bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Red clover varieties show nitrogen fixing advantage during the early stages of seedling development
Authors: Thilakarathna M.S. , Papadopoulos Y.A. , Grimmett M. , Fillmore S.A.E. , Crouse M. , Prithiviraj B.
Published: November 2017

Plant and environmental factors affect root nitrogen (N) exudation dynamics in legumes. To better understand the genotypic variability and plant factors affecting root N release nodulation, plant growth, tissue N content, and root N exudation, six (three diploid and three tetraploid) red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) varieties were evaluated under controlled environmental conditions during the first 8 wk of plant growth after rhizobia inoculation. Genotypic differences were found for nodulation, plant dry weight (DW), leaf area, root attributes (root length, surface area, volume, and diameter), shoot and root N concentration, and N content. Genotypic differences were also found for root exudate N content in terms of NO3−-N, NH4+-N, and dissolved organic N (DON). In general, root exudate inorganic N content was greater in tetraploid varieties than in the diploids throughout the growth period. Root exudate DON content was greater than the inorganic N content. The NO3−-N content in root exudate was positively correlated with root growth attributes and root N concentration, whereas NH4+-N content was positively correlated with nodule number. Root exudate DON was positively correlated with shoot N concentration and average nodule DW. These results highlight the existence of genotypic differences among red clover varieties for plant morphological factors affecting root N release during the early stages of plant development.
AVG, NAA, boron, and magnesium influence preharvest fruit drop and fruit quality of ‘Honeycrisp’ apples
Authors: Arseneault Michelle H. , Cline John A.
Published: November 2017

Preharvest fruit drop (PFD) of apple (Malus domestica Borkh.) can cause significant losses resulting in up to 50% reduction in yield in some years. In a 2-yr study, ‘Honeycrisp’ trees were treated with six foliar treatments including 20 mg·L−1 1-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) 2 wk before anticipated harvest (WBAH), 125 mg·L−1 aminoethoxyvinylglycine hydrochloride (AVG) 4 WBAH, AVG plus NAA 2 WBAH, and repeat sprays of 200 mg·L−1 B, and 2000 mg·L−1 Mg applied 48–93 d after full bloom to evaluate their effect on PFD and fruit quality. Fruit drop associated with broken pedicels and physiological causes was monitored. During a year with ∼43% PFD on untreated control trees, AVG retained up to ∼35% and NAA retained up to ∼27% of the total fruit number, relative to the control trees. The combination of AVG plus NAA had similar PFD compared with AVG alone, while B and Mg were similar to the control. The proportion of PFD associated with broken pedicels was ∼5%. Aminoethoxyvinylglycine delayed starch degradation, ethylene evolution, and blush skin colour development of fruit. This study supports the use of AVG 4 WBAH and NAA 2 WBAH to manage ‘Honeycrisp’ PFD, which may offer economic advantages for growing quality apples. Foliar sprays of Mg or B failed to reduce PFD.
Influence of tillage, vertical seed distribution, and pyroxasulfone application timing and rate on control of wild oat (Avena fatua L.)
Authors: Mangin Amy R. , Hall Linda M. , Schoenau Jeff J. , Beckie Hugh J.
Published: November 2017

Tillage and new herbicide options may be necessary for the control of herbicide-resistant wild oat. The efficacy of soil-applied herbicides such as pyroxasulfone can be influenced by edaphic factors and weed seed recruitment depth, which varies with tillage system. We investigated the effect of tillage and pyroxasulfone rate when applied in the fall and spring on wild oat biomass at three locations in Alberta in 2014–2015. The vertical position of wild oat seeds, with and without tillage, was examined at each site. Wild oat biomass was greater in untilled plots compared with plots with fall tillage at all locations. In two out of three locations, pyroxasulfone efficacy was superior when applied in the fall compared with spring, possibly influenced by low spring rainfall. A single tillage pass at the Edmonton and Kinsella locations did not affect wild oat seed distribution, but there was an increase in seeds present in the surface layer in the untilled treatment at Lacombe. Tillage, used in combination with soil-applied herbicides, may be an option to achieve acceptable control of herbicide-resistant wild oat.
Discrimination and assessment of black walnut (Juglans nigra L.) cultivars using phenology and microsatellite markers (SSRs)
Authors: Zhao Peng , Zhou Huijuan , Coggeshall Mark , Reid Bill , Woeste Keith
Published: November 2017

Black walnut (Juglans nigra L.), a large tree native throughout the eastern United States, produces a high-quality edible nut. Our goal was to maintain the integrity of black walnut breeding programs by verifying the identity of accessions. We sampled 285 ramets of 78 cultivars from the black walnut nut breeding orchards and clonal repositories at the University of Missouri and Kansas State University. We employed both phenotypic and genotypic methods to identify and differentiate cultivars. Phenotypes were evaluated using seven phenological traits. Cultivars varied for all traits among each of the 4 yr, but the best morphological characteristics for evaluating cultivar identity were bud break date and date of first pistillate bloom. Samples (n = 285) were genotyped using 10 polymorphic microsatellite loci. The simple sequence repeats produced a total of 174 alleles and 17.2 alleles per locus. We detected 47 unique genotypes represented by more than one sample, including 128 instances of identical genotypes with different names (synonyms) and 106 instances of different genotypes with a shared name (homonyms). Our results indicated that multiple errors were committed during the propagation of these important cultivars. It may be difficult to determine which genotype is original to a cultivar name in the absence of a foundation plant materials collection or vouchered specimens. These results will assist black walnut breeders and producers by improving the integrity of breeding collections and by identifying the best phenological traits for rapid assessment of trueness to type.
Comparing soluble to controlled-release nitrogen fertilizers: storage cabbage yield, profit margins, and N use efficiency
Authors: Van Eerd L.L. , Turnbull J.J.D. , Bakker C.J. , Vyn R.J. , McKeown A.W. , Westerveld S.M.
Published: November 2017

