bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Guanine nucleotide-dependent assembly of FtsZ into filaments
Authors: Mukherjee A , Lutkenhaus J
Published: November 2016

FtsZ is an essential cell division protein that is localized to the leading edge of the bacterial septum in a cytokinetic ring. It contains the tubulin signature motif and is a GTP binding protein with a GTPase activity. Further comparison of FtsZ with eukaryotic tubulins revealed some additional sequence similarities, perhaps indicating a similar GTP binding site. Examination of FtsZ incubated in vitro by electron microscopy revealed a guanine nucleotide-dependent assembly into protein filaments, supporting the hypothesis that the FtsZ ring is formed through self-assembly. FtsZ3, which is unable to bind GTP, does not polymerize, whereas FtsZ2, which binds GTP but is deficient in GTP hydrolysis, is capable of polymerization.
A cryptic miniplasmid from the hyperthermophilic bacterium Thermotoga sp. strain RQ7
Authors: Harriott O T , Huber R , Stetter K O , Betts P W , Noll K M
Published: November 2016

An 846-bp cryptic plasmid has been discovered in the hyperthermophilic bacterium Thermotoga sp. strain RQ7. This is the first plasmid described for an organism from this ancient bacterial lineage and the smallest plasmid described to date for any organism. Nucleotide sequencing revealed a single open reading frame possibly encoding a 25,460-Da basic protein (212 amino acids). Upstream of the putative promoter lie five 11-bp direct repeats, each separated by 1 to 4 bp, while between the promoter and the open reading frame lies an 11-bp palindromic sequence. Its mode of replication is unknown, but its sequence bears similarities to those of plasmids which replicate by a rolling-circle mechanism.
Word Re-Segmentation in Chinese-Vietnamese Machine Translation
Authors: Tran Phuoc , Dinh Dien , Nguyen Long H. B.
Published: November 2016

In isolated languages, such as Chinese and Vietnamese, words are not separated by spaces, and a word may be formed by one or more syllables. Therefore, word segmentation (WS) is usually the first process that is implemented in the machine translation process. WS in the source and target languages is based on different training corpora, and WS approaches may not be the same. Therefore, the WS that results in these two languages are not often homologous, and thus word alignment results in many 1-n and n-1 alignment pairs in statistical machine translation, which degrades the performance of machine translation. In this article, we will adjust the WS for both Chinese and Vietnamese in particular and for isolated language pairs in general and make the word boundary of the two languages more symmetric in order to strengthen 1-1 alignments and enhance machine translation performance. We have tested this method on the Computational Linguistics Center’s corpus, which consists of 35,623 sentence pairs. The experimental results show that our method has significantly improved the performance of machine translation compared to the baseline translation system, WS translation system, and anchor language-based WS translation systems.
A Discourse-Based Approach for Arabic Question Answering
Authors: Sadek Jawad , Meziane Farid
Published: November 2016

The treatment of complex questions with explanatory answers involves searching for arguments in texts. Because of the prominent role that discourse relations play in reflecting text producers’ intentions, capturing the underlying structure of text constitutes a good instructor in this issue. From our extensive review, a system for automatic discourse analysis that creates full rhetorical structures in large-scale Arabic texts is currently unavailable. This is due to the high computational complexity involved in processing a large number of hypothesized relations associated with large texts. Therefore, more practical approaches should be investigated. This article presents a new Arabic
Text Parser
oriented for question-answering systems dealing with لماذا “why” and كيف “how to” questions. The
Text Parser
presented here considers the sentence as the basic unit of text and incorporates a set of heuristics to avoid computational explosion. With this approach, the developed question-answering system reached a significant improvement over the baseline with a
Recall
of 68% and
MRR
of 0.62.
Analysts’ Forecasts and Asset Pricing: A Survey
Authors: Kothari S.P. , So Eric , Verdi Rodrigo
Published: November 2016

This survey reviews the literature on sell-side analysts’ forecasts and their implications for asset pricing. We review the literature on the supply and demand forces shaping analysts’ forecasting decisions as well as on the implications of the information they produce for both the cash flow and the discount rate components of security returns. Analysts’ forecasts bring prices in line with the expectations they embody, consistent with the notion that they contain information about future cash flows. However, analysts’ forecasts exhibit predictable biases, and the market appears to underreact to the information in forecasts and to not fully filter the biases in forecasts. Analysts’ forecasts are also helpful in estimating expected returns on securities, but evidence on the relation between analysts’ forecasts and expected returns is still scarce. We conclude by identifying unanswered questions and offering suggestions for future research.
Cutaneous Human Papillomavirus Infection and Development of Subsequent Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Skin
Authors: Hampras Shalaka S. , Reed Rhianna A. , Bezalel Spencer , Cameron Michael , Cherpelis Basil , Fenske Neil , Sondak Vernon K. , Messina Jane , Tommasino Massimo , Gheit Tarik , Rollison Dana E.
Published: November 2016

