bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Time Course of Pulmonary Function Tests in COPD Patients with Different Levels of Blood Eosinophils
Authors: Rogliani Paola , Puxeddu Ermanno , Ciaprini Chiara , Ora Josuel , Onorato Angelo , Pezzuto Gabriella , Calzetta Luigino , Cazzola Mario
Published: October 2016

Only very few studies have investigated the influence of eosinophils on the functional progression of COPD. We aimed at retrospectively analyzing the trend of pulmonary function tests over time in patients with COPD according to two baseline blood eosinophil cell count strata (<2% [EOS−] and ≥2% [EOS+]). We used the last 9-year data present in the database of our outpatient clinic and selected only those who had two blood counts that would guarantee the stability of the value of eosinophils and serial spirometry for 4 consecutive years. The analysis of the time course of the spirometric variables analysed showed differences in FEV1 and FVC decline between the subjects of the EOS− group and those of the EOS+ group. The integrated evaluation of our results suggests that the different level of blood eosinophils in the two groups may have influenced independently the time course of the pulmonary function tests and identify two subgroups of subjects with specific disease characteristics: the hyperinflator and the rapid decliner, respectively.
Photoreflectance and Raman Study of Surface Electric States on AlGaAs/GaAs Heterostructures
Authors: Zamora-Peredo Luis , García-González Leandro , Hernández-Torres Julián , Cortes-Mestizo Irving E. , Méndez-García Víctor H. , López-López Máximo
Published: October 2016

Photoreflectance (PR) and Raman are two very useful spectroscopy techniques that usually are used to know the surface electronic states in GaAs-based semiconductor devices. However, although they are exceptional tools there are few reports where both techniques were used in these kinds of devices. In this work, the surface electronic states on AlGaAs/GaAs heterostructures were studied in order to identify the effect of factors like laser penetration depth, cap layer thickness, and surface passivation over PR and Raman spectra. PR measurements were performed alternately with two lasers (532 nm and 375 nm wavelength) as the modulation sources in order to identify internal and surface features. The surface electric field calculated by PR analysis decreased whereas the GaAs cap layer thickness increased, in good agreement with a similar behavior observed in Raman measurements (IL-/ILOratio). When the heterostructures were treated by Si-flux, these techniques showed contrary behaviors. PR analysis revealed a diminution in the surface electric field due to a passivation process whereas theIL-/ILOratio did not present the same behavior because it was dominated by the depletion layers width (cap layer thickness) and the laser penetration depth.
Improvement of Saemangeum Dredged Soils Using Coffee Sludge for Vegetation Soil
Authors: Kim Daehyeon , Kim Minseok , Kim Munchae , Park Kyungho
Published: October 2016

In Korea, a large scale national project (Saemangeum Project) has been underway that requires a huge amount of dredged soils and their reclamation. Although a lot of dredged soil is needed for reclamation, only about 10% of the dredged soil is used. For this reason, much effort should be made to extensively use the dredged soil. The objective of the study is to find reasonable ways of improving the dredged soils in the Saemangeum area so that they can be used for vegetation of land plants. In order to develop ameliorating methods, we treated silty sand samples, the representative dredged soil of Saemangeum, with mountain soil (0% and 30%), sawdust fertilizer (0% and 6%), bioameliorant (0% and 6%), and coffee sludge (3%, 6%, and 9%), measured the germination rate of bent grass, and applied the lab experiment results to the field for validation. As a result, it was verified that when a mixture of coffee sludge and sawdust fertilizer was used, the chemical and physical properties of dredged soil were significantly improved. This implies that the beneficial use of the dredged soil can be facilitated.
RANTES Gene Polymorphisms Associated with HIV-1 Infections in Kenyan Population
Authors: Mutuiri Shem P. M. , Kutima Helen L. , Mwapagha Lamech M. , Munyao James K. , Nyamache Anthony Kebira , Wanjiru Irene , Khamadi Samoel A.
Published: October 2016

Previous studies have reported that two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the RANTES gene promoter region, -403G/A and -28C/G, are associated with a slower rate of decline in CD4+ T cell count. In addition, as a ligand of the major HIV coreceptor CCR5, it is known to block HIV-CCR5 interactions in the course of the HIV infection cycle. This study was carried out with the aim of determining the occurrence of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) -403G > A and -28C > G in the promoter region of RANTES, in a subset of the Kenyan population. Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood monocular cells and used to amplify the RANTES gene region. Restriction fragment length polymorphism was used to determine the genotypes of the RANTES gene. Out of 100 HIV infected individuals, 19% had G1 genotypes (403G/G, 28C/G), 30% (403A/A, 28C/C), and 50% (403G/A, 28C/C), while in healthy blood donors 13% had G4 (403G/A, 28C/C) genotypes, 22% (403A/A, 28C/C), and 54% (403G/A, 28C/C). HIV negative blood donors (54%) had higher risk of alteration to risk of HIV transmission compared to those who were HIV infected (50%). However, the risk to transmission and distribution differences was not significant (P=0.092). The study showed that RANTES polymorphisms -403 and -28 alleles do exist in the Kenyan population.
RANK Expression and Osteoclastogenesis in Human Monocytes in Peripheral Blood from Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
Authors: Nanke Yuki , Kobashigawa Tsuyoshi , Yago Toru , Kawamoto Manabu , Yamanaka Hisashi , Kotake Shigeru
Published: October 2016

