bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bacillus subtilis Early Colonization of Arabidopsis thaliana Roots Involves Multiple Chemotaxis Receptors
Authors: Allard-Massicotte Rosalie , Tessier Laurence , Lécuyer Frédéric , Lakshmanan Venkatachalam , Lucier Jean-François , Garneau Daniel , Caudwell Larissa , Vlamakis Hera , Bais Harsh P. , Beauregard Pascale B.
Published: November 2016

Colonization of plant roots by
Bacillus subtilis
is mutually beneficial to plants and bacteria. Plants can secrete up to 30% of their fixed carbon via root exudates, thereby feeding the bacteria, and in return the associated
B. subtilis
bacteria provide the plant with many growth-promoting traits. Formation of a biofilm on the root by matrix-producing
B. subtilis
is a well-established requirement for long-term colonization. However, we observed that cells start forming a biofilm only several hours after motile cells first settle on the plant. We also found that intact chemotaxis machinery is required for early root colonization by
B. subtilis
and for plant protection.
Arabidopsis thaliana
root exudates attract
B. subtilis in vitro
, an activity mediated by the two characterized chemoreceptors, McpB and McpC, as well as by the orphan receptor TlpC. Nonetheless, bacteria lacking these chemoreceptors are still able to colonize the root, suggesting that other chemoreceptors might also play a role in this process. These observations suggest that
A. thaliana
actively recruits
B. subtilis
through root-secreted molecules, and our results stress the important roles of
B. subtilis
chemoreceptors for efficient colonization of plants in natural environments. These results demonstrate a remarkable strategy adapted by beneficial rhizobacteria to utilize carbon-rich root exudates, which may facilitate rhizobacterial colonization and a mutualistic association with the host.

IMPORTANCE
Bacillus subtilis
is a plant growth-promoting rhizobacterium that establishes robust interactions with roots. Many studies have now demonstrated that biofilm formation is required for long-term colonization. However, we observed that motile
B. subtilis
mediates the first contact with the roots. These cells differentiate into biofilm-producing cells only several hours after the bacteria first contact the root. Our study reveals that intact chemotaxis machinery is required for the bacteria to reach the root. Many, if not all, of the
B. subtilis
10 chemoreceptors are involved in the interaction with the plant. These observations stress the importance of root-bacterium interactions in the
B. subtilis
lifestyle.
Feasibility, qualitative findings and satisfaction of a brief Tai Chi mind–body programme for veterans with post-traumatic stress symptoms
Authors: Niles Barbara L , Mori DeAnna L , Polizzi Craig P , Pless Kaiser Anica , Ledoux Annie M , Wang Chenchen
Published: November 2016

Objective

To examine feasibility, qualitative feedback and satisfaction associated with a 4-session introduction to Tai Chi for veterans with post-traumatic stress symptoms.

Design

We observed and reported recruitment and retention rates, participant characteristics, adherence, and satisfaction across 2 cohorts. We also examined qualitative feedback provided by questionnaires, focus groups and individual interviews.

Main outcome measures

Rates of recruitment and retention, focus group and individual feedback interviews, self-reported satisfaction.

Participants

17 veterans with post-traumatic stress symptoms.

Results

Almost 90% (17/19) of those eligible following the telephone screen enrolled in the programme. Three-quarters (76.4%) of the participants attended at least 3 of the 4 Tai Chi sessions. Qualitative data analysis revealed themes indicating favourable impressions of the Tai Chi sessions. In addition, participants reported feeling very engaged during the sessions, and found Tai Chi to be helpful for managing distressing symptoms (ie, intrusive thoughts, concentration difficulties, physiological arousal). Participants also reported high satisfaction: 93.8% endorsed being very or mostly satisfied with the programme. All participants (100%) indicated that they would like to participate in future Tai Chi programmes and would recommend it to a friend.

Conclusions

Tai Chi appears to be feasible and safe for veterans with symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), is perceived to be beneficial and is associated with high rates of satisfaction. This study highlights the need for future investigation of Tai Chi as a novel intervention to address symptoms of PTSD.
Lactoferrin and the lactoferrin–sophorolipids-assembly can be internalized by dermal fibroblasts and regulate gene expression
Authors: Jiang Rulan , Suzuki Yasushi A. , Du Xiaogu , Lönnerdal Bo
Published: November 2016

Lactoferrin (Lf) is an iron-binding multifunctional protein, mainly present in external secretions. Lf is known to penetrate skin and may thus exert its multiple functions in skin. Sophorolipids (SLs) are glycolipid biosurfactants, which have been shown to enhance absorption of commercial bovine Lf (CbLf) in model skin via forming an assembly with CbLf. In this study, uptake and post-internalization localization of bovine Lf (bLf), CbLf, and human Lf (hLf) with or without forming assemblies with SLs in human dermal fibroblasts (HDFn) were determined using125I-labeled Lfs and confocal microscopy, respectively. Our results show that all 3 Lfs were internalized by HDFn; although SLs did not significantly affect the uptake of Lfs, it changed Lf localization by accumulating Lfs in the perinuclear region. Furthermore, microarrays were used to investigate transcriptional profiling in HDFn in response to CbLf, SLs, or CbLf–SLs-assembly treatments. Transcriptome profiling indicates that CbLf may play roles in the protection of skin from oxidative stress, immunomodulatory activities, and enhancement of wound healing. The assembly had similar effects but dramatically modulated the transcription of some genes. SLs alone modified signaling pathways related to lipid metabolism, as well as synthesis of sex hormones and vitamins. Thus, CbLf may exert beneficial effects on skin, and these effects may be modulated by SLs.
Regulation of the cardioprotective adiponectin and its receptor AdipoR1 by salt
Authors: Arnold Nicholas , Mahmood Abuzar , Ramdas Maya , Ehlinger Paul P. , Pulakat Lakshmi
Published: November 2016