The role of cutaneous human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in the development of subsequent cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is unknown. Pathologically confirmed cases of SCC (n=150) enrolled in a previously conducted case-control study were included in a retrospective cohort study to examine the association of cutaneous HPV at the time of SCC diagnosis with the risk of subsequent SCC development. Data on HPV seropositivity, HPV DNA in eyebrow hairs (EB) and SCC tumors were available from the parent study. Incidence of subsequent SCC was estimated using person-years of follow up. Cox Proportional Hazards ratios were estimated to evaluate the associations of both, HPV seropositivity and HPV DNA positivity with subsequent SCC. The five year cumulative incidence of subsequent SCC was 72%. Seropositivity to cutaneous HPV was not associated with the risk of subsequent SCC (HR = 0.83, 95% CI = 0.41–1.67). Any beta HPV infection in EB was associated with reduced risk (HR = 0.30, 95% CI = 0.11–0.78) of subsequent SCC among cases who were positive for beta HPV DNA in tumor tissue. Infection with beta HPV type 2 (HR = 0.32, 95% CI = 0.12–0.86) in EB was associated with reduced risk of subsequent SCC among HPV DNA positive SCCs. In conclusion, beta HPV infection was inversely associated with the risk of subsequent SCC.
Tortuous Carotid Artery Extended to Neck Level IIb Mimicking the Metastatic Mass
Authors: Uzun Lokman , Eğilmez Oğuz Kadir , Kalcioglu M. Tayyar , Tekin Muhammet
Published: November 2016

Specifically in neck level IIb, the expected normal anatomy does not contain any vital structures and consequently it might direct a surgeon to perform rapid surgical dissection of tissues. Therefore aberrant anatomy of the vessels in the patients may be overlooked during neck dissection. Unexpected and potentially devastating injuries can be avoided by respecting the possible aberrant anatomy in any level of the neck. In this case report, a 74-year-old man was presented with laryngeal carcinoma who was treated with laryngectomy and bilateral neck dissection. During the left side neck dissection, tortuous internal carotid artery imitating a metastatic mass was unexpectedly encountered in level IIb. As in this case, surgeons should keep in mind possible aberrant anatomy during the neck dissection and perform surgery staying in surgical principles to be safe for an unforeseen and potential dangerous injuries.
Splenic Artery Embolization for the Treatment of Gastric Variceal Bleeding Secondary to Splenic Vein Thrombosis Complicated by Necrotizing Pancreatitis: Report of a Case
Authors: Kim Hee Joon , Park Eun Kyu , Hur Young Hoe , Koh Yang Seok , Cho Chol Kyoon
Published: November 2016

Splenic vein thrombosis is a relatively common finding in pancreatitis. Gastric variceal bleeding is a life-threatening complication of splenic vein thrombosis, resulting from increased blood flow to short gastric vein. Traditionally, splenectomy is considered the treatment of choice. However, surgery in necrotizing pancreatitis is dangerous, because of severe inflammation, adhesion, and bleeding tendency. In the Warshaw operation, gastric variceal bleeding is rare, even though splenic vein is resected. Because the splenic artery is also resected, blood flow to short gastric vein is not increased problematically. Herein, we report a case of gastric variceal bleeding secondary to splenic vein thrombosis complicated by necrotizing pancreatitis successfully treated with splenic artery embolization. Splenic artery embolization could be the best treatment option for gastric variceal bleeding when splenectomy is difficult such as in case associated with severe acute pancreatitis or associated with severe adhesion or in patients with high operation risk.
PLAT: An Automated Fault and Behavioural Anomaly Detection Tool for PLC Controlled Manufacturing Systems
Authors: Ghosh Arup , Qin Shiming , Lee Jooyeoun , Wang Gi-Nam
Published: November 2016

Operational faults and behavioural anomalies associated with PLC control processes take place often in a manufacturing system. Real time identification of these operational faults and behavioural anomalies is necessary in the manufacturing industry. In this paper, we present an automated tool, called PLC Log-Data Analysis Tool (PLAT) that can detect them by using log-data records of the PLC signals. PLAT automatically creates a nominal model of the PLC control process and employs a novel hash table based indexing and searching scheme to satisfy those purposes. Our experiments show that PLAT is significantly fast, provides real time identification of operational faults and behavioural anomalies, and can execute within a small memory footprint. In addition, PLAT can easily handle a large manufacturing system with a reasonable computing configuration and can be installed in parallel to the data logging system to identify operational faults and behavioural anomalies effectively.
Strangulated Morgagni’s Hernia: A Rare Diagnosis and Management
Authors: Modi Malav , Dey Amit Kumar , Mate Ajay , Rege Samir
Published: November 2016

Morgagni hernia is a rare type of congenital diaphragmatic hernia. It accounts for only 3% of all diaphragmatic hernias. The defect is small and hernia being asymptomatic in the majority presents late in adulthood. Obstruction or incarceration in Morgagni hernia is uncommon. We report a rare occurrence of strangulated Morgagni hernia. A 40-year-old gentleman presented to our emergency department with features of intestinal obstruction. Computed tomography of the chest and abdomen showed a strangulated right Morgagni hernia. An exploratory laparotomy was performed with resection of the ischemic bowel segment with anastomosis and a primary repair of the diaphragmatic defect. Postoperative recovery was uneventful and asymptomatic at follow-up.
Perioprosthetic and Implant-Supported Rehabilitation of Complex Cases: Clinical Management and Timing Strategy
Authors: Landi Luca , Piccinelli Stefano , Raia Roberto , Marinotti Fabio , Manicone Paolo Francesco
Published: November 2016