Optimizing N fertilizer applications involves maximizing N use efficiency (NUE) while minimizing losses but depends on complex interactions of crop, soil, weather, and management practices. One approach may be to use controlled-release fertilizer that synchronizes N availability with plant demand. A field experiment at two Ontario locations from 2007 to 2009 compared split-applied ammonium nitrate (ANs) to preplant-applied poly-coated urea (PCU) and soluble N at a ratio of 75:25 at five N rates on late-season storage cabbage (Brassica oleracea L. var. capitata). Maximum yield and profit margins were obtained at an average of 286 and >300 kg N ha−1, but few differences among sources were observed. Compared with ANs, PCU did not affect plant N content, nor did PCU reduce soil nitrate or NUE, which indicates little differences in risk of environmental N losses between N sources. Dissolution from mesh bags indicated 5%–25% of various PCU formulations remained by harvest but 5%–10% remained by spring, which suggests conservation over the winter, a need to synchronize N release with crop uptake, and partially explains the lack of treatment differences. From agronomic, economic, and environmental perspectives, the tested PCU treatments for cabbage production in a humid, temperate climate were equivalent to the standard practice.
Platelet-Released Growth Factors Modulate the Secretion of Cytokines in Synoviocytes under Inflammatory Joint Disease
Authors: Tohidnezhad Mersedeh , Bayer Andreas , Rasuo Biljana , Hock Jennifer Vanessa Phi , Kweider Nisreen , Fragoulis Athanassios , Sönmez Tolga Taha , Jahr Holger , Pufe Thomas , Lippross Sebastian
Published: November 2017

The etiology and pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are marked by a complex interplay of various cell populations and is mediated by different signaling pathways. Traditionally, therapies have primarily focused on pain relief, reducing inflammation and the recovery of joint function. More recently, however, researchers have discussed the therapeutic efficacy of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP). The main objective of this work is to examine the influences of platelet-released growth factor (PRGF) on human synoviocytes under inflammatory conditions. Additionally, it is checked to which extend treatment with platelet concentrate influences the release of cytokines form synoviocytes. For this purpose, an in vitro RA model was created by stimulating the cells with the TNF-α. The release of cytokines was measured by ELISA. The cytokine gene expression was analyzed by real-time PCR. It has been observed that the stimulation concentration of 10 ng/ml TNF-α resulted in a significantly increased endogenous secretion and gene expression of IL-6 and TNF-α. The anti-inflammatory effect of PRGF could be confirmed through significant reduction of TNF-α and IL-1β. An induced inflammatory condition seems to cause PRGF to inhibit the release of proinflammatory cytokines. Further study is required to understand the exact effect mechanism of PRGF on synoviocytes.
Temperature Insensitive Strain Sensor with Asymmetrical Cascading Structure Based on Photonic Crystal Fiber in Chemical Corrosion
Authors: Fu Guangwei , Li Yunpu , Yang Jiandong , Li Qifeng , Fu Xinghu , Bi Weihong
Published: November 2017

In this paper, a corroded photonic crystal fiber (PCF) sensor is presented on the basis of core-offset splicing and waist-enlarged fiber taper corroded by hydrofluoric acid (HF). The Mach-Zehnder interference theory is used to analyze the relationship between transmission spectrum and strain. The final results obtained from experiments show that the strain sensor’s sensitivity is about −6.57 pm/με and the linearity is 0.99962 within the range of 0~1000 με, while the sensor is corroded by HF for 35 minutes at room temperature. In the temperature range of 20°C~80°C, the sensor’s sensitivity to temperature is only 1.63 pm/°C, which is insensitive to temperature. Because of its advantage compared to traditional optical fiber sensors, this sensor can avert the cross-sensitive problem when temperature and strain are measured together and has some other advantages including easily fabricated, simple structure and accurate sensitivity. It can be used in many fields, such as industrial production, monitoring, and aerospace.
Existence Results for Integral Equations and Boundary Value Problems via Fixed Point Theorems for GeneralizedF-Contractions inb-Metric-Like Spaces
Authors: Joshi Vishal , Singh Deepak , Petruşel Adrian
Published: November 2017

In this paper, we introduce some new classes of generalizedF-contractions and we establish certain fixed point results for such mappings in the setting ofb-metric-like spaces. Some examples will illustrate the results and the corresponding computer simulations are suggestive from the output point of view. A second purpose of the paper is to apply the abstract results in the study of the existence of a solution for an integral equation problem and for a boundary value problem related to a real life mathematical model, namely, the problem of conversion of solar energy to electrical energy. Our study is concluded with an open problem, related to an integrodifferential equation arising in the study of electrical and electronics circuit analysis.
Beneficial Effects of 6-Month Supplementation with Omega-3 Acids on Selected Inflammatory Markers in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease Stages 1–3
Authors: Pluta Agnieszka , Stróżecki Paweł , Kęsy Jacek , Lis Kinga , Sulikowska Beata , Odrowąż-Sypniewska Grażyna , Manitius Jacek
Published: November 2017