Both circulating adiponectin (APN) and cardiac APN exert cardioprotective effects and improve insulin sensitivity and mitochondrial function. Low circulating APN serves as a biomarker for cardiovascular risk. Ablation of adiponectin receptor 1 (AdipoR1) causes myocardial mitochondrial dysfunction. Although high salt intake is a contributor to cardiovascular disease, how it modulates the expression of APN or AdipoR1 in cardiomyocytes is not known. We report that APN mRNA expression was attenuated in a dose-dependent manner in mouse cardiomyocyte cell line HL-1 exposed to salt concentrations ranging from 0.75% to 1.5% for 12 h. High-salt exposure (0.88% and 1.25% for 12 h) also suppressed APN and AdipoR1 protein expression significantly in rat cardiac muscle H9c2 cells. Co-immunostaining for AdipoR1 and mitochondrial complex 1 indicated that AdipoR1 may be co-localized with mitochondria. These data show for the first time that high salt is an important suppressor of cardiovascular protective APN and AdipoR1.
Natural relaxation
Authors: Marzola Luca , Raidal Martti
Published: November 2016

Motivated by natural inflation, we propose a relaxation mechanism consistent with inflationary cosmology that explains the hierarchy between the electroweak scale and Planck scale. This scenario is based on a selection mechanism that identifies the low-scale dynamics as the one that is screened from UV physics. The scenario also predicts the near-criticality and metastability of the Standard Model (SM) vacuum state, explaining the Higgs boson mass observed at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). Once Majorana right-handed neutrinos are introduced to provide a viable reheating channel, our framework yields a corresponding mass scale that allows for the seesaw mechanism as well as for standard thermal leptogenesis. We argue that considering singlet scalar dark matter extensions of the proposed scenario could solve the vacuum stability problem and discuss how the cosmological constant problem is possibly addressed.
A comparison of Pd and Au electrodes-based LiNbO3 surface acoustic wave devices
Authors: Liu Bo , Mohammad Mohammad Ali , Wang Dan-Yang , Tian Xiang-Guang , Tao Lu-Qi , Yang Yi , Ren Tian-Ling
Published: November 2016

We report the comparison of electrode metals for LiNbO3 surface acoustic wave (SAW) devices. Palladium (Pd) was systematically studied as a SAW electrode metal for the first time, compared with gold (Au). Simulations were first conducted to gain an understanding of the differences of the materials and the metallization ratio. Two sets of identical SAW devices were then fabricated using Au and Pd as electrodes with different electrode widths and same SAW period. The insertion losses, types of resonance mode, the resonance frequencies, peak amplitudes, quality factors and trends with different metallization ratios were systematically compared and analyzed. We found that Pd electrode devices only exhibit the parallel resonance frequency and have higher resonance frequency for both the first-order and third-order harmonics. Au electrode devices tend to have a smooth response and a quality factor two times higher than Pd. Both Pd and Au electrode devices have nearly identical electromechanical coupling coefficients, and the quality factor and third-order harmonics both improve with increasing metallization ratio.
Effect of magnetic structural processing on structure and texture of La2Zr2O7 buffer layers
Authors: Chibirova F. Kh. , Kotina G. V. , Bovina E. A. , Tarasova D. V. , Polisan A. A. , Parkhomenko Yu. N.
Published: November 2016

Epitaxial CeO2 seed layer and La2Zr2O7 (LZO) buffer layers were deposited on biaxially-textured Ni–5 at.% W (NiW) tape substrate by liquid-phase polymer assisted nanoparticles deposition (PAND) method. LZO layers deposited by PAND have consistently shown tilting of the [Formula: see text]-axis toward the direction of the sample’s surface normal. A new approach increasing the sharpening of the buffer texture by magnetic structural processing (MSP) of buffer layers was tested. The LZO layers, deposited on the seed and buffer layers after MSP, have dense and smooth surface structure, and more importantly, significantly improved out-of-plane texture, compared with the LZO layers that were deposited on a layer without MSP. Transmission electron microscopy study confirmed the [Formula: see text]-axis tilting of CeO2 and LZO layers and revealed the absence of interfaces between LZO layers which have been grown on the layers after MSP. There are very small (2–4 nm) gated pores in the single-crystal structure of LZO layers that are not typical for structure of LZO layers obtained by liquid-phase methods. Thus the LZO buffer layers can serve as an effective metal-ion diffusion barrier.
COMPLEXITY AND MULTIFRACTAL OF VOLATILITY DURATION FOR AGENT-BASED FINANCIAL DYNAMICS AND REAL MARKETS
Authors: YANG GE , WANG JUN
Published: November 2016

A random agent-based financial model is developed and investigated by the finite-range multitype contact dynamic system, in an attempt to reproduce and study the dynamics of financial markets. And an analysis method of detecting duration and intensity relationship in volatility series is introduced, called the volatility duration analysis. Then the auto-correlation analysis suggests that there exists evident volatility clustering feature in absolute volatility durations for the simulation data and the real data. Besides, the Lempel–Ziv complexity analysis is applied to study the complexity of the returns, the corresponding absolute returns and the volatility duration returns, which can reflect the fluctuation behaviors, the volatility behaviors and the volatility duration behaviors. At last, the multifractal phenomena of volatility durations of returns are comparatively studied for Shanghai Composite Index and the proposed model by multifractal detrended fluctuation analysis.
Analytic Arrival-Time Prediction Method for the Largest Wave of Tsunami Trapped by Parabolic Oceanic Ridges
Authors: Xiong Mengjie , Wang Gang , Zheng Jinhai , Gao Junliang , Thanh Nguyen Viet
Published: November 2016

