bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Whole-Genome Sequence of Mycobacterium bovis W-1171, Isolated from the Laryngopharyngeal Lymph Node of a Wild Boar in South Korea
Authors: Kim Narae , Jang Yunho , Park So-young , Song Woong-seog , Kim Jong-Taek , Lee Hee Soo , Lim Young-Hee , Kim Jae-Myung
Published: December 2015

Mycobacterium bovis
W-1171 was isolated from a wild boar living in a free-ranging field in Gyeonggido, South Korea. The whole-genome sequence of this strain was determined in 50 contigs, which was 4,304,865 bp with a 65.57% G+C content. In total 3,945 protein-coding genes were predicted from this assembly.
Body shape index in comparison with other anthropometric measures in prediction of total and cause-specific mortality
Authors: Dhana Klodian , Kavousi Maryam , Ikram M Arfan , Tiemeier Henning W , Hofman Albert , Franco Oscar H
Published: December 2015

Background

The association of body mass index (BMI) with mortality remains controversial among the middle-aged and elderly. Moreover, the contribution of other anthropometric measures to predict mortality is unclear.

Methods

We assessed the association of BMI, waist circumference (WC), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and a body shape index (ABSI=WC/(BMI2/3×height1/2)) with total, cardiovascular and cancer mortality by using Cox proportion hazard models among 2626 men and 3740 women from the prospective population-based Rotterdam Study. Predictive performance was assessed through informativeness, c-statistic, integrated discrimination improvement (IDI), and continuous net reclassification improvement (cNRI).

Results

During 22 years of follow-up, 3675 deaths from all-causes, 1195 from cardiovascular disease, and 873 from cancer occurred. In the multivariable model, ABSI showed a stronger association with mortality compared with BMI, WC, WHtR and WHR. HRs and CIs (95% CIs) for total mortality per 1 SD increase in ABSI were 1.15 (1.09 to 1.21) for men and 1.09 (1.04 to 1.14) for women. For cardiovascular and cancer mortality, these HRs (95% CI) were 1.18 (1.08 to 1.29) and 1.10 (0.99 to 1.22) for men, 1.04 (0.96 to 1.12) and 1.18 (1.07 to 1.30) for women, respectively. The models including ABSI did not increase the c-statistics. Among men, in prediction of total mortality the model including ABSI was more informative (χ2=26.4) and provided improvement in risk stratification (IDI 0.003, 95% CI 0.001 to 0.005; cNRI 0.13, 95% CI 0.06 to 0.21).

Conclusions

In our population-based study, among different anthropometric measures, ABSI showed a stronger association with total, cardiovascular and cancer mortality. However, the added predictive value of ABSI in prediction of mortality was limited.
Trust and health: testing the reverse causality hypothesis
Authors: Giordano Giuseppe Nicola , Lindström Martin
Published: December 2015

Background

Social capital research has consistently shown positive associations between generalised trust and health outcomes over 2 decades. Longitudinal studies attempting to test causal relationships further support the theory that trust is an independent predictor of health. However, as the reverse causality hypothesis has yet to be empirically tested, a knowledge gap remains. The aim of this study, therefore, was to investigate if health status predicts trust.

Methods

Data employed in this study came from 4 waves of the British Household Panel Survey between years 2000 and 2007 (N=8114). The sample was stratified by baseline trust to investigate temporal relationships between prior self-rated health (SRH) andchangesin trust. We used logistic regression models with random effects, as trust was expected to be more similar within the same individuals over time.

Results

From the ‘Can trust at baseline’ cohort, poor SRH at time (t−1) predicted low trust at time (t) (OR=1.38). Likewise, good health predicted high trust within the ‘Cannot’ trust cohort (OR=1.30). These patterns of positive association remained after robustness checks, which adjusted for misclassification of outcome (trust) status and the existence of other temporal pathways.

Conclusions

This study offers empirical evidence to support the circular nature of trust/health relationship. The stability of association between prior health status and changes in trust over time differed between cohorts, hinting at the existence of complex pathways rather than a simple positive feedback loop.
USING PEANO CURVES TO CONSTRUCT LAPLACIANS ON FRACTALS
Authors: MOLITOR DENALI , OTT NADIA , STRICHARTZ ROBERT
Published: December 2015

We describe a new method to construct Laplacians on fractals using a Peano curve from the circle onto the fractal, extending an idea that has been used in the case of certain Julia sets. The Peano curve allows us to visualize eigenfunctions of the Laplacian by graphing the pullback to the circle. We study in detail three fractals: the pentagasket, the octagasket and the magic carpet. We also use the method for two nonfractal self-similar sets, the torus and the equilateral triangle, obtaining appealing new visualizations of eigenfunctions on the triangle. In contrast to the many familiar pictures of approximations to standard Peano curves, that do no show self-intersections, our descriptions of approximations to the Peano curves have self-intersections that play a vital role in constructing graph approximations to the fractal with explicit graph Laplacians that give the fractal Laplacian in the limit.
A microfluidic biochip for complete blood cell counts at the point-of-care
Authors: Hassan U. , Reddy B. , Damhorst G. , Sonoiki O. , Ghonge T. , Yang C. , Bashir R.
Published: December 2015