Introduction. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is accompanied by inflammation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of 6-month supplementation with omega-3 acids on selected markers of inflammation in patients with CKD stages 1–3. Methods. Six-month supplementation with omega-3 acids (2 g/day) was administered to 87 CKD patients and to 27 healthy individuals. At baseline and after follow-up, blood was taken for C-reactive protein (CRP) and monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1) concentration and white blood cell (WBC) count. Serum concentration of omega-3 acids—eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA)—was determined using gas chromatography. And 24-hour urinary collection was performed to measure MCP-1 excretion. Results. After six-month omega-3 supplementation, ALA concentration increased in CKD patients and in the reference group, while EPA and DHA did not change. At follow-up, a significant decrease in urinary MCP-1 excretion in CKD (p=0.0012) and in the reference group (p=0.001) was found. CRP, serum MCP-1, and WBC did not change significantly. The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) did not change significantly in the CKD group. Conclusions. The reduction of urinary MCP-1 excretion in the absence of MCP-1 serum concentration may suggest a beneficial effect of omega-3 supplementation on tubular MCP-1 production. Trial Registration. This study was registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (identifier: NCT02147002).
Evidence-Efficient Multihop Clustering Routing Scheme for Large-Scale Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Li Zhihua , Xin Ping
Published: November 2017

Energy consumption and transmission reliability are the most common issues in wireless sensor networks (WSNs). By studying the broadcast nature of data transmission in WSNs, the mechanism of guaranteeing reliable transmission is abstracted as propagation of responsibility and availability. The responsibility and availability represent the accumulated evidence of nodes to support reliable transmission. Based on the developed mechanism, an evidence-efficient cluster head rotation strategy and algorithm are presented. Furthermore, backbone construction algorithm is studied to generate the minimum aggregation tree inside the candidate cluster heads. A minimum aggregation tree-based multihop routing scheme is also investigated, which allows the elected cluster heads to choose the optimally main path to forward data locally and dynamically. As a hybridization of the above, an evidence-efficient multihop clustering routing (EEMCR) method is proposed. The EEMCR method is simulated, validated, and compared with some previous algorithms. The experimental results show that EEMCR outperforms them in terms of prolonging network lifetime, improving transmission reliability, postponing emergence of death nodes, enhancing coverage preservation, and degrading energy consumption.
Double Push Strategy of Knowledge for Product Design Based on Complex Network Theory
Authors: Li Xue-rui , Yu Sui-huai , Chu Jian-jie , Chen Deng-kai , Wu Lin-jian
Published: November 2017

Reasonable application of design knowledge can help improve the efficiency and quality of product design. Based on complex network theory, this study proposes a double push strategy of knowledge for product design. The proposal introduces the concept of attribute similarity and triangular fuzzy number and uses the theory and method of complex network to build the knowledge network model for product design that contains creative knowledge subnetwork and engineering knowledge subnetwork. This paper is to understand the structure and dynamics of the knowledge network model and to identify and predict knowledge nodes and knowledge groups strongly related to design intent in view of the scale-free network topology analysis theory. We develop a double push strategy of product design knowledge to implement the effective auxiliary function for product design process. Finally, a design case of antalgic pump is presented to demonstrate the practicability and validity of the strategy.
A Method for Identification of Transformer Inrush Current Based on Box Dimension
Authors: Gong Maofa , Zheng Ran , Hou Linyuan , Wei Jingyu , Wu Na
Published: November 2017

Magnetizing inrush current can lead to the maloperation of transformer differential protection. To overcome such an issue, a method is proposed to distinguish inrush current from inner fault current based on box dimension. According to the fundamental difference in waveform between the two, the algorithm can extract the three‐phase current and calculate its box dimensions. If the box dimension value is smaller than the setting value, it is the inrush current; otherwise, it is inner fault current. Using PSACD and MATLAB, the simulation has been performed to prove the efficiency reliability of the presented algorithm in distinguishing inrush current and fault current.
Worldline Path-Integral Representations for Standard Model Propagators and Effective Actions
Authors: Bhattacharya Somdatta
Published: November 2017

We develop the formalism to do worldline calculations relevant for the Standard Model. For that, we first figure out the worldline representations for the free propagators of massless chiral fermions of a single generation and gauge bosons of the Standard Model. Then we extend the formalism to the massive and dressed cases for the fermions and compute the QED vertex. We then go over fermionic one-loop effective actions and anomalies. To our knowledge, in the places where there has been an attempt at deriving the gauge boson propagator, the derivation is somewhat contrived, and we believe our derivation is more straightforward. Moreover, our incorporation of internal degrees of freedom is novel and sports some new features. The derivation of the QED vertex is also new. The treatment of the fermionic one-loop effective actions leads to a particularly economical derivation of chiral anomalies and the gauge anomaly freedom in the Standard Model, improving upon the state of the art in the literature. The appropriate worldline formalism developed thus sets the stage for Standard Model calculations beyond the tree and one-loop cases that incorporate Bern-Kosower type formulae for multiloop amplitudes, relevant for processes at the LHC.
Optimizing Hadoop Performance for Big Data Analytics in Smart Grid
Authors: Khan Mukhtaj , Huang Zhengwen , Li Maozhen , Taylor Gareth A. , Ashton Phillip M. , Khan Mushtaq
Published: November 2017