Treatment of complex perioprosthetic cases is one of the clinical challenges of everyday practice. Only a complete and thorough diagnostic setup may allow the clinician to formulate a realistic prognosis to select the abutments to support prosthetic rehabilitation. Clinical, radiographic, or laboratory parameters used separately are useless to correctly assign a reliable prognosis to single teeth except in the case of a clearly hopeless tooth. Therefore, it is crucial to gather the greatest quantity of data to determine the role that every single element can play in the prosthetic rehabilitation of the case. The following report deals with the management of a multidisciplinary periodontally compromised case in which a treatment strategy and chronology were designed to reach clinical predictability while reducing the duration of the therapy.
Local Community Detection Algorithm Based on Minimal Cluster
Authors: Zhou Yong , Sun Guibin , Xing Yan , Zhou Ranran , Wang Zhixiao
Published: November 2016

In order to discover the structure of local community more effectively, this paper puts forward a new local community detection algorithm based on minimal cluster. Most of the local community detection algorithms begin from one node. The agglomeration ability of a single node must be less than multiple nodes, so the beginning of the community extension of the algorithm in this paper is no longer from the initial node only but from a node cluster containing this initial node and nodes in the cluster are relatively densely connected with each other. The algorithm mainly includes two phases. First it detects the minimal cluster and then finds the local community extended from the minimal cluster. Experimental results show that the quality of the local community detected by our algorithm is much better than other algorithms no matter in real networks or in simulated networks.
Diagnostic Value of CT Arthrography for Evaluation of Osteochondral Lesions at the Ankle
Authors: Kirschke Jan S. , Braun Sepp , Baum Thomas , Holwein Christian , Schaeffeler Christoph , Imhoff Andreas B. , Rummeny Ernst J. , Woertler Klaus , Jungmann Pia M.
Published: November 2016

Background. To retrospectively determine the diagnostic value of computed tomography arthrography (CTA) of the ankle in the evaluation of (osteo)chondral lesions in comparison to conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and intraoperative findings. Methods. A total of N=79 patients had CTAs and MRI of the ankle; in 17/79 cases surgical reports with statements on cartilage integrity were available. Cartilage lesions and bony defects at talus and tibia were scored according to defect depth and size by two radiologists. Statistical analysis included sensitivity analyses and Cohen’s kappa calculations. Results. On CTA, 41/79 and 31/79 patients had full thickness cartilage defects at the talus and at the tibia, respectively. MRI was able to detect 54% of these defects. For the detection of full thickness cartilage lesions, interobserver agreement was substantial (0.72 ± 0.05) for CTA and moderate (0.55 ± 0.07) for MRI. In surgical reports, 88–92% and 46–62% of full thickness defects detected by CTA and MRI were described. CTA findings changed the further clinical management in 15.4% of cases. Conclusions. As compared to conventional MRI, CTA improves detection and visualization of cartilage defects at the ankle and is a relevant tool for treatment decisions in unclear cases.
Serially Connected Micro Amorphous Silicon Solar Cells for Compact High-Voltage Sources
Authors: Nam Jiyoon , Lee Youngjoo , Kim Chang Su , Kim Hogyoung , Kim Dong-Ho , Jo Sungjin
Published: November 2016

We demonstrate a compact amorphous silicon (a-Si) solar module to be used as high-voltage power supply. In comparison with the organic solar module, the main advantages of the a-Si solar module are its compatibility with photolithography techniques and relatively high power conversion efficiency. The open circuit voltage of a-Si solar cells can be easily controlled by serially interconnecting a-Si solar cells. Moreover, the a-Si solar module can be easily patterned by photolithography in any desired shapes with high areal densities. Using the photolithographic technique, we fabricate a compact a-Si solar module with noticeable photovoltaic characteristics as compared with the reported values for high-voltage power supplies.
Origanum majoranaEssential Oil Lacks Mutagenic Activity in theSalmonella/Microsome and Micronucleus Assays
Authors: Dantas Andrea dos Santos , Klein-Júnior Luiz Carlos , Machado Miriana S. , Guecheva Temenouga N. , Santos Luciana D. dos , Zanette Régis A. , Mello Fernanda B. de , Pêgas Henriques João Antonio , Mello João Roberto Braga de
Published: November 2016

The present study aimed to investigate thein vitromutagenic activity ofOriganum majoranaessential oil. The most abundant compounds identified by GC-MS wereγ-terpinene (25.73%),α-terpinene (17.35%), terpinen-4-ol (17.24%), and sabinene (10.8%). Mutagenicity was evaluated by theSalmonella/microsome test using the preincubation procedure on TA98, TA97a, TA100, TA102, and TA1535Salmonella typhimuriumstrains, in the absence or in the presence of metabolic activation. Cytotoxicity was detected at concentrations higher than 0.04 μL/plate in the absence of S9 mix and higher than 0.08 μL/plate in the presence of S9 mix and no gene mutation increase was observed. For thein vitromammalian cell micronucleus test, V79 Chinese hamster lung fibroblasts were used. Cytotoxicity was only observed at concentrations higher than or equal to 0.05 μg/mL. Moreover, when tested in noncytotoxic concentrations,O. majoranaessential oil was not able to induce chromosome mutation. The results from this study therefore suggest thatO. majoranaessential oil is not mutagenic at the concentrations tested in theSalmonella/microsome and micronucleus assays.
Diabetic Macular Ischemia Diagnosis: Comparison between Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography and Fluorescein Angiography
Authors: Garcia Jose Mauricio Botto de Barros , Lima Talita Toledo , Louzada Ricardo Noguera , Rassi Alessandra Thome , Isaac David Leonardo Cruvinel , Avila Marcos
Published: November 2016