Complete blood cell counts (CBCs) are one of the most commonly ordered and informative blood tests in hospitals. The results from a CBC, which typically include white blood cell (WBC) counts with differentials, red blood cell (RBC) counts, platelet counts and hemoglobin measurements, can have implications for the diagnosis and screening of hundreds of diseases and treatments. Bulky and expensive hematology analyzers are currently used as a gold standard for acquiring CBCs. For nearly all CBCs performed today, the patient must travel to either a hospital with a large laboratory or to a centralized lab testing facility. There is a tremendous need for an automated, portable point-of-care blood cell counter that could yield results in a matter of minutes from a drop of blood without any trained professionals to operate the instrument. We have developed microfluidic biochips capable of a partial CBC using only a drop of whole blood. Total leukocyte and their 3-part differential count are obtained from 10 mL of blood after on-chip lysing of the RBCs and counting of the leukocytes electrically using microfabricated platinum electrodes. For RBCs and platelets, 1 mL of whole blood is diluted with PBS on-chip and the cells are counted electrically. The total time for measurement is under 20 minutes. We demonstrate a high correlation of blood cell counts compared to results acquired with a commercial hematology analyzer. This technology could potentially have tremendous applications in hospitals at the bedside, private clinics, retail clinics and the developing world.
Formulating propranolol as an amorphous melt affords reduced skin irritation potential for transdermal drug delivery
Authors: Aoyagi Kazuhiro , Zakrewsky Michael , Mitragotri Samir
Published: December 2015

Oral propranolol is commonly the first-line treatment of infantile hemangioma. However, oral delivery of propranolol is limited by systemic side effects, particularly in infants. Topical application may be a more patient friendly alternative while concurrently affording targeted delivery to the site of the skin lesion. Unfortunately, dose-dependent skin irritation is typically observed when propranolol is applied topically. Of additional concern, irritation is often exacerbated by organic solvents required to formulate propranolol. To address these concerns, we present novel formulations of propranolol as amorphous melts. Propranolol melts were successfully synthesized, and their physicochemical properties were tuned suitably for transdermal delivery using dialkyl sulfosuccinates as the counter species. Melts used in this study possessed the ability to penetrate skin when applied neat, without the need of any addition of solvent. Moreover, skin irritation potential of the lead melt was reduced compared to that of the propranolol free base (PFB). This reduction may be due to association of propranolol with the counter species in amorphous melts. The results presented here suggest amorphous melt formulations may open up the possibility to topically deliver drugs that traditionally elicit skin irritation.
Qingyihuaji Formula Inhibits Pancreatic Cancer and Prolongs Survival by Downregulating Hes-1 and Hey-1
Authors: Xu Yanli , Xu Shan , Cai Yueqin , Liu Luming
Published: December 2015

The dire prognosis of pancreatic cancer has not markedly improved during past decades. The present study was carried out to explore the effect of Qingyihuaji formula (QYHJ) on inhibiting pancreatic cancer and prolonging survival in related Notch signaling pathway. Proliferation of pancreatic cancer cells (SW1990 and PANC-1) was detected by MTT assay at 24, 48, and 72 h with exposure to various concentrations (0.08–50 mg/mL) of QYHJ water extract. Pancreatic tumor models of nude mice were divided into three groups randomly (control, QYHJ, and gemcitabine). mRNA and protein expression of Notch target genes (Hes-1, Hey-1, Hey-2, and Hey-L) in dissected tumor tissue were detected. Results showed that proliferation of SW1990 cells and PANC-1 cells was inhibited by QYHJ water extract in a dose-dependent and time-dependent manner. QYHJ effectively inhibited tumor growth and prolonged survival time in nude mice. Expression of both Hes-1 and Hey-1 was decreased significantly in QYHJ group, suggesting that Hes-1 and Hey-1 in Notch signaling pathway might be potential targets for QYHJ treatment. This research could help explain the clinical effectiveness of QYHJ and may provide advanced pancreatic cancer patients with a new therapeutic option.
Green Tea Catechin, EGCG, Suppresses PCB 102-Induced Proliferation in Estrogen-Sensitive Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Baker Kimberly Mantzke , Bauer Angela C.
Published: December 2015

The persistence of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in the environment is of considerable concern since they accumulate in human breast tissue and may stimulate the growth of estrogen-sensitive tumors. Studies have shown that EGCG from green tea can modify estrogenic activity and thus may act as a cancer chemopreventive agent. In the present study, we evaluated the individual and combined effects of PCB 102 and EGCG on cell proliferation using an estrogen-sensitive breast cancer cell line MCF-7/BOS. PCB 102 (1–10 μM) increased cell proliferation in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, the proliferative effects of PCB 102 were mediated by ERαand could be abrogated by the selective ERαantagonist MPP. EGCG (10–50 μM) caused a dose-dependent inhibition of PCB 102-induced cell proliferation, with nearly complete inhibition at 25 μM EGCG. The antiproliferative action of EGCG was mediated by ERβand could be blocked by the ERβ-specific inhibitor PHTPP. In conclusion, EGCG suppressed the proliferation-stimulating activity of the environmental estrogen PCB 102 which may be helpful in the chemoprevention of breast cancer.
Ziziphora clinopodioidesEssential Oil and Nisin as Potential Antimicrobial Agents againstEscherichia coliO157:H7 in Doogh (Iranian Yoghurt Drink)
Authors: Shahbazi Yasser
Published: December 2015