The rapid deployment of Phasor Measurement Units (PMUs) in power systems globally is leading to Big Data challenges. New high performance computing techniques are now required to process an ever increasing volume of data from PMUs. To that extent the Hadoop framework, an open source implementation of the MapReduce computing model, is gaining momentum for Big Data analytics in smart grid applications. However, Hadoop has over 190 configuration parameters, which can have a significant impact on the performance of the Hadoop framework. This paper presents an Enhanced Parallel Detrended Fluctuation Analysis (EPDFA) algorithm for scalable analytics on massive volumes of PMU data. The novel EPDFA algorithm builds on an enhanced Hadoop platform whose configuration parameters are optimized by Gene Expression Programming. Experimental results show that the EPDFA is 29 times faster than the sequential DFA in processing PMU data and 1.87 times faster than a parallel DFA, which utilizes the default Hadoop configuration settings.
The Role of Nephronectin on Proliferation and Differentiation in Human Dental Pulp Stem Cells
Authors: Tang Jia , Saito Takashi
Published: November 2017

Aim. The purpose of the current study was to investigate the effects of nephronectin (Npnt) in human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs). Methodology. Npnt was coated to nontissue culture-treated polystyrene (non-PS) plates. The presence of immobilized protein on the surface was detected by polyclonal rabbit primary anti-Npnt antibody. Then the cell number was counted and compared with PBS-, bovine serum albumin- (BSA-), fish scale type I collagen- (FCOL1-), and human fibronectin- (Fn-) coated wells. Cell proliferation was assessed using CCK-8 assay. Cell morphology was observed under light microscopy and fluorescence microscopy. Lastly, the mRNA expression profiles of integrins, dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP), bone sialoprotein (BSP), and mineralization capacity of hDPSCs were investigated by real time RT-PCR and alizarin red staining, respectively. Results. Npnt mediates hDPSC adhesion and spreading partially via the Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) motif. Npnt enhanced the mRNA expression of ITGA1, ITGA4, ITGA7, and ITGB1 on day five. Npnt downregulated DSPP but significantly upregulated BSP mRNA expression at day 28. Further, Npnt and FCOL1 accelerated the matrix mineralization in hDPSCs. Conclusions. The current findings implicate that Npnt would be favorable to recruit hDPSCs and conducive to mineralization in hDPSCs. The combination of Npnt with hDPSCs may offer a promising approach for hard tissue regeneration.
Modulation of Immune Function in Rats Using Oligosaccharides Extracted from Palm Kernel Cake
Authors: Faseleh Jahromi Mohammd , Shokryazdan Parisa , Idrus Zulkifli , Ebrahimi Rohollah , Bashokouh Fatemeh , Liang Juan Boo
Published: November 2017

To investigate the prebiotic and immunomodulatory effects of PKC extract (OligoPKC) a total of 24 male rats were randomly assigned to three treatment groups receiving basal diet (control), basal diet containing 0.5% OligoPKC, or basal diet containing 1% OligoPKC for four weeks. We found that OligoPKC had no significant effect on the tested growth parameters. However, it increased the size of the total and beneficial bacterial populations while reducing pathogen populations. OligoPKC increased the concentration of immunoglobulins in the serum and cecal contents of rats. It also enhanced the antioxidant capacity of the liver while reducing lipid peroxidation in liver tissue. OligoPKC affected the expression of genes involved in immune system function in the intestine. Therefore, OligoPKC could be considered a potential mannan-based prebiotic for humans and animals due to its beneficial effects on the health and well-being of the model rats.
The Role of Redox‐Regulating Enzymes in Inoperable Breast Cancers Treated with Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy
Authors: Roininen Nelli , Haapasaari Kirsi-Maria , Karihtala Peeter
Published: November 2017

Although validated predictive factors for breast cancer chemoresistance are scarce, there is emerging evidence that the induction of certain redox‐regulating enzymes may contribute to a poor chemotherapy effect. We investigated the possible association between chemoresistance and cellular redox state regulation in patients undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) for breast cancer. In total, 53 women with primarily inoperable or inflammatory breast cancer who were treated with NACT were included in the study. Pre‐NACT core needle biopsies and postoperative tumor samples were immunohistochemically stained for nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2), Kelch‐like ECH‐associated protein 1 (Keap1), thioredoxin (Trx), and peroxiredoxin I (Prx I). The expression of all studied markers increased during NACT. Higher pre‐NACT nuclear Prx I expression predicted smaller size of a resected tumor (p = 0.00052; r = −0.550), and higher pre‐NACT cytoplasmic Prx I expression predicted a lower amount of evacuated nodal metastasis (p = 0.0024; r = −0.472). Pre‐NACT nuclear Trx expression and pre‐NACT nuclear Keap1 expression had only a minor prognostic significance as separate factors, but when they were combined, low expression for both antibodies before NACT predicted dismal disease‐free survival (log‐rank p = 0.0030). Our results suggest that redox‐regulating enzymes may serve as potential prognostic factors in primarily inoperable breast cancer patients.
A Novel Methicillin-ResistantStaphylococcus aureust11469 and a Poultry Endemic Strain t002 (ST5) Are Present in Chicken in Ebonyi State, Nigeria
Authors: Nworie Amos , Onyema Azi S. , Okekpa Simon I. , Elom Michael O. , Umoh Nse O. , Usanga Victor U. , Ibiam Gideon A. , Ukwah Boniface N. , Nwadi Lynda C. , Ezeruigbo Chinwe , Olayinka Busayo O. , Ehinmidu Joseph O. , Onaolapo Josiah A. , Hanson Blake M. , Wardyn Shylo E. , Smith Tara C.
Published: November 2017