Purpose. To compare fluorescein angiography (FA) and optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) images of foveal avascular zone (FAZ) in patients with diabetic retinopathy (DR) with and without diabetic macular ischemia (DMI).Methods. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare area measurements andpvalues of <0.05 were considered statistically significant. FA and OCTA images were independently graded by 2 observers that reached agreement regarding quantitative DMI according established protocols. The ischemic area was divided into “large” macular ischemia (superior to 0.32 mm2) and “small” (inferior to 0.32 mm2) groups. Quantitative analyses of the FAZ were performed using custom software.Results. Thirty-four eyes from 34 diabetic patients were enrolled. Subjects with DMI presented a mean area on FA and OCTA of 0.68 ± 0.53 mm2and 0.58 ± 0.35 mm2, respectively (p=0.1374). Patients without DMI presented a mean area on FA and OCTA of 0.19 ± 0.67 mm2and 0.20 ± 0.79 mm2, respectively (p=0.9594). The ICC for the FAZ measurements between the 2 observers on FA and OCTA was 0.96 and 0.92, respectively.Conclusion. OCTA represents a novel technique for the diagnosis of DMI and it may become an alternative to FA for this purpose.
Association of theMDM2SNP285 Polymorphism with Cancer Susceptibility: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wang Ping , Wang Meilin , Li Sanqiang , Ma Lingjun , Xi Shoumin , He Jing
Published: November 2016

Themouse double minute 2(MDM2) gene encodes a negative regulator for p53, and the polymorphism SNP285 in the promoter region ofMDM2gene has been implicated in cancer risk, but individual published studies had inconclusive results. Therefore, we performed this meta-analysis to obtain a more precise estimation betweenMDM2SNP285 polymorphism and risk of cancer. A systematic literature search was performed using the PubMed, Embase, and Chinese Biomedical (CBM) databases. Ultimately, 16 published studies comprising 14,573 cases and 9,115 controls were included. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to assess the strength of associations. Overall,MDM2SNP285 polymorphism was significantly associated with a decreased overall cancer risk with the heterozygous model (OR = 0.89, 95% CI = 0.79–0.99), and reduced ORs were observed with other genetic models (dominant: OR = 0.90, 95% CI = 0.79–1.01 and allele comparison: OR = 0.91, 95% CI = 0.80–1.03) but not reaching statistical significance. Stratification analysis indicated a decreased risk for ovarian cancer, Caucasians, and studies with relatively large sample size. Despite some limitations, this meta-analysis indicated that theMDM2SNP285 polymorphism was associated with a decreased cancer risk, which warrants further validation in large and well-designed studies.
Evidence for a “Pathogenic Triumvirate” in Congenital Hepatic Fibrosis in Autosomal Recessive Polycystic Kidney Disease
Authors: Jiang Lu , Fang Pingping , Weemhoff James L. , Apte Udayan , Pritchard Michele T.
Published: November 2016

Autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD) is a severe monogenic disorder that occurs due to mutations in thePKHD1gene. Congenital hepatic fibrosis (CHF) associated with ARPKD is characterized by the presence of hepatic cysts derived from dilated bile ducts and a robust, pericystic fibrosis. Cyst growth, due to cyst wall epithelial cell hyperproliferation and fluid secretion, is thought to be the driving force behind disease progression. Liver fibrosis is a wound healing response in which collagen accumulates in the liver due to an imbalance between extracellular matrix synthesis and degradation. Whereas both hyperproliferation and pericystic fibrosis are hallmarks of CHF/ARPKD, whether or not these two processes influence one another remains unclear. Additionally, recent studies demonstrate that inflammation is a common feature of CHF/ARPKD. Therefore, we propose a “pathogenic triumvirate” consisting of hyperproliferation of cyst wall growth, pericystic fibrosis, and inflammation which drives CHF/ARPKD progression. This review will summarize what is known regarding the mechanisms of cyst growth, fibrosis, and inflammation in CHF/ARPKD. Further, we will discuss the potential advantage of identifying a core pathogenic feature in CHF/ARPKD to aid in the development of novel therapeutic approaches. If a core pathogenic feature does not exist, then developing multimodality therapeutic approaches to target each member of the “pathogenic triumvirate” individually may be a better strategy to manage this debilitating disease.
Spontaneous Intramural Duodenal Hematoma: Pancreatitis, Obstructive Jaundice, and Upper Intestinal Obstruction
Authors: Eurboonyanun Chalerm , Somsap Kulyada , Ruangwannasak Somchai , Sripanaskul Anan
Published: November 2016

Nontraumatic intramural duodenal hematoma can cause upper gastrointestinal tract obstruction, upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage, jaundice, and pancreatitis and may be present in patients with normal coagulation. However the pathogenesis of the condition and its relationship with acute pancreatitis remain unknown. We present a case of spontaneous intramural duodenal hematoma and a case of successful nonoperative treatments.
Functional Region Annotation of Liver CT Image Based on Vascular Tree
Authors: Chen Yufei , Yue Xiaodong , Zhong Caiming , Wang Gang
Published: November 2016