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects ofZiziphora clinopodioidesessential oil (0.1 and 0.2%) and nisin (250 and 500 IU/mL) separately and in combination on survival ofEscherichia coliO157:H7 inoculated in Doogh (Iranian yoghurt drink) during storage under refrigerated temperature (4 ± 1°C) for 9 days. Viability ofLactobacillus caseiat different concentrations ofZ. clinopodioidesessential oil (0.1 and 0.2%) in Doogh was also examined. The major components were carvacrol (64.22%), thymol (19.22%),γ-terpinene (4.63%), andp-cymene (4.86%). There was no significant difference (p>0.05) between samples treated with nisin and those of untreated samples. Samples treated with both concentrations of the essential oil (0.1 and 0.2%) showed populations ofE. coliO157:H7 significantly (p<0.05) lower than those of untreated samples. The essential oil ofZ. clinopodioidesin combination with nisin had a potential synergistic effect againstE. coliO157:H7 in Doogh samples after 5 days. The count ofL. caseiwas not inhibited by different concentrations of theZ. clinopodioidesessential oil. It is concluded that the leaf essential oil ofZ. clinopodioidesin combination with nisin can be applied as alternative antimicrobial agents in Doogh to inhibit the growth ofE. coliO157:H7.
Mechanical Behavior of 3D Crack Growth in Transparent Rock-Like Material Containing Preexisting Flaws under Compression
Authors: Tang Hu-Dan , Zhu Zhen-De , Zhu Ming-Li , Lin Heng-Xing
Published: December 2015

Mechanical behavior of 3D crack propagation and coalescence is investigated in rock-like material under uniaxial compression. A new transparent rock-like material is developed and a series of uniaxial compressive tests on low temperature transparent resin materials with preexisting 3D flaws are performed in laboratory, with changing values of bridge angleβ(inclination between the inner tips of the two preexisting flaws) of preexisting flaws in specimens. Furthermore, a theoretical peak strength prediction of 3D cracks coalescence is given. The results show that the coalescence modes of the specimens are varying according to different bridge angles. And the theoretical peak strength prediction agrees well with the experimental observation.
Onp→(x)-Anisotropic Problems with Neumann Boundary Conditions
Authors: Ourraoui Anass
Published: December 2015

This work is devoted to the study of a general class of anisotropic problems involvingp→(·)-Laplace operator. Based on the variational method, we establish the existence of a nontrivial solution without Ambrosetti-Rabinowitz type conditions.
Towards a Universal Approach Based on Omics Technologies for the Quality Control of Food
Authors: Ferri Emanuele , Galimberti Andrea , Casiraghi Maurizio , Airoldi Cristina , Ciaramelli Carlotta , Palmioli Alessandro , Mezzasalma Valerio , Bruni Ilaria , Labra Massimo
Published: December 2015

In the last decades, food science has greatly developed, turning from the consideration of food as mere source of energy to a growing awareness on its importance for health and particularly in reducing the risk of diseases. Such vision led to an increasing attention towards the origin and quality of raw materials as well as their derived food products. The continuous advance in molecular biology allowed setting up efficient and universal omics tools to unequivocally identify the origin of food items and their traceability. In this review, we considered the application of a genomics approach known as DNA barcoding in characterizing the composition of foodstuffs and its traceability along the food supply chain. Moreover, metabolomics analytical strategies based on Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and Mass Spectroscopy (MS) were discussed as they also work well in evaluating food quality. The combination of both approaches allows us to define a sort of molecular labelling of food that is easily understandable by the operators involved in the food sector: producers, distributors, and consumers. Current technologies based on digital information systems such as web platforms and smartphone apps can facilitate the adoption of such molecular labelling.
Incidental Bladder Cancer Detected on Multiparametric Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Prostate Gland
Authors: Sardari Al , Thomas John V. , Nix Jeffrey W. , Pietryga Jason A. , Sanyal Rupan , Gordetsky Jennifer B. , Rais-Bahrami Soroush
Published: December 2015

The increased use of axial imaging in various fields of medicine has led to an increased frequency of incidental findings, specifically incidental cancer lesions. Hence, as the use of multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (MP-MRI) for prostate cancer detection, staging, and management becomes more widespread, the potential for additional incidental findings in the pelvis increases. Herein, we report the case of a man on active surveillance for low-grade, early-staged prostate cancer who underwent MP-MRI and was incidentally found to have a high-grade bladder cancer lesion.
Microperimetric Biofeedback Training Improved Visual Acuity after Successful Macular Hole Surgery
Authors: Ueda-Consolvo Tomoko , Otsuka Mitsuya , Hayashi Yumiko , Ishida Masaaki , Hayashi Atsushi
Published: December 2015

Purpose. To evaluate the efficacy of setting a preferred retinal locus relocation target (PRT) and performing Macular Integrity Assessment (MAIA) biofeedback training in patients showing insufficient recovery of best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) despite successful closure of an idiopathic macular hole (MH).Methods. Retrospective interventional case series. Nine eyes of 9 consecutive patients with the decimal BCVA of less than 0.6 at more than 3 months after successful MH surgery were included. A PRT was chosen based on MAIA microperimetry and the patients underwent MAIA biofeedback training. BCVA, reading speed, fixation stability, and 63% bivariate contour ellipse area (BCEA) were evaluated before and after the training. Statistical analysis was carried out using paired Student’st-test.Results. PRT was chosen on the nasal side of the closed MH fovea in 8 patients. After the MAIA training, BCVA improved in all patients. The mean logMAR value of BCVA significantly improved from 0.33 to 0.12 (p=0.007). Reading speed improved in all patients (p=0.29), fixation stability improved in 5 patients (p=0.70), and 63% BCEA improved in 7 patients (p=0.21), although these improvements were not statistically significant.Conclusion. MAIA biofeedback training improved visual acuity in patients with insufficient recovery of BCVA after successful MH surgery.
Amelogenesis Imperfecta: Rehabilitation and Brainstorming on the Treatment Outcome after the First Year
Authors: İzgi Ayça Deniz , Kale Ediz , Niğiz Remzi
Published: December 2015