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) appears as inflammation of synovial tissue and joint destruction. Receptor activator of NF-κB (RANK) is a member of the TNF receptor superfamily and a receptor for the RANK ligand (RANKL). In this study, we examined the expression ofRANKhighand CCR6 on CD14+monocytes from patients with RA and healthy volunteers. Peripheral blood samples were obtained from both the RA patients and the healthy volunteers. Osteoclastogenesis from monocytes was induced by RANKL and M-CSFin vitro. To study the expression ofRANKhighand CCR6 on CD14+monocytes, two-color flow cytometry was performed. Levels of expression of RANK on monocytes were significantly correlated with the level of osteoclastogenesis in the healthy volunteers. The expression ofRANKhighon CD14+monocyte in RA patients without treatment was elevated and that in those receiving treatment was decreased. In addition, the high-level expression of RANK on CD14+monocytes was correlated with the high-level expression of CCR6 in healthy volunteers. Monocytes expressing both RANK and CCR6 differentiate into osteoclasts. The expression of CD14+RANKhighin untreated RA patients was elevated. RANK and CCR6 expressed on monocytes may be novel targets for the regulation of bone resorption in RA and osteoporosis.
Pathogenesis of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis: Interactions between Liver Parenchymal and Nonparenchymal Cells
Authors: Magee Nancy , Zou An , Zhang Yuxia
Published: October 2016

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common type of chronic liver disease in the Western countries, affecting up to 25% of the general population and becoming a major health concern in both adults and children. NAFLD encompasses the entire spectrum of fatty liver disease in individuals without significant alcohol consumption, ranging from nonalcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and cirrhosis. NASH is a manifestation of the metabolic syndrome and hepatic disorders with the presence of steatosis, hepatocyte injury (ballooning), inflammation, and, in some patients, progressive fibrosis leading to cirrhosis. The pathogenesis of NASH is a complex process and implicates cell interactions between liver parenchymal and nonparenchymal cells as well as crosstalk between various immune cell populations in liver. Lipotoxicity appears to be the central driver of hepatic cellular injury via oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. This review focuses on the contributions of hepatocytes and nonparenchymal cells to NASH, assessing their potential applications to the development of novel therapeutic agents. Currently, there are limited pharmacological treatments for NASH; therefore, an increased understanding of NASH pathogenesis is pertinent to improve disease interventions in the future.
Numerical Investigation of Water Entry of Half Hydrophilic and Half Hydrophobic Spheres
Authors: Zhao Sun , Wei Cao , Cong Wang
Published: October 2016

A numerical simulation to investigate the water entry of half-half sphere which is hydrophobic on one hemisphere and hydrophilic on the other is performed. Particular attention is given to the simulation method based on solving the Navier-Stokes equations coupled with VOF (volume of fluid) method and CSF (continuum surface force) method. Numerical results predicted experimental results, validating the suitability of the numerical approach to simulate the water entry problem of sphere under different wetting conditions. Numerical results show that the water entry of the half-half sphere creates an asymmetric cavity and “cardioid” splash, causing the sphere to travel laterally from the hydrophobic side to the hydrophilic side. Further investigations show that the density ratio and mismatch of asymmetric in wetting condition affect the trajectory, velocity, and acceleration of the half-half sphere during water entry. In addition, the total hydrodynamic force coefficient is investigated as a result of the forces acting on the sphere during water entry dictated by the cavity formation.
Determination of the Density of Energy States in a Quantizing Magnetic Field for Model Kane
Authors: Gulyamov G. , Erkaboev U. I. , Baymatov P. J.
Published: October 2016

For nonparabolic dispersion law determined by the density of the energy states in a quantizing magnetic field, the dependence of the density of energy states on temperature in quantizing magnetic fields is studied with the nonquadratic dispersion law. Experimental results obtained for PbTe were analyzed using the suggested model. The continuous spectrum of the energy density of states at low temperature is transformed into discrete Landau levels.
Demystifying the Effect of Narrow Reading on EFL Learners’ Vocabulary Recall and Retention
Authors: Abdollahi Marziyeh , Farvardin Mohammad Taghi
Published: October 2016

The aim of the present study was to explore the effect of narrow reading on English as foreign language (EFL) learners’ vocabulary recall and retention. To this end, 60 senior high school students studying at Tarbiyat High School in Mahshahr, Iran, were selected from four intact classes. The participants were then divided into two equal groups, experimental and control. Ten words which were unknown to the participants were selected as target words. The experimental group received thematically related passages while the control group was given reading passages of different topics. The immediate posttest was given to the participants two days after the treatment. Afterwards, two delayed posttests were administered with two week intervals. The scores were analyzed through two-way repeated measures ANOVA, Bonferroni pairwise comparisons, and independent samplest-tests. The results revealed that the experimental group outperformed the control group in all posttests. The implications arising from the findings and suggestions for future research were explained.
Measurement of Rank and Other Properties of Direct and Scattered Signals
Authors: Björklund Svante , Grahn Per , Nelander Anders , Pettersson Mats I.
Published: October 2016

