bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accidental Left Circumflex Artery to Right Lung Fistula in a Suspected Case of Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Alipourparsa Saeed , Khaheshi Isa , Eslami Vahid , Bozorgmanesh Mohammadreza , Haybar Habib
Published: July 2014

A 56-year-old woman was referred to the cardiology department of the Shahid Modarres hospital. The patient had a history of pulmonary thromboembolism 20 years ago which had been managed by the inferior vena cava filter and since then the patient has been on warfarin. Her chief complaint was chronic dyspnea on exertion (NYHA class II) from several years ago. Right and left heart catheterization was performed for evaluation of pulmonary artery pressure. We found rich collateral formations between LCX as well as RCA and right pulmonary artery, primarily assumed as multiple fistulas. Among patients who have chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension, systemic collateral supply to the pulmonary parenchyma has been previously reported to occur from both bronchial and/or nonbronchial systemic circulations. Our patient had neither signs of heart failure nor myocardial ischemia and, thus, was a candidate for conservative management. The adenosine pulmonary reactivity test was not performed because of low pulmonary pressure which had been estimated to be high.
Subcutaneous Emphysema, Pneumomediastinum, Pneumoretroperitoneum, and Pneumoscrotum: Unusual Complications of Acute Perforated Diverticulitis
Authors: Fosi S. , Giuricin V. , Girardi V. , Di Caprera E. , Costanzo E. , Di Trapano R. , Simonetti G.
Published: July 2014

Pneumomediastinum, and subcutaneous emphysema usually result from spontaneous alveolar wall rupture and, far less commonly, from disruption of the upper airways or gastrointestinal tract. Subcutaneous neck emphysema, pneumomediastinum, and retropneumoperitoneum caused by nontraumatic perforations of the colon have been infrequently reported. The main symptoms of spontaneous subcutaneous emphysema are swelling and crepitus over the involved site; further clinical findings in case of subcutaneous cervical and mediastinal emphysema can be neck and chest pain and dyspnea. Radiological imaging plays an important role to achieve the correct diagnosis and extension of the disease. We present a quite rare case of spontaneous subcutaneous cervical emphysema, pneumomediastinum, and pneumoretroperitoneum due to perforation of an occult sigmoid diverticulum. Abdomen ultrasound, chest X-rays, and computer tomography (CT) were performed to evaluate the free gas extension and to identify potential sources of extravasating gas. Radiological diagnosis was confirmed by the subsequent surgical exploration.
An ICT-Based Diabetes Management System Tested for Health Care Delivery in the African Context
Authors: Takenga Claude , Berndt Rolf-Dietrich , Musongya Olivier , Kitero Joël , Katoke Remi , Molo Kakule , Kazingufu Basile , Meni Malikwisha , Vikandy Mambo , Takenga Henri
Published: July 2014

The demand for new healthcare services is growing rapidly. Improving accessibility of the African population to diabetes care seems to be a big challenge in most countries where the number of care centers and medical staff is reduced. Information and communication technologies (ICT) have great potential to address some of these challenges faced by several countries in providing accessible, cost-effective, and high-quality health care services. This paper presents the Mobil Diab system which is a telemedical approach proposed for the management of long-term diseases. The system applies modern mobile and web technologies which overcome geographical barriers, and increase access to health care services. The idea of the system is to involve patients in the therapy process and motivate them for an active participation. For validation of the system in African context, a trial was conducted in the Democratic Republic of Congo. 40 Subjects with diabetes divided randomly into control and intervention groups were included in the test. Results show that Mobil Diab is suitable for African countries and presents a number of benefits for the population and public health care system. It improves clinical management and delivery of diabetes care services by enhancing access, quality, motivation, reassurance, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
Experimental Investigation of the Phase Equilibria in the Al-Mn-Zn System at 400°C
Authors: Wang Tian , Kevorkov Dmytro , Mostafa Ahmad , Medraj Mamoun
Published: July 2014

Al-Mn-Zn ternary system is experimentally investigated at 400°C using diffusion couples and key alloys. Phase relationships and homogeneity ranges are determined for binary and ternary compounds using EPMA, SEM/EDS, and XRD. Reported ternary compound T3 (Al11Mn3Zn2) is confirmed in this study and is denoted as τ2 in this paper. Two new ternary compounds (τ1 and τ3) are observed in this system at 400°C. τ1 is determined as a stoichiometric compound with the composition of Al31Mn8Zn11. τ3 has been found to have homogeneity range of AlxMnyZnz (x=9–13 at%; y=11–15 at%; z=75–77 at%). The binary compounds Al4Mn and Al11Mn4 exhibit limited solid solubility of around 6 at% and 4 at% Zn, respectively. Terminal solid solution Al8Mn5 is found to have maximum ternary solubility of about 10 at% Zn. In addition, ternary solubility of Al-rich β-Mn′ at 400°C is determined as 4 at% Zn. Zn-rich β-Mn′′ has a ternary solubility of 3 at% Al. The solubility of Al in Mn5Zn21 is measured as 5 at%. Based on the current experimental results, the isothermal section of Al-Mn-Zn ternary system at 400°C has been constructed.
Experiments Are Revealing a Foundation Species: A Case Study of Eastern Hemlock (Tsuga canadensis)
Authors: Ellison Aaron M.
Published: July 2014