Oceanic ridges could act as waveguides transferring tsunami energy to thousands of kilometers away, pumping large energy in to far-field regions as a secondary source. The shallow-water wave velocity [Formula: see text] can only predict the arrival time of the early signals accurately but can hardly estimate that of ridge-trapped waves. The present study provides a fast analytic prediction method to estimate the arrival time of the subsequent large trapped waves. The method is based on the energy velocity solution of trapped waves over the uniform parabolic-shaped submerged ridge. Records of two-tide gauge stations, located nearby Sand Island and Nawiliwili for the 2011 Tohoku tsunami are chosen to illustrate the application of this method. The Sand Island record shows typical open-ocean island characteristics that the maximum wave height is followed by rapid amplitude decay. While the Nawiliwili record is strongly affected by topographical trapping effect of the Hawaii Ridge, and several subsequent wave trains carrying large energy arrive within one day duration. Further investigations show that the present analytic method is able to estimate the arrival time for these distinguished subsequent trains.
Faults as barriers or channels to production-related flow: insights from case studies
Authors: Wibberley Christopher A. J. , Gonzalez-Dunia Jamil , Billon Olivier
Published: November 2016

This paper presents case studies of producing fields where faults heavily influence fluid-flow behaviour. In a first case, faults show no evidence of barrier behaviour prior to production but, nevertheless, demonstrate strongly compartmentalized field behaviour once production starts. Analytical modelling suggests that short-term pressure differences between faulted panels can be predictable owing to the permeability contrast between fault zone and reservoir: fault permeability, however, is not low enough to prevent dissipation on the geological timescale. Faults in a second case acted as baffles during production, supporting significant pressure differences, with salinity data suggesting that, as a network, they channelled sweep through relays and around fault tips. The third case examines a fault acting as a vertical drain, causing early water breakthrough through proven intermediate seals and depleting non-produced aquifers above. The fault permeability required to explain these depletion rates is estimated from an analytical model. Estimates of 0.02 – 0.2 mD compare well with predictions from a new algorithm calibrated using measurements on natural fault rocks from seismic-scale faults. Experience from case studies such as these can improve the way in which we use limited data from exploration wells when considering fault behaviour in development scenarios and in conditioning reservoir models for production forecasting.
Vitamin D supplementation reduces some AT1-AA-induced downstream targets implicated in preeclampsia including hypertension
Authors: Faulkner Jessica L. , Amaral Lorena M. , Cornelius Denise C. , Cunningham Mark W. , Ibrahim Tarek , Heep Autumn , Campbell Nathan , Usry Nathan , Wallace Kedra , Herse Florian , Dechend Ralf , LaMarca Babbette
Published: November 2016

Autoantibodies to the ANG II type I receptor (AT1-AA) are associated with preeclampsia (PE). We found that vitamin D supplementation reduced AT1-AA and blood pressure (MAP) in the RUPP rat model of PE. However, it was undetermined whether the decrease in AT1-AA was the mechanism whereby vitamin D lowered MAP or if it were through factors downstream of AT1-AA. Uterine artery resistance index, placental ET-1, and soluble FMS-like tyrosine kinase-1 are increased with AT1-AA-induced hypertension and are considered markers of PE in pregnant women. Therefore, we hypothesized that vitamin D would reduce PE factors during AT1-AA-induced hypertension and could lower blood pressure in a model of hypertension during pregnancy without PE features. Either ANG II (50 ng·kg−1·day) or AT1-AA (1:40) was infused from gestational day (GD) 12–19. vitamin D2 (VD2, 270 IU/day) or vitamin D3 (VD3, 15 IU/day) was administered orally from GD14–GD18. MAP (mmHg) increased in AT1-AA (121 ± 4) and ANG II (113 ± 1)-infused pregnant rats compared with normal pregnant rats (NP) (101 ± 2) but was lower in AT1-AA+VD2 (105 ± 2), AT1-AA+VD3 (109 ± 2), ANG II+VD2 (104 ± 4), and ANG II+VD3 (104 ± 3). VD2 and/or VD3 improved PE features associated with AT1-AA during pregnancy, while ANG II did not induce such features, supporting the hypothesis that AT1-AA induces PE features during pregnancy, and these are improved with vitamin D. In this study, we demonstrate that vitamin D improved many factors associated with PE and reduced blood pressure in a hypertensive model without PE features, indicating that vitamin D could be beneficial for various hypertensive disorders of pregnancy.
Thyroid hormone-stimulated increases in PGC-1α and UCP2 promote life history-specific endocrine changes and maintain a lipid-based metabolism
Authors: Martinez Bridget , Soñanez-Organis José G. , Godoy-Lugo José Arquimides , Horin Lillian J. , Crocker Daniel E. , Ortiz Rudy M.
Published: November 2016

