bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Draft Genome Sequence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa KF702 (NBRC 110665), a Polychlorinated Biphenyl-Degrading Bacterium Isolated from Biphenyl-Contaminated Soil
Authors: Fujihara Hidehiko , Yamazoe Atsushi , Hosoyama Akira , Suenaga Hikaru , Kimura Nobutada , Hirose Jun , Watanabe Takahito , Futagami Taiki , Goto Masatoshi , Furukawa Kensuke
Published: May 2015

Pseudomonas aeruginosa
KF702 (NBRC 110665) utilizes biphenyl as a sole source of carbon and degrades polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Here, we report the 7,167,540-bp draft genome sequence of KF702, which contains 6,714 coding sequences and a 65.8 mol% G+C content. The strain possesses genes for biphenyl catabolism and other genes that mediate degradation of various aromatic compounds.
Draft Genome Sequence of Catabacter hongkongensis Type Strain HKU16
T
, Isolated from a Patient with Bacteremia and Intestinal Obstruction
Authors: Lau Susanna K. P. , Teng Jade L. L. , Huang Yi , Curreem Shirly O. T. , Tsui Stephen K. W. , Woo Patrick C. Y.
Published: May 2015

We report the draft genome sequence of
Catabacter hongkongensis
, a catalase-positive bacterium which causes bacteremia with high mortality. The 3.2-Mb genome contains 3,161 protein coding sequences, including putative catalase and motility-related proteins, and antibiotic resistance genes, which could be important for its virulence and adaptation to diverse environments.
A Novel Leu92 Mutant of HIV-1 Reverse Transcriptase with a Selective Deficiency in Strand Transfer Causes a Loss of Viral Replication
Authors: Herzig Eytan , Voronin Nickolay , Kucherenko Nataly , Hizi Amnon
Published: May 2015

The process of reverse transcription (RTN) in retroviruses is essential to the viral life cycle. This key process is catalyzed exclusively by the viral reverse transcriptase (RT) that copies the viral RNA into DNA by its DNA polymerase activity, while concomitantly removing the original RNA template by its RNase H activity. During RTN, the combination between DNA synthesis and RNA hydrolysis leads to strand transfers (or template switches) that are critical for the completion of RTN. The balance between these RT-driven activities was considered to be the sole reason for strand transfers. Nevertheless, we show here that a specific mutation in HIV-1 RT (L92P) that does not affect the DNA polymerase and RNase H activities abolishes strand transfer. There is also a good correlation between this complete loss of the RT's strand transfer to the loss of the DNA clamp activity of the RT, discovered recently by us. This finding indicates a mechanistic linkage between these two functions and that they are both direct and unique functions of the RT (apart from DNA synthesis and RNA degradation). Furthermore, when the RT's L92P mutant was introduced into an infectious HIV-1 clone, it lost viral replication, due to inefficient intracellular strand transfers during RTN, thus supporting the
in vitro
data. As far as we know, this is the first report on RT mutants that specifically and directly impair RT-associated strand transfers. Therefore, targeting residue Leu92 may be helpful in selectively blocking this RT activity and consequently HIV-1 infectivity and pathogenesis.

IMPORTANCE
Reverse transcription in retroviruses is essential for the viral life cycle. This multistep process is catalyzed by viral reverse transcriptase, which copies the viral RNA into DNA by its DNA polymerase activity (while concomitantly removing the RNA template by its RNase H activity). The combination and balance between synthesis and hydrolysis lead to strand transfers that are critical for reverse transcription completion. We show here for the first time that a single mutation in HIV-1 reverse transcriptase (L92P) selectively abolishes strand transfers without affecting the enzyme's DNA polymerase and RNase H functions. When this mutation was introduced into an infectious HIV-1 clone, viral replication was lost due to an impaired intracellular strand transfer, thus supporting the
in vitro
data. Therefore, finding novel drugs that target HIV-1 reverse transcriptase Leu92 may be beneficial for developing new potent and selective inhibitors of retroviral reverse transcription that will obstruct HIV-1 infectivity.
Repeated Low-Dose Influenza Virus Infection Causes Severe Disease in Mice: a Model for Vaccine Evaluation
Authors: Song Yufeng , Wang Xiang , Zhang Hongbo , Tang Xinying , Li Min , Yao Jufang , Jin Xia , Ertl Hildegund C. J. , Zhou Dongming
Published: May 2015

Influenza infection causes severe disease and death in humans. In traditional vaccine research and development, a single high-dose virus challenge of animals is used to evaluate vaccine efficacy. This type of challenge model may have limitations. In the present study, we developed a novel challenge model by infecting mice repeatedly in short intervals with low doses of influenza A virus. Our results show that compared to a single high-dose infection, mice that received repeated low-dose challenges showed earlier morbidity and mortality and more severe disease. They developed higher vial loads, more severe lung pathology, and greater inflammatory responses and generated only limited influenza A virus-specific B and T cell responses. A commercial trivalent influenza vaccine protected mice against a single high and lethal dose of influenza A virus but was ineffective against repeated low-dose virus challenges. Overall, our data show that the repeated low-dose influenza A virus infection mouse model is more stringent and may thus be more suitable to select for highly efficacious influenza vaccines.