We have designed an experiment for low-cost indoor measurements of rank and other properties of direct and scattered signals with radar interference suppression in mind. The signal rank is important also in many other applications, for example, DOA (Direction of Arrival) estimation, estimation of the number of and location of transmitters in electronic warfare, and increasing the capacity in wireless communications. In real radar applications, such measurements can be very expensive, for example, involving airborne radars with array antennas. We have performed the measurements in an anechoic chamber with several transmitters, a receiving array antenna, and a moving reflector. Our experiment takes several aspects into account: transmitted signals with different correlation, decorrelation of the signals during the acquisition interval, covariance matrix estimation, noise eigenvalue spread, calibration, near-field compensation, scattering in a rough surface, and good control of the influencing factors. With our measurements we have observed rank, DOA spectrum, and eigenpatterns of direct and scattered signals. The agreement of our measured properties with theoretic and simulated results in the literature shows that our experiment is realistic and sound. The detailed description of our experiment could serve as help for conducting other well-controlled experiments.
Xiao Yao San against Corticosterone‐Induced Stress Injury via Upregulating Glucocorticoid Receptor Reaction Element Transcriptional Activity
Authors: Cao Guoping , Gong Shenglan , Zhang Fengxue , Fu Wenjun
Published: October 2016

Previous studies have revealed that uncontrollable stress can impair the synaptic plasticity and firing property of hippocampal neurons, which influenced various hippocampal‐dependent tasks including memory, cognition, behavior, and mood. In this work, we had investigated the effects and mechanisms of the Chinese herbal medicine Xiao Yao San (XYS) against corticosterone‐induced stress injury in primary hippocampal neurons (PHN) cells. We found that XYS and RU38486 could increase cell viabilities and decrease cell apoptosis by MTT, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry assays. In addition, we observed that XYS notably inhibited the nuclear translocation of GR and upregulated the mRNA and protein expressions levels of Caveolin‐1, GR, BDNF, TrkB, and FKBP4. However, XYS downregulated the FKBP51 expressions. Furthermore, the results of the electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) and double luciferase reporter gene detection indicated that FKBP4 promotes the transcriptional activity of GR reaction element (GRE) by binding with GR, and FKBP51 processed the opposite action. The in vivo experiment also proved the functions of XYS. These results suggested that XYS showed an efficient neuroprotection against corticosterone‐induced stress injury in PHN cells by upregulating GRE transcriptional activity, which should be developed as a potential candidate for treating stress injury in the future.
Somatic Comorbidity in Chronic Constipation: More Data from the GECCO Study
Authors: Enck Paul , Leinert Johannes , Smid Menno , Köhler Thorsten , Schwille-Kiuntke Juliane
Published: October 2016

Background. Comorbidity in chronic constipation has rarely been investigated, despite the fact that constipation can occur as one symptom in a number of neurological, systemic, and other nonintestinal and intestinal disorders.Methods. Of 1037 individuals with constipation identified during a telephone survey, 589 returned a postal questionnaire with valid data, asking for sociographic data, clinical symptoms, comorbid conditions, medication intake, and health care behavior related to constipation. Among them, 245 reported some somatic diagnoses and another 120 regular medication intake. They were compared to individuals without comorbid condition and presumed functional constipation (n=215).Results. Individuals reporting a somatic comorbid condition and/or regular medication were significantly older than those with functional constipation (63.8±15.8and43.7±15.5years, resp.,p<0.001) and had lower health and social status (bothp<0.001), but similar general life satisfaction (n.s.). Their quality-of-life was lower for the physical (p<0.001) but not for the mental health domain (n.s.), while among those with functional constipation, the mental health domain distinguished IBS-C individuals from those with functional constipation but without pain (p<0.001).Conclusion. In an unselected population sample with constipated individuals, those with a somatic comorbid condition outnumber those with functional constipation alone and are distinctly different with respect to age and health status.
Stator Vibration Characteristic Identification of Turbogenerator among Single and Composite Faults Composed of Static Air-Gap Eccentricity and Rotor Interturn Short Circuit
Authors: He Yu-Ling , Deng Wei-Qi , Peng Bo , Ke Meng-Qiang , Tang Gui-Ji , Wan Shu-Ting , Liu Xiang-Yu
Published: October 2016

This paper investigates the radial stator vibration characteristics of turbogenerator under the static air-gap eccentricity (SAGE) fault, the rotor interturn short circuit (RISC) fault, and the composite faults (CFs) composed of SAGE and RISC, respectively. Firstly, the impact of the faulty types on the magnetic flux density (MFD) is analyzed, based on which the detailed expressions of the magnetic pull per unit area (MPPUA) on the stator under different performing conditions are deduced. Then, numerical FEM simulations based on Ansoft and an experimental study are carried out, taking the SDF-9 type fault simulating generator as the study object. It is shown that SAGE will increase the stator vibration at 2f(fis the electrical frequency) which already exists even in normal condition, while RISC and CF will bring in stator vibrations atf, 2f, 3f, and 4fat the same time. The vibration amplitudes under CF are larger than those under RISC. As SAGE increases, the vibration amplitudes of each harmonic component under CF will all be increased, while the development of RISC will decrease the 2nd harmonic vibration but meanwhile increase the 4th harmonic vibration. The achievements of this paper are beneficial for fault identification and condition monitoring of the turbogenerator.
A New Scheme on Synchronization of Commensurate Fractional-Order Chaotic Systems Based on Lyapunov Equation
Authors: Wang Hua , Liang Hang-Feng , Zan Peng , Miao Zhong-Hua
Published: October 2016