Amelogenesis imperfecta (AI) affects enamel on primary and permanent dentition. This hereditary disorder is characterized by loss of enamel, poor esthetics, and hypersensitivity. Functional and cosmetic rehabilitation is challenging with variety of treatment options. This report presents the treatment of an AI patient using conventional fixed dentures and discusses issues related to posttreatment complications and prosthetic treatment outcome after 1 year of follow-up. A 19-year-old male AI patient with impaired self-esteem presented with hypersensitive, discolored, and mutilated teeth. Clinical examination revealed compromised occlusion and anterior open-bite. After hygiene maintenance full-coverage porcelain-fused-to-metal fixed restorations were indicated and applied. At the end of the treatment acceptable functional and esthetic results could be achieved. However, nearly a year after treatment a gingival inflammation in the esthetic zone complicated the outcome. Insufficient oral hygiene was to be blamed. Tooth sensitivity present from early childhood in these patients may prevent oral hygiene from becoming a habit. The relaxation due to relieve of hypersensitivity after treatment makes oral hygiene learning difficult. Continuous oral hygiene maintenance motivation may be crucial for the success of the treatment of AI patients. Treatment of AI patients should be carefully planned and an acceptable risk-benefit balance should be established.
Clustering of Rainfall Stations in RH-24 Mexico Region Using the Hurst Exponent in Semivariograms
Authors: Benavides-Bravo Francisco Gerardo , Almaguer F-Javier , Soto-Villalobos Roberto , Tercero-Gómez Víctor , Morales-Castillo Javier
Published: December 2015

An important topic in the study of the time series behavior and, in particular, meteorological time series is the long-range dependence. This paper explores the behavior of rainfall variations in different periods, using long-range correlations analysis. Semivariograms and Hurst exponent were applied to historical data in different pluviometric stations of the Río Bravo-San Juan watershed, at the hydrographic RH-24 Mexico region. The database was provided by the Water National Commission (CONAGUA). Using the semivariograms, the Hurst exponent was obtained and used as an input to perform a cluster analysis of rainfall stations. Groups of homogeneous samples that might be useful in a regional frequency analysis were obtained through the process.
Mammary Analogue Secretory Carcinoma of the Parotid Gland: A Third World Country Perspective—A Case Series
Authors: Salat Huzaifah , Mumtaz Ramiz , Ikram Mubasher , Din Nasir Ud
Published: December 2015

Mammary analogue secretory carcinoma (MASC) is a recently described pathological entity in major salivary glands, which was first described by Skálová et al. in 2010. Since then only a limited number of case reports/series have been published describing this tumor with the majority of them discussing the genetic and cytoarchitectural aspect of this tumor. Keeping this in view with the lack of clinical correlation with regard to this tumor, we present our approach to management of two such cases which, according to the best of our knowledge, are the first 2 cases presenting in the South Asian continent. Both patients were diagnosed and managed at Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan.
On the Generalization Capabilities of the Ten-Parameter Jiles-Atherton Model
Authors: Lozito Gabriele Maria , Riganti Fulginei Francesco , Salvini Alessandro
Published: December 2015

This work proposes an analysis on the generalization capabilities for the modified version of the classic Jiles-Atherton model for magnetic hysteresis. The modified model takes into account the use of dynamic parameterization, as opposed to the classic model where the parameters are constant. Two different dynamic parameterizations are taken into account: a dependence on the excitation and a dependence on the response. The identification process is performed by using a novel nonlinear optimization technique called Continuous Flock-of-Starling Optimization Cube (CFSO3), an algorithm belonging to the class of swarm intelligence. The algorithm exploits parallel architecture and uses a supervised strategy to alternate between exploration and exploitation capabilities. Comparisons between the obtained results are presented at the end of the paper.
Factors Associated with Repeat Blood Donation at the Northern Zone Blood Transfusion Centre in Tanzania
Authors: Mauka Wilhellmuss I. , Mahande Michael J. , Msuya Sia E. , Philemon Rune N.
Published: December 2015

Background and Objective. The aim of this study was to determine factors associated with repeat blood donation. Methods. This was a cross-sectional study carried out among blood donors aged 18–65 years in northern Tanzania. The questionnaire was administered among 454 participants through the phone. Results. Of the 454 participants, the proportion of repeat donation was 63.9%. In the backward logistic regression analysis, the significant predictors were living in Arusha which had lower odds of repeat donation compared to those living in Kilimanjaro. Knowledge of time interval between donations increased odds of repeating donations. High intention increased odds of repeat donation compared to low intention. Altruistic score had minor effect on increasing odds of repeating donation. Conclusion. Repeat blood donation is affected by proximity of donating site, awareness of the blood donation interval, intention to donate, and experience on previous donation. We recommend continuous education concerning blood donors and donation among health workers and society as a whole; this will create awareness on motivational factors for repeat donations.
Dual-Element PIFA Design with Dual Shorting Pins for Multiband Communication Devices
Authors: Ahmad Muhammad Sajjad , Kim Che Young
Published: December 2015

A low profile multiband resonant, dual-element array antenna is proposed for use in handheld communication devices. The proposed antenna comprises two dual shorting pin planar inverted-F antennas and a folded ground plane which operates as a perfect electric conductor case. The feeding scheme adopted for the proposed design produces a fixed phase difference between two antenna elements of the design to achieve an ultrawide bandwidth and a flexible radiation pattern. The proposed antenna design is simulated with commercially available software, which is based on the finite element method. The resonant frequency bands covered are GSM850/900, DCS1800, PCS1900, UMTS2100, and LTE2300/2600 MHz. Details of the design considerations for the proposed antenna are described and the simulated and measured results are presented and discussed, which are in agreement.
On the Nonlinear PerturbationK(n,m)Rosenau-Hyman Equation: A Model of Nonlinear Scattering Wave
Authors: Atangana Abdon , Baleanu Dumitru , Al Qurashi Maysaa’ Mohamed , Yang Xiao-Jun
Published: December 2015