Anatomical analysis of liver region is critical in diagnosis and treatment of liver diseases. The reports of liver region annotation are helpful for doctors to precisely evaluate liver system. One of the challenging issues is to annotate the functional regions of liver through analyzing Computed Tomography (CT) images. In this paper, we propose a vessel-tree-based liver annotation method for CT images. The first step of the proposed annotation method is to extract the liver region including vessels and tumors from the CT scans. And then a 3-dimensional thinning algorithm is applied to obtain the spatial skeleton and geometric structure of liver vessels. With the vessel skeleton, the topology of portal veins is further formulated by a directed acyclic graph with geometrical attributes. Finally, based on the topological graph, a hierarchical vascular tree is constructed to divide the liver into eight segments according to Couinaud classification theory and thereby annotate the functional regions. Abundant experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method is effective for precise liver annotation and helpful to support liver disease diagnosis.
Effects of Health Qigong Exercises on Relieving Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Liu Xiao Lei , Chen Shihui , Wang Yongtai
Published: November 2016

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of Health Qigong on the treatment and releasing symptoms of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Fifty‐four moderate PD patients (N = 54) were randomly divided into experimental and control groups. Twenty‐eight PD patients were placed in the experimental group in which the prescribed medication plus Health Qigong exercise will be used as intervention. The other 26 PD patients as the control group were treated only with regular medication. Ten‐week intervention had been conducted for the study, and participants completed the scheduled exercises 5 times per week for 60 minutes each time (10 minutes for warm‐up, 40 minutes for the exercise, and 10 minutes for cooldown). Data which included the muscle hardness, one‐legged blind balance, physical coordination, and stability was collected before, during, and after the intervention. Comparisons were made between the experimental and control groups through the Repeated Measures ANOVA. The results showed that PD patients demonstrate a significant improvement in muscle hardness, the timed “up and go,” balance, and hand‐eye coordination (the turn‐over‐jars test). There were no significant differences between the two groups in gender, age, and course of differences (P < 0.05). The study concluded that Health Qigong exercises could reduce the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and improve the body functions of PD patients in both the mild and moderate stages. It can be added as an effective treatment of rehabilitation therapy for PD.
The Influence of C3A Content in Cement on the Chloride Transport
Authors: Kim Min Jae , Kim Ki Beom , Ann Ki Yong
Published: November 2016

The present study concerns the influence of C3A in cement on chloride transport in reinforced concrete. Three modified cement was manufactured in the variation of the C3A content, ranging from 6.0 and 10.5 up to 16.9%. The setting time of fresh concrete was measured immediately after mixing, together with the temperature at the time of initial set. For properties of hardened concrete in the variation in the C3A, a development of the compressive strength and chloride permeation were measured using mortar specimens. Simultaneously, chloride binding capacity was measured by the water extraction method. To ensure the influence of pore structure on chloride transport, the pore structure was examined by the mercury intrusion porosimetry. As a result, it was found that an increase in the C3A content resulted in an increase in chloride binding capacity. However, it seemed that increased binding of chlorides is related to the higher ingress of chlorides, despite denser pore structure. It may be attributed to the higher surface chloride, which could increase the gradient of chloride concentration from the surface, thereby leading to the higher level of chloride profiles. Substantially, the benefit of high C3A in resisting corrosion, arising from removal of free chlorides in the pore solution, would be offset by increased chloride ingress at a given duration, when it comes to the corrosion-free service life.
Vortex Analysis of Intra-Aneurismal Flow in Cerebral Aneurysms
Authors: Sunderland Kevin , Haferman Christopher , Chintalapani Gouthami , Jiang Jingfeng
Published: November 2016

This study aims to develop an alternative vortex analysis method by measuring structure ofIntracranial aneurysm (IA) flow vortexes across the cardiac cycle, to quantify temporal stability of aneurismal flow. Hemodynamics were modeled in “patient-specific” geometries, using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. Modified versions of knownλ2andQ-criterion methods identified vortex regions; then regions were segmented out using the classical marching cube algorithm. Temporal stability was measured by the degree of vortex overlap (DVO) at each step of a cardiac cycle against a cycle-averaged vortex and by the change in number of cores over the cycle. No statistical differences exist in DVO or number of vortex cores between 5 terminal IAs and 5 sidewall IAs. No strong correlation exists between vortex core characteristics and geometric or hemodynamic characteristics of IAs. Statistical independence suggests this proposed method may provide novel IA information. However, threshold values used to determine the vortex core regions and resolution of velocity data influenced analysis outcomes and have to be addressed in future studies. In conclusions, preliminary results show that the proposed methodology may help give novel insight toward aneurismal flow characteristic and help in future risk assessment given more developments.
Food-Derived Natural Compounds for Pain Relief in Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Lim Eun Yeong , Kim Yun Tai
Published: November 2016

Neuropathic pain, defined as pain caused by a lesion or disease of the somatosensory nervous system, is characterized by dysesthesia, hyperalgesia, and allodynia. The number of patients with this type of pain has increased rapidly in recent years. Yet, available neuropathic pain medicines have undesired side effects, such as tolerance and physical dependence, and do not fully alleviate the pain. The mechanisms of neuropathic pain are still not fully understood. Injury causes inflammation and immune responses and changed expression and activity of receptors and ion channels in peripheral nerve terminals. Additionally, neuroinflammation is a known factor in the development and maintenance of neuropathic pain. During neuropathic pain development, the C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 (CCR2) acts as an important signaling mediator. Traditional plant treatments have been used throughout the world for treating diseases. We and others have identified food-derived compounds that alleviate neuropathic pain. Here, we review the natural compounds for neuropathic pain relief, their mechanisms of action, and the potential benefits of natural compounds with antagonistic effects on GPCRs, especially those containing CCR2, for neuropathic pain treatment.
Effect of Electrochemical Treatment on Electrical Conductivity of Conical Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Khantimerov S. M. , Togulev P. N. , Kukovitsky E. F. , Lyadov N. M. , Suleimanov N. M.
Published: November 2016