This paper proposes a new fractional-order approach for synchronization of a class of fractional-order chaotic systems in the presence of model uncertainties and external disturbances. A simple but practical method to synchronize many familiar fractional-order chaotic systems has been put forward. A new theorem is proposed for a class of cascade fractional-order systems and it is applied in chaos synchronization. Combined with the fact that the states of the fractional chaotic systems are bounded, many coupled items can be taken as zero items. Then, the whole system can be simplified greatly and a simpler controller can be derived. Finally, the validity of the presented scheme is illustrated by numerical simulations of the fractional-order unified system.
Association between -308G/A TNFA Polymorphism and Susceptibility to Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review
Authors: Luna Geisa Izetti , Silva Izabel Cristina Rodrigues da , Sanchez Mauro Niskier
Published: October 2016

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is considered to be a worldwide epidemic disease and its type 2 form comprises more than 95% of all cases. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) is a proinflammatory cytokine. Its dysregulation has been implicated in a variety of human diseases, including type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The control of expression of this cytokine is associated with insulin resistance and has a strong genetic influence. In order to understand this relationship, the literature from all case-control studies since 2000 to date was reviewed. The genotypes frequency results presented in ten publications with different ethnicities were compared. The correlation between the TNFA promoter genotypes and the risk of developing T2DM remains controversial due to the many discrepancies between the different studies available. Ethnic differences may play a role in these conflicting results, since the distribution of TNFA promoter polymorphisms is distinctive between individuals of dissimilar racial origin. Hence, although the relationship between T2DM incidence and presence of polymorphisms at position -308 of the TNFA gene is not entirely clear, the results of these studies suggest the need for further investigation.
Xenic Cultivation and Genotyping of Pathogenic Free-Living Amoeba from Public Water Supply Sources in Uganda
Authors: Sente Celsus , Erume Joseph , Naigaga Irene , Gabriela Namara Benigna , Mulindwa Julius , Ochwo Sylvester , Magambo Phillip Kimuda , Kato Charles Drago , Tamale Andrew , Ocaido Michael
Published: October 2016

Studies on waterborne parasites from natural environment and domestic water sources in Uganda are very scarce and unpublished. Water dwelling free-living amoebae (FLA) of the genus Acanthamoeba, Hartmannella, and Naegleria are often responsible for causing morbidities and mortalities in individuals with recent contact with contaminated water, but their presence in Uganda’s public water supply sources is not known. We cultivated and genotyped FLA from natural and domestic water from Queen Elizabeth Protected Area (QEPA) and Kampala (KLA). The cultivated parasites were observed microscopically and recorded. The overall prevalence of FLA in QEPA (Acanthamoeba spp., 35%; Hartmannella spp., 18.9%; Naegleria spp., 13.5%) and KLA (Acanthamoeba spp., 28.3%; Naegleria spp., 16.6%; Hartmannella spp., 23.1%) were not significantly different. The highest prevalence across water sources in QEPA and KLA was observed for Acanthamoeba spp., followed by Hartmannella spp., and Naegleria spp. Overall FLA mean (±SE) and mean (±SE) across water sources were highest for Acanthamoeba spp. compared to other FLA but were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Analysis of the FLA sequences produced 1 Cercomonas, 1 Nuclearia, 1 Bodomorpha, 2 Hartmannella, 5 Echinamoeba, and 7 Acanthamoeba partial sequences, indicating a muliplicity of water contaminants that need to be controlled by proper water treatment.
Status of Sea Urchin Resources in the East Coast of Borneo
Authors: Rahim Siti Akmar Khadijah Ab , Nurhasan Raymie
Published: October 2016

Sea urchins are marine benthos that live in different habitats available at shallow and deep waters. In Malaysia, Sabah is the only state that exploits sea urchins without knowing the status of natural stocks. This study identified the sea urchin species diversity at shallow subtidal zones in east coast of Borneo which is part of the Coral Triangle. Belt transects were deployed to quantify the species composition and qualitative observations on the habitat types were also noted. Simultaneously, documentation of species available in several wet markets was gathered through impromptu conversation with the sellers. In this study, a total of 10 species of sea urchin were recorded from 18 sampling sites, namely, Phyllacanthus imperialis, Diadema setosum, D. savignyi, Echinothrix calamaris, Mespilia globulus, Salmacis sphaeroides, Echinometra mathaei, Pseudoboletia maculata, Toxopneustes pileolus, and Tripneustes gratilla. The most dominant one that showed a wide distribution was D. setosum. Three species are new records for Malaysia. Among the study sites, Semporna district showed the highest species number. Our findings illustrate that shallow waters on the eastern part of Borneo support high diversity of sea urchin resources. Future study should explore the sea urchin diversity at deeper waters and also on the west coast of Sabah.
Analysis of Gene Expression in an Inbred Line of Soft-Shell Clams (Mya arenaria) Displaying Growth Heterosis: Regulation of Structural Genes and the NOD2 Pathway
Authors: Wilson John J. , Grendler Janelle , Dunlap-Smith Azaline , Beal Brian F. , Page Shallee T.
Published: October 2016