We investigate a nonlinear wave phenomenon described by the perturbationK(n,m)Rosenau-Hyman equation within the concept of derivative with fractional order. We used the Caputo fractional derivative and we proposed an iteration method in order to find a particular solution of the extended perturbation equation. We proved the stability and the convergence of the suggested method for solving the extended equation without any restriction on(m,n)and also on the perturbations terms. Using the inner product we proved the uniqueness of the special solution. By choosing randomly the fractional orders andm, we presented the numerical solutions.
Interleukin‐17 Could Promote Breast Cancer Progression at Several Stages of the Disease
Authors: Welte Thomas , Zhang Xiang H.-F.
Published: December 2015

Metastatic disease accounts for more than 90% of deaths from breast cancer. Yet the factors that trigger metastasis, often years after primary tumor removal, are not understood well. Recently the proinflammatory cytokine interleukin‐ (IL‐) 17 family has been associated with poor prognosis in breast cancer. Here we review current literature on the pathogenic mechanisms driven by IL‐17 during breast cancer progression and connect these findings to metastasis. These include (1) direct effects of IL‐17 on tumor cells promoting tumor cell survival and invasiveness, (2) regulation of tumor angiogenesis, and (3) interaction with myeloid derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) to inhibit antitumor immune response and collaborate at the distant metastatic site. Furthermore, IL‐17 might also be a culprit in bone destruction caused by late stage bone metastasis. Interestingly, in addition to these potential prometastasis functions, there is also evidence for an opposite, antitumor role of IL‐17 during cancer therapies. We hypothesize that these contradictory roles may be due to chronic, imbalanced versus acute transient nature of the immune reactions, as well as differences in the cells that interact with IL‐17+ cells under different circumstances.
Genome-Wide Identification and Characterization of theLRR-RLKGene Family in TwoVerniciaSpecies
Authors: Zhu Huiping , Wang Yangdong , Yin Hengfu , Gao Ming , Zhang Qiyan , Chen Yicun
Published: December 2015

Leucine-rich repeat receptor-like kinases (LRR-RLKs) make up the largest group of RLKs in plants and play important roles in many key biological processes such as pathogen response and signal transduction. To date, most studies on LRR-RLKs have been conducted on model plants. Here, we identified 236 and 230LRR-RLKsin two industrial oil-producing trees:Vernicia fordiiandVernicia montana, respectively. Sequence alignment analyses showed that the homology of the RLK domain (23.81%) was greater than that of the LRR domain (9.51%) among theVf/VmLRR-RLKs. The conserved motif of the LRR domain inVf/VmLRR-RLKsmatched well the known plant LRR consensus sequence but differed at the third last amino acid (W or L). Phylogenetic analysis revealed thatVf/VmLRR-RLKswere grouped into 16 subclades. We characterized the expression profiles ofVf/VmLRR-RLKsin various tissue types including root, leaf, petal, and kernel. Further investigation revealed thatVf/VmLRR-RLKorthologous genes mainly showed similar expression patterns in response to tree wilt disease, except 4 pairs ofVf/VmLRR-RLKsthat showed opposite expression trends. These results represent an extensive evaluation ofLRR-RLKsin two industrial oil trees and will be useful for further functional studies on these proteins.
Low Back Pain in Athletes Is Associated with General and Sport Specific Risk Factors: A Comprehensive Review of Longitudinal Studies
Authors: Moradi Vahideh , Memari Amir-Hossein , ShayestehFar Monir , Kordi Ramin
Published: December 2015

We aimed to examine systematically the available evidence on risk factors of low back pain (LBP) in athletes. We performed search without language restriction in PubMed, Ovid, Google Scholar, Scopus, and CINAHL. Longitudinal studies that examined possible risk factors of LBP in athletes were included in this systematic review. Based on methodological quality of studies, a best-evidence synthesis was conducted. Seven longitudinal studies were included, four of which had high methodological quality. Results showed that previous LBP, decreased lumbar flexion, and decreased lumbar extension are positively associated with LBP. There was moderate evidence for hip flexor tightness and high body weight as a risk factor. We found insufficient evidence for association between forward bending, previous injury, and amount of training per week, active years, age, and sex with LBP. In conclusion this study would provide a list of risk factors for LBP in athletes, though it showed a strong evidence for only a few including decrease lumbar flexion or extension, previous LBP, and high body weight. This review indicated a high heterogeneity of study characteristics including assessed risk factors and statistical techniques might limit the quality of evidence.
Pressor Response to Noradrenaline in the Setting of Septic Shock: Anything New under the Sun—Dexmedetomidine, Clonidine? A Minireview
Authors: Géloën A. , Pichot C. , Leroy S. , Julien C. , Ghignone M. , May C. N. , Quintin L.
Published: December 2015

