bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mixed model and stability analysis of spring wheat genotype yield evaluation data from Manitoba, Canada
Authors: Friesen Lyle F. , Brûlé-Babel Anita L. , Crow Gary H. , Rothenburger Patricia A.
Published: April 2016

In western Canada and in many agricultural areas around the world, new crop genotypes are evaluated over a number of locations and years in multi-environment trials (MET) to investigate yield, yield stability, agronomic, and quality characteristics, with the ultimate goal to predict future genotype performance in commercial fields. This evaluation informs decisions about the commercial value of new crop genotypes, with a primary user of this information being farmers. Currently in many regions of Canada as the first step in analysis of this MET data, values usually are expressed as a percentage of a designated check genotype value at each site-year (trial), usually followed by a relatively simplistic statistical analysis of this percentage data. There are a number of problems with this traditional approach including selection of an appropriate check genotype or genotypes, and the necessary consistent performance of the check genotype over a number of locations and years. Following the recent approach of other countries and jurisdictions, MET spring wheat genotype yield data (kg ha−1) that had been collected from 2000 to 2009 from various locations in Manitoba, Canada were subjected to mixed model statistical analysis. The results of the mixed model analysis compared very favourably to the historical traditional approach, and proved to be superior in situations such as a specific year in the dataset (2007) when the designated check genotype performed anomalously poorly. These results indicated that as little as five trial sites in a single year provided sufficient data for reliable prediction of a new genotype’s yield performance, given a background dataset comprised of approximately 45 spring wheat genotypes tested over eight years. The wheat genotype yield data also was subjected to estimation of several different stability measures to investigate differences in yield stability between genotypes in the dataset. Results indicated relatively stable yield performance for most genotypes over a range of site-years (environments).
The hyperfine excitation of OH radicals by He
Authors: Marinakis Sarantos , Kalugina Yulia , Lique François
Published: April 2016

Hyperfine-resolved collisions between OH radicals and He atoms are investigated using
quantum scattering calculations and the most recent ab initio potential energy surface,
which explicitly takes into account the OH vibrational motion. Such collisions play an
important role in astrophysics, in particular in the modelling of OH masers. The
hyperfine-resolved collision cross sections are calculated for collision energies up to
2500 cm-1 from
the nuclear spin free scattering S-matrices using a recoupling technique. The
collisional hyperfine propensities observed are discussed. As expected, the results from
our work suggest that there is a propensity for collisions with ΔF = Δj.
The new OH−He hyperfine cross
sections are expected to significantly help in the modelling of OH masers from current and
future astronomical observations.

Graphical abstract
A study to investigate phase transitions and nucleation kinetics of nickel and copper
Authors: Celik F. A. , Yildiz A. K.
Published: April 2016

In this study, we investigate the homogeneous nucleation kinetics of copper and nickel system during cooling process using molecular dynamics simulation (MDS). The calculation is carried out for a different number of atoms consisting of 500, 2048, 8788 and 13,500 based on embedded atom method (EAM). It is observed that the melting points for the both model increases with increasing the size of systems (i.e. the number of atoms) as expected from Parrinello and Rahman MD method. The interfacial free energies and critical nucleus radius of nickel and copper are also determined by molecular dynamics, and the results are consistent with the classical nucleation theory. The structural development and phase transformation are also determined from the radial distribution function (RDF) and local bond orientational order parameters (LBOO).
Frequency analysis of curved nano-sandwich structure based on a nonlocal model
Authors: Rahmani O. , Hosseini S. A. H. , Hayati H.
Published: April 2016

In this paper, we study the vibration of curved nano-sandwich (CNS) with considering the influence of core shear based on the Eringen nonlocal theory. The equation of motion is derived and exact solution for the natural frequencies of CNS is presented. The proposed nonlocal model includes a material length scale parameter that can capture the size effect in CNS beam. The effects of important parameters, such as the thickness to length ratio, nonlocal parameter and mode number on the frequencies of CNS are investigated. The result of our research shows that as the opening angle increases, the amount of natural frequencies decrease. We have additionally validate, our results against previous research works which showed good agreement.
Direct perturbation analysis on the localized waves of the modified nonlinear Schrödinger equation under nonvanishing boundary condition
Authors: Li Min , Xu Tao , Wang Lei
Published: April 2016

In this paper, the modified nonlinear Schrödinger equation is investigated via the direct perturbation method, which can describe the femtosecond optical pulse propagation in a monomodal optical fiber. Considering the quintic nonlinear perturbation, we obtain the approximate solution with the first-order correction, which can be expressed by the solution and symmetry of the derivative nonlinear Schrödinger equation. Under the nonvanishing boundary conditions, the approximate dark and anti-dark soliton solutions are derived and the existence conditions are also given. The effects of the perturbation on the propagations and interactions of the solitons on the nonzero background are discussed by comparing the physical quantities of solitons with the unperturbed case. It is found that the quintic nonlinear perturbation can lead to the change of the velocity as well as the pulse compression, but has no influence on the dynamics of the elastic interactions. Finally, numerical simulations are performed to support the theoretical results.
Seismic Monitoring System of Marmaray Submerged Tube Tunnel
Authors: Dikmen S. Umit , Safak Erdal , Pinar Ali , Edincliler Ayse , Erdik Mustafa
Published: April 2016

