acyltransferase (DGAT), and pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase (PDHK), or cell signaling kinase enzymes PI3K, AKT, and mTOR with lipidomic analysis. We assessed whether baseline lipid profiles corresponded to inhibitors' effectiveness in modulating lipid profiles in three-dimensional (3D) growth and their relationship to therapeutic activity. Inhibitors against PI3K, AKT, and mTOR significantly inhibited MDA-MB-468 and PC3 cell growth in two-dimensional (2D) and 3D spheroid growth, while moderately altering lipid content. Conversely, metabolism inhibitors against FASN and DGAT altered lipid content most effectively, while only moderately inhibiting growth compared with kinase inhibitors. The FASN and ACC inhibitors' effectiveness in MDA-MB-468, versus PC3, suggested the former depended more on synthesis, whereas the latter may salvage lipids. Although baseline lipid profiles did not predict growth effects, lipid changes on therapy matched the growth effects of FASN and DGAT inhibitors. Several phospholipids, including phosphatidylcholine, were also upregulated following treatment, possibly via the Kennedy pathway. As this promotes tumor growth, combination studies should include drugs targeting it. Two-dimensional drug screening may miss important metabolism inhibitors or underestimate their potency. Clinical studies should consider serial measurements of tumor lipids to prove target modulation. Pretherapy tumor classification by de novo lipid synthesis versus uptake may help demonstrate efficacy.
Global and Regional Trends of Multiple Sclerosis Disability-Adjusted Life Years Rates: A 25-Year Assessment
Authors: Mansouri Samaneh , Zayeri Farid
Published: November 2018

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) burden of disease has been described by reporting the disability-adjusted life years (DALY) index. So far, no study has assessed the trend of MS DALY rates over time. Method: Age-standardized MS DALY rates for both sexes were reported every 5 years from 1990 to 2015 in 195 countries in the Global Burden of Disease Database (GBD) database. To assess the MS DALY rates’ trends in each super region and throughout the world, we applied the Latent Growth Models. We also utilized the linear mixed model to evaluate the effect of development factor on MS DALY rates. Results: Our results showed that 5 out of 7 GBD super regions had negative trends in MS DALY rates during these years and the remaining 2 – Latin America and the Caribbean (slope = 0.196, p < 0.05) and South Asia – slope = 0.057, p > 0.05 – had upward trends. Using a linear mixed model, we found that the mean difference of MS DALY rates was about 25 DALYs higher in developed countries compared to developing ones (p < 0.0001). Conclusion: In general, our findings revealed a global downward trend in the MS DALY rate. We also conclude that MS DALY rates are decreasing both in developed and developing countries, with a steeper slope in the developed world.
Sex Differences in the Prevalence of and Risk Factors for Cognitive Impairment No Dementia among the Elderly in a Rural Area of Northern China: A Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Zhang Ying , Guan Yalin , Shi Zhihong , Yue Wei , Liu Shuai , Liu Shuling , Lu Hui , Zhao Lei , Zhang Yajing , Su Wenhua , Ji Yong
Published: November 2018

Background/Aims: The burden of dementia among women in China, especially among women from rural areas, has increased due to their longevity and lower education levels compared with that among men. Thus, we aimed to assess sex differences in the prevalence of cognitive impairment and its relevant determinants among rural residents in North China. Methods: Adults aged 60 years and older with cognitive impairment no dementia (CIND) were recruited to this study. Demographic characteristics, traditional risk factors, and lifestyle characteristics were obtained and analyzed on the basis of sex. Results: There were 1,295 individuals with CIND (489 [37.8%] men and 806 [62.2%] women). The prevalence of CIND was 23.3% overall (19.8% for men, 26.1% for women; p < 0.001). Age, education level, history of stroke, and social activity were significantly associated with CIND for both men and women. Widowed status compared to married status was an independent risk factor for CIND in men (OR [95% CI] 1.50 [1.14–1.98]; p = 0.004). Conclusion: These findings suggest that it is crucial to address the secondary prevention of stroke and to consider the psychological status among the elderly with low educational attainment in order to reduce the burden of CIND in China.
Molecular Epidemiology of ALK Rearrangements in Advanced Lung Adenocarcinoma in Latin America
Authors: Arrieta Oscar , Cardona Andrés F. , Bramuglia Guillermo , Cruz-Rico Graciela , Corrales Luis , Martín Claudio , Imaz-Olguín Victoria , Castillo Omar , Cuello Mauricio , Rojas-Bilbao Érica , Casas Gabriel , Fernández Cristina , Arén Frontera Osvaldo , Denninghoff Valeria , Recondo Gonzalo , Avilés-Salas Alejandro , Mas-Lopez Luis-Alberto , Oblitas George , Rojas Leonardo , Piottante Antonio , Jiménez-García Ernesto , Sánchez-Sosa Sergio , Sáenz-Frias Julia , Lupera Hernán , Ramírez-Tirado Laura Alejandra , Vargas Carlos , Carranza Hernán , Astudillo Horacio , Wills Laura Beatriz , Pichelbaur Ernestina , Raez Luis E. ,   on behalf of the CLICaP
Published: November 2018