Progress over the last 50 years has led to a decline in mortality from ≈70% to ≈20% in the best series of patients with septic shock. Nevertheless, refractory septic shock still carries a mortality close to 100%. In the best series, the mortality appears related to multiple organ failure linked to comorbidities and/or an intense inflammatory response: shortening the period that the subject is exposed to circulatory instability may further lower mortality. Treatment aims at reestablishing circulation within a “central” compartment (i.e., brain, heart, and lung) but fails to reestablish a disorganized microcirculation or an adequate response to noradrenaline, the most widely used vasopressor. Indeed, steroids, nitric oxide synthase inhibitors, or donors have not achieved overwhelming acceptance in the setting of septic shock.Counterintuitively,α2-adrenoceptor agonists were shown to reduce noradrenaline requirements in two cases of human septic shock. This has been replicated in rat and sheep models of sepsis. In addition, some data show thatα2-adrenoceptor agonists lead to an improvement in the microcirculation. Evidence-based documentation of the effects of alpha-2 agonists is needed in the setting of human septic shock.
Homoepitaxial Nanostructures of Zinc Oxide
Authors: Plakhova Tatiana V. , Baranov Andrey N. , Knotko Alexander V. , Panin Gennady N.
Published: December 2015

The homoepitaxial ZnO nanostructures (HENS) were obtained on different substrates using various techniques. The first type of homoepitaxial ZnO nanorod arrays was grown on Si or ITO substrates by using two alternative sequences: (a) seeding → growth from solution → growth from vapor and contrariwise (b) seeding → growth from vapor → growth from solution. As follows from transport and cathode luminescence measurements homoepitaxial growth allows enhancing electrical or luminescence properties. The second type of HENS was prepared by growth of vertically or horizontally oriented ZnO nanorod arrays depending on monocrystalline ZnO wafers with [0001] and [10‐10] orientation. In all cases the growth occurs along the c‐axis of fast growth.
Stability Analysis of Process Route Based on Weighted Network
Authors: Xiang Ying , Mo Rong , Chang Zhiyong , Qiao Hu , Li Chunlei
Published: December 2015

Aiming at the production stability of complex parts, a method based on weighted network was proposed to analyze the stability of the process routes of complex parts in order to improve the production stability. The weighted network of the process routes of complex parts was constructed by using the concept of machining cell which can transform the production cost and manufacturing time to the weights of network to do the decision-making of the process routes. Based on the production stability, the brittleness risk entropy of subsystem of weighted network was constructed by analyzing the probability of the brittle events that may lead to the collapse of the weighted network in machining cells. As the indicator of analyzing the vulnerability of weighted network node, the brittleness risk entropy can predict the easily failed subsystem in the entire network. Meanwhile, the brittle event, which may lead to the machining cell failure, was retrospect for the greater stability of the process routes. Finally, the correctness and effectiveness of this method were verified by using the manufacturing process of an aero-engine blade.
Preparation and Performance of an Adsorption Type Gel Plugging Agent as Enhanced Oil Recovery Chemical
Authors: Qin Xiaoping , Zheng Jiapeng , Li Liangchuan , Li Cuixia , Sun Guiling , Lu Haiwei , Peng Tong
Published: December 2015

A novel adsorption type gel plugging agent (ATGPA) was prepared using acrylamide (AM), acrylic acid (AA), diallyl dimethyl ammonium chloride (DMDAAC), 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonate (AMPS), formaldehyde (HCHO), resorcinol (C6H6O2), and thiocarbamide (CH4N2S) as raw materials under mild conditions. ATGPA was characterized by infrared (IR) spectroscopy, elemental analysis, and scanning electron microscope (SEM). It was found that ATGPA exhibited higher elastic modulus (G′) and viscous modulus (G′′) than AM/AA gel plugging agent (AAGPA) under the same scanning frequency. It was also found that ATGPA had moderate temperature resistance and salt tolerance. Core plugging tests results indicated that ATGPA could achieve up to higher plugging rate (PR) than AAGPA (97.2% versus 95.7%) at 65°C. In addition, ATGPA possessed stronger antiscouring ability by core plugging experiments at 65°C.
Pancreatic Pseudocyst with Splenic Artery Erosion, Retroperitoneal and Splenic Hematoma
Authors: Botianu Petre V. H. , Dobre Adrian S. , Botianu Ana-Maria V. , Onisor Danusia
Published: December 2015

The erosion of the peripancreatic vascular structures is a rare but life-endangering complication of pancreatic diseases. We report a female patient with a multicompartmentalized pancreatic pseudocyst that eroded the splenic artery resulting in a retroperitoneal and splenic hematoma with hemodynamic instability which required emergency laparotomy with splenectomy, partial cystectomy, ligation of the splenic artery at the level of the vascular erosion, cholecystectomy (lithiasis), and multiple drainage. The postoperative course was difficult (elevated level of platelets, pancreatic fistula) but eventually favourable, with no abdominal complaints and no recurrence at 2-year follow-up. The case shows that the pancreatic pseudocysts may present with acute hemorrhagic complications with life-endangering potential and significant postoperative morbidity.
Multiple Sign-Changing Solutions for Kirchhoff-Type Equations
Authors: Li Xingping , He Xiumei
Published: December 2015

We study the following Kirchhoff-type equations-a+b∫Ω∇u2dxΔu+Vxu=fx,u, inΩ,u=0, in∂Ω, whereΩis a bounded smooth domain ofRN  (N=1,2,3),a>0,b≥0,f∈C(Ω¯×R,R), andV∈C(Ω¯,R). Under some suitable conditions, we prove that the equation has three solutions of mountain pass type: one positive, one negative, and sign-changing. Furthermore, iffis odd with respect to its second variable, this problem has infinitely many sign-changing solutions.
Evaluation of Combined Effect of Mercerized and Dyed Yarns on Physical Properties of Plain Single Jersey Knitted Fabrics
Authors: Elrys S. M. , El-Hossini A. , EL-Hadidy A. M.
Published: December 2015