Monitoring the behavior of the structures is essential to identify changes in behavior and/or response of structures. It is also important that certain critical systems are safely shutdown during a potentially destructive earthquake. The objective of this study is to present the seismic monitoring and early warning systems set in the recently commissioned Marmaray Submerged Tunnel and report on the observations made during the May 24, 2014 Northern Aegean Earthquake [Formula: see text].
Phase formation, structure and dielectric properties of ceramics (Na0.5Bi0.5)TiO3–(K0.5Na0.5)NbO3–BiFeO3
Authors: Kaleva G. M. , Mosunov A. V. , Sadovskaya N. V. , Politova E. D. , Stefanovich S. Yu.
Published: April 2016

Influence of BiFeO3 (BF) on phase formation, unit cell parameters, microstructure, dielectric and ferroelectric properties of solid solutions close to the morphotropic phase boundary in the (Na[Formula: see text]Bi[Formula: see text]TiO3–(K[Formula: see text]Na[Formula: see text]NbO3 system additionally modified by the low-melting KCl additives has been studied. The formation of pure perovskite structure samples decrease in the unit cell parameters and increase in the [Formula: see text] value stimulated by the BF addition have been revealed. It was proved that modification of compositions by small amounts of the BF and KCl additives leads to improvement of dielectric parameters.
Influence of interface point defect on the dielectric properties of Y doped CaCu3Ti4O12 ceramics
Authors: Deng Jianming , Sun Xiaojun , Liu Saisai , Liu Laijun , Yan Tianxiang , Fang Liang , Elouadi Brahim
Published: April 2016

CaCu3Ti[Formula: see text]YxO[Formula: see text] (0[Formula: see text]0.12) ceramics were fabricated with conventional solid-state reaction method. Phase structure and microstructure of prepared ceramics were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. The impedance and modulus tests both suggested the existence of two different relaxation behavior, which were attributed to bulk and grain boundary response. In addition, the conductivity and dielectric permittivity showed a step-like behavior under 405[Formula: see text]K. Meanwhile, frequency independence of dc conduction became dominant when above 405[Formula: see text]K. In CCTO ceramic, rare earth element Y[Formula: see text] ions as an acceptor were used to substitute Ti sites, decreasing the concentration of oxygen vacancy around grain-electrode and grain boundary. The reason to the reduction of dielectric behavior in low frequencies range was associated with the Y doping in CCTO ceramic.
Measles Outbreak among Previously Immunized Adult Healthcare Workers, China, 2015
Authors: Zhang Zhengyi , Zhao Yuan , Yang Lili , Lu Changhong , Meng Ying , Guan Xiaoli , An Hongjin , Zhang Meizhong , Guo Wenqin , Shang Bo , Yu Jing
Published: April 2016

Measles is caused by measles virus belonging to genusMorbillivirusof the family Paramyxoviridae. Vaccination has played a critical role in controlling measles infection worldwide. However, in the recent years, outbreaks of measles infection still occur in many developing countries. Here, we report an outbreak of measles among healthcare workers and among the 60 measles infected patients 50 were healthcare workers including doctors, nurses, staff, and medics. Fifty-one patients (85%) tested positive for IgM antibodies against the measles virus and 50 patients (83.3%) tested positive for measles virus RNA. Surprisingly, 73.3% of the infected individuals had been previously immunized against measles. Since there is no infection division in our hospital, the fever clinics are located in the Emergency Division. In addition, the fever and rash were not recognized as measles symptoms at the beginning of the outbreak. These factors result in delay in isolation and early confirmation of the suspected patients and eventually a measles outbreak in the hospital. Our report highlights the importance of following a two-dose measles vaccine program in people including the healthcare workers. In addition, vigilant attention should be paid to medical staff with clinical fever and rash symptoms to avoid a possible nosocomial transmission of measles infection.
Extracorporeal Irradiation and Reimplantation with Total Hip Arthroplasty for Periacetabular Pelvic Resections: A Review of 9 Cases
Authors: Chan Lester Wai Mon , Imanishi Jungo , Ngan Samuel Y. , Chander Sarat , Chu Julie , Thorson Renae , Pang Grant , Choong Peter
Published: April 2016

We report the early results of nine patients with periacetabular malignancies treated with Enneking and Dunham type 2 resection and reconstruction using extracorporeally irradiated (ECI) tumour bone combined with total hip arthroplasty (THA). Diagnosis was chondrosarcoma in six patients, osteosarcoma in two patients, and metastatic renal cell carcinoma in one patient. All patients underwent surgical resection and the resected specimen was irradiated with 50 Gy in a single fraction before being prepared for reimplantation as a composite autograft. The mean follow-up was 21 months (range, 3–59). All patients were alive at latest follow-up. No local recurrence was observed. One patient serially developed three pulmonary metastases, all of which were resected. One experienced hip dislocation due to incorrect seating of an acetabular liner. This was successfully treated with revision of the liner with no further episodes of instability. There were no cases of deep infection or loss of graft. The average Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) score was 75% (range, 57–87%). Type 2 pelvic reconstruction with ECI and THA has shown excellent early oncological and functional results in our series. Preservation of the gluteus maximus and hip abductors is important for joint stability and prevention of infection.
Extinction in Two-Species Nonlinear Discrete Competitive System
Authors: Pu Liqiong , Xie Xiangdong , Chen Fengde , Miao Zhanshuai
Published: April 2016