Background. The changing epidemiology of methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus(MRSA) from a hospital-associated pathogen to an organism commonly found in the community and in livestock reflects an organism well-equipped to survive in diverse environments and adjust to different environmental conditions including antimicrobial use.Methods. We investigated the molecular epidemiology ofS. aureusand MRSA in poultry in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Samples were collected from 1800 birds on 9 different farms within the state. Positive isolates were tested for antibiotic susceptibility and molecular typing.Results. Prevalence in birds was 13.7% (247/1800). MRSA prevalence in poultry was 0.8%. The prevalence of MRSA in broilers and layers was 1.2% and 0.4%, respectively. All tested isolates were susceptible to vancomycin. Molecular analysis of the isolates revealed 3spatypes: t002, t084, and a novelspatype, t11469. The novelspatype t11469 belonged to sequence type ST5.Conclusion. The detection of t002 in chicken suggests the presence of livestock-associated MRSA in poultry in Ebonyi State. The detection of the newspatype t11469 in poultry that has not been characterised to ascertain its pathogenic potential remains a cause for concern, especially as some were found to carry PVL genes, a putative virulence factor in staphylococcal infection.
Structural Behaviors of Reinforced Concrete Piers Rehabilitated with FRP Wraps
Authors: Kang Junsuk
Published: November 2017

The use of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) wraps to retrofit and strengthen existing structures such as reinforced concrete piers is becoming popular due to the higher tensile strength, durability, and flexibility gained and the method’s ease of handling and low installation and maintenance costs. As yet, however, few guidelines have been developed for determining the optimum thicknesses of the FRP wraps applied to external surfaces of concrete or masonry structures. In this study, nonlinear pushover finite element analyses were utilized to analyze the complex structural behaviors of FRP-wrapped reinforced rectangular piers. Design parameters such as pier section sizes, pier heights, pier cap lengths, compressive strengths of concrete, and the thicknesses of the FRP wraps used were thoroughly tested under incremental lateral and vertical loads. The results provide useful guidelines for analyzing and designing appropriate FRP wraps for existing concrete piers.
Pretreatment Donors after Circulatory Death with Simvastatin Alleviates Liver Ischemia Reperfusion Injury through a KLF2‐Dependent Mechanism in Rat
Authors: Liu Zhongzhong , Zhang Xingjian , Xiao Qi , Ye Shaojun , Lai Chin-Hui , Luo Jun , Huang Xiaoying , Wang Wei , Zeng Cheng , Zhong Zibiao , Fan Xiaoli , Xia Zhiping , Xiong Yan , Mao Xinfang , Ye Qifa , Wang Yanfeng
Published: November 2017

Objective. Severe hepatic ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI) can result in poor short‐ and long‐term graft outcome after transplantation. The way to improve the viability of livers from donors after circulatory death (DCD) is currently limited. The aim of the present study was to explore the protective effect of simvastatin on DCD livers and investigate the underlying mechanism. Methods. 24 male rats randomly received simvastatin or its vehicle. 30 min later, rat livers were exposed to warm ischemia in situ for 30 min. Livers were removed and cold‐stored in UW solution for 24 h, subsequently reperfused for 60 min with an isolated perfused rat liver system. Liver injury was evaluated during and after warm reperfusion. Results. Pretreatment of DCD donors with simvastatin significantly decreased IRI liver enzyme release, increased bile output and ATP, and ameliorated hepatic pathological changes. Simvastatin maintained the expression of KLF2 and its protective target genes (eNOS, TM, and HO‐1), reduced oxidative stress, inhibited innate immune responses and inflammation, and increased the expression of Bcl‐2/Bax to suppress hepatocyte apoptosis compared to DCD control group. Conclusion. Pretreatment of DCD donors with simvastatin improves DCD livers’ functional recovery probably through a KLF2‐dependent mechanism. These data suggest that simvastatin may provide a potential benefit for clinical DCD liver transplantation.
Impact of Time-Restricted Feeding and Dawn-to-Sunset Fasting on Circadian Rhythm, Obesity, Metabolic Syndrome, and Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Mindikoglu Ayse L. , Opekun Antone R. , Gagan Sood K. , Devaraj Sridevi
Published: November 2017

Obesity now affects millions of people and places them at risk of developing metabolic syndrome, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and even hepatocellular carcinoma. This rapidly emerging epidemic has led to a search for cost-effective methods to prevent the metabolic syndrome and NAFLD as well as the progression of NAFLD to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. In murine models, time-restricted feeding resets the hepatic circadian clock and enhances transcription of key metabolic regulators of glucose and lipid homeostasis. Studies of the effect of dawn-to-sunset Ramadan fasting, which is akin to time-restricted feeding model, have also identified significant improvement in body mass index, serum lipid profiles, and oxidative stress parameters. Based on the findings of studies conducted on human subjects, dawn-to-sunset fasting has the potential to be a cost-effective intervention for obesity, metabolic syndrome, and NAFLD.
Glaucomatocyclitic Crises May Occur in Patients with Narrow or Closed Angles
Authors: Liu Pei-Kang , Tseng Han-Yi , Huang Min-Yu , Wu Kwou-Yeung
Published: November 2017