A combined effect of mercerized and dyed yarns on physical properties of plain single jersey knitted fabrics has been studied. Plied cotton yarn was produced and mercerized at different NaOH concentrations and temperatures. Then, this yarn was bleached and dyed with two types of dyes, vat dyeing and reactive dyeing. Each of mechanical and color properties were measured to these treated yarns. Plain single jersey knitted fabrics were produced from these treated yarns. The total evaluation of the properties for plain single jersey fabrics was measured by using radar chart method. It was found that the highest area of radar chart, which represents the total physical properties, is achieved at 32°Be′, in case of vat dyeing. Besides, analysis of variance (AVOVA) and MANOVA were applied to illustrate which of the properties would be affected by NaOH con. and types of dyeing for yarns and fabrics.
Impact of Timing following Acute Myocardial Infarction on Efficacy and Safety of Bone Marrow Stem Cells Therapy: A Network Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Liu Bei , Duan Chong-Yang , Luo Cheng-Feng , Ou Cai-Wen , Wu Zhi-Ye , Zhang Jian-Wu , Ni Xiao-Bin , Chen Ping-Yan , Chen Min-Sheng
Published: December 2015

Background. The optimal timing for Bone Marrow Stem Cells (BMCs) therapy following acute myocardial infarction (AMI) remains unclear. Aims. To synthesize the evidence from trials using a multiple‐treatment comparison method, thereby permitting a broader comparison across multiple timing of BMCs therapy. Methods and Results. Randomized controlled trials in patients with AMI receiving BMCs therapy were identified from PubMed, Ovid LWW, BIOSIS Previews, and the Cochrane Library through January 2015. 2 035 patients of 31 studies included in our analysis were allocated to 5 groups’ treatments: 1~3 days, 4~7 days, 8~14 days, 15~30 days, or placebo/control group. The multiple‐treatment meta‐analysis showed that 4~7 days’ group could lead to significantly increased left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) as compared with control (mean of MDs and 95% CI: 6 months, 3.05 (0.92~5.25); 12 months, 4.18 (2.30~5.84)). Only 4~7 days led to significant reduction of MACEs compared with control (OR and 95% CI 0.34 (0.13~0.96)) for 12‐months follow‐up. In simulated comparisons, the 4~7 days’ group ranked better than other timing groups for improvement of LVEF or reduction of the incidence of major adverse cardiac events. Conclusions. 4~7 days after AMI might be the optimal timing for cell therapy in terms of efficacy or safety.
The Establishment and Characteristics of Rat Model of Atherosclerosis Induced by Hyperuricemia
Authors: Liu Zhen , Chen Tong , Niu Haitao , Ren Wei , Li Xinde , Cui Lingling , Li Changgui
Published: December 2015

Epidemiological studies have identified hyperuricemia as an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. However, the mechanism whereby hyperuricemia causes atherosclerosis remains unclear. The objective of the study was to establish a new rat model of hyperuricemia‐induced atherosclerosis. Wistar‐Kyoto rats were randomly allocated to either a normal diet (ND), high‐fat diet (HFD), or high‐adenine diet (HAD), followed by sacrifice 4, 8, or 12 weeks later. Serum uric acid and lipid levels were analyzed, pathologic changes in the aorta were observed by hematoxylin and eosin staining, and mRNA expression was evaluated by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Serum uric acid and TC were significantly increased in the HAD group at 4 weeks compared with the ND group, but there was no significant difference in serum uric acid between the ND and HFD groups. Aorta calcification occurred earlier and was more severe in the HAD group, compared with the HFD group. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen, monocyte chemotactic factor‐1, intercellular adhesion molecule‐1, and vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1 mRNA levels were increased in the HFD and HAD groups compared with the ND group. This new animal model will be a useful tool for investigating the mechanisms responsible for hyperuricemia‐induced atherosclerosis.
Exogenous Heparan Sulfate Enhances the TGF‐β3‐Induced Chondrogenesis in Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells by Activating TGF‐β/Smad Signaling
Authors: Chen Juan , Wang Yongqian , Chen Chong , Lian Chengjie , Zhou Taifeng , Gao Bo , Wu Zizhao , Xu Caixia
Published: December 2015

Heparan sulfate (HS) interacts with growth factors and has been implicated in regulating chondrogenesis. However, the effect of HS on TGF‐β‐mediated mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) chondrogenesis and molecular mechanisms remains unknown. In this study, we explored the effects of exogenous HS alone and in combination with TGF‐β3 on chondrogenic differentiation of human MSCs and possible signal mechanisms. The results indicated that HS alone had no obvious effects on chondrogenic differentiation of human MSCs and TGF‐β/Smad2/3 signal pathways. However, the combined TGF‐β3/HS treatment resulted in a significant increase in GAG synthesis, cartilage matrix protein secretion, and cartilage‐specific gene expression compared to cells treated with TGF‐β3 alone. Furthermore, HS inhibited type III TGF‐β receptors (TβRIII) expression and increased TGF‐β3‐mediated ratio of the type II (TβRII) to the type I (TβRI) TGF‐β receptors and phosphorylation levels of Smad2/3. The inhibitor of the TGF‐β/Smad signal, SB431542, not only completely inhibited HS‐stimulated TGF‐β3‐mediated Smad2/3 phosphorylation but also completely inhibited the effects of HS on TGF‐β3‐induced chondrogenic differentiation. These results demonstrate exogenous HS enhances TGF‐β3‐induced chondrogenic differentiation of human MSCs by activating TGF‐β/Smad2/3 signaling.
Mesenchymal Stem Cell Treatment for Steroid RefractoryGraft‐versus‐Host Disease in Children: A Pilot and First Study from Turkey
Authors: Erbey Fatih , Atay Didem , Akcay Arzu , Ovali Ercument , Ozturk Gulyuz
Published: December 2015