Objective: Latin American countries are heterogeneous in terms of lung cancer incidence and exposure to potential carcinogens. We evaluated the frequency and clinical characteristics of ALK rearrangements (ALKr) in Latin America. Methods: A total of 5,130 lung cancer patients from 10 Latin American countries were screened for inclusion. ALKr detection was performed by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), immunohistochemistry (IHC), and real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) to assess method variability. Demographic and clinicopathologic characteristics were analyzed. Results: Among the 5,130 patients screened, 8.4% (n = 433) had nonevaluable FISH tests. Evaluable FISH analyses revealed positive ALKr in 6.8% (320/4,697) of the study population, which included patients from 9 countries. ALKr distribution for each country was: Mexico 7.6% (79/1,034), Colombia 4.1% (10/242), Argentina 6.0% (153/2,534), Costa Rica 9.5% (13/137), Panama 4.4% (5/114), Uruguay 5.4% (2/37), Chile 8.6% (16/185), Venezuela 8.9% (13/146), and Peru 10.8% (29/268). RT-PCR showed high positive (83.6%) and negative (99.7%) predictive values when compared to the gold standard FISH. In contrast, IHC only showed a high negative predictive value (94.6%). Conclusions: Although there is a clear country and continental variability in terms of ALKr frequency, this difference is not significant and the overall incidence of ALKr in Latin America does not differ from the rest of the world.
Extracellular Matrix Elasticity Regulates Osteocyte Gap Junction Elongation: Involvement of Paxillin in Intracellular Signal Transduction
Authors: Zhang Demao , Zhou Chenchen , Wang Qingxuan , Cai Linyi , Du Wei , Li Xiaobing , Zhou Xuedong , Xie Jing
Published: November 2018

Background/Aims: Osteocytes can sense and respond to extracellular stimuli, including biochemical factors throughout the cell body, dendritic processes, and cilia bending. However, further exploration is required of osteocyte function in response to substrate stiffness, an important passive mechanical cue at the interface between osteocytes and the extracellular matrix, and the deep bio-mechanism in osteocytes involving mechanosensing of cell behavior. Methods: We fabricated silicon-based elastomer polydimethylsiloxane substrates with different stiffnesses but with the same surface topologies. We then seeded osteocytes onto the substrates to examine their responses. Methodologies used included scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for cell morphology, confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) for protein distribution, western blot for protein levels, co-immunoprecipitation for protein interactions, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction for gene expression. Results: SEM images revealed that substrate stiffness induced a change in osteocyte morphology, and CLSM of F-actin staining revealed that substrate stiffness can alter the cytoskeleton. These results were accompanied by changes in focal adhesion capacity in osteocytes, determined via characterization of vinculin expression and distribution. Furthermore, on the exterior of the cell membrane, fibronectin was altered by substrate stiffness. The fibronectin then induced a change in paxillin on the inner membrane of the cell via protein–protein interaction through transmembrane processing. Paxillin led to changes in connexin 43 via protein–protein binding, thereby influencing osteocyte gap junction elongation. Conclusion: This process -from mechanosensing and mechanotransduction to cell function - not only indicates that the effects of mechanical factors on osteocytes can be directly sensed from the cell body, but also indicates the involvement of paxillin transduction.
Nuclear Translocation of Argonaute 2 in Cytokine-Induced Senescence
Authors: Rentschler Maximilian , Chen Yan , Pahl Jana , Soria-Martinez Laura , Braumüller Heidi , Brenner Ellen , Bischof Oliver , Röcken Martin , Wieder Thomas
Published: November 2018

Background/Aims: Cellular senescence, or permanent growth arrest, is known as an effective tumor suppressor mechanism that can be induced by different stressors, such as oncogenes, chemotherapeutics or cytokine cocktails. Previous studies demonstrated that the growth-repressing state of oncogene-induced senescent cells depends on argonaute protein 2 (Ago2)-mediated transcriptional gene silencing and Ago2/Rb corepression of E2F-dependent cell cycle genes. Cytokine-induced senescence (CIS) likewise depends on activation of the p16Ink4a/Rb pathway, and consecutive inactivation of the E2F family of transcription factors. In the present study, we therefore analyzed the role of Ago2 in CIS. Methods: Human cancer cell lines were treated with interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) to induce senescence. Senescence was determined by growth assays and measurement of senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) activity, Ago2 translocation by Ago2/ Ki67 immunofluorescence staining and western blot analysis, and gene transcription by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Results: IFN-γ and TNF permanently stopped cell proliferation and time-dependently increased SA-β-gal activity. After 24 – 48 h of cytokine treatment, Ago2 translocated from the cytoplasm into the nucleus of Ki67-negative cells, an effect which was shown to be reversible. Importantly, the proinflammatory cytokine cocktail suppressed Ago2-regulated cell cycle control genes, and siRNA-mediated depletion of Ago2 interfered with cytokine-induced growth inhibition. Conclusion: IFN-γ and TNF induce a stable cell cycle arrest of cancer cells that is accompanied by a fast nuclear Ago2 translocation and repression of Ago2-regulated cell cycle control genes. As Ago2 downregulation impairs cytokine-induced growth regulation, Ago2 may contribute to tissue homeostasis in human cancers.
Identification of Potential Biomarkers and Metabolic Profiling of Serum in Ovarian Cancer Patients Using UPLC/Q-TOF MS
Authors: Yang Wanchao , Mu Tian , Jiang Jing , Sun Qintong , Hou Xuejia , Sun Yu , Zhong Lei , Wang Cheng  , Sun Changhao
Published: November 2018