Interaction of conical carbon nanotubes (CNTs) with hydrogen during electrochemical treatment and its effect on their electronic properties was studied. The temperature dependencies of electroconductivity of initial and electrochemically hydrogenated conical CNTs were investigated by using four-probe van der Pauw method. The studies revealed that the electrochemical hydrogen absorption leaded to a significant reduction in the electroconductivity of conical carbon nanotubes. We assume that these changes can be associated with a decrease in the concentration of charge carriers as a result of hydrogen localization on the carbon π-orbitals, the transition from sp2 to sp3 hybridization of conical CNTs band structure, and, therefore, a metal-semiconductor-insulator transition.
Venipuncture Induced Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Presenting as Inflammatory Arthritis
Authors: Pruthi Punit , Arora Pramod , Mittal Manoj , Nair Anugrah , Sultana Waqia
Published: November 2016

Venipuncture is one of the most commonly done medical procedures. We report a unique case of a 23-year-old young male who presented with features suggestive of inflammatory arthritis. The symptoms, which initially started on the right side, also involved the other side after a few weeks. Although the patient’s symptoms and signs were simulating inflammatory arthritis, he had atypical features like poor response to anti-inflammatory medicines and normal laboratory parameters. His musculoskeletal ultrasonography was also not suggestive of arthritis. His history was reviewed and on direct questioning he revealed a history of venipuncture for blood sample withdrawal, done from right antecubital region for routine health check on the day prior to the onset of symptoms. Complex regional pain syndrome was suspected and triple-phase radioisotope bone scan was done which was highly suggestive of this diagnosis. The patient was managed with multidimensional approach and responded very well to the treatment. Complex regional pain syndrome is usually not thought of in the initial differential diagnosis of inflammatory arthritis. In this report we highlight the need to elicit the often overlooked history of trivial trauma like venipuncture, especially in atypical cases of arthritis. Also the role of newer diagnostic modalities in such cases is emphasized.
Neurocardiogenic Syncope and Supraventricular Tachycardia in Association with a Rare Congenital Aortic Valve Abnormality
Authors: Agrawal Yashwant , Kalavakunta Jagadeesh K. , Gupta Vishal , Lapenna William
Published: November 2016

We report a case of a 26-year-old woman who presented with multiple episodes of syncope over a five-months period of time. Transthoracic echocardiogram had shown a normal functioning quadricuspid aortic valve (QAV) which was also confirmed on a transesophageal echocardiogram. Computed tomographic angiography of heart and coronary arteries showed the QAV with equal size of all aortic cusps and normal coronary arteries. Intermittent chest pain and palpitations warranted an exercise stress test. The stress test revealed normal aerobic exertion, with achievement of 101% of maximal peak heart rate. However, during peak stress, we noted a drop in her blood pressure significantly resulting in dizziness. No arrhythmias were noted during the stress test. With recurrent syncope episodes and palpitations, Holter monitoring was done, revealing supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). We discuss current available literature and coassociations with QAV. New association of QAV with SVT needs further analysis.
Intravenous Vitamin C Administered as Adjunctive Therapy for Recurrent Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Authors: Bharara Amit , Grossman Catherine , Grinnan Daniel , Syed Aamer , Fisher Bernard , DeWilde Christine , Natarajan Ramesh , Fowler Alpha A. (Berry)
Published: November 2016

This case report summarizes the first use of intravenous vitamin C employed as an adjunctive interventional agent in the therapy of recurrent acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The two episodes of ARDS occurred in a young female patient with Cronkhite-Canada syndrome, a rare, sporadically occurring, noninherited disorder that is characterized by extensive gastrointestinal polyposis and malabsorption. Prior to the episodes of sepsis, the patient was receiving nutrition via chronic hyperalimentation administered through a long-standing central venous catheter. The patient became recurrently septic with Gram positive cocci which led to two instances of ARDS. This report describes the broad-based general critical care of a septic patient with acute respiratory failure that includes fluid resuscitation, broad-spectrum antibiotics, and vasopressor support. Intravenous vitamin C infused at 50 mg per kilogram body weight every 6 hours for 96 hours was incorporated as an adjunctive agent in the care of this patient. Vitamin C when used as a parenteral agent in high doses acts “pleiotropically” to attenuate proinflammatory mediator expression, to improve alveolar fluid clearance, and to act as an antioxidant.
A Comparative Study of Assay Performance of Commercial Hepatitis E Virus Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay Kits in Australian Blood Donor Samples
Authors: Shrestha Ashish C. , Flower Robert L. P. , Seed Clive R. , Stramer Susan L. , Faddy Helen M.
Published: November 2016