Mya arenariais a bivalve mollusk of commercial and economic importance, currently impacted by ocean warming, acidification, and invasive species. In order to inform studies on the growth ofM. arenaria, we selected and inbred a population of soft-shell clams for a fast-growth phenotype. This population displayed significantly faster growth (p<0.0001), as measured by 35.4% greater shell size. To assess the biological basis of this growth heterosis, we characterized the complete transcriptomes of six individuals and identified differentially expressed genes by RNAseq. Pathways differentially expressed included structural gene pathways. Also differentially expressed was the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain 2 (NOD2) receptor pathway that contributes to determination of growth, immunity, apoptosis, and proliferation. NOD2 pathway members that were upregulated included a subset of isoforms ofRIPK2(mean 3.3-fold increase in expression),ERK/MAPK14(3.8-fold),JNK/MAPK8(4.1-fold), andNFκB(4.08-fold). These transcriptomes will be useful resources for both the aquaculture community and researchers with an interest in mollusks and growth heterosis.
A Comparative CFD Study on Simulating Flameless Oxy-Fuel Combustion in a Pilot-Scale Furnace
Authors: Ghadamgahi Mersedeh , Ölund Patrik , Ekman Tomas , Andersson Nils , Jönsson Pär
Published: October 2016

The current study presents a method to model the flameless oxy-fuel system, with a comparative approach, as well as validation of the predictions. The validation has been done by comparing the predicted results with previously published experimental results from a 200 kW pilot furnace. A suction pyrometer has been used to measure the local temperature and concentrations of CO, CO2, and O2at 24 different locations. A three-dimensional CFD model was developed and the validity of using different submodels describing turbulence and chemical reactions was evaluated. The standardk-εmodel was compared with the realizablek-εmodel for turbulence, while Probability Density Function (PDF) with either chemical equilibrium or the Steady Laminar Flamelet Model (SLFM) was evaluated for combustion. Radiation was described using a Discrete Ordinates Model (DOM) with weighted-sum-of-grey-gases model (WSGGM). The smallest deviation between predictions and experiments for temperature (1.2%) was found using the realizablek-εmodel and the SLFM. This improvement affects the prediction of gaseous species as well since the deviation between predictions and experiments for CO2volume percentages decreased from 6% to 1.5%. This provides a recommendation for model selections in further studies on flameless oxy-fuel combustion.
Transparent UWB Antenna with IZTO/Ag/IZTO Multilayer Electrode Film
Authors: Hong Seungman , Kim Youngsung , Jung Chang Won
Published: October 2016

Ultra-wide band (UWB) antennas with transparent indium zinc tin oxide (IZTO)/Ag/IZTO multilayer electrode films are presented. The geometry of the radiator of the proposed UWB antenna is a simple semicircular shape, and acryl is used for the transparent substrate. Three types of proposed antennas are used for the comparison: first, an UWB antenna with a copper sheet only (CUWB); second, a transparent UWB antenna with a transparent radiator only (TRUWB); and, third, an entirely transparent UWB antenna (TUWB). The IZTO/Ag/IZTO multilayer electrode is fabricated by a physical vapor deposition process in the highly maintained vacuum. The transmittance of the multilayer film at 550 nm wavelength is over 80%, and the conductivity is 3,960,000 S/m. The proposed CUWB, TRUWB, and TUWB have peak gains of 4.17, 3.14, and 0.74 dBi and radiation efficiency levels of 84.8, 64.5, and 42.1% at the center frequency of UWB service (6.5 GHz), respectively.
Primary Neuroendocrine Carcinoma of the Breast: Histopathological Criteria, Prognostic Factors, and Review of the Literature
Authors: Marinova Lena , Malinova Doroteya , Vicheva Snezhinka
Published: October 2016

We present here a case of a 42-year-old woman diagnosed with primary neuroendocrine carcinoma of the breast (NECB). We discuss the importance of histological criteria for primary neuroendocrine mammary carcinoma, established by WHO in 2003 and 2012. After an overview of different cases of primary neuroendocrine carcinoma of the breast published in the literature, we present information about differential diagnosis, prognostic factors, and surgical and adjuvant treatment. Prognosis of NECB is not different from that of other invasive breast carcinomas and the most important prognostic factor is tumor grade (G). There is no standard treatment and patients should be treated similarly to patients with invasive ductal carcinoma, NOS (not otherwise specified), whose choice of therapy depends on tumor’s size, degree of differentiation, clinical stage, and hormonal status.
Impact of Ivabradine on Inflammatory Markers in Chronic Heart Failure
Authors: Rohm Ilonka , Kretzschmar Daniel , Pistulli Rudin , Franz Marcus , Schulze P. Christian , Stumpf Christian , Yilmaz Atilla
Published: October 2016