Purpose. To report cases of glaucomatocyclitic crises and discuss the possibility of occurrence in patients with narrow or closed angles. Background. The prevalence of angle closure is much higher among Asians than among the Western population. Currently, there is no evidence for a direct relationship between the etiology and angle structure. Design. A retrospective and observational case series. Methods. We retrospectively collected data from nine adult patients (three males and six females) who were diagnosed with a glaucomatocyclitic crisis and a shallow anterior chamber over a 21-year period, from 1995 to 2016, at the Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital. A narrow angle was defined as a grade less than the Shaffer system grade II. Ophthalmic examinations, including anterior segment biomicroscopy, direct ophthalmoscopy, intraocular pressure measurements, anterior chamber reaction, visual field tests, and the grade of the anterior chamber angle according to the Shaffer system, were reviewed. Results. These patients experienced at least one typical unilateral ocular hypertensive episode that fulfilled the criteria of a glaucomatocyclitic crisis without the angle feature. All patients had gonioscopically narrow or closed angles with or without peripheral anterior synechiae. Conclusions. The coexistence of narrow or closed angles and a glaucomatocyclitic crisis is possible, especially in patients of Asian descent. In patients with shallow anterior chambers, a glaucomatocyclitic crisis may be a cause of acute glaucoma episodes.
Mitofusin 2 Promotes Apoptosis of CD4+ T Cells by Inhibiting Autophagy in Sepsis
Authors: Ying Lan , Zhao Guang-Ju , Wu You , Ke He-Liang , Hong Guang-Liang , Zhang Hui , Dong Ning , Wu Yao , Yao Yong-Ming , Lu Zhong-Qiu
Published: November 2017

Apoptosis of CD4+ T cells is a primary pathophysiological mechanism of immune dysfunction in the pathogenesis of sepsis. Mitofusin 2 (Mfn2), an integral mitochondrial outer membrane protein, has been confirmed to be associated with cellular metabolism, proliferation, and apoptosis. The function of Mfn2 in CD4+ T cell apoptosis in sepsis is poorly understood. Here, we discovered increased in vivo Mfn2 expression, autophagy deficiency, and elevated cell apoptosis in murine splenic CD4+ T cells after cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). We also observed almost identical results in splenic CD4+ T cells upon lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation in vitro. Furthermore, overexpression of Mfn2 resulted in impaired autophagy and increased apoptosis in Jurkat cells. Pharmacological inhibition of autophagy with 3-methyladenine enhanced Mfn2 overexpression-induced cell apoptosis. In addition, overexpression of Mfn2 downregulated phorbol myristate acetate (PMA)/ionomycin-, rapamycin- and starvation-induced autophagy in Jurkat T cells. Taken together, these data indicate a critical role of Mfn2 in CD4+ T cell apoptosis in sepsis and the underlying mechanism of autophagy deficiency.
Perceptions and Practices of the Iranian Population regarding Skin Cancers: A Literature Review
Authors: Nahar Vinayak K. , Hasani Zachria , Martin Brian , Boyas Javier F. , Chabok Rosa , Philip Leena S. , Ghafari Ghazal , Seidfaraji Leila , Chelf Stacy , Lakhan Ram , Wilkerson Amanda H. , Savoy Marcelle , Sharma Manoj
Published: November 2017

Despite being preventable, more than 15% of all cancer cases in Iran occur in the skin, making them the most commonly diagnosed malignancy in the country. The purpose of this study is to gain an insight into the current skin cancer related knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and practices among the Iranian population. A systematic computer based literature search was conducted using databases for articles published through April 2017. Research studies included those that measured skin cancer or sun protection related knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors in different Iranian population groups. Exclusion criteria for the articles included (1) irrelevant topics to the review article’s aim, (2) articles that focused on the treatment of skin cancers instead of prevention practices, and (3) similar studies conducted on populations not indigenous to Iran. A total of 25 articles that met the eligibility criteria were included in the review. Predominant data were collected via questionnaires. Skin cancer related knowledge varied from low to high across the studies. Moreover, there was a pattern of low perceived skin cancer susceptibility and severity. Overall, there was low usage of sun protection methods among the Iranian population. The findings of this study show that efforts to prevent skin cancer are needed. Education concerning the dangers of sun exposure as well as strategies used to prevent or lower the risk of developing skin cancer should be stressed.
Thermoelastic Analysis for Two Collinear Cracks in an Orthotropic Solid Disturbed by Antisymmetrical Linear Heat Flow
Authors: Wu Bing , Zhu Jun-gao , Peng Daren , Jones Rhys , Gao Shi-hu , Lu Yang-yang
Published: November 2017

The problem of two collinear cracks in an orthotropic solid under antisymmetrical linear heat flow is investigated. It is assumed that there exists thermal resistance to heat conduction through the crack region. Applying the Fourier transform, the thermal coupling partial differential equations are transformed to dual integral equations and then to singular integral equations. The crack‐tip thermoelastic fields including the jumps of temperature and elastic displacements on the cracks and the mode II stress intensity factors are obtained explicitly. Numerical results show the effects of the geometries of the cracks and the dimensionless thermal resistance on the temperature change and the mode II stress intensity factors. Also, FEM solutions for the stress intensity factor K are used to compare with the solutions obtained using the method. It is revealed that the friction in closed crack surface region should be considered in analyzing the stress intensity factor K.
Subjective Cognitive Impairment, Depressive Symptoms, and Fatigue after a TIA or Transient Neurological Attack: A Prospective Study
Authors: van Rooij Frank G. , Plaizier Nicole O. , Vermeer Sarah E. , Góraj Bozena M. , Koudstaal Peter J. , Richard Edo , de Leeuw Frank-Erik , Kessels Roy P. C. , van Dijk Ewoud J.
Published: November 2017