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is transfusion-transmissible and therefore poses a risk to blood transfusion safety. Seroprevalence studies are useful for estimating disease burden and determining risk factors. Considerable variability in the sensitivity of HEV antibody detection assays exists. This study aimed to compare the performances of commercially available HEV enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) in Australian blood donor samples. Plasma samples that tested positive (n=194) or negative (n=200) for HEV IgG (Wantai HEV IgG ELISA) were selected. Of the 194 HEV IgG positive samples, 4 were positive for HEV IgM (Wantai HEV IgM ELISA). All samples were tested with the MP Diagnostics: HEV IgG ELISA, total (IgG, IgM, and IgA) HEV antibody ELISA, and HEV IgM ELISA. Of the 194 Wantai HEV IgG positive samples, 92 (47%) tested positive with the MP Diagnostics HEV IgG ELISA (κ=0.47) and 126 (65%) with MP Diagnostics total HEV antibody assay (κ=0.65). There was poor agreement between Wantai and MP Diagnostics HEV IgM assays. This study demonstrated poor agreement between the assays tested. These observations are consistent with previous reports demonstrating significant variability between HEV ELISAs, highlighting that results of HEV serology should be interpreted with caution.
Functions of Exosomes and Microbial Extracellular Vesicles in Allergy and Contact and Delayed-Type Hypersensitivity
Authors: Nazimek Katarzyna , Bryniarski Krzysztof , Askenase Philip W.
Published: November 2016

Extracellular vesicles, such as exosomes, are newly recognized intercellular conveyors of functional molecular mechanisms. Notably, they transfer RNAs and proteins between different cells that can then participate in the complex pathogenesis of allergic and related hypersensitivity responses and disease mechanisms, as described herein. This review highlights this important new appreciation of the in vivo participation of such extracellular vesicles in the interactions between allergy-mediating cells. We take into account paracrine epigenetic exchanges mediated by surrounding stromal cells and the endocrine receipt of exosomes from distant cells via the circulation. Exosomes are natural ancient nanoparticles of life. They are made by all cells and in some form by all species down to fungi and bacteria, and are present in all fluids. Besides a new focus on their role in the transmission of genetic regulation, exosome transfer of allergens was recently shown to induce allergic inflammation. Importantly, regulatory and tolerogenic exosomes can potently inhibit allergy and hypersensitivity responses, usually acting nonspecifically, but can also proceed in an antigen-specific manner due to the coating of the exosome surface with antibodies. Deep analysis of processes mediated by exosomes should result in the development of early diagnostic biomarkers, as well as allergen-specific, preventive and therapeutic strategies. These will likely significantly diminish the risks of current allergen-specific parenteral desensitization procedures, and of the use of systemic immunosuppressive drugs. Since extracellular vesicles are physiological, they can be fashioned for the specific delivery of therapeutic molecular instructions through easily tolerated, noninvasive routes, such as oral ingestion, nasal administration, and perhaps even inhalation.
Past, Present, and Future in the Relationship between Growth Retardation and the IGF System: Excerpts from the Cesar Bergada Lecture Given during the SLEP 2015 Annual Meeting
Authors: Jasper Héctor
Published: November 2016

This mini review presents a personal view about the past, the present and the future of the relationship between growth retardation and the IGF system. Looking back, it is pertinent to include a brief look at the evolution of the somatomedin hypothesis, the use of IGF-I determinations in the clinic, and a review of the literature beginning in the late 1980s with the description of mutations in the Growth Hormone Receptor (GHR) gene. The present possibly started in the mid-1990s with the description of mutations in the IGF-I gene, followed in 2003 by reports of mutations in the genes coding for the IGF-I receptor and in the signal transducer and activator of transcription 5b (STAT5b). Finally, in 2004, mutations in the IGFALS gene were described. A diffuse limit between the present and the future might have been reached (the author's arbitrary decision) with the clinical applications of whole exome sequencing, which rapidly showed mutations in genes coding for STAT3, PAPP-A2 (pregnancy-associated plasma protein A2), and IGF-II.
South American Weakly Electric Fish (Gymnotiformes) Are Long-Wavelength-Sensitive Cone Monochromats
Authors: Liu Da-Wei , Lu Ying , Yan Hong Young , Zakon Harold H.
Published: November 2016

Losses of cone opsin genes are noted in animals that are nocturnal or rely on senses other than vision. We investigated the cone opsin repertoire of night-active South American weakly electric fish. We obtained opsin gene sequences from genomic DNA of 3 gymnotiforms (Eigenmannia virescens, Sternopygus macrurus, Apteronotus albifrons) and the assembled genome of the electric eel (Electrophorus electricus). We identified genes for long-wavelength-sensitive (LWS) and medium-wavelength-sensitive cone opsins (RH2) and rod opsins (RH1). Neither of the 2 short-wavelength-sensitive cone opsin genes were found and are presumed lost. The fact that Electrophorus has a complete repertoire of extraretinal opsin genes and conservation of synteny with the zebrafish (Danio rerio) for genes flanking the 2 short-wavelength-sensitive opsin genes supports the supposition of gene loss. With microspectrophotometry and electroretinograms we observed absorption spectra consistent with RH1 and LWS but not RH2 opsins in the retinal photoreceptors of E. virescens. This profile of opsin genes and their retinal expression is identical to the gymnotiform's sister group, the catfish, which are also nocturnally active and bear ampullary electroreceptors, suggesting that this pattern likely occurred in the common ancestor of gymnotiforms and catfish. Finally, we noted an unusual N-terminal motif lacking a conserved glycosylation consensus site in the RH2 opsin of gymnotiforms, a catfish and a characin (Astyanax mexicanus). Mutations at this site influence rhodopsin trafficking in mammalian photoreceptors and cause retinitis pigmentosa. We speculate that this unusual N terminus may be related to the absence of the RH2 opsin in the cones of gymnotiforms and catfish.
Secretoglobin Superfamily Protein SCGB3A2 Alleviates House Dust Mite-Induced Allergic Airway Inflammation in Mice
Authors: Yoneda Mitsuhiro , Xu Lei , Kajiyama Hiroaki , Kawabe Shuko , Paiz Jorge , Ward Jerrold M. , Kimura Shioko
Published: November 2016