Thyroid hormones (THs) regulate metabolism, but are typically suppressed during times of stressful physiological conditions, including fasting. Interestingly, prolonged fasting in northern elephant seal pups is associated with reliance on a lipid-based metabolism and increased levels of circulating THs that are partially attributed to active secretion as opposed to reduced clearance. This apparent paradox is coupled with complementary increases in cellular TH-mediated activity, suggesting that in mammals naturally adapted to prolonged fasting, THs are necessary to support metabolism. However, the functional relevance of this physiological paradox has remained largely unexplored, especially as it relates to the regulation of lipids. To address the hypothesis that TSH-mediated increase in THs contributes to lipid metabolism, we infused early and late-fasted pups with TSH and measured several key genes in adipose and muscle, and plasma hormones associated with regulation of lipid metabolism. TSH infusion increased the mRNA expressions of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator-1α (PGC-1α) more than 6.5-fold at 60 min in muscle, and expression of uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2) more than 27-fold during the early fast at 60 min, in adipose. Additionally, during the late fast period, the protein content of adipose CD36 increased 1.1-fold, and plasma nonesterified fatty acid (NEFA) concentrations increased 25% at 120 min, with NEFA levels returning to baseline after 24 h. We show that the TSH-induced increases in THs in fasting pups are functional and likely contribute to the maintenance of a lipid-based metabolism.
Resolving Contributions of Oxygen‐Consuming and ROS‐Generating Enzymes at the Synapse
Authors: Abdel-Rahman Engy A. , Mahmoud Ali M. , Aaliya Abdullah , Radwan Yasmine , Yasseen Basma , Al-Okda Abdelrahman , Atwa Ahmed , Elhanafy Eslam , Habashy Moaaz , Ali Sameh S.
Published: November 2016

Disruption of cellular redox homeostasis is implicated in a wide variety of pathologic conditions and aging. A fundamental factor that dictates such balance is the ratio between mitochondria‐mediated complete oxygen reduction into water and incomplete reduction into superoxide radical by mitochondria and NADPH oxidase (NOX) enzymatic activity. Here we determined mitochondrial as well as NOX‐dependent rates of oxygen consumption in parallel with H2O2 generation in freshly isolated synaptosomes using high resolution respirometry combined with fluorescence or electrochemical sensory. Our results indicate that although synaptic mitochondria exhibit substantially higher respiratory activities (8–82‐fold greater than NOX oxygen consumption depending on mitochondrial respiratory state), NADPH‐dependent oxygen consumption is associated with greater H2O2 production (6‐7‐fold higher NOX‐H2O2). We also show that, in terms of the consumed oxygen, while synaptic mitochondria “leaked” 0.71% ± 0.12 H2O2 during NAD+‐linked resting, 0.21% ± 0.04 during NAD+‐linked active respiration, and 0.07% ± 0.02 during FAD+‐linked active respiration, NOX converted 38% ± 13 of O2 into H2O2. Our results indicate that NOX rather than mitochondria is the major source of synaptic H2O2. The present approach may assist in the identification of redox‐modulating synaptic factors that underlie a variety of physiological and pathological processes in neurons.
Analysis of the Impact of Isoquinoline Alkaloids, Derived fromMacleaya cordataExtract, on the Development and Innate Immune Response in Swine and Poultry
Authors: Ni Hengjia , Martínez Yordan , Guan Guiping , Rodríguez Román , Más Dairon , Peng Hanhui , Valdivié Navarro Manuel , Liu Gang
Published: November 2016

Medicinal extract has been chronicled extensively in traditional Chinese medicine. Isoquinoline alkaloids, extract ofMacleaya cordata(Willd.) R. Br., have been used as feed additive in both swine and poultry. Dietary supplementation with isoquinoline alkaloids increases feed intake and weight gain. In addition, recent researches have demonstrated that isoquinoline alkaloids can regulate metabolic processes, innate immune system, and digestive functioning in animals. This review summarizes the latest scientific researches on isoquinoline alkaloids which are extracted fromMacleaya cordata(Willd.) R. Br. This review specifically focuses on its role as a feed supplement and its associated impact on growth performance and innate immune system, as well as its capacity to act as a substitute for oral antibiotics.
Revealing Seed Coat Colour Variation and Their Possible Association with Seed Yield Parameters in Common Vetch (Vicia sativaL.)
Authors: Yildiz Tiryaki Gulgun , Cil Abdullah , Tiryaki Iskender
Published: November 2016

The seed coat colour variation of 70 common vetch genotypes were determined by using uniform colour scale(L⁎a⁎b⁎)and their possible correlation with seed yield parameters including the number of pods per plant, the number of seeds per pod, pod dimension, and seed yield (kg/da) was determined. The results revealed presence of highly significant (p<0.01) variations for both the seed yield and the seed coat colour parameters measured. The number of pods per plant, the number of seeds per pod, and seed yield ranged from 5.8 to 16.03, from 5.2 to 7.66, and from 143.37 to 531.1, respectively. The lightness value varied from 19.00 to 40.28 while chromaticitya⁎andb⁎values ranged from −0.16 to 8.99 and from 0.79 to 22.11, respectively. The highest correlation coefficients were determined betweenb⁎andL⁎(r=0.73), anda⁎andL⁎(r=0.55). The seed coat colour traits and seed yield parameters generally showed weak negative correlations. Seed yellowness (b⁎) and seed yield had correlation coefficient of −0.25, while correlation betweenL⁎and seed yield was determined as −0.23. The results indicated that lightness and yellowness of seed coat may be used as an important parameter to prescreen high yield genotypes of common vetch.
The Different Effects of Atorvastatin and Pravastatin on Cell Death and PARP Activity in Pancreatic NIT-1 Cells
Authors: Chen Ya-Hui , Chen Yi-Chun , Liu Chin-San , Hsieh Ming-Chia
Published: November 2016