Introduction. Subjective cognitive impairment (SCI), depressive symptoms, and fatigue are common after stroke and are associated with reduced quality of life. We prospectively investigated their prevalence and course after a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or nonfocal transient neurological attack (TNA) and the association with diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) lesions. Methods. The Cognitive Failures Questionnaire, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and Subjective Fatigue subscale from the Checklist Individual Strength were used to assess subjective complaints shortly after TIA or TNA and six months later. With repeated measure analysis, the associations between DWI lesion presence or clinical diagnosis (TIA or TNA) and subjective complaints over time were determined. Results. We included 103 patients (28 DWI positive). At baseline, SCI and fatigue were less severe in DWI positive than in DWI negative patients, whereas at follow-up, there were no differences. SCI (p=0.02) and fatigue (p=0.01) increased in severity only in DWI positive patients. There were no differences between TIA and TNA. Conclusions. Subjective complaints are highly prevalent in TIA and TNA patients. The short-term prognosis is not different between DWI-positive and DWI negative patients, but SCI and fatigue increase in severity within six months after the event when an initial DWI lesion is present.
Inhibition of Tumor Growth of Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma HepG2 Cells in a Nude Mouse Xenograft Model by the Total Flavonoids from Arachniodes exilis
Authors: Li Huimin , Jiang Dengzhao , Zhang Lei , Wu Jiazhong
Published: November 2017

A tumor growth model of human hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 cells in nude mice was employed to investigate the antitumor activity of the total flavonoids extracted from Arachniodes exilis (TFAE) in vivo. Several biochemical assays including hematoxylin‐eosin (HE) staining, immunohistochemistry, and Western blot were performed to elucidate the mechanism of action of total flavonoids extracted from Arachniodes exilis (TFAE). The results showed that TFAE effectively inhibited the tumor growth of hepatocellular carcinoma in nude mice and had no significant effect on body weight, blood system, and functions of liver and kidney. Expression levels of proapoptotic proteins Bax and cleaved caspase‐3 remarkably increased while the expressions of Bcl‐2, HIF‐1α, and VEGF were suppressed by TFAE. These results suggested that the antitumor potential of TFEA was implied by the apoptosis of tumor cells and the inhibition of angiogenesis in tumor tissue.
Investigating the Mechanisms of Action of Depside Salt from Salvia miltiorrhiza Using Bioinformatic Analysis
Authors: Li Hua , Liu Hongying
Published: November 2017

Salvia miltiorrhiza is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb used for treating cardiovascular diseases. Depside salt from S. miltiorrhiza (DSSM) contains the following active components: magnesium lithospermate B, lithospermic acid, and rosmarinic acid. This study aimed to reveal the mechanisms of action of DSSM. After searching for DSSM‐associated genes in GeneCards, Search Tool for Interacting Chemicals, SuperTarget, PubChem, and Comparative Toxicogenomics Database, they were subjected to enrichment analysis using Multifaceted Analysis Tool for Human Transcriptome. A protein‐protein interaction (PPI) network was visualised; module analysis was conducted using the Cytoscape software. Finally, a transcriptional regulatory network was constructed using the TRRUST database and Cytoscape. Seventy‐three DSSM‐associated genes were identified. JUN, TNF, NFKB1, and FOS were hub nodes in the PPI network. Modules 1 and 2 were identified from the PPI network, with pathway enrichment analysis, showing that the presence of NFKB1 and BCL2 in module 1 was indicative of a particular association with the NF‐κB signalling pathway. JUN, TNF, NFKB1, FOS, and BCL2 exhibited notable interactions among themselves in the PPI network. Several regulatory relationships (such as JUN → TNF/FOS, FOS → NFKB1 and NFKB1 → BCL2/TNF) were also found in the regulatory network. Thus, DSSM exerts effects against cardiovascular diseases by targeting JUN, TNF, NFKB1, FOS, and BCL2.
Osseointegration of a 3D Printed Stemmed Titanium Dental Implant: A Pilot Study
Authors: Tedesco James , Lee Bryan E. J. , Lin Alex Y. W. , Binkley Dakota M. , Delaney Kathleen H. , Kwiecien Jacek M. , Grandfield Kathryn
Published: November 2017

In this pilot study, a 3D printed Grade V titanium dental implant with a novel dual-stemmed design was investigated for its biocompatibility in vivo. Both dual-stemmed (n = 12) and conventional stainless steel conical (n = 4) implants were inserted into the tibial metaphysis of New Zealand white rabbits for 3 and 12 weeks and then retrieved with the surrounding bone, fixed, dehydrated, and embedded into epoxy resin. The implants were analyzed using correlative histology, microcomputed tomography, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The histological presence of multinucleated osteoclasts and cuboidal osteoblasts revealed active bone remodeling in the stemmed implant starting at 3 weeks and by 12 weeks in the conventional implant. Bone-implant contact values indicated that the stemmed implants supported bone growth along the implant from the coronal crest at both 3- and 12-week time periods and showed bone growth into microporosities of the 3D printed surface after 12 weeks. In some cases, new bone formation was noted in between the stems of the device. Conventional implants showed mechanical interlocking but did have indications of stress cracking and bone debris. This study demonstrates the comparable biocompatibility of these 3D printed stemmed implants in rabbits up to 12 weeks.
Retrograde Activation of the Extrinsic Apoptotic Pathway in Spinal-Projecting Neurons after a Complete Spinal Cord Injury in Lampreys
Authors: Barreiro-Iglesias Antón , Sobrido-Cameán Daniel , Shifman Michael I.
Published: November 2017