IMPORTANCEInfluenza epidemics and pandemics pose serious threats to public health. Animal models are crucial for evaluating the efficacy of influenza vaccines. Traditional models based on a single high-dose virus challenge may have limitations. Here, we describe a new mouse model based on repeated low-dose influenza A virus challenges given within a short period. Repeated low-dose challenges caused more severe disease in mice, associated with higher viral loads and increased lung inflammation and reduced influenza A virus-specific B and T cell responses. A commercial influenza vaccine that was shown to protect mice from high-dose challenge was ineffective against repeated low-dose challenges. Overall, our results show that the low-dose repeated-challenge model is more stringent and may therefore be better suited for preclinical vaccine efficacy studies.
Tick Saliva Enhances Powassan Virus Transmission to the Host, Influencing Its Dissemination and the Course of Disease
Authors: Hermance Meghan E. , Thangamani Saravanan
Published: May 2015

Powassan virus
(POWV) is an encephalitic tick-borne flavivirus which can result in serious neuroinvasive disease with up to a 10% case fatality rate. The study objective was to determine whether the salivary gland extract (SGE) from
Ixodes scapularis
ticks facilitates the transmission and dissemination of POWV in a process known as saliva-activated transmission. Groups of BALB/c mice were footpad inoculated with either a high dose of POWV with and without SGE or a low dose of POWV with and without SGE. Mice from each group were sacrificed daily. Organ viral loads and gene expression profiles were evaluated by quantitative real-time PCR. Both groups of mice infected with high-dose POWV showed severe neurological signs of disease preceding death. The presence of SGE did not affect POWV transmission or disease outcome for mice infected with the high dose of POWV. Neuroinvasion, paralysis, and death occurred for all mice infected with the low dose of POWV plus SGE; however, for mice infected with the low dose of POWV in the absence of SGE, there were no clinical signs of infection and no mice succumbed to disease. Although this group displayed low-level viremias, all mice were completely healthy, and it was the only group in which POWV was cleared from the lymph nodes. We conclude that saliva-activated transmission occurs in mice infected with a low dose of POWV. Our study is the first to demonstrate virus dose-dependent saliva-activated transmission, warranting further investigation of the specific salivary factors responsible for enhancing POWV transmission.

IMPORTANCE
Powassan virus
(POWV) is a tick-borne flavivirus that continues to emerge in the United States, as is evident by the surge in number and expanding geographic range of confirmed cases in the past decade. This neuroinvasive virus is transmitted to humans by infected tick bites. Successful tick feeding is facilitated by a collection of pharmacologically active factors in tick saliva. In a process known as saliva-activated transmission, tick bioactive salivary molecules are thought to modulate the host environment, making it more favorable for the transmission and establishment of a pathogen. This phenomenon has been demonstrated for several tick-borne pathogens; however, a systematic investigation of the role of tick saliva on dissemination and pathogenesis of a tick-borne viral disease has never been attempted before. This study will fill that gap by systematically examining whether the presence of tick saliva contributes to the transmission and dissemination of POWV in mice.
General Introduction
Authors: Spamer Earle E.
Published: May 2015

The first record of the Grand Canyon to appear in the scientific literature was a brief mention by Hitchcock (1857, pp. 116, 125). Relying only on hearsay, he wrote simply that the canyon, known then as “Big Cafton,” was probably deeper tfw the height of the Grand Falls of the Little Colorado River, about 120 feet (36 m). In 1858, the first scientist reached the canyon, the geologist John Strong Newberry, who was attached to a military exploring expedition under the command of Joseph C. Ives. His report (Newberry, 1861) included the first stratigraphic section of the Grand Canyon and the first description of fossils from there. Since then, thousands of papers and monographs have included observations on geological aspects of the Grand Canyon, and the many subdisciplines of paleontology are well represented.Reviews of geological studies in the Grand Canyon region have been presented by McKee (1969) and Spamer (1984a, 1989). An annotated bibliographyof Grand Canyon geology, with a catalog of tyPe fossils from the Grand Canyon, has been published thusfar in five volumes (Spamer, 1983, 1984b, 1988, 199Oa, 1992a). A more comprehensive, non-annotated bibliography (Spamer, 1991, Part 3) adds referenceson the stratigraphiccontinuityof the Grand Canyon's stratigraphic units. Guides to the non-paleontological Plata published throughout the Grand Canyon geological literature have been compiled by Spamer (l990b, 1992b).

Reviews of geological studies in the Grand Canyon region have been presented by McKee (1969) and Spamer (1984a, 1989). An annotated bibliographyof Grand Canyon geology, with a catalog of tyPe fossils from the
Heat-Sensitive Moxibustion in Patients with Osteoarthritis of the Knee: A Three-Armed Multicentre Randomised Active Control Trial
Authors: Chen Rixin , Chen Mingren , Su Tongsheng , Zhou Meiqi , Sun Jianhua , Xiong Jun , Chi Zhenhai , Xie Dingyi , Zhang Bo
Published: May 2015

Background

In China, heat-sensitive moxibustion (HSM) is used for knee osteoarthritis (KOA) to reduce pain and improve physical activity. However, there is little high-quality evidence of its effectiveness.

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of HSM in the treatment of KOA compared with usual care.