We propose a nonlinear discrete system of two species with the effect of toxic substances. By constructing a suitable Lyapunov-type function, we obtain the sufficient conditions which guarantee that one of the components will be driven to extinction while the other will be globally attractive with any positive solution of a discrete equation. Two examples together with their numerical simulations illustrate the feasibility of our main results. The results not only improve but also complement some known results.
BMI, HOMA-IR, and Fasting Blood Glucose Are Significant Predictors of Peripheral Nerve Dysfunction in Adult Overweight and Obese Nondiabetic Nepalese Individuals: A Study from Central Nepal
Authors: Thapa Lekhjung , Rana P. V. S.
Published: April 2016

Objective.Nondiabetic obese individuals have subclinical involvement of peripheral nerves. We report the factors predicting peripheral nerve function in overweight and obese nondiabetic Nepalese individuals.Methodology.In this cross-sectional study, we included 50 adult overweight and obese nondiabetic volunteers without features of peripheral neuropathy and 50 healthy volunteers to determine the normative nerve conduction data. In cases of abnormal function, the study population was classified on the basis of the number of nerves involved, namely, “<2” or “≥2.” Multivariable logistic regression analysis was carried out to predict outcomes.Results.Fasting blood glucose (FBG) was the significant predictor of motor nerve dysfunction (P=0.039, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.003–1.127). Homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was the significant predictor (P=0.019, 96% CI = 1.420–49.322) of sensory nerve dysfunction. Body mass index (BMI) was the significant predictor (P=0.034, 95% CI = 1.018–1.577) in case of ≥2 mixed nerves’ involvement.Conclusion.FBG, HOMA-IR, and BMI were significant predictors of peripheral nerve dysfunction in overweight and obese Nepalese individuals.
Study on the Mechanism Underlying the Regulation of the NMDA Receptor Pathway in Spinal Dorsal Horns of Visceral Hypersensitivity Rats by Moxibustion
Authors: Wang L. D. , Zhao J. M. , Huang R. J. , Tan L. Y. , Hu Z. H. , Weng Z. J. , Wang K. , Wu H. G. , Liu H. R.
Published: April 2016

Visceral hypersensitivity is enhanced in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patients. Treatment of IBS visceral pain by moxibustion methods has a long history and rich clinical experience. In the clinic, moxibustion on the Tianshu (ST25) and Shangjuxu (ST37) acupoints can effectively treat bowel disease with visceral pain and diarrhea symptoms. To investigate the regulatory function of moxibustion on the Tianshu (ST25) and Shangjuxu (ST37) acupoints on spinal cord NR1, NR2B, and PKCε protein and mRNA expression in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) visceral hypersensitivity rats, we did some research. In the study, we found that moxibustion effectively relieved the IBS visceral hyperalgesia status of rats. Analgesic effect of moxibustion was similar to intrathecal injection of Ro 25‐6981. The expression of NR1, NR2B, and PKCε in the spinal dorsal horns of IBS visceral hyperalgesia rats increased. Moxibustion on the Tianshu and Shangjuxu acupoints might inhibit the visceral hypersensitivity, simultaneously decreasing the expression of NR1, NR2B, and PKCε in spinal cord of IBS visceral hyperalgesia rats. Based on the above experimental results, we hypothesized NR1, NR2B, and PKCε of spinal cord could play an important role in moxibustion inhibiting the process of central sensitization and visceral hyperalgesia state.
Prevalence and Sociodemographic Determinants of Hypertension History among Women in Reproductive Age in Ghana
Authors: Nyarko Samuel H.
Published: April 2016

Background. Hypertension is a global health problem. Yet, studies on hypertension rarely focus on women in Ghana. The purpose of this study is to ascertain the prevalence and sociodemographic determinants of hypertension history among Ghanaian women in reproductive age.Methods. This study used data from the 2014 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey. Bivariate and logistic regression analyses were carried out to ascertain the prevalence and determinants of hypertension history among the respondents.Results. The study found that the overall prevalence of hypertension history among the respondents was 7.5%; however, there were vast variations within most of the sociodemographic categories. Age, level of education, marital status, work status, and wealth status had a significant relationship with hypertension history among the respondents. Women in advanced age groups, highly educated, married, and widowed/divorced/separated, nonworking women, and women from wealthy households were at higher risk of having hypertension history.Conclusion. Myriads of sociodemographic factors determine the hypertension history of women in Ghana. It is therefore essential to target medical and psychosocial hypertension interventions at Ghanaian women in the higher risk groups.
In Utero Nutritional Manipulation Provokes Dysregulated Adipocytokines Production in F1 Offspring in Rats
Authors: Hanafi Mervat Y. , Saad Mohamed I. , Abdelkhalek Taha M. , Saleh Moustafa M. , Kamel Maher A.
Published: April 2016