Statins have been widely used drugs for lowering low-density lipoprotein and for preventing heart attack and stroke. However, the increased risk for developing diabetes during extended stain use and the molecular mechanisms remain unclear. The objective of this study was to elucidate the signaling pathway and biological function between necrosis and autophagy induced by atorvastatin (AS) and pravastatin (PS). Here we observed that atorvastatin (AS) can increase intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and induce necrotic cell death and autophagy in NIT-1 cells, whereas pravastatin (PS) does not cause ROS and cell death but also induces autophagy. PARP1 exhibited a dual role in modulating necrosis and autophagy in AS- and PS-treated NIT-1 cells through RIP1-RIP3-MLKL pathway and PARP1-AMPK-mTOR pathway. Lastly, AS treatment induced mitochondrial morphology injury significantly more than PS treatment did. Thus, the PARP1 activation should be considered in the development of effective statin therapies for diabetes. Future studies may examine specific mechanisms and pathways in mitochondria, autophagy, and oxidative stressin vivo.
Oral Rehabilitation and Management for Secondary Sjögren’s Syndrome in a Child
Authors: Fidalgo Tatiana Kelly da Silva , Nogueira Carla , Andrade Marcia Rejane Thomas Canabarro , Valente Andrea Graciene Lopez Ramos , Tannure Patricia Nivoloni
Published: November 2016

The aim of this paper is to describe a rare case report of a pediatric patient with secondary Sjögren’s syndrome (SSS). A 12-year-old female child was referred to the Pediatric Dentistry Clinic with the chief complaint of tooth pain, dry mouth, and tooth sensibility. The patient was submitted to orthodontic treatment prior to syndrome diagnosis. The clinical treatment consisted of the interruption of orthodontic treatment and restoring the oral condition with dental treatment and the use of artificial saliva in an innovative apparatus. Dental therapy involved the control of dental caries, periodontal disease, and opportunistic fungal infections and the use of fluoride-rich solutions. The present clinical case describes clinical and laboratory aspects of SSS in pediatric patients. The management of the oral findings promoted an improvement in the oral health status and quality of life of the child.
Differentially Coexpressed Disease Gene Identification Based on Gene Coexpression Network
Authors: Jiang Xue , Zhang Han , Quan Xiongwen
Published: November 2016

Screening disease-related genes by analyzing gene expression data has become a popular theme. Traditional disease-related gene selection methods always focus on identifying differentially expressed gene between case samples and a control group. These traditional methods may not fully consider the changes of interactions between genes at different cell states and the dynamic processes of gene expression levels during the disease progression. However, in order to understand the mechanism of disease, it is important to explore the dynamic changes of interactions between genes in biological networks at different cell states. In this study, we designed a novel framework to identify disease-related genes and developed a differentially coexpressed disease-related gene identification method based on gene coexpression network (DCGN) to screen differentially coexpressed genes. We firstly constructed phase-specific gene coexpression network using time-series gene expression data and defined the conception of differential coexpression of genes in coexpression network. Then, we designed two metrics to measure the value of gene differential coexpression according to the change of local topological structures between different phase-specific networks. Finally, we conducted meta-analysis of gene differential coexpression based on the rank-product method. Experimental results demonstrated the feasibility and effectiveness of DCGN and the superior performance of DCGN over other popular disease-related gene selection methods through real-world gene expression data sets.
Increased IL17A, IFNG, and FOXP3 Transcripts in Moderate-Severe Psoriasis: A Major Influence Exerted by IL17A in Disease Severity
Authors: Oliveira Priscilla Stela Santana de , Pereira Michelly Cristiny , Silva de Paula Simão Kalebe , Lima Emerson Vasconcelos Andrade , Lima Mariana Modesto de Andrade , Arruda Rodrigo Gomes de , Oliveira Wagner Luís Mendes de , Duarte Ângela Luzia Branco Pinto , Pitta Ivan da Rocha , Rêgo Moacyr Jesus Melo Barreto , Galdino da Rocha Pitta Maira
Published: November 2016

Psoriasis is a chronic and recurrent dermatitis, mediated by keratinocytes and T cells. Several proinflammatory cytokines contribute to formation and maintenance of psoriatic plaque. The Th1/Th17 pathways and some of IL-1 family members were involved in psoriasis pathogenesis and could contribute to disease activity. Therefore, we sought to analyse skin transcript levels of IL17A, IL22, RORC, IL8, IFNG, IL33, IL36A, FOXP3, and IL10 and correlate with clinic of patients with plaque-type psoriasis. In order to conduct that, we collected punch biopsies from lesional skin and obtained tissue RNA. After reverse transcription, qRT-PCR quantified the relative mRNA expression. The main results revealed increased transcripts levels of IL17A, IFNG, and FOXP3 in moderate-severe patients. Despite this, only IL17A can increase the chance to worsen disease severity. We also observed many significant positive correlations between each transcript. In conclusion, IL17A is elevated in lesional skin from psoriasis patients and plays crucial role in disease severity.
Calcium Apatite Deposition Disease: Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Beckmann Nicholas M.
Published: November 2016