Background: Secretoglobin (SCGB) 3A2, a novel, lung-enriched, cytokine-like, secreted protein of small molecular weight, was demonstrated to exhibit various biological functions including anti-inflammatory, antifibrotic and growth-factor activities. Anti-inflammatory activity was uncovered using the ovalbumin-induced allergic airway inflammation model. However, further validation of this activity using knockout mice in a different allergic inflammation model is necessary in order to establish the antiallergic inflammatory role for this protein. Methods:Scgb3a2-null (Scgb3a2-/-) mice were subjected to nasal inhalation of Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus extract for 5 days/week for 5 consecutive weeks; control mice received nasal inhalation of saline as a comparator. Airway inflammation was assessed by histological analysis, the number of inflammatory cells and various Th2-type cytokine levels in the lungs and bronchoalveolar lavage fluids by qRT-PCR and ELISA, respectively. Results: Exacerbated inflammation was found in the airway of Scgb3a2-/- mice subjected to house dust mite (HDM)-induced allergic airway inflammation compared with saline-treated control groups. All the inflammation end points were increased in the Scgb3a2-/- mice. The Ccr4 and Ccl17 mRNA levels were higher in HDM-treated lungs of Scgb3a2-/- mice than wild-type mice or saline-treated Scgb3a2-/- mice, whereas no changes were observed for Ccr3 and Ccl11 mRNA levels. Conclusions: These results demonstrate that SCGB3A2 has an anti-inflammatory activity in the HDM-induced allergic airway inflammation model, in which SCGB3A2 may modulate the CCR4-CCL17 pathway. SCGB3A2 may provide a useful tool to treat allergic airway inflammation, and further studies on the levels and function of SCGB3A2 in asthmatic patients are warranted.
Protease-Activated Receptor 1 Enhances Poly I:C Induction of the Antiviral Response in Macrophages and Mice
Authors: Antoniak Silvio , Tatsumi Kohei , Bode Michael , Vanja Swetha , Williams Julie C. , Mackman Nigel
Published: November 2016

The coagulation cascade is activated during viral infections as part of the host defense system. Coagulation proteases activate cells by cleavage of protease-activated receptors (PARs). Recently, we reported that the activation of PAR-1 enhanced interferon (IFN)β and CXCL10 expression in cardiac fibroblasts and in the hearts of mice infected with Coxsackievirus B3. In this study, we used the double-stranded RNA mimetic polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (poly I:C) to induce an antiviral response in macrophages and mice. Activation of PAR-1 enhanced poly I:C induction of IFNβ and CXCL10 expression in the murine macrophage cell line RAW264.7, bone-marrow derived mouse macrophages (BMM) and mouse splenocytes. Next, poly I:C was used to induce a type I IFN innate immune response in the spleen and plasma of wild-type (WT) and PAR-1-/- mice. We found that poly I:C treated PAR-1-/- mice and WT mice given the thrombin inhibitor dabigatran etexilate exhibited significantly less IFNβ and CXCL10 expression in the spleen and plasma than WT mice. These studies suggest that thrombin activation of PAR-1 contributes to the antiviral response in mice.
Immunosuppressive Activity of Abatacept on Circulating T Helper Lymphocytes from Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis Patients
Authors: Maggi Laura , Cimaz Rolando , Capone Manuela , Santarlasci Veronica , Rossi Maria Caterina , Mazzoni Alessio , Montaini Gianni , Pagnini Ilaria , Giani Teresa , Simonini Gabriele , Scaletti Cristina , Liotta Francesco , Maggi Enrico , Annunziato Francesco , Cosmi Lorenzo
Published: November 2016

Background: Abatacept is used in the treatment of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) patients, but the activity of the drug on T helper cell function is not yet fully known. Methods: The ability of abatacept to affect cytokine production in vitro and the proliferative response to both recall antigens and polyclonal stimulation was firstly assessed in healthy donors. Then, 10 JIA patients who were due to start abatacept treatment were recruited and longitudinally evaluated during the first 90 days of therapy. Both their clinical response to the treatment and in vitro analysis aimed to assess the proliferative response to recall antigens and the proportions of circulating T helper subsets. Results: Abatacept reduced the proliferative response to recall antigens and the production of proinflammatory cytokines such as IFN-γ and TNF-α in healthy donors in vitro. It was also efficient in improving symptoms and reducing parameters of inflammation in JIA patients. Abatacept reduced the proliferative response to recall antigens, and this effect was significant soon after drug infusion (2 days). Regarding the proportions of circulating CD4+ T lymphocytes, only a reduction in the frequencies of circulating Treg cells was observed. Conclusions: Abatacept in vitro inhibits proliferation and cytokine production in healthy donors, and reduces parameters of inflammation in vivo in JIA patients. The reduction of the proliferative response to recall antigens induced by abatacept was evident only soon after drug administration, suggesting that its immunosuppressive activity is maintained only for a short time.