Background. Inflammation plays a crucial role in the progression of chronic heart failure (CHF). Ivabradine is known to reduce the morbidity and mortality of patients with CHF under certain conditions. Beyond the reduction of heart rate, only limited knowledge exists about potential anti-inflammatory effects of ivabradine that might contribute to its benefit in CHF. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate the effect of ivabradine on systemic inflammation.Methods. In the present study, 33 patients with CHF due to dilated, ischemic, and hypertensive cardiomyopathy were treated with ivabradine according to the guidelines of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC). A number of circulating dendritic cells as well as inflammatory mediators were investigated using FACS analysis and ELISA, respectively, before and during ivabradine therapy.Results. Treatment with ivabradine resulted in a significant improvement of CHF symptoms as well as an increase in left ventricular ejection fraction. Moreover, ivabradine treatment led to a significant reduction of TNF-alpha (TNF-α) serum levels and a reconstitution of circulating dendritic cells which are known to be reduced in patients with CHF.Conclusion. We show that treatment with ivabradine in patients with CHF resulted in an improvement of HF symptoms and ejection fraction as well as a normalization of inflammatory mediators.
Immunomodulatory Role of Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy in Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation
Authors: Heyes Richard , Iarocci Andrew , Tchoukalova Yourka , Lott David G.
Published: October 2016

This review aims to summarize contemporary evidence of the in vitro and in vivo immunomodulatory effects of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in promoting vascularized composite allotransplant (VCA) tolerance. An extensive literature review was performed to identify pertinent articles of merit. Prospective preclinical trials in mammal subjects receiving VCA (or skin allograft) with administration of MSCs were reviewed. Prospective clinical trials with intravascular delivery of MSCs in human populations undergoing solid organ transplant were also identified and reviewed. Sixteen preclinical studies are included. Eleven studies compared MSC monotherapy to no therapy; of these, ten reported improved graft survival, which was statistically significantly prolonged in eight. Eight studies analyzed allograft survival with MSC therapy as an adjunct to proven immunosuppressive regimens. In these studies, daily immunosuppression was transiently delivered and then stopped. In all studies, treatment-free graft survival was statistically significantly prolonged in animals that received MSC therapy. MSCs have been safely administered clinically and their use in renal transplant clinical trials provides evidence that they improve allograft transplant tolerance in clinical practice. There is potential for MSC induction therapy to overcome many of the obstacles to widespread VCA in clinical practice. Preclinical studies are needed before MSC-induced VCA tolerance becomes a clinical reality.
Experimental Investigation of Tension Stiffening in RC Ties
Authors: Sokolov Aleksandr , Kaklauskas Gintaris , Jakubovskis Ronaldas , Juknys Mantas , Kliukas Romualdas , Ng Pui Lam , Gribniak Viktor
Published: October 2016

The increasing application of high-performance materials in civil engineering led to the development of reinforced concrete (RC) structures with reduced cross sections and increased spans. In such structures serviceability limit state often becomes the governing condition of the design. Present study investigates the deformation behaviour of high-strength RC ties reinforced with high-grade bars. Experimental investigation was carried out measuring the postcracking stiffness of the specimens at high strain levels. It was found that, despite the reduction in stiffness, a considerable part of the average tensile stresses were carried by the concrete at the advanced loading stages, thus effectively stiffening the RC member.
Giant Cell Fibroma in a Two-Year-Old Child
Authors: Mello-Moura Anna Carolina Volpi , Santos Ana Maria Antunes , Bonini Gabriela Azevedo Vasconcelos Cunha , Del Conte Zardetto Cristina Giovannetti , Moura-Netto Cacio , Wanderley Marcia Turolla
Published: October 2016

The giant cell fibroma is a benign nonneoplastic fibrous tumor of the oral mucosa. It occurs in the first three decades of life in the mandibular gingiva, predominantly, showing predilection for females. This article reports a case of giant cell fibroma in a 2-year-old girl, which is an uncommon age for this lesion. The patient was brought for treatment at the Research and Clinical Center of Dental Trauma in Primary Teeth, where practice for the Discipline of Pediatric Dentistry (Faculty of Dentistry, University of São Paulo, Brazil) takes place. During clinical examination, a tissue growth was detected on the lingual gingival mucosa of the lower right primary incisors teeth. The lesion was excised under local anesthesia and submitted to histological examination at the Oral Pathology Department of the Faculty of Dentistry, University of São Paulo, which confirmed the diagnosis of giant cell fibroma. There was no recurrence after 20 months of monitoring. This instance reinforces the importance of oral care from the very first months of life in order to enable doctors to make precocious diagnosis and offer more appropriate treatments for oral diseases, as well as to promote more efficient oral health in the community.
Gender-Specific Hippocampal Dysrhythmia and Aberrant Hippocampal and Cortical Excitability in the APPswePS1dE9 Model of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Papazoglou Anna , Soos Julien , Lundt Andreas , Wormuth Carola , Ginde Varun Raj , Müller Ralf , Henseler Christina , Broich Karl , Xie Kan , Ehninger Dan , Haenisch Britta , Weiergräber Marco
Published: October 2016