Methods

We performed a multicentre, randomised controlled trial. In total, 432 patients with KOA were randomly assigned to one of three groups (HSM, conventional moxibustion, or conventional injection with sodium hyaluronate). The primary end point was the guiding principle of clinical research on new drugs in the treatment of KOA (GPCRND-KOA). Measurements were obtained at baseline and after 1 and 6 months (month 7) of study.

Result

For GPCRND-KOA, there were significant differences among the three groups after treatment at months 1 and 7. Pairwise comparisons showed that HSM was more effective than the conventional drug. There was no difference in any measures between conventional moxibustion and the conventional drug. Compared with conventional moxibustion, HSM resulted in greater improvement in all outcomes.

Conclusions

This trial provided some evidence of the superiority of HSM in patients with KOA, suggesting that the observed differences might be due to superiority effects of a heat-sensitive point, although the effect of expectation cannot be ruled out.

Trial Registration Number

The trial was registered at Controlled Clinical Trials: ChiCTR-TRC-09000600.
Bilateral subdural hygromas following administration of intrathecal methotrexate chemotherapy
Authors: Lewis Heledd , Mahdi Ali Jassem , Rowntree Clare
Published: May 2015

We report the case of a previously well 58-year-old man who presented with headache and confusion 4 days postadministration of intrathecal methotrexate. He was undergoing intensive chemotherapy (CODOX-M/IVAC, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, methotrexate, etoposide, ifosfamide, cytarabine) for the treatment of leukaemic phase CD20 negative diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. A CT of the head demonstrated the presence of bilateral subdural hygromas complicated by haemorrhage resulting from coexisting chemotherapy induced thrombocytopenia. Surgical drainage of the hygroma was undertaken but the patient died of overwhelming sepsis. In patients with high-risk lymphoma, directed central nervous system (CNS) therapy is administered either systemically or intrathecally. It is thought that subdural hygromas result from cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) accumulation in the inner dural layers of the cerebral convexities from CSF leak and reduction in CSF pressure post-lumbar puncture. We describe a rare but potentially fatal complication of intrathecal chemotherapy that haemato-oncologists need to be mindful of.
Marine migration and habitat use of anadromous brown trout (Salmo trutta)
Authors: Eldøy Sindre Håvarstein , Davidsen Jan Grimsrud , Thorstad Eva Bonsak , Whoriskey Fred , Aarestrup Kim , Næsje Tor Fredrik , Rønning Lars , Sjursen Aslak Darre , Rikardsen Audun Håvard , Arnekleiv Jo Vegar
Published: May 2015

The biology and ecology of anadromous brown trout (Salmo trutta) at sea is poorly understood. This study provided information on spatial and temporal distribution of sea trout in the ocean. The behaviour of 115 individuals (veteran migrants, 270–700 mm) was tracked by using acoustic telemetry in a fjord system during April–September in 2012–2013. Overall, fish spent 68% of their marine residence time close to river mouths (<4 km). Most fish registrations (75%) were in nearshore habitats, but pelagic areas were also used. The maximum migration distance of tagged fish was categorized as short (<4 km from river mouth, 40% of fish), medium (4 – ∼13 km, 18% of fish), or long (>∼13 km, 42% of fish). Long-distance migrants had poorer body condition in spring prior to migration, used pelagic areas more often, and returned earlier to fresh water than short- and medium-distance migrants. Marine residence time was 7–183 days and was positively correlated to body length and smolt age, but negatively correlated to the date of sea entry.
Standard-free method for quantitative elemental analysis of mosquitoes and small flies
Authors: Sera K. , Suzuki H. , Sawabe K. , Komagata O. , Goto S. , Takahashi C. , Saitoh Y.
Published: May 2015

A method of quantitative elemental analysis of mosquitoes which convey serious infectious diseases, such as Japanese encephalitis and Dengue fever, has been developed in order to clarify their mode of life and sphere of action. The method was developed on the basis of a standard-free method for biological samples. The method enables us to perform quantitative analysis of untreated mosquito. Moreover, the method was successfully applied to quantitative analysis of each part of mosquito's body such as head and chest, abdomen, leg and wing. It was found that there are clear differences among parts in the body of mosquito, and also among different species such as Culex tritaeniorhynchus and Aedes albopictus. The method was successfully applied to quantitative analysis of small fly belonging to Sciaridae (Bradysia.praecox) whose size is smaller than that of mosquito. It was also confirmed that the method is applicable to other kind of bio-samples of small quantities such as a grain of egg of Alaska pollock whose dry weight is less than 100 μg.
On the statistics of the orbital residuals of the LAGEOS satellites
Authors: Canoci Catia , Ciufolini Ignazio , Coluccia Angelo , Paris Claudio , Ricci Giuseppe , Salvadori Gianfausto , Sindoni Giampiero
Published: May 2015

We present a statistical analysis of the laser ranging data of LAGEOS and LAGEOS 2 satellites which have provided a test of dragging of inertial frames, or frame-dragging, by rotating mass as predicted by General Relativity. As a result, the analysis of the residuals, after filtering out the periodic effects, is consistent with a Gaussian model, with a nonzero mean in agreement with the one predicted by Lense–Thirring effect.
Lepton-flavor violating signatures in supersymmetric U(1)′ seesaw
Authors: Chun Eung Jin
Published: May 2015