Calcium apatite deposition disease (CADD) is a common entity characterized by deposition of calcium apatite crystals within and around connective tissues, usually in a periarticular location. CADD most frequently involves the rotator cuff. However, it can theoretically occur in almost any location in the musculoskeletal system, and many different locations of CADD have been described. When CADD presents in an unexpected location it can pose a diagnostic challenge, particularly when associated with pain or swelling, and can be confused with other pathologic processes, such as infection or malignancy. However, CADD has typical imaging characteristics that usually allows for a correct diagnosis to be made without additional imaging or laboratory workup, even when presenting in unusual locations. This is a review of the common and uncommon presentations of CADD in the appendicular and axial skeleton as well as an updated review of pathophysiology of CADD and current treatments.
From Benign to Malign in a Case of Cervical Adenopathy in a 17-Year-Old Adolescent: Diagnostic Traps
Authors: Dumitra Simona , Trailescu Maria , Burlea Amelia , Covaci Claudia , Balan Ozana , Pavel Adrian , Crișan Carmen
Published: November 2016

Distinguishing between benign and malign adenopathies remains a challenge and could represent a source of error in a diagnosis. We report a case of right laterocervical adenopathy in a 17-year-old teenager admitted to hospital with an episode of fever associated with dysphagia, congested pharynx, and pultaceous deposits. Initially the adenopathy was considered to be secondary to a coinfection withStreptococcusB-hemolytic and Epstein-Barr virus, as suggested by the positive bacteriological and serological tests. The onset of the adenopathy before the episode and the ultrasound modifications raised the suspicion of a malignancy, later confirmed by the histopathologic examination of the lymph node excision. The final diagnosis was nodal metastasis of an undifferentiated lymphoepithelial carcinoma with an ENT starting point. Currently, the adolescent is hospitalised in the ENT ward, where the pharynx carcinoma with nodal metastasis was confirmed. Sometimes the infectious context can mask or unmask a malign chronic disease with insidious evolution.
Self-Limited Kleptomania Symptoms as a Side Effect of Duloxetine
Authors: Miller Christopher W. T. , Gallagher Keith E.
Published: November 2016

Introduction. Impulse control disorders (ICDs) have been described as a side effect of dopamine agonists, frequently used in neurodegenerative conditions affecting the nigrostriatal pathway. Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (e.g., duloxetine) have dose-dependent differential affinity for monoaminergic transporters, inhibiting the dopamine transporter at higher doses, thus increasing availability of synaptic dopamine, with the potential for similar impulse control side effects. Case Presentation. A 19-year-old Asian-American female with a history of depression developed new-onset stealing behaviors after an increase in her dose of duloxetine from 60 mg to 90 mg; she described these actions as “compulsive” and irresistible, later experiencing either relief or guilt, features compatible with an ICD. Her symptoms eventually subsided with continued use of 90 mg of duloxetine. Discussion. To the knowledge of the authors, this is the first report of a patient developing new-onset ICD behaviors after being placed on a higher dose of duloxetine, which can inhibit the dopamine transporter and cause difficulty with impulse control. The self-resolving nature of the symptoms may result from compensatory upregulation of dopamine transporters, increasing reuptake of dopamine. Asian populations may be at a higher risk due to the frequent occurrence of CYP2D6 polymorphisms, which decrease the conversion of duloxetine to its inactive metabolites.
Nodular Fasciitis Complicating a Staged Surgical Excision of Dermatofibrosarcoma Protuberans
Authors: Malone C. Helen , Goodwin Brandon , Wagner Richard F. , Resto Vicente , Kelly Brent
Published: November 2016

Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is an unusual spindle cell tumor with a high rate of local recurrence with traditional excision. Fortunately, Mohs micrographic surgery yields excellent cure rates for this neoplasm due to contiguous tumor spread and meticulous tumor mapping and margin analysis. We present the unique case of a patient treated with a modified Mohs technique with an analysis of the final margin with permanent sections, who developed a spindle cell neoplasm in the margins of her second stage excision consistent with nodular fasciitis. Distinguishing residual DFSP from a benign reactive process was an essential and challenging component of this patient’s management.
Analytical Model of Waterflood Sweep Efficiency in Vertical Heterogeneous Reservoirs under Constant Pressure
Authors: Zhao Lisha , Li Li , Wu Zhongbao , Zhang Chenshuo
Published: November 2016

An analytical model has been developed for quantitative evaluation of vertical sweep efficiency based on heterogeneous multilayer reservoirs. By applying the Buckley-Leverett displacement mechanism, a theoretical relationship is deduced to describe dynamic changes of the front of water injection, water saturation of producing well, and swept volume during waterflooding under the condition of constant pressure, which substitutes for the condition of constant rate in the traditional way. Then, this method of calculating sweep efficiency is applied from single layer to multilayers, which can be used to accurately calculate the sweep efficiency of heterogeneous reservoirs and evaluate the degree of waterflooding in multilayer reservoirs. In the case study, the water frontal position, water cut, volumetric sweep efficiency, and oil recovery are compared between commingled injection and zonal injection by applying the derived equations. The results are verified by numerical simulators, respectively. It is shown that zonal injection works better than commingled injection in respect of sweep efficiency and oil recovery and has a longer period of water free production.
The Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine among Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease Is Associated with Reduced Health-Related Quality of Life
Authors: Opheim Randi , Lie Høivik Marte , Bernklev Tomm , Jelsness-Jørgensen Lars-Petter , Moum Bjørn
Published: November 2016