Background/Aims: Ovarian cancer (OC) is a malignant neoplasm of the female reproductive system with a high mortality rate. Identifying useful biomarkers and clarifying the molecular pathogenesis of OC are critical for early diagnosis and treatment. The aim of the study was to identify candidate biomarkers and explore metabolic changes of OC. Methods: A two-stage design was used in our study, with a discovery cohort of OC cases (n = 30) and controls (n = 30) and an independent cohort of cases (n = 17) and controls (n = 18) for validation. The serum metabolic profiling was investigated by ultra-performance liquid chromatography and quadrupole time-of-fight mass spectrometry with positive electrospray ionization. Results: A total of 18 metabolites closely related to OC were identified in the discovery stage, of which 12 were confirmed in the validation cohort. Metabolic pathways in OC related to these biomarkers included fatty acid β-oxidation, phospholipid metabolism, and bile acid metabolism, which are closely related to the proliferation, invasion, and metastasis of cancer cells. Multiple logistic regression analysis of these metabolites showed that 2-piperidinone and 1-heptadecanoylglycerophosphoethanolamine were potential biomarkers of OC, with high sensitivity (96.7%), specificity (66.7%), and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve value (0.894). Conclusion: These findings provide insight into the pathogenesis pathogenesis of OC and may be useful for clinical diagnosis and treatment.
Inclusive Plurals and the Theory of Number
Authors: Martí Luisa
Published: November 2018

I argue that an account of both inclusive plurals and the crosslinguistic typology of grammatical number requires postulating a [−atomic] feature (or something very much like it) in the structure of exclusive-plural DPs. When combined with the only theory we currently have that accounts for the crosslinguistic typology of number ( Harbour 2014 ), theories in which the exclusive-plural DPs of a language with inclusive plurals are [−atomic]-less under- or overgenerate with respect to that typology. These problems disappear as soon as the structure of exclusive plural DPs contains a component that generates exclusive-plural interpretations, either Harbour’s [−atomic] feature (added to a system with a second, [−atomic]-less structure, a proposal compatible with, e.g., Farkas and de Swart 2010 ) or a predicate-level exhaustivity operator (from Mayr 2015 ).
Morphological, anatomical, palynological, karyological and ecological remarks of Astragalus argaeus (Fabaceae) endemic to Turkey
Authors: ATASAGUN BAYRAM , AKSOY AHMET , MARTİN ESRA
Published: November 2018

Astragalus argaeus is a critically endangered endemic species growing only on Erciyes Mountain in Kayseri, Turkey. In this study, morphology, anatomy, ecology, pollen and seed morphology and karyology of this species were investigated. The previous description of the species has been expanded and amended. Anatomically, cross-sections of root, stem and leaflet were investigated for the first time. The pith of the root is exactly covered by xylem tissue. The cross-section of stem has a periderm as the protective tissue at the outermost layer. The leaflets are equifacial (isobilateral) and amphistomatic. The pollen grains are tricolporate, isopolar and radially symmetrical, shape prolate, ornamentation faevolate-reticulate. The seeds are brownish and dark dotted in colour and oblate in shape, with rugulate-reticulate ornamentation. Number of somatic chromosomes was identified as 2n = 16 in A. argaeus. The karyotype formula of this species consists of three median chromosome pairs and five submedian chromosome pairs. The plant grows in slightly acidic or alkaline soils with loamy-sand texture, high organic matter and CaCO3 contents.
Solms-laubachia tianbaoshanensis (Brassicaceae), a new species from NW Yunnan, China
Authors: CHEN HONGLIANG , AL-SHEHBAZ IHSAN A. , YUE JIPEI , SUN HANG
Published: November 2018

Solms-laubachia tianbaoshanensis, a new species from the scree slopes and alpine meadows of Hengduan Mountains of NW Yunnan, China, is described and illustrated. It resembles S. linearifolia and S. pulcherrima in gross morphology but differs in having crisped simple subhirsute trichomes to 2 mm long, persistent sepals, pink petals, and longer fruit. In addition, molecular phylogentic analyses based on sequences of nuclear ITS and chloroplast matK, petN-psbM, and trnL-F clearly showed that the new species is distinct from the other congeners.