Background. Intrauterine environment plays a pivotal role in the origin of fatal diseases such as diabetes. Diabetes and obesity are associated with low-grade inflammatory state and dysregulated adipokines production. This study aims to investigate the effect of maternal obesity and malnutrition on adipokines production (adiponectin, leptin, and TNF-α) in F1 offspring in rats.Materials and Methods. Wistar rats were allocated in groups: F1 offspring of control mothers under control diet (CF1-CD) and under high-fat diet (CF1-HCD), F1 offspring of obese mothers under CD (OF1-CD) and under HCD (OF1-HCD), and F1 offspring of malnourished mothers under CD (MF1-CD) and under HCD (MF1-HCD). Every 5 weeks postnatally, blood samples were obtained for biochemical analysis.Results. At the end of the 30-week follow-up, OF1-HCD and MF1-HCD exhibited hyperinsulinemia, moderate dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, and impaired glucose homeostasis compared to CF1-CD and CF1-HCD. OF1-HCD and MF1-HCD demonstrated low serum levels of adiponectin and high levels of leptin compared to CF1-CD and CF1-HCD. OF1-CD, OF1-HCD, and MF1-HCD had elevated serum levels of TNF-αcompared to CF1-CD and CF1-HCD (p<0.05).Conclusion. Maternal nutritional manipulation predisposes the offspring to development of insulin resistance in their adult life, probably via instigating dysregulated adipokines production.
Point of Care Ultrasound Accurately Distinguishes Inflammatory from Noninflammatory Disease in Patients Presenting with Abdominal Pain and Diarrhea
Authors: Novak Kerri L. , Jacob Deepti , Kaplan Gilaad G. , Boyce Emma , Ghosh Subrata , Ma Irene , Lu Cathy , Wilson Stephanie , Panaccione Remo
Published: April 2016

Background. Approaches to distinguish inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) from noninflammatory disease that are noninvasive, accurate, and readily available are desirable. Such approaches may decrease time to diagnosis and better utilize limited endoscopic resources. The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy for gastroenterologist performed point of care ultrasound (POCUS) in the detection of luminal inflammation relative to gold standard ileocolonoscopy.Methods. A prospective, single-center study was conducted on convenience sample of patients presenting with symptoms of diarrhea and/or abdominal pain. Patients were offered POCUS prior to having ileocolonoscopy. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) with 95% confidence intervals (CI), as well as likelihood ratios, were calculated.Results. Fifty-eight patients were included in this study. The overall sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV were 80%, 97.8%, 88.9%, and 95.7%, respectively, with positive and negative likelihood ratios (LR) of 36.8 and 0.20.Conclusion. POCUS can accurately be performed at the bedside to detect transmural inflammation of the intestine. This noninvasive approach may serve to expedite diagnosis, improve allocation of endoscopic resources, and facilitate initiation of appropriate medical therapy.
Prognostic and Clinicopathological Significance of Downregulated p16 Expression in Patients with Bladder Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Gan Xiaoning , Lin Xiaomiao , He Rongquan , Lin Xinggu , Wang Hanlin , Yan Liyan , Zhou Hong , Qin Hui , Chen Gang
Published: April 2016

p16, encoded by theCDKN2Agene, is a tumor suppressor that has been widely studied in cancer research. However, the relationship of p16 with prognostic and clinicopathological parameters in patients with bladder cancer remains unclear. Data inclusion criteria were articles reporting on the relationship between p16 expression and the prognosis or clinicopathology in patients with bladder cancer. Meta-analyses were performed with Stata software. Hazard ratios (HRs) or odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated to evaluate the relative risks. The source of heterogeneity was analyzed by subgroup analysis. A total of 37 studies with 2246 cases were included and analyzed. The results identified an important link between downregulated p16 expression and poor prognosis in patients with bladder cancer in terms of recurrence-free survival (RFS), overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and some clinicopathological parameters including clinical staging, pathological degree, and lymph node metastasis. Subgroup analysis also showed that low p16 expression could function as a warning sign for RFS and PFS in patients with early-stage (Ta–T1) bladder cancer. In conclusion, p16 might play an essential role in the deterioration of bladder cancer and could serve as a biomarker for the prediction for patients’ progression and prognosis.
Preparation of CL-20 Explosive Nanoparticles and Their Thermal Decomposition Property
Authors: Wang Dunju , Gao Bing , Yang Guangcheng , Nie Fude , Huang Hui
Published: April 2016

Herein, we develop a novel method for preparing nanohexanitrohexaazaisowurtzitane (nano-CL-20) via ultrasonic spray-assisted electrostatic adsorption (USEA) technology. Various experimental conditions which influence safety factors and the crystallization process were studied. Meanwhile, the prepared nano-CL-20 particles were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. The results show that the obtained nano-CL-20 showed a wide size distribution in the range from 150 to 600 nm with an average of 270 nm. Moreover, their thermal properties were also investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetry (TG). For nano-CL-20, the exothermal peak is 232.9°C increased by 12°C compared with conventionally manufactured (CM) CL-20, and they exhibit fast energy release efficiency as well as more energy release. The simple and continuous approach presented here is expected to be an attractive potential for fabricating other organic nanoparticles.
Thermal Cracking Analysis during Pipe Cooling of Mass Concrete Using Particle Flow Code
Authors: Li Liang , Liu Xinghong , Dao Vinh T. N. , Cheng Yonggang
Published: April 2016

Pipe cooling systems are among the potentially effective measures to control the temperature of mass concrete. However, if not properly controlled, thermal cracking in concrete, especially near water pipes, might occur, as experienced in many mass concrete structures. In this paper, a new numerical approach to simulate thermal cracking based on particle flow code is used to shed more light onto the process of thermal crack propagation and the effect of thermal cracks on thermal fields. Key details of the simulation, including the procedure of obtaining thermal and mechanical properties of particles, are presented. Importantly, a heat flow boundary based on an analytical solution is proposed and used in particle flow code in two dimensions to simulate the effect of pipe cooling. The simulation results are in good agreement with the monitored temperature data and observations on cored specimens from a real concrete gravity dam, giving confidence to the appropriateness of the adopted simulation. The simulated results also clearly demonstrate why thermal cracks occur and how they propagate, as well as the influence of such cracks on thermal fields.
Lack of an Association between Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio and PSA Failure of Prostate Cancer Patients Who Underwent Radical Prostatectomy
Authors: Maeda Yoko , Kawahara Takashi , Koizumi Mitsuyuki , Ito Hiroki , Kumano Yohei , Ohtaka Mari , Kondo Takuya , Mochizuki Taku , Hattori Yusuke , Teranishi Jun-ichi , Yumura Yasushi , Miyoshi Yasuhide , Yao Masahiro , Miyamoto Hiroshi , Uemura Hiroji
Published: April 2016