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating condition that leads to permanent disability because injured axons do not regenerate across the trauma zone to reconnect to their targets. A prerequisite for axonal regeneration will be the prevention of retrograde degeneration that could lead to neuronal death. However, the specific molecular mechanisms of axotomy-induced degeneration of spinal-projecting neurons have not been elucidated yet. In lampreys, SCI induces the apoptotic death of identifiable descending neurons that are “bad regenerators/poor survivors” after SCI. Here, we investigated the apoptotic process activated in identifiable descending neurons of lampreys after SCI. For this, we studied caspase activation by using fluorochrome-labeled inhibitors of caspases, the degeneration of spinal-projecting neurons using Fluro-Jade C staining, and the involvement of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway by means of cytochrome c and Vαdouble immunofluorescence. Our results provide evidence that, after SCI, bad-regenerating spinal cord-projecting neurons slowly degenerate and that the extrinsic pathway of apoptosis is involved in this process. Experiments using the microtubule stabilizer Taxol showed that caspase-8 signaling is retrogradely transported by microtubules from the site of axotomy to the neuronal soma. Preventing the activation of this process could be an important therapeutic approach after SCI in mammals.
The Influence of Environmental Factors on the Prevalence of Myopia in Poland
Authors: Czepita Maciej , Czepita Damian , Lubiński Wojciech
Published: November 2017

Purpose.In the paper, we describe and discuss the results of epidemiological studies concerning myopia carried out in Poland.Materials and Methods. Results from the examination of 5601 Polish school children and students (2688 boys and 2913 girls) aged 6 to 18 years were analyzed. The mean age was 11.9 ± 3.2 years. Every examined student had undergone the following examinations: distance visual acuity testing, cover test, anterior segment evaluation, and cycloplegic retinoscopy after instillation of 1% tropicamide, and a questionnaire was taken.Results. We have found that (1) intensive near work (writing, reading, and working on a computer) leads to a higher prevalence of myopia, (2) watching television does not influence the prevalence of myopia, and (3) being outdoors decreases the prevalence of myopia.Conclusions. The results of our study point to insufficiency of accommodation contributing to the pathogenesis of myopia.
Common Fixed Points via λ-Sequences in G-Metric Spaces
Authors: Gaba Yaé Ulrich
Published: November 2017

We use λ-sequences in this article to derive common fixed points for a family of self-mappings defined on a complete G-metric space. We imitate some existing techniques in our proofs and show that the tools employed can be used at a larger scale. These results generalize well known results in the literature.
Effects of Aging and Tocotrienol‐Rich Fraction Supplementation on Brain Arginine Metabolism in Rats
Authors: Mazlan Musalmah , Hamezah Hamizah Shahirah , Taridi Nursiati Mohd , Jing Yu , Liu Ping , Zhang Hu , Wan Ngah Wan Zurinah , Damanhuri Hanafi Ahmad
Published: November 2017

Accumulating evidence suggests that altered arginine metabolism is involved in the aging and neurodegenerative processes. This study sought to determine the effects of age and vitamin E supplementation in the form of tocotrienol‐rich fraction (TRF) on brain arginine metabolism. Male Wistar rats at ages of 3 and 21 months were supplemented with TRF orally for 3 months prior to the dissection of tissue from five brain regions. The tissue concentrations of L‐arginine and its nine downstream metabolites were quantified using high‐performance liquid chromatography and liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. We found age‐related alterations in L‐arginine metabolites in the chemical‐ and region‐specific manners. Moreover, TRF supplementation reversed age‐associated changes in arginine metabolites in the entorhinal cortex and cerebellum. Multiple regression analysis revealed a number of significant neurochemical‐behavioral correlations, indicating the beneficial effects of TRF supplementation on memory and motor function.
Effects of Mifepristone on Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in a Patient with a Cortisol-Secreting Adrenal Adenoma
Authors: Ragucci Enzo , Nguyen Dat , Lamerson Michele , Moraitis Andreas G.
Published: November 2017

Cushing syndrome (CS), a complex, multisystemic condition resulting from prolonged exposure to cortisol, is frequently associated with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). In patients with adrenal adenoma(s) and NAFLD, it is essential to rule out coexisting endocrine disorders like CS, so that the underlying condition can be properly addressed. We report a case of a 49-year-old woman with a history of hypertension, prediabetes, dyslipidemia, biopsy-confirmed steatohepatitis, and benign adrenal adenoma, who was referred for endocrine work-up for persistent weight gain. Overt Cushing features were absent. Biochemical evaluation revealed nonsuppressed cortisol on multiple 1-mg dexamethasone suppression tests, suppressed adrenocorticotropic hormone, and low dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate. The patient initially declined surgery and was treated with mifepristone, a competitive glucocorticoid receptor antagonist. In addition to improvements in weight and hypertension, substantial reductions in her liver enzymes were noted, with complete normalization by 20 weeks of therapy. This case suggests that autonomous cortisol secretion from adrenal adenoma(s) could contribute to the metabolic and liver abnormalities in patients with NAFLD. In conclusion, successful management of CS with mifepristone led to marked improvement in the liver enzymes of a patient with long-standing NAFLD.