Foundation species are species that create and define particular ecosystems; control in large measure the distribution and abundance of associated flora and fauna; and modulate core ecosystem processes, such as energy flux and biogeochemical cycles. However, whether a particular species plays a foundational role in a system is not simply asserted. Rather, it is a hypothesis to be tested, and such tests are best done with large-scale, long-term manipulative experiments. The utility of such experiments is illustrated through a review of the Harvard Forest Hemlock Removal Experiment (HF-HeRE), a multidecadal, multihectare experiment designed to test the foundational role of eastern hemlock,Tsuga canadensis, in eastern North American forests. Experimental removal ofT. canadensishas revealed that after 10 years, this species has pronounced, long-term effects on associated flora and fauna, but shorter-term effects on energy flux and nutrient cycles. We hypothesize that on century-long scales, slower changes in soil microbial associates will further alter ecosystem processes inT. canadensisstands. HF-HeRE may indeed continue for >100 years, but at such time scales, episodic disturbances and changes in regional climate and land cover can be expected to interact in novel ways with these forests and their foundation species.
Expression and Clinical Significance of the Autophagy Proteins BECLIN 1 and LC3 in Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Valente Guido , Morani Federica , Nicotra Giuseppina , Fusco Nicola , Peracchio Claudia , Titone Rossella , Alabiso Oscar , Arisio Riccardo , Katsaros Dyonissios , Benedetto Chiara , Isidoro Ciro
Published: July 2014

Autophagy is dysregulated in cancer and might be involved in ovarian carcinogenesis. BECLIN-1, a protein that interacts with either BCL-2 or PI3k class III, plays a critical role in the regulation of both autophagy and cell death. Induction of autophagy is associated with the presence of vacuoles characteristically labelled with the protein LC3. We have studied the biological and clinical significance of BECLIN 1 and LC3 in ovary tumours of different histological types. The positive expression of BECLIN 1 was well correlated with the presence of LC3-positive autophagic vacuoles and was inversely correlated with the expression of BCL-2. The latter inhibits the autophagy function of BECLIN 1. We found that type I tumours, which are less aggressive than type II, were more frequently expressing high level of BECLIN 1. Of note, tumours of histologic grade III expressed low level of BECLIN 1. Consistently, high level of expression of BECLIN 1 and LC3 in tumours is well correlated with the overall survival of the patients. The present data are compatible with the hypotheses that a low level of autophagy favours cancer progression and that ovary cancer with upregulated autophagy has a less aggressive behaviour and is more responsive to chemotherapy.
Autophagy in Alcohol-Induced Multiorgan Injury: Mechanisms and Potential Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Li Yuan , Wang Shaogui , Ni Hong-Min , Huang Heqing , Ding Wen-Xing
Published: July 2014

Autophagy is a genetically programmed, evolutionarily conserved intracellular degradation pathway involved in the trafficking of long-lived proteins and cellular organelles to the lysosome for degradation to maintain cellular homeostasis. Alcohol consumption leads to injury in various tissues and organs including liver, pancreas, heart, brain, and muscle. Emerging evidence suggests that autophagy is involved in alcohol-induced tissue injury. Autophagy serves as a cellular protective mechanism against alcohol-induced tissue injury in most tissues but could be detrimental in heart and muscle. This review summarizes current knowledge about the role of autophagy in alcohol-induced injury in different tissues/organs and its potential molecular mechanisms as well as possible therapeutic targets based on modulation of autophagy.
The Characterization of Biological Rhythms in Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Ortiz-Tudela Elisabet , Martinez-Nicolas Antonio , Díaz-Mardomingo Carmen , García-Herranz Sara , Pereda-Pérez Inmaculada , Valencia Azucena , Peraita Herminia , Venero César , Madrid Juan Antonio , Rol Maria Angeles
Published: July 2014

Introduction. Patients with dementia, especially Alzheimer’s disease, present several circadian impairments related to an accelerated perturbation of their biological clock that is caused by the illness itself and not merely age-related. Thus, the objective of this work was to elucidate whether these circadian system alterations were already present in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), as compared to healthy age-matched subjects.Methods. 40 subjects (21 patients diagnosed with MCI, 74.1 ± 1.5 y.o., and 19 healthy subjects, 71.7 ± 1.4 y.o.) were subjected to ambulatory monitoring, recording wrist skin temperature, motor activity, body position, and the integrated variable TAP (including temperature, activity, and position) for one week. Nonparametrical analyses were then applied.Results. MCI patients exhibited a significant phase advance with respect to the healthy group for the following phase markers: temperature M5 (mean ± SEM: 04:20 ± 00:21 versus 02:52 ± 00:21) and L10 (14:35 ± 00:27 versus 13:24 ± 00:16) and TAP L5 (04:18 ± 00:14 versus 02:55 ± 00:30) and M10 (14:30 ± 00:18 versus 13:28 ± 00:23).Conclusions. These results suggest that significant advances in the biological clock begin to occur in MCI patients, evidenced by an accelerated aging of the circadian clock, as compared to a healthy population of the same age.
Research on the Evaluation Model of Urban Tourism Management Efficiency with Uncertain Linguistic Information
Authors: Wang Song-Mao , Fang Liang-Yan , Deng Feng
Published: July 2014

We investigate the multiple attribute decision making problems for evaluating the urban tourism management