Introduction. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), which can be easily calculated from routine complete blood counts of the peripheral blood, has been suggested to serve as a prognostic factor for some solid malignancies. In the present study, we aimed to determine the relationship between NLR in prostate cancer patients undergoing radical prostatectomy (RP) and their prognosis.Materials and Methods. We assessed NLR in 73 men (patients) who received RP for their prostate cancer. We also performed immunohistochemistry for CD8 and CD66b in a separate set of RP specimens.Results. The median NLR in the 73 patients was 1.85. There were no significant correlations of NLR with tumor grade (p=0.834), pathological T stage (p=0.082), lymph node metastasis (p=0.062), or resection margin status (p=0.772). Based on the area under the receiver operator characteristic curve (AUROC) to predict biochemical recurrence after RP, potential NLR cut-off point was determined to be 2.88 or 3.88. However, both of these cut-off points did not precisely predict the prognosis. There were no statistically significant differences in the number of CD66b-positive neutrophils or CD8-positive lymphocytes between stromal tissues adjacent to cancer glands and stromal tissues away from cancer glands and between different grades or stages of tumors.Conclusions. There was no association between NLR and biochemical failure after prostatectomy.
Age‐Associated Changes in the Vascular Renin‐Angiotensin System in Mice
Authors: Yoon Hye Eun , Kim Eun Nim , Kim Min Young , Lim Ji Hee , Jang In-Ae , Ban Tae Hyun , Shin Seok Joon , Park Cheol Whee , Chang Yoon Sik , Choi Bum Soon
Published: April 2016

Background. This study evaluated whether the change in the renin‐angiotensin system (RAS) is associated with arterial aging in mice. Methods. Histologic changes and expressions of transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β), collagen IV, fibronectin, angiotensin II (Ang II), angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE), angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R), angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AT2R), prorenin receptor (PRR), Mas receptor (MasR), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), NADPH oxidase 2 and oxidase 4 (Nox2 and Nox4), 8‐hydroxy‐2′‐deoxyguanosine (8‐OHdG), 3-nitrotyrosine, and superoxide dismutase 1 and dismutase 2 (SOD1 and SOD2) were measured in the thoracic aortas from 2‐month‐old, 12‐month‐old, and 24‐month‐old C57/BL6 mice. Results. Twenty‐four‐month‐old mice showed significantly increased aortic media thickness and expressions of TGF‐β, collagen IV, and fibronectin, compared to 2‐month‐old and 12‐month‐old mice. The expressions of PRR, ACE, and Ang II, and AT1R‐positive area significantly increased, whereas expressions of ACE2 and MasR and AT2R‐positive area decreased with age. The expressions of phosphorylated serine1177‐eNOS, SOD1, and SOD2 decreased, and the 8‐OHdG‐positive area and the 3‐nitrotyrosine‐positive area increased with age. The expression of Nox2 significantly increased with age, but that of Nox4 did not change. Conclusions. The enhanced PRR‐ACE‐Ang II‐AT1R axis and reduced ACE2‐MasR axis were associated with arterial aging in mice.
A Rare Case of Bilateral Patellar Tendon Ruptures: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Tarazi Nadim , O’loughlin Padhraig , Amin Amin , Keogh Peter
Published: April 2016

Bilateral patellar tendon ruptures are rare. The majority of case reports describing bilateral patellar tendon ruptures have occurred in patients with predisposing factors to tendinopathy. We describe a case of bilateral patellar tendon rupture sustained following minimal trauma by a patient with no systemic disease or history of steroid use. Due to the rarity of this injury, clinical suspicion is low. It is reported that 38% of patellar tendon ruptures are misdiagnosed initially. Therefore careful history taking and physical examination is integral in ensuring a diagnosis is achieved for early primary repair. We discuss the aetiology of spontaneous tendon rupture and report a literature review of bilateral patellar tendon ruptures.
Hydatid Cyst Diagnosed by Endoscopic Ultrasound
Authors: Castro-Poças F. , Araújo Tarcísio , Coelho André , Silva Donzilia , Pedroto Isabel
Published: April 2016