This study evaluated the efficacy of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from bone marrow of a third‐party donor for refractory aGVHD. We report the first experience using MSCs to treat refractory aGVHD in 33 pediatric patients undergoing allogeneic HSCT from Turkey. Totally, 68 doses of bone marrow derived MSCs were infused. The median dose of MSC was 1.18 × 106 cells per kg body weight. Overall, complete response (CR) was documented in 18 patients, partial response (PR) was documented in 7 patients, and no response (NR) was documented in 8 patients. The 2‐year estimated probability of overall survival (OS) for patients achieving CR and PR/NR was 63.8% and 29.4%, respectively (p = 0.0002). While the cumulative incidence of transplant related mortality (TRM) at day 100 after first MSC infusion was 46.6% in PR/NR patients, there was no any TRM at day 100 after first MSC infusion in CR patients (p = 0.001). Twelve patients developed chronic GVHD (cGVHD); eight of them were alive, with five having extensive disease and three having limited disease. In conclusion, MSCs appear to be safe and effective treatment option for pediatric patients with steroid refractory aGVHD. But the efficacy of MSCs on cGVHD in aGVHD patients treated with MSCs seems to be limited.
Diabetic Retinal and Choroidal Edema in SDT Rats
Authors: Toyoda Fumihiko , Tanaka Yoshiaki , Shimmura Machiko , Kinoshita Nozomi , Takano Hiroko , Kakehashi Akihiro
Published: December 2015

We evaluated the features of diabetic retinal and choroidal edema in Spontaneously Diabetic Torii (SDT) rats. We measured the retinal and choroidal thicknesses in normal Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats(n=9)and SDT rats(n=8). The eyes were enucleated 40 weeks later after they were diagnosed with diabetes, and 4-micron sections were cut for conventional histopathologic studies. The mean retinal and choroidal thicknesses were significantly thicker in the SDT rats than in the normal SD rats. The choroidal thickness was correlated strongly with the retinal thickness in both rat models. Diabetic retinopathy (DR) and diabetic choroidopathy appeared as edema in the SDT rats. The retinal thickness was correlated strongly with the choroidal thickness in the SDT rats, which is an ideal animal model of both DR and choroidopathy.
Central Infusion of Angiotensin II Type 2 Receptor Agonist Compound 21 Attenuates DOCA/NaCl‐Induced Hypertension in Female Rats
Authors: Dai Shu-Yan , Zhang Yu-Ping , Peng Wei , Shen Ying , He Jing-Jing
Published: December 2015

The present study investigated whether central activation of angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AT2‐R) attenuates deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA)/NaCl‐induced hypertension in intact and ovariectomized (OVX) female rats and whether female sex hormone status has influence on the effects of AT2‐R activation. DOCA/NaCl elicited a greater increase in blood pressure in OVX females than that in intact females. Central infusion of compound 21, a specific AT2‐R agonist, abolished DOCA/NaCl pressor effect in intact females, whereas same treatment in OVX females produced an inhibitory effect. Real‐time RT‐PCR analysis revealed that DOCA/NaCl enhanced the mRNA expression of hypertensive components including AT1‐R, ACE‐1, and TNF‐α in the paraventricular nucleus of hypothalamus in both intact and OVX females. However, the mRNA expressions of antihypertensive components such as AT2‐R, ACE‐2, and IL‐10 were increased only in intact females. Central AT2‐R agonist reversed the changes in the hypertensive components in all females, while this agonist further upregulated the expression of ACE2 and IL‐10 in intact females, but only IL‐10 in OVX females. These results indicate that brain AT2‐R activation plays an inhibitory role in the development of DOCA/NaCl‐induced hypertension in females. This beneficial effect of AT2‐R activation involves regulation of renin‐angiotensin system and proinflammatory cytokines.
N-Acetylcysteine Restores Sevoflurane Postconditioning Cardioprotection against Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Diabetic Rats
Authors: Lin Jiefu , Wang Tingting , Li Yalan , Wang Mengxia , Li Haobo , Irwin Michael G. , Xia Zhengyuan
Published: December 2015

The effect of sevoflurane postconditioning (sevo-postC) cardioprotection is compromised in diabetes which is associated with increased oxidative stress. We hypothesized that antioxidant N-Acetylcysteine may enhance or restore sevo-postC cardioprotection in diabetes. Control or streptozotocin-induced Type 1 diabetic rats were either untreated or treated with N-Acetylcysteine for four weeks starting at five weeks after streptozotocin injection and were subjected to myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI), in the absence or presence of sevo-postC. Diabetes showed reduction of cardiac STAT3 activation (p-STAT3) and adiponectin with concomitantly increase of FoxO1 and CD36, which associated with reduced sevo-postC cardioprotection. N-Acetylcysteine and sevo-postC synergistically reduced the infarct size in diabetic groups. N-Acetylcysteine remarkably increased cardiac p-STAT3 which was further enhanced by sevo-postC. N-Acetylcysteine but not sevo-postC decreased myocardial FoxO1 while sevo-postC but not N-Acetylcysteine significantly increased myocardiac adiponectin in diabetic rats. It is concluded that late stage diabetic rats displayed reduction of cardiac p-STAT3, adiponectin deficiency, and increase of FoxO1 and CD36 expression, which may be responsible for the loss of myocardial responsiveness to sevo-postC cardioprotection. N-Acetylcysteine restored Sevo-postC cardioprotection in diabetes possibly through enhancing cardiac p-STAT3 and adiponectin and reducing Fox1 and CD36.