Background and Aims.Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use among patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is common. The aim of this study was to explore associations between CAM use and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) as well as identifying whether sociodemographic factors, disease activity, and personal resources (self-efficacy) influence HRQoL scores in users and nonusers of CAM.Methods.Measures included sociodemographic and disease-related data, the International-CAM Questionnaire, and General Self-Efficacy Scale. A univariate analysis of variance was used to assess the association between CAM use and HRQoL. The associations between clinical, demographic, and personal factors and HRQoL were examined through linear regression analyses.Results.CAM users had statistically significant lower SF-36 scores compared to nonusers and the background population. Nonusers scored significantly lower compared to the background population in two out of the eight SF-36 dimensions. Independent of CAM use, disease activity had a negative impact and self-efficacy had a positive impact on HRQoL.Conclusions.HRQoL in CAM users with IBD was significantly lower compared to nonusers and the background population. Independent of CAM use, disease activity was negatively associated with HRQoL. Self-efficacy had a positive impact on the mental health dimensions in both CAM users and nonusers.
Effects on Balance and Walking with the CoDuSe Balance Exercise Program in People with Multiple Sclerosis: A Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Forsberg Anette , von Koch Lena , Nilsagård Ylva
Published: November 2016

Background. Balance and walking impairments are frequent in people with multiple sclerosis (MS).Objective. The aim was to investigate the effects of a group-based balance exercise program targeting core stability, dual tasking, and sensory strategies (CoDuSe) on balance, postural sway, walking, perceived walking limitations, and balance confidence.Design. A single-blinded randomized multicenter trial. No intervention was given to controls.Participants. People with MS able to walk 100 meters but unable to maintain tandem stance ≥30 seconds. Eighty-seven participants were randomized to intervention or control.Intervention. The 60-minute CoDuSe group program, twice weekly for seven weeks, supervised by physical therapists.Measurements. Primary outcome was dynamic balance (Berg Balance Scale (BBS)). Secondary outcomes were postural sway, walking (Timed-Up and Go test; Functional Gait Assessment (FGA)), MS Walking Scale, and Activities-specific Balance Confidence (ABC) Scale. Assessments were performed before and after (week 8) the intervention.Results. 73 participants fulfilled the study. There were significant differences between the intervention and the control groups in change in the BBS and in the secondary measures: postural sway with eyes open, FGA, MS Walking Scale, and ABC scale in favor of the intervention.Conclusions. The seven-week CoDuSe program improved dynamic balance more than no intervention.
Intrathyroidal Clear Cell Tumor of Parathyroid Origin with Review of Literature
Authors: Pirela Daniela , Treitl Daniela , El Hussein Siba , Poppiti Robert , Mesko Thomas , Manzano Alex
Published: November 2016

Water-clear cell adenoma (WCCA) of the parathyroid gland is an exceedingly rare neoplasm. To date, 17 cases have been reported in the literature, with only one of them being intrathyroidal. Here we report a case of a 34-year-old woman who presented for evaluation of a goiter and was found to have a thyroid nodule and abnormal thyroid function tests (TFT). Fine needle aspiration biopsy of the nodule revealed thyroid follicular cells without atypia and subsequent Afirma® Gene Expression Classifier (GEC) testing results were suspicious for malignancy. As a result, the patient underwent a right thyroid lobectomy and isthmusectomy. Histological sections revealed an intrathyroidal nodule consistent with a clear cell neoplasm of parathyroid origin. The histologic appearance together with the immune profile was diagnostic of WCCA, with diffuse positivity for GATA3, focal weak positivity for parathyroid hormone, and negativity for PAX8, thyroglobulin, TTF1, synaptophysin, chromogranin, and S100p. Our study focuses on the clinical presentation, current management strategies, and review of the available literature surrounding this rare diagnosis. The ultimate goal is to help endocrinologists and surgeons establish a foundational treatment plan for intrathyroidal clear cell tumor cases.
Viral Agents Causing Acute Respiratory Infections in Children under Five: A Study from Eastern India
Authors: Mishra Pravakar , Nayak Lipika , Das Rashmi Ranjan , Dwibedi Bhagirathi , Singh Amitabh
Published: November 2016

Background. Acute respiratory infections (ARIs) are important cause of mortality and morbidity in children under five in developing country.Methods. This observational study was conducted over two-year period in a tertiary care teaching hospital of Eastern India. Nasal and throat swabs were collected, transported to the laboratory at 2–8°C in viral transport media, and then processed for detection of viruses using mono/multiplex real-time polymerase chain reaction.Results. A total of 300 children aged 2–60 months with ARIs were included. The most common age group affected with LRI was 2–12 mo and with URI was >12–60 mo. Viruses were detected in 248 cases. In URI, 77 were positive for single virus and 19 were positive for more than one virus; in LRI, 113 were positive for single virus and 12 were positive for more than one virus. The most common viruses isolated from URI cases were rhinovirus and adenovirus. The most common viruses isolated from LRI cases were respiratory syncytial virus and influenza virus. Most cases occurred in the months of January, December, and August.Conclusion. Viruses constitute a significant cause of ARI in children under five. RSV, ADV, RV, and IFV were the most prevalent viruses isolated.
Lung Cancer Classification Employing Proposed Real Coded Genetic Algorithm Based Radial Basis Function Neural Network Classifier
Authors: Selvakumari Jeya I. Jasmine , Deepa S. N.
Published: November 2016