A 69-year-old female with unremarkable past history underwent endoscopy for dyspepsia. She denied weight loss or anorexia. Upper endoscopy revealed a bulge in the lesser curvature and posterior wall of the stomach with 4-5 cm. Endoscopic ultrasound was performed which showed a heterogeneous lesion, anechogenic in the major part, with a floating membrane inside, the greatest diameter of 90.8 × 17.2 mm, originated in the left liver lobe. Surgical resection was performed. Pathologic examination revealed a cystic lesion with an acellular thick fibrous wall, surrounded by a conspicuous inflammatory reaction. The cyst wall revealed a characteristic lamellar pattern of the fibers. In the internal surface of the lesion, there were remains of membranous structures, amidst which a vestigial Protoscolex was noted. In the presented case, a floating membrane was observed, which is a pathognomonic feature, establishing the diagnosis of hydatid cyst type 3. Fine needle aspiration guided by ultrasound was not performed due to the certainty in the diagnosis. To the authors’ knowledge, these are the first images by endoscopic ultrasound of hydatid cyst of liver presented as a bulge in the stomach with pathognomonic features, which allowed the definitive diagnosis with no need for further diagnostic tests.
The Genus Phyllanthus: An Ethnopharmacological, Phytochemical, and Pharmacological Review
Authors: Mao Xin , Wu Ling-Fang , Guo Hong-Ling , Chen Wen-Jing , Cui Ya-Ping , Qi Qi , Li Shi , Liang Wen-Yi , Yang Guang-Hui , Shao Yan-Yan , Zhu Dan , She Gai-Mei , You Yun , Zhang Lan-Zhen
Published: April 2016

The plants of the genus Phyllanthus (Euphorbiaceae) have been used as traditional medicinal materials for a long time in China, India, Brazil, and the Southeast Asian countries. They can be used for the treatment of digestive disease, jaundice, and renal calculus. This review discusses the ethnopharmacological, phytochemical, and pharmacological studies of Phyllanthus over the past few decades. More than 510 compounds have been isolated, the majority of which are lignins, triterpenoids, flavonoids, and tannins. The researches of their remarkable antiviral, antioxidant, antidiabetic, and anticancer activities have become hot topics. More pharmacological screenings and phytochemical investigations are required to support the traditional uses and develop leading compounds.
Different Strategies for the Treatment of Age-Related Macular Degeneration in China: An Economic Evaluation
Authors: Wu Bin , Li Jin , Lin Houwen , Wu Haixiang
Published: April 2016

Purpose.To assess the cost-effectiveness of bevacizumab compared to ranibizumab, verteporfin photodynamic therapy (PDT), and usual care for the treatment of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in China.Methods.A Markov model was developed according to patient visual acuity (VA) in the better-seeing eye (Snellen scale). Four cohorts of patients were treated with one of the following therapies: bevacizumab, ranibizumab, PDT, or usual care. Clinical data related to treatments were obtained from published randomized clinical trials. Direct medical costs and resource utilization in the Chinese health care setting were taken into account. Health and economic outcomes were evaluated over a lifetime horizon. Sensitivity analyses were performed.Results.Treatment with ranibizumab provided the greatest gains in quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs). The cost per marginal QALY gained with bevacizumab over usual care was $1,258, $3,803, and $2,066 for the predominantly classic, minimally classic, and occult lesions, respectively. One-way sensitivity analysis showed considerably influential factors, such as utility values and effectiveness data. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis indicated that, compared to usual care, PDT and ranibizumab most cases would be cost-effective in the bevacizumab arm at a threshold of $7,480/QALY.Conclusion.Bevacizumab can be a cost-effective option for the treatment of AMD in the Chinese setting.
Neural Correlates of Dual-Task Walking: Effects of Cognitive versus Motor Interference in Young Adults
Authors: Beurskens Rainer , Steinberg Fabian , Antoniewicz Franziska , Wolff Wanja , Granacher Urs
Published: April 2016

Walking while concurrently performing cognitive and/or motor interference tasks is the norm rather than the exception during everyday life and there is evidence from behavioral studies that it negatively affects human locomotion. However, there is hardly any information available regarding the underlying neural correlates of single- and dual-task walking. We had 12 young adults (23.8 ± 2.8 years) walk while concurrently performing a cognitive interference (CI) or a motor interference (MI) task. Simultaneously, neural activation in frontal, central, and parietal brain areas was registered using a mobile EEG system. Results showed that the MI task but not the CI task affected walking performance in terms of significantly decreased gait velocity and stride length and significantly increased stride time and tempo-spatial variability. Average activity in alpha and beta frequencies was significantly modulated during both CI and MI walking conditions in frontal and central brain regions, indicating an increased cognitive load during dual-task walking. Our results suggest that impaired motor performance during dual-task walking is mirrored in neural activation patterns of the brain. This finding is in line with established cognitive theories arguing that dual-task situations overstrain cognitive capabilities resulting in motor performance decrements.
Effects of Cadmium and Zinc on the Gamete Viability, Fertilization, and Embryonic Development ofTripneustes gratilla(Linnaeus)
Authors: Tualla Ivan Patrick B. , Bitacura Jayzon G.
Published: April 2016

Heavy metals are frequently reported for their mutagenic and teratogenic effects on benthic organisms. Thus, this study aimed to determine the toxicity of cadmium (Cd) and zinc (Zn) in the gametes ofT. gratillaand to compare its fertilization and embryonic development under the highest nongametotoxic concentrations of these heavy metals. Gamete viability ofT. gratillaunder CdCl2and ZnSO4treatments was assayed through resazurin reduction test (RRT) and was confirmed through gamete morphology assay. ZnSO4was more toxic toT. gratillagametes than CdCl2and egg cells were more sensitive to both than the sperm cells. Higher concentrations of CdCl2and ZnSO4induced gamete apoptosis and necrosis while highest nongametotoxic concentrations were determined at 1 × 10−3 M and 1 × 10−4 M, respectively, and were used in anin vitrofertilization and embryonic development experiment. ZnSO4treatment inhibited fertilization more than CdCl2and yielded more deformed embryos, while both induced abnormalities and hindered further embryonic development. This study gives the first report on the specific concentrations of Cd and Zn that are toxic toT. gratillagametes and has confirmed the teratogenic effects of these heavy metals.
Simultaneous Recovery of Hydrogen and Chlorine from Industrial Waste Dilute Hydrochloric Acid
Authors: Paidimarri N. , Virendra U. , Vedantam S.
Published: April 2016