In a supersymmetric U(1)′ seesaw model, a right-handed sneutrino can be a good thermal dark matter candidate if the extra gaugino [Formula: see text] is light enough to provide an appropriate annihilation cross-section through a t-channel diagram. We first discuss how right thermal relic density of the right-handed sneutrino dark matter can arise and then explore lepton number and flavor violating signatures followed by cascade production of [Formula: see text] from the third generation squarks at the LHC.
Complex Dynamics of Projective Synchronization of Chua Circuits with Different Scrolls
Authors: Min Fuhong , Luo Albert C. J.
Published: May 2015

In this paper, the dynamics mechanism of the projective synchronization of Chua circuits with different scrolls is investigated analytically through the theory of discontinuous dynamical systems. The analytical conditions for the projective synchronization of Chua circuits with chaotic motions are developed. From these conditions, the parameter characteristics of the projective synchronization of Chua circuits with different scrolls are discussed, and the corresponding parameter maps and the invariant domain for such projective synchronization of Chua circuits are presented. Illustrations for partial and full projective synchronizations of the Chua circuits are given. The projective synchronization of Chua circuits is implemented experimentally, and numerical and experimental results are compared.
Global Bifurcation Diagram for the Kerner–Konhäuser Traffic Flow Model
Authors: Delgado Joaquín , Saavedra Patricia
Published: May 2015

We study traveling wave solutions of the Kerner–Konhäuser PDE for traffic flow. By a standard change of variables, the problem is reduced to a dynamical system in the plane with three parameters. In a previous paper [Carrillo et al., 2010] it was shown that under general hypotheses on the fundamental diagram, the dynamical system has a surface of critical points showing either a fold or cusp catastrophe when projected under a two-dimensional plane of parameters named qg–vg. In either case, a one parameter family of Takens–Bogdanov (TB) bifurcation takes place, and therefore local families of Hopf and homoclinic bifurcation arising from each TB point exist. Here, we prove the existence of a degenerate Takens–Bogdanov bifurcation (DTB) which in turn implies the existence of Generalized Hopf or Bautin bifurcations (GH). We describe numerically the global lines of bifurcations continued from the local ones, inside a cuspidal region of the parameter space. In particular, we compute the first Lyapunov exponent, and compare with the GH bifurcation curve. We present some families of stable limit cycles which are taken as initial conditions in the PDE leading to stable traveling waves.
Computing Melnikov Curves for Periodically Perturbed Piecewise Smooth Oscillators
Authors: Dua Aseem , Marathe Amol
Published: May 2015

Curves dividing the parameter plane into regions according to the presence or absence of homoclinic or heteroclinic tangle corresponding to the periodically perturbed saddle of the piecewise smooth oscillator are studied using Melnikov analysis. The analysis is not simplified by choosing the discontinuity plane at a convenient location. Separatrix of the unperturbed system is parametrized exactly in a piecewise manner. Switching times, i.e. parameter values at which the separatrix crosses the discontinuity plane, are obtained. Switching times split the Melnikov integral into various subintegrals which are evaluated either exactly using term-wise integration of the infinite series of the integrand or approximately using a finite-term series approximation of the integrand, the latter being computationally an extensive task. Integral evaluations though approximate, are purely analytical expressions in terms of special functions such as digamma and hypergeometric. Melnikov plots show that the boundary between three regions in the parameter plane differ qualitatively in case of parametric and external excitations, however; adding self-excitation to the external one does not much alter the boundary qualitatively and quantitatively.
Transition Mechanisms of Bursting in a Two-Cell Network Model of the Pre-Bötzinger Complex
Authors: Duan Lixia , Yuan Dandan , Chen Xi , Meng Xiangying
Published: May 2015

Persistent sodium and calcium activated nonspecific cationic currents play important roles in the respiratory rhythm generation of the pre-Bötzinger complex. In this paper, we study the bursting patterns and their transition mechanisms in the two-parameter space of a two-cell network model of the pre-Bötzinger complex with synaptic coupling. Using the methods of fast/slow decomposition and two-parameter bifurcation analysis, we divide the two-parameter space into four different regions according to the multiphase oscillations, and reveal the possible transition mechanisms of bursting between these different regions. We also study the dynamics of the system with varying synaptic coupling strength. This work provides insights of how currents and synaptic coupling work on the respiratory rhythm generation.
How Did You Survive in the First Five Years? Secrets to Success Described by Apparel New Ventures in China
Authors: Zhao Li , Ha-Brookshire Jung
Published: May 2015

The study explored the secrets of success described by Chinese apparel new ventures. Barney's (1991) resource-based view of the firm helped the researchers understand secrets to success from the firm's internal perspective, and the social network theory informed key secrets from the external perspective (Ahuja, 2000). In-depth interviews with open-ended questions were employed with sixteen top apparel companies in China. Results revealed that having the first successful store is the symbol of success and that success is a never-ending goal. The key secrets to success were described as the founders' ability to find the niche market, their down-to-earth attitude, unique branding position and products, and, finally, external relationships. The study will help Chinese apparel new ventures in realizing the secrets of surviving the initial stage. Academic organizations and governments may want to utilize the study findings to develop more curricula and policies that may be more fruitful for small businesses' success in the long term.
Vibration of Cantilevered Double-Walled Carbon Nanotubes Predicted by Timoshenko Beam Model and Molecular Dynamics
Authors: Liu Rumeng , Wang Lifeng
Published: May 2015