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a multifactorial disorder leading to progressive memory loss and eventually death. In this study an APPswePS1dE9 AD mouse model has been analyzed using implantable video-EEG radiotelemetry to perform long-term EEG recordings from the primary motor cortex M1 and the hippocampal CA1 region in both genders. Besides motor activity, EEG recordings were analyzed for electroencephalographic seizure activity and frequency characteristics using a Fast Fourier Transformation (FFT) based approach. Automatic seizure detection revealed severe electroencephalographic seizure activity in both M1 and CA1 deflection in APPswePS1dE9 mice with gender-specific characteristics. Frequency analysis of both surface and deep EEG recordings elicited complex age, gender, and activity dependent alterations in the theta and gamma range. Females displayed an antithetic decrease in theta (θ) and increase in gamma (γ) power at 18-19 weeks of age whereas related changes in males occurred earlier at 14 weeks of age. In females, theta (θ) and gamma (γ) power alterations predominated in the inactive state suggesting a reduction in atropine-sensitive type II theta in APPswePS1dE9 animals. Gender-specific central dysrhythmia and network alterations in APPswePS1dE9 point to a functional role in behavioral and cognitive deficits and might serve as early biomarkers for AD in the future.
Micro‐ and Macrostructured PLGA/Gelatin Scaffolds Promote Early Cardiogenic Commitment of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells In Vitro
Authors: Cristallini Caterina , Cibrario Rocchietti Elisa , Gagliardi Mariacristina , Mortati Leonardo , Saviozzi Silvia , Bellotti Elena , Turinetto Valentina , Sassi Maria Paola , Barbani Niccoletta , Giachino Claudia
Published: October 2016

The biomaterial scaffold plays a key role in most tissue engineering strategies. Its surface properties, micropatterning, degradation, and mechanical features affect not only the generation of the tissue construct in vitro, but also its in vivo functionality. The area of myocardial tissue engineering still faces significant difficulties and challenges in the design of bioactive scaffolds, which allow composition variation to accommodate divergence in the evolving myocardial structure. Here we aimed at verifying if a microstructured bioartificial scaffold alone can provoke an effect on stem cell behavior. To this purpose, we fabricated microstructured bioartificial polymeric constructs made of PLGA/gelatin mimicking anisotropic structure and mechanical properties of the myocardium. We found that PLGA/gelatin scaffolds promoted adhesion, elongation, ordered disposition, and early myocardial commitment of human mesenchymal stem cells suggesting that these constructs are able to crosstalk with stem cells in a precise and controlled manner. At the same time, the biomaterial degradation kinetics renders the PLGA/gelatin constructs very attractive for myocardial regeneration approaches.
Left Atrial Enlargement on Transthoracic Echocardiography Predicts Left Atrial Thrombus on Transesophageal Echocardiography in Ischemic Stroke Patients
Authors: Anaissie James , Monlezun Dominique , Seelochan A. , Siegler James E. , Chavez-Keatts Maria , Tiu Jonathan , Pineda Denise , George Alexander , Shaban Amir , Abi Rafeh Nidal , Schluter Laurie , Martin-Schild Sheryl , El Khoury Ramy
Published: October 2016

Background.Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) is superior to transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) in detecting left atrial thrombus (LAT), a risk factor for stroke, but is costly and invasive, carrying a higher risk for complications.Aims.To determine the utility of using left atrial enlargement (LAE) on TTE to predict LAT on TEE.Methods.AIS patients who presented in06/2008–7/2013and underwent both TTE and TEE were identified from our prospective stroke registry. Analysis consisted of multivariate logistic regression with propensity score adjustment and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) area under the curve (AUC) analyses.Results.219 AIS patients underwent both TTE and TEE. LAE on TTE was detected in 113 (51.6%) of AIS patients. Patients with LAE on TTE had higher proportion of LAT on TEE (8.4% versus 1.0%,p=0.018). LAE on TTE predicted increased odds of LAT on TEE (OR=8.83, 95% CI 1.04–74.83,p=0.046). The sensitivity and specificity for LAT on TEE by LAE on TEE were 88.89% and 52.20%, respectively (AUC=0.7054, 95% CI 0.5906–0.8202).Conclusions.LAE on TTE can predict LAT detected on TEE in nearly 90% of patients. This demonstrates the utility of LAE on TTE as a potential screening tool for LAT, potentially limiting unneeded costs and complications associated with TEE.
Cystic Artery: Morphological Study and Surgical Significance
Authors: Dandekar Usha , Dandekar Kundankumar
Published: October 2016

The cystic artery is the key structure sought to be clipped or ligated during laparoscopic or conventional cholecystectomy. The possible complications like hemorrhage or hepatobiliary injury are always centered on the search, dissection, and clipping or ligation of the cystic artery, many a time because of possibility of variations in its course and relations to the biliary ducts. This descriptive study was carried out to document the normal anatomy and different variations of the cystic artery to contribute to improve surgical safety. This study conducted on 82 cadavers revealed cystic artery with mean length of 16.9 mm (ranged between 2 mm and 55 mm) and mean diameter of 1.6 mm (range between 1 mm and 5 mm). The origin of cystic artery from celiac right hepatic artery was found in 79.3% and in the remaining 20.7% it was replaced. Single cystic artery was present in 72% and double cystic artery in 28%. Considering the site of origin of the cystic artery with reference to Calot’s triangle, it was observed within the triangle in 62.2% and outside it in 37.8%. All the cystic arteries passed through Calot’s triangle except for 3.6%. The cystic artery crossed the common hepatic duct anteriorly in 26.8% and posteriorly in 6.1%. It crossed common bile duct anteriorly in 1.2% and posteriorly in 3.7%. The knowledge of such variations and its awareness will decrease morbidity and help to keep away from a number of surgical complications during cholecystectomy.
Development and Physicochemical Characterization of Desonide-Loaded Nanocapsule Suspensions
Authors: Antonow M. B. , Lorenzoni R. , Barbosa G. M. , Ourique A. F. , Gomes P. , Raffin R. P.
Published: October 2016