A proposed real coded genetic algorithm based radial basis function neural network classifier is employed to perform effective classification of healthy and cancer affected lung images. Real Coded Genetic Algorithm (RCGA) is proposed to overcome the Hamming Cliff problem encountered with the Binary Coded Genetic Algorithm (BCGA). Radial Basis Function Neural Network (RBFNN) classifier is chosen as a classifier model because of its Gaussian Kernel function and its effective learning process to avoid local and global minima problem and enable faster convergence. This paper specifically focused on tuning the weights and bias of RBFNN classifier employing the proposed RCGA. The operators used in RCGA enable the algorithm flow to compute weights and bias value so that minimum Mean Square Error (MSE) is obtained. With both the lung healthy and cancer images from Lung Image Database Consortium (LIDC) database and Real time database, it is noted that the proposed RCGA based RBFNN classifier has performed effective classification of the healthy lung tissues and that of the cancer affected lung nodules. The classification accuracy computed using the proposed approach is noted to be higher in comparison with that of the classifiers proposed earlier in the literatures.
Preassessment Interview Improves the Efficacy and Safety of Bowel Preparation for Colonoscopy
Authors: Padmanabhan Hari , Rothnie Alexander , Higgins Andy , Grewal Amandeep , Arndtz Katherine , Nevill Alan. M. , Brookes Matthew. J. , Mathew Ray
Published: November 2016

Aim. To determine whether preassessment improves bowel preparation quality and prevents renal deterioration for chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. Methods. Data was collected prospectively starting in January 2011 for 12 months. Patients were divided according to the presence or absence of preassessment and stratified to one of three risk groups based on patient’s comorbidities and identified risk factors for poor bowel preparation; group 1 had no risk factors, group 2 had 1 risk factor, and group 3 patients had 2 or more risk factors. The association between preassessment and bowel preparation quality was analyzed using binary logistic regression. Results. 1840 colonoscopies were carried out during the period. Total number analyzed was 1704. 404 patients were preassessed. Preassessment patients had significantly better bowel preparation across all groups (OR 1.605; p=0.002). Group 3 patients were 52% more likely to have good bowel preparation (p=0.04) if they had been preassessed. Eighty-eight patients were identified with an eGFR < 60 mL/min. There was a significant difference in the eGFR percentage change between patients with preassessment and those without (p=0.006). Conclusions. Face-to-face preassessment appears to improve the quality of bowel preparation and aids in minimizing the risk of renal injury in patients with CKD.
Nigerian Female with Skin Lesions in the Leg and Face: Herpetic Sycosis Folliculitis
Authors: Dilorenzo Dominique , Channaveeraiah Naganna , Gilford Patricia , Deschere Bruce
Published: November 2016

Nongenital HSV 1 presents outside the mucus membrane. Our patient had unusual presentation that caused diagnostic dilemma. 30-year-old native Nigerian female coming with fiancée to the United States presented to our service one day after arrival through ER with a lesion on her right ankle. She was diagnosed with cellulitis, started on antibiotics, and admitted to hospital. She had fever of 39.1°C. Head and neck exam showed multiple sized lesions over tongue and palate and inner aspect of lower lip. Abdomen and genital exam was normal. Skin exam showed lesions over the face and lesions over the lateral aspect of the right leg. There was ulcerated lesion over the right lateral malleolus with surrounding erythema and edema. Her tests showed elevated ESR of 98; HIV test was negative; CT scan of the ankle showed no abscess or osteomyelitis. TB quantiferon was indeterminate; AFB stain and culture were negative; HSV IgM was elevated at 1 : 16; RPR was negative; ANA was negative; malaria screen was negative, and blood cultures were negative for bacteria, fungus, and virus. Debrided wound had no growth of bacteria or fungus or virus. This case illustrates the unusual presentation of the HSV1 outside the mucus membrane and how it can be confused with other conditions that required extensive tests. Therapeutic trail with antiviral medications resolved lesions over the leg and face.
Unilateral Vocal Cord Paralysis following Insertion of a Supreme Laryngeal Mask in a Patient withSjögren’sSyndrome
Authors: Masarwa T. O. J. , Herold I. H. F. , Tabor M. , Bouwman R. A.
Published: November 2016

Since its introduction in 1988 by Dr. Archie Brain, the laryngeal mask airway (LMA) is being used with increasing frequency. Its ease of use has made it a very popular device in airway management and compared to endotracheal intubation it is less invasive. The use of LMA was on the rise, so has been the incidence of its related complications. We report severe unilateral vocal cord paralysis following the use of the supreme laryngeal mask (sLMA) in a patient withSjögren’ssyndrome. In addition, we propose possible mechanisms of injury, review the existing case reports, and discuss our findings.
N-Acetyl-L-cysteine Protects the Enterocyte against Oxidative Damage by Modulation of Mitochondrial Function
Authors: Xiao Hao , Wu Miaomiao , Shao Fangyuan , Guan Guiping , Huang Bo , Tan Bie , Yin Yulong
Published: November 2016

The neonatal small intestine is susceptible to damage caused by oxidative stress. This study aimed to evaluate the protective role of antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC) in intestinal epithelial cells against oxidative damage induced by H2O2. IPEC-J2 cells were cultured in DMEM-H with NAC and H2O2. After 2-day incubation, IPEC-J2 cells were collected for analysis of DNA synthesis, antioxidation capacity, mitochondrial respiration, and cell apoptosis. The results showed that H2O2significantly decreased (P<0.05) proliferation rate, mitochondrial respiration, and antioxidation capacity and increased cell apoptosis and the abundance of associated proteins, including cytochrome C, Bcl-XL, cleaved caspase-3, and total caspase-3. NAC supplementation remarkably increased (P<0.05) proliferation rate, antioxidation capacity, and mitochondrial bioenergetics but decreased cell apoptosis. These findings indicate that NAC might rescue the intestinal injury induced by H2O2.