Vibration of double-walled carbon nanotubes (DWCNTs) with one end fixed and the other end free is studied by using different beam models of continuum mechanics and the molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The models of the double-Euler beams (DEB) and the double-Timoshenko beams (DTB) of cantilevered case, with the van der Waals interaction between layers taken into consideration, are applied to predict the natural frequencies of DWCNTs. An analytical solution is first obtained for the DTB model with cantilevered boundary condition. The fundamental frequencies obtained by the DEB model and the DTB model are very close, for the relatively long DWCNTs. The MD simulations show that these two models can predict the natural frequencies well. However, the difference between the DEB model and the DTB model becomes obvious, for the vibration of the relatively short DWCNTs. The DTB model can offer a much better prediction than the DEB model when the DWCNT is very short especially for high-order frequencies.
Peridotitic minerals of the Nidar Ophiolite in the NW Himalaya: sourced from the depth of the mantle transition zone and above
Authors: Das Souvik , Mukherjee Barun K. , Basu Asish R. , Sen Koushick
Published: May 2015

The Nidar Ophiolite Complex (NOC) consists of a
c.
10 km thick ophiolite suite in the NW Himalaya, India. The
c.
7 km thick lower ultramafic part of the ophiolite body terminates against the Tso Morari Crystallines, which represent the leading edge of the Indian continental margin. Mineral inclusions from the peridotites in the lower ultramafic part of the NOC were studied, including
C
2
/c
clinoenstatite, disordered coesite and high-pressure Mg
2
SiO
4
(probably β-Mg
2
SiO
4
). These minerals, found in two lherzolite bodies from the ophiolite's mantle section, were characterized by laser Raman spectroscopy and electron micro-probe analysis. Textural evidence supporting decompression from an ultra-high-pressure condition was also observed, such as Cr spinel exsolution needles in olivine crystals. The systematic mineral phase transitions of coesite→quartz, high-pressure clinoenstatite→orthoenstatite and β-Mg
2
SiO
4
→Cr spinel exsolution needles in olivine suggest that the mantle section of the Nidar Ophiolite evolved from the deep mantle beneath a palaeo-spreading centre. The phase stabilities of these high-pressure minerals require derivation from the depth of the mantle transition zone (410–660 km). A transport mechanism for these minerals is suggested via dunite channels along a mantle adiabat in the focused convective flow below the spreading centre. This mechanism brought these deep mantle phases into the ultramafic part of the NOC. These observations suggest that some part of the mantle section of the NOC in the NW Himalaya originated in a mid-ocean ridge setting.

Supplementary material:

Representative mineral chemical compositions of the lherzolites (1M1 and 1NU27) and the host channelized dunites are available at
http://www.geolsoc.org.uk/SUP18836
.
Arterial baroreceptor reflex control of renal sympathetic nerve activity following chronic myocardial infarction in male, female, and ovariectomized female rats
Authors: Pinkham Maximilian I. , Whalley Gillian A. , Guild Sarah-Jane , Malpas Simon C. , Barrett Carolyn J.
Published: May 2015

There is controversy regarding whether the arterial baroreflex control of renal sympathetic nerve activity (SNA) in heart failure is altered. We investigated the impact of sex and ovarian hormones on changes in the arterial baroreflex control of renal SNA following a chronic myocardial infarction (MI). Renal SNA and arterial pressure were recorded in chloralose-urethane anesthetized male, female, and ovariectomized female (OVX) Wistar rats 6–7 wk postsham or MI surgery. Animals were grouped according to MI size (sham, small and large MI). Ovary-intact females had a lower mortality rate post-MI (24%) compared with both males (38%) and OVX (50%) ( P < 0.05). Males and OVX with large MI, but not small MI, displayed an impaired ability of the arterial baroreflex to inhibit renal SNA. As a result, the male large MI group (49 ± 6 vs. 84 ± 5% in male sham group) and OVX large MI group (37 ± 3 vs. 75 ± 5% in OVX sham group) displayed significantly reduced arterial baroreflex range of control of normalized renal SNA ( P < 0.05). In ovary-intact females, arterial baroreflex control of normalized renal SNA was unchanged regardless of MI size. In males and OVX there was a significant, positive correlation between left ventricle (LV) ejection fraction and arterial baroreflex range of control of normalized renal SNA, but not absolute renal SNA, that was not evident in ovary-intact females. The current findings demonstrate that the arterial baroreflex control of renal SNA post-MI is preserved in ovary-intact females, and the state of left ventricular dysfunction significantly impacts on the changes in the arterial baroreflex post-MI.
Neurogenic mechanisms underlying the rapid onset of sympathetic responses to intermittent hypoxia
Authors: Mifflin Steve , Cunningham J. Thomas , Toney Glenn M.
Published: May 2015