Recovery of chlorine from byproduct HCl has inevitable commercial importance in industries lately because of insufficient purity or too low concentration to recycle it. Instead it is being neutralized in industries before disposing to meet stringent environmental conditions. Although recovery through catalytic oxidation processes is studied since the 19th century, their high operating conditions combined with sluggish reaction kinetics and low single pass conversions make electrolysis a better alternative. The present motive of this work is to develop a novel electrolysis process which in contrast to traditional processes effectively recovers both hydrogen and chlorine from dilute HCl. For this, an electrolytic cell with an Anionic Exchange Membrane has been designed which only allows the passage of chlorine anions from catholyte to anolyte separating the gasses in a single step. The catholyte can be as low as 3.59 wt% because of fixed anolyte concentration of 1.99 wt% which minimizes oxygen formation. Preliminary results show that the simultaneous recovery of hydrogen and chlorine is possible with high conversion up to 98%. The maximum current density value for 4.96 cm2membrane surface area (70% active surface area) is 2.54 kAm−2, which is comparable with reported commercial processes. This study is expected to be useful for process intensification of the same in a continuous process environment.
The Association of Physical Activity during Weekdays and Weekend with Body Composition in Young Adults
Authors: Drenowatz Clemens , Gribben Nicole , Wirth Michael D. , Hand Gregory A. , Shook Robin P. , Burgess Stephanie , Blair Steven N.
Published: April 2016

Physical activity (PA) is a key contributor in long-term weight management but there remains limited research on the association between weekly PA patterns and weight change. The purpose of the present study was to examine the prospective association between weekly PA patterns and weight change in generally healthy young adults. Anthropometric measurements, including dual X-ray absorptiometry, were obtained every 3 months over a period of one year in 338 adults (53% male). At each measurement time, participants wore a multisensor device for a minimum of 10 days to determine total daily energy expenditure and time spent sleeping, sedentary, in light PA (LPA), in moderate PA (MPA), and in vigorous PA (VPA). PA did not differ between weekdays and the weekend at baseline. Twenty-four-hour sleep time, however, was significantly longer during weekends compared to weekdays, which was associated with less time spent sedentary. Weight loss was associated with a significant increase in LPA at the expense of sedentary time during the weekend but not during weekdays. Regression analyses further revealed an inverse association between change in VPA during the weekend and body composition at 12-month follow-up. Taken together, these results suggest that weekend PA plays an important role in long-term weight management.
The Classification of Sini Decoction Pattern in Traditional Chinese Medicine by Gene Expression Profiling
Authors: Cheng Hung-Tsu , Chen Chaang-Ray , Li Chia-Yang , Huang Chao-Ying , Shu Wun-Yi , Hsu Ian C.
Published: April 2016

We investigated the syndromes of the Sini decoction pattern (SDP), a common ZHENG in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). The syndromes of SDP were correlated with various severe Yang deficiency related symptoms. To obtain a common profile for SDP, we distributed questionnaires to 300 senior clinical TCM practitioners. According to the survey, we concluded 2 sets of symptoms for SDP: (1) pulse feels deep or faint and (2) reversal cold of the extremities. Twenty‐four individuals from Taipei City Hospital, Linsen Chinese Medicine Branch, Taiwan, were recruited. We extracted the total mRNA of peripheral blood mononuclear cells from the 24 individuals for microarray experiments. Twelve individuals (including 6 SDP patients and 6 non‐SDP individuals) were used as the training set to identify biomarkers for distinguishing the SDP and non‐SDP groups. The remaining 12 individuals were used as the test set. The test results indicated that the gene expression profiles of the identified biomarkers could effectively distinguish the 2 groups by adopting a hierarchical clustering algorithm. Our results suggest the feasibility of using the identified biomarkers in facilitating the diagnosis of TCM ZHENGs. Furthermore, the gene expression profiles of biomarker genes could provide a molecular explanation corresponding to the ZHENG of TCM.
Recent Advances in the Total Synthesis of Tetramic Acid-Containing Natural Products
Authors: Bai Wen-Ju , Lu Chen , Wang Xiqing
Published: April 2016

With incredible bioactivities and fascinating structural complexities, tetramic acid- (TA-) containing natural products have attracted favorable attention among the organic chemistry community. Although the construction of the TA core is usually straightforward, the intricate C3-side chain sometimes asks for some deliberative strategy so as to fulfill an elegant total synthesis. This review mainly covers some exceptional synthetic examples for each type of natural product in recent years, showcasing the great achievements as well as unsettled obstacles in this area, in the hope of accelerating the synthetic and biological investigations for this unique type of natural product.
Acute Alithiasic Cholecystitis and Human Herpes Virus Type-6 Infection: First Case
Authors: Gomes Maria Miguel , Antunes Henedina , Lobo Ana Luísa , Branca Fernando , Correia-Pinto Jorge , Moreira-Pinto João
Published: April 2016