Desonide is a topical corticosteroid that has been used for more than 30 years; however, its prolonged use can induce several side effects, affecting dermis and epidermis. The present work consists of development desonide-loaded nanocapsule suspensions (D-NC) using different polymers (Eudragit S100® or Eudragit L100®) and desonide-loaded lipid-core nanocapsules (D-LNC). They were formulated by interfacial deposition using the preformed polymer method and all formulations showed negative zeta potential and adequate nanotechnological characteristics (particle size 161–202 nm, polydispersity index < 0.20). Simple and sensitive methods using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) were developed to quantify desonide in LNC and to study its release kinetics. The method was linear, specific, precise, and exact and therefore can be applied in quantification of D-NC and D-LNC. We evaluatedin vitromethods for drug release (dissolution, Franz diffusion cells, and dialysis sac) and we use mathematical models (monoexponential, biexponential, and Korsmeyer-Peppas) to show release kinetics from this system.
Correlation between Arterial Lactate and Central Venous Lactate in Children with Sepsis
Authors: Fernández Sarmiento Jaime , Araque Paula , Yepes María , Mulett Hernando , Tovar Ximena , Rodriguez Fabio
Published: October 2016

Introduction. Lactate is an important indicator of tissue perfusion. The objective of this study is to evaluate if there are significant differences between the arterial and central venous measurement of lactate in pediatric patients with sepsis and/or septic shock.Methods. Longitudinal retrospective observational study. Forty-two patients were included between the age of 1 month and 17 years, with a diagnosis of sepsis and septic shock, who were admitted to the intensive care unit of a university referral hospital. The lactate value obtained from an arterial blood sample and a central venous blood sample drawn simultaneously, and within 24 hours of admission to the unit, was recorded.Results. The median age was 2.3 years (RIC 0,3–15), with a predominance of males (71.4%), having a 2.5 : 1 ratio to females. Most of the patients had septic shock (78.5%) of pulmonary origin (50.0%), followed by those of gastrointestinal origin (26.1%). Using Spearman’s Rho, a 0.872 (p<0.001) correlation was found between arterial and venous lactate, which did not vary when adjusted for age (p<0.05) and the use of vasoactive drugs (p<0.05).Conclusion. There is a good correlation between arterial and venous lactate in pediatric patients with sepsis and septic shock, which is not affected by demographic variables or type of vasoactive support.
Photoelectrochemical Activity of Graphene Supported Titanium Dioxide
Authors: Segura Rodrigo A. , Olivares Fernanda , Maze Jeronimo , Häberle Patricio , Henríquez Ricardo
Published: October 2016

Thin TiO2 layers grown over few-layers graphene were prepared in order to evaluate the photoinduced chemical response of this composite. Graphene was grown over copper foils by decomposition of acetylene in a standard chemical vapor deposition apparatus. Graphene was subsequently transferred to a silicon substrate, on which the titanium dioxide was grown to form a TiO2/FLG/SiO2/Si composite. The formation of each layered material was verified by Raman spectroscopy and the morphology was characterized by scanning electron microscopy. The photoelectrochemical evaluation of the resulting composite, using it as a photoanode, was accomplished with a potentiostat, a solar simulator, and a three-electrode configuration. The electrochemical response indicates that the new composite preserves the average photoactive properties of the base material and at the same time shows a singular transient response where explicit benefits seem to be derived from the FLG/TiO2 combination.
Fatal Donor-Derived Carbapenem-ResistantKlebsiella pneumoniaeInfection in a Combined Kidney-Pancreas Transplantation
Authors: Varotti Giovanni , Dodi Ferdinando , Marchese Anna , Terulla Alessia , Bertocchi Massimo , Fontana Iris
Published: October 2016

Carbapenem-resistantKlebsiella pneumoniae(CR-KP) infections in solid organ transplant recipients are associated with high morbidity and mortality. We report a case of a fatal donor-derived CR-KP infection in a combined kidney-pancreas transplant. Given the short interval of time between donor hospitalization and organ procurement, information concerning the donor CR-KP positivity arrived only 72 hours after transplant. Based on this experience, we believe that knowledge of the donor’s CR-KP status should be mandatory before procurement and, if positive, pancreas donation should be contraindicated.
A Model Reference Adaptive Control/PID Compound Scheme on Disturbance Rejection for an Aerial Inertially Stabilized Platform
Authors: Zhou Xiangyang , Yang Chao , Cai Tongtong
Published: October 2016

This paper describes a method to suppress the effect of nonlinear and time-varying mass unbalance torque disturbance on the dynamic performances of an aerial inertially stabilized platform (ISP). To improve the tracking accuracy and robustness of the ISP, a compound control scheme based on both of model reference adaptive control (MRAC) and PID control methods is proposed. The dynamic model is first developed which reveals the unbalance torque disturbance with the characteristic of being nonlinear and time-varying. Then, the MRAC/PID compound controller is designed, in which the PID parameters are adaptively adjusted based on the output errors between the reference model and the actual system. In this way, the position errors derived from the prominent unbalance torque disturbance are corrected in real time so that the tracking accuracy is improved. To verify the method, the simulations and experiments are, respectively, carried out. The results show that the compound scheme has good ability in mass unbalance disturbance rejection, by which the system obtains higher stability accuracy compared with the PID method.