Sleep apnea (SA) leads to metabolic abnormalities and cardiovascular dysfunction. Rodent models of nocturnal intermittent hypoxia (IH) are used to mimic arterial hypoxemias that occur during SA. This mini-review focuses on our work examining central nervous system (CNS) mechanisms whereby nocturnal IH results in increased sympathetic nerve discharge (SND) and hypertension (HTN) that persist throughout the 24-h diurnal period. Within the first 1-2 days of IH, arterial pressure (AP) increases even during non-IH periods of the day. Exposure to IH for 7 days biases nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) neurons receiving arterial chemoreceptor inputs toward increased discharge, providing a substrate for persistent activation of sympathetic outflow. IH HTN is blunted by manipulations that reduce angiotensin II (ANG II) signaling within the forebrain lamina terminalis suggesting that central ANG II supports persistent IH HTN. Inhibition of the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) reduces ongoing SND and acutely lowers AP in IH-conditioned animals. These findings support a role for the PVN, which integrates information ascending from NTS and descending from the lamina terminalis, in sustaining IH HTN. In summary, our findings indicate that IH rapidly and persistently activates a central circuit that includes the NTS, forebrain lamina terminalis, and the PVN. Our working model holds that NTS neuromodulation increases transmission of arterial chemoreceptor inputs, increasing SND via connections with PVN and rostral ventrolateral medulla. Increased circulating ANG II sensed by the lamina terminalis generates yet another excitatory drive to PVN. Together with adaptations intrinsic to the PVN, these responses to IH support rapid onset neurogenic HTN.
Effect of hyperoxic and hyperbaric conditions on the adenosinergic pathway and CD26 expression in rat
Authors: Bruzzese Laurie , Rostain Jean-Claude , Née Laëtitia , Condo Jocelyne , Mottola Giovanna , Adjriou Nabil , Mercier Laurence , Berge-Lefranc Jean-Louis , Fromonot Julien , Kipson Nathalie , Lucciano Michel , Durand-Gorde Josée-Martine , Jammes Yves , Guieu Régis , Ruf Jean , Fenouillet Emmanuel
Published: May 2015

The nucleoside adenosine acts on the nervous and cardiovascular systems via the A2Areceptor (A2AR). In response to oxygen level in tissues, adenosine plasma concentration is regulated in particular via its synthesis by CD73 and via its degradation by adenosine deaminase (ADA). The cell-surface endopeptidase CD26 controls the concentration of vasoactive and antioxidant peptides and hence regulates the oxygen supply to tissues and oxidative stress response. Although overexpression of adenosine, CD73, ADA, A2AR, and CD26 in response to hypoxia is well documented, the effects of hyperoxic and hyperbaric conditions on these elements deserve further consideration. Rats and a murine Chem-3 cell line that expresses A2AR were exposed to 0.21 bar O2, 0.79 bar N2(terrestrial conditions; normoxia); 1 bar O2(hyperoxia); 2 bar O2(hyperbaric hyperoxia); 0.21 bar O2, 1.79 bar N2(hyperbaria). Adenosine plasma concentration, CD73, ADA, A2AR expression, and CD26 activity were addressed in vivo, and cAMP production was addressed in cellulo. For in vivo conditions, 1) hyperoxia decreased adenosine plasma level and T cell surface CD26 activity, whereas it increased CD73 expression and ADA level; 2) hyperbaric hyperoxia tended to amplify the trend; and 3) hyperbaria alone lacked significant influence on these parameters. In the brain and in cellulo, 1) hyperoxia decreased A2AR expression; 2) hyperbaric hyperoxia amplified the trend; and 3) hyperbaria alone exhibited the strongest effect. We found a similar pattern regarding both A2AR mRNA synthesis in the brain and cAMP production in Chem-3 cells. Thus a high oxygen level tended to downregulate the adenosinergic pathway and CD26 activity. Hyperbaria alone affected only A2AR expression and cAMP production. We discuss how such mechanisms triggered by hyperoxygenation can limit, through vasoconstriction, the oxygen supply to tissues and the production of reactive oxygen species.
Effect of knee angle on quadriceps strength and activation after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction
Authors: Krishnan Chandramouli , Theuerkauf Paul
Published: May 2015

Quadriceps strength and activation deficits after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury or surgery are typically evaluated at joint positions that are biomechanically advantageous to the quadriceps muscle. However, the effect of knee joint position and the associated changes in muscle length on strength and activation is currently unknown in this population. Here, we examined the effect of knee angle on quadriceps strength, activation, and electrically evoked torque in individuals with ACL reconstruction. Furthermore, we evaluated whether knee angle mediated the relationship between quadriceps weakness and functional performance after ACL reconstruction. Knee strength and activation were tested bilaterally at 90° and 45° of knee flexion in 11 subjects with ACL reconstruction using an interpolated triplet technique. The magnitude of electrically evoked torque at rest was used to quantify peripheral muscle contractile property changes, and the single-leg hop for distance test was used to evaluate functional performance. The results indicated that although quadriceps strength deficits were similar between knee angles, voluntary activation deficits were significantly higher in the reconstructed leg at 45° of knee flexion. On the contrary, the side-to-side evoked torque at rest ratio [i.e., (reconstructed/nonreconstructed) × 100] was significantly lower at 90° than at 45° of knee flexion. The association between quadriceps strength and functional performance was stronger at 45° of knee flexion. The results provide novel evidence that quadriceps activation is selectively affected at 45° of knee flexion and emphasize the importance of assessing quadriceps strength and activation at this position when feasible because it better captures activation deficits.
Characterization and Optimization of a Single-Transistor Active Pixel Image Sensor with Floating Junction Connected to Floating Gate
Authors: Liu Xin-Yan , Wu Jun , Liu Xiao-Yong , Zhang Shuai , Lin Xi , Zhang Chun-Min , Wang Peng-Fei , Zhang David Wei
Published: May 2015