A three-year-old male child presented with erythematous maculopapular nonpruritic generalized rash, poor feeding, vomiting, and cramping generalized abdominal pain. He was previously healthy and there was no family history of immunologic or other diseases. On examination he was afebrile, hemodynamically stable, with painful palpation of the right upper quadrant and positive Murphy’s sign. Laboratory tests revealed elevated inflammatory markers, elevated aminotransferase activity, and features of cholestasis. Abdominal ultrasound showed gallbladder wall thickening of 8 mm with a positive sonographic Murphy’s sign, without gallstones or pericholecystic fluid. Acute Alithiasic Cholecystitis (AAC) was diagnosed. Tests for underlying infectious causes were negative except positive blood specimen for Human Herpes Virus Type-6 (HHV-6) by polymerase chain reaction. With supportive therapy the child became progressively less symptomatic with gradual improvement. The child was discharged on the sixth day, asymptomatic and with improved analytic values. Two months later he had IgM negative and IgG positive antibodies (1/160) for HHV-6, which confirmed the diagnosis of previous infection. In a six-month follow-up period he remains asymptomatic. To the best of our knowledge, this represents the first case of AAC associated with HHV-6 infection.
Antimicrobial Evaluation of Bacterial Isolates from Urine Specimen of Patients with Complaints of Urinary Tract Infections in Awka, Nigeria
Authors: Ekwealor Perpetua A. , Ugwu Malachy C. , Ezeobi Ifeanyi , Amalukwe George , Ugwu Belinda C. , Okezie Ugochukwu , Stanley Catherine , Esimone Charles
Published: April 2016

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) account for one of the major reasons for most hospital visits and the determination of the antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of uropathogens will help to guide physicians on the best choice of antibiotics to recommend to affected patients. This study is designed to isolate, characterize, and determine the antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of the pathogens associated with UTI in Anambra State Teaching Hospital, Amaku, Anambra State, Nigeria. Clean catch urine samples of inpatient and outpatient cases of UTI were collected and bacteriologically analyzed using standard microbiological procedures. Antibiogram was done by the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. The most prevalent isolates wereS. aureus(28%),E.coli(24.6%), andS. saprophyticus(20%). The antibacterial activities of the tested agents were in the order of Augmentin < Ceftazidime < Cefuroxime < Cefixime < Gentamicin < Ofloxacin < Ciprofloxacin < Nitrofurantoin. It was found that all the organisms were susceptible in varying degrees to Nitrofurantoin, Ciprofloxacin, and Ofloxacin. It was also observed that all the bacterial species exceptStreptococcusspp. have a Multiple Antibiotic Resistance Index (MARI) greater than 0.2. For empiric treatment of UTIs in Awka locality, Nitrofurantoin, Ciprofloxacin, and Ofloxacin are the first line of choice.
Genomic and Immunological Tumor Profiling Identifies Targetable Pathways and Extensive CD8+/PDL1+ Immune Infiltration in Inflammatory Breast Cancer Tumors
Authors: Hamm Christopher A. , Moran Diarmuid , Rao Kakuturu , Trusk Patricia B. , Pry Karen , Sausen Mark , Jones Siân , Velculescu Victor E. , Cristofanilli Massimo , Bacus Sarah
Published: April 2016

Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer that remains poorly understood at the molecular level. Comprehensive tumor profiling was performed to understand clinically actionable alterations in IBC. Targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) and IHC were performed to identify activated pathways in IBC tumor tissues. siRNA studies examined the impact of IBC genomic variants in cellular models. IBC tumor tissues were further characterized for immune infiltration and immune checkpoint expression by IHC. Genomic analysis identified recurrent alterations in core biologic pathways, including activating and targetable variants in HER/PI3K/mTOR signaling. High rates of activating HER3 point mutations were discovered in IBC tumors. Cell line studies confirmed a role for mutant HER3 in IBC cell proliferation. Immunologic analysis revealed a subset of IBC tumors associated with high CD8+/PD-L1+ lymphocyte infiltration. Immune infiltration positively correlated with an NGS-based estimate of neoantigen exposure derived from the somatic mutation rate and mutant allele frequency, iScore. Additionally, DNA mismatch repair alterations, which may contribute to higher iScores, occurred at greater frequency in tumors with higher immune infiltration. Our study identifies genomic alterations that mechanistically contribute to oncogenic signaling in IBC and provides a genetic basis for the selection of clinically relevant targeted and combination therapeutic strategies. Furthermore, an NGS-based estimate of neoantigen exposure developed in this study (iScore) may be a useful biomarker to predict immune infiltration in IBC and other cancers. The iScore may be associated with greater levels of response to immunotherapies, such as PD-L1/PD-1–targeted therapies. Mol Cancer Ther; 15(7); 1746–56. ©2016 AACR.
Molecular and Genetic Mechanisms Involved in the Pathogenesis of Cardiorenal Cross Talk
Authors: Virzì Grazia Maria , Clementi Anna , Brocca Alessandra , de Cal Massimo , Ronco Claudio
Published: April 2016

The term ‘cardiorenal syndrome' (CRS) encloses a scenario of clinical interactions in which cardiac and renal dysfunctions coexist. The cross talk between the heart and the kidney is clearly evidenced but not fully understood. Indeed, different factors have been shown to be involved in the pathogenesis of CRS, such as systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis and immune dysregulation. Recently, considerable attention has been paid to the role of new alternative mechanisms which may be implicated in the pathogenesis of cardiorenal cross talk. In this review, we will focus on epigenetics, prenatal programming, small noncoding RNAs and extracellular vesicles, aiming to elucidate their possible role in heart and kidney diseases.