The application of semifloating gate transistor (SFGT) as the single-transistor active pixel image sensor (APS) is investigated in this paper. This single-transistor (1T) APS can realize the functions of the conventional 3T CMOS image sensor. The device operation mechanism, optimization methods, and transient behavior measurements will be discussed. Because the floating junction of this device is connected to the floating gate, special behaviors such as floating gate voltage pinning effects were observed. The transient time measurement emulating the exposure procedure also confirmed the light sensing function as a single-transistor image sensor.
Genetic Variant of C-5434TRENEnhancer on Serum Renin Levels and Binding Pattern of Signal Transducers and Activators Transcription 3
Authors: Maslahah Imama , Rohman Mohammad Saifur , Widodo Nashi , Endharti Agustina Tri , Utomo Didik
Published: May 2015

The human renin gene has been widely known to be involved in essential hypertension (EH) pathogenesis. Genetic variant C-5434T ofRENenhancer contributed to renin gene transcription and serum renin regulation. However, the mechanism associated with the transcription level changes remains unknown, and only a few reports exist that discussed serum renin levels on C-5434T ofREN. Thus, this study aims to investigate the relationship between genetic variant C-5434T ofRENenhancer and serum renin levels in Indonesian hypertensive patients. SNP of C-5434T was genotyped in 56 hypertensive patients by using RFLP. The data showed that serum renin is slightly higher in hypertensive patients with the TT genotype (39 ± 10.3) than patients with the CC genotype (33 ± 10.6) but the difference was not statistically significant (p=0.35). Here, we also present a docking approach for predicting interaction between genetic variant -5434C/T and STAT3 (Signal Transducers and Activators Transcription 3), the predicted transcription factor that regulates renin gene enhancer. The results showed that STAT3-DNA allele T more favorably binds to DNA than STAT3-DNA allele C. These data suggest that the presence of genetic variant C-5434T has changed the binding pattern of STAT3 toRENenhancer. This is likely to influence STAT3 activity to stimulate the expression of renin gene in producing renin.
Periodic Wave Solutions and Their Limit Forms of the Modified Novikov Equation
Authors: Meng Qing , He Bin
Published: May 2015

The modified Novikov equationut-utxx+(b+1)u2ux=buuxuxx+u2uxxxis studied by using the bifurcation theory of dynamical system and the method of phase portraits analysis. The existences, dynamic properties, and limit forms of periodic wave solutions forbbeing a negative even are investigated. All possible exact parametric representations of the different kinds of nonlinear waves also are presented.
Prolonged Complete Response in a Patient with Metastatic Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma after FOLFIRINOX Chemotherapy and Maintenance with FOLFIRI
Authors: Nikolaou Christos , Matikas Alexios , Papavasilopoulou Maria , Mavroudis Dimitris , Vamvakas Lampros
Published: May 2015

Metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma confers a poor prognosis. Even with recent advances in the treatment of this disease with the introduction of two modestly effective chemotherapy regimens, complete responses are still very rare. Moreover, there are no published data on how to further manage the patients who achieve a sustained remission following treatment. Herein, we report the case of a patient with metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma who achieved a complete response lasting for more than three years after receiving induction chemotherapy with FOLFIRINOX followed by maintenance with FOLFIRI.
An Improved Optimal Capacity Ratio Design Method for WSB/HPS System Based on Complementary Characteristics of Wind and Solar
Authors: Yin Xiaoju , Zhang Fengge , Ju Zhenhe , Jiao Yonggang
Published: May 2015

The reliability and economic value of wind and solar power generation system with energy storage are decided by the balance of capacity distribution. The improved capacity balance matching method is proposed in this paper, which not only utilizes the complementary characteristics of the wind and solar power generation system sufficiently but also reduces the charge and discharge times of the battery. Therefore, the generation reliability is improved and the working lifetime of the whole system is lengthened. Consequently, the investment of the battery energy storage is reduced as well as the whole cost is decreased. The experimental result was presented to verify the effectiveness of the improved optimal capacity ratio design method.
Pulmonary Endarterectomy in a Patient with Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura
Authors: Yıldızeli Bedrettin , Yanartaş Mehmed , Keskin Sibel , Atagündüz Işık , Altınay Ece
Published: May 2015

Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) patients are at high risk for bleeding complications regarding surgeries involving cardiopulmonary bypass. We report an ITP patient with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension who underwent uncomplicated pulmonary endarterectomy with receiving postoperative intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy. The positive outcome of this case may suggest that pulmonary endarterectomy surgery is performed safely for ITP patients.
Nonlinear Coupling Characteristics Analysis of Integrated System of Electromagnetic Brake and Frictional Brake of Car
Authors: He Ren , Hu Donghai
Published: May 2015

Since theoretical guidance is lacking in the design and control of the integrated system of electromagnetic brake and frictional brake, this paper aims to solve this problem and explores the nonlinear coupling characteristics and dynamic characteristics of the integrated system of electromagnetic brake and frictional brake. This paper uses the power bond graph method to establish nonlinear coupling mathematical model of the integrated system of electromagnetic brake and frictional brake and conducts the contrastive analysis on the dynamic characteristics based on this mathematical model. Meanwhile, the accuracy of the nonlinear coupling mathematical model proposed above is verified on the hardware in the loop simulation platform, and nonlinear coupling characteristics of the integrated system are also analyzed through experiments.
Xanthogranulomatous Pyelonephritis Associated with Hepatic Dysfunction in Pregnancy
Authors: Ferreira L. , Oliveira C. , Cruz C. , Pacheco A.
Published: May 2015

Xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis is a rare disease characterised by the replacement of normal renal parenchyma by foamy macrophages. The only treatment for this type of pyelonephritis is of a surgical nature with partial or total nephrectomy. The occurrence of xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis during pregnancy is a rare event (with only 6 cases described in the literature). We report a case of xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis in a 32-week pregnant woman associated with hepatic dysfunction.
Ex Vivo Culture of CTCs: An Emerging Resource to Guide Cancer Therapy
Authors: Maheswaran Shyamala , Haber Daniel A.
Published: May 2015

With increasing application of targeted therapies and the development of acquired resistance, much attention is being focused on developing in vitro and in vivo patient-specific tumor models for individualized therapeutic evaluation of cancers. Circulating tumor cells provide a source of noninvasively and sequentially sampled invasive cancer cells suitable for propagation in vitro. We review the advantages and challenges associated with ex vivo culture of tumor cells circulating in the blood of patients with cancer. Cancer Res; 75(12); 2411–5. ©2015 AACR.
Associations of Coffee Drinking with Systemic Immune and Inflammatory Markers
Authors: Loftfield Erikka , Shiels Meredith S. , Graubard Barry I. , Katki Hormuzd A. , Chaturvedi Anil K. , Trabert Britton , Pinto Ligia A. , Kemp Troy J. , Shebl Fatma M. , Mayne Susan T. , Wentzensen Nicolas , Purdue Mark P. , Hildesheim Allan , Sinha Rashmi , Freedman Neal D.
Published: May 2015

Background: Coffee drinking has been inversely associated with mortality as well as cancers of the endometrium, colon, skin, prostate, and liver. Improved insulin sensitivity and reduced inflammation are among the hypothesized mechanisms by which coffee drinking may affect cancer risk; however, associations between coffee drinking and systemic levels of immune and inflammatory markers have not been well characterized.

Methods: We used Luminex bead-based assays to measure serum levels of 77 immune and inflammatory markers in 1,728 older non-Hispanic Whites. Usual coffee intake was self-reported using a food frequency questionnaire. We used weighted multivariable logistic regression models to examine associations between coffee and dichotomized marker levels. We conducted statistical trend tests by modeling the median value of each coffee category and applied a 20% false discovery rate criterion to P values.

Results: Ten of the 77 markers were nominally associated (P trend < 0.05) with coffee drinking. Five markers withstood correction for multiple comparisons and included aspects of the host response namely chemotaxis of monocytes/macrophages (IFNγ, CX3CL1/fractalkine, CCL4/MIP-1β), proinflammatory cytokines (sTNFRII), and regulators of cell growth (FGF-2). Heavy coffee drinkers had lower circulating levels of IFNγ [odds ratios (OR), 0.35; 95% confidence intervals (CI), 0.16–0.75], CX3CL1/fractalkine (OR, 0.25; 95% CI, 0.10–0.64), CCL4/MIP-1β (OR, 0.48; 95% CI, 0.24–0.99), FGF-2 (OR, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.28–1.38), and sTNFRII (OR, 0.34; 95% CI, 0.15–0.79) than non-coffee drinkers.

Conclusions: Lower circulating levels of inflammatory markers among coffee drinkers may partially mediate previously observed associations of coffee with cancer and other chronic diseases.

Impact: Validation studies, ideally controlled feeding trials, are needed to confirm these associations. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 24(7); 1052–60. ©2015 AACR.
Does It Matter Who Provides Psychological Interventions for Medically Unexplained Symptoms? A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Gerger Heike , Hlavica Michaela , Gaab Jens , Munder Thomas , Barth Jürgen
Published: May 2015

Background: Patients with medically unexplained symptoms (MUS) are difficult to treat and cause high health-care costs. Psychological interventions might be a beneficial option for treating patients with MUS, but evidence is inconsistent. This meta-analysis compares the effectiveness of psychological interventions for MUS - delivered either by psychotherapists (PTs) or by general practitioners (GPs) - with that of usual care. Method: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis on randomised controlled trials of psychological interventions for MUS. Physical symptoms were the primary outcome, and physical functioning and psychological symptoms were the secondary outcomes. We pooled between-group effect sizes (ESs) after the treatment and at the follow-up in random-effects meta-regressions and stratified meta-analyses. We repeated these analyses with the intervention provider, intervention dose, MUS severity and methodological quality as predictors of relative intervention effects. Results: A total of 3,225 patients in 20 studies were analysed. After the treatment, small and significant ESs were found for all 3 outcome domains (ES range: 0.13-0.19, all p < 0.05). Psychological interventions were more beneficial for physical symptoms when delivered by PTs than by GPs (p = 0.02). There was no difference between PTs and GPs in terms of physical functioning and psychological symptoms. Conclusion: Psychological interventions are effective for patients with MUS, but the effects are small and most likely of short duration. Interventions that are delivered by PTs appear to have larger effects on unexplained physical symptoms than those delivered by GPs. Whether this superiority is due to a larger number of sessions of PT interventions remains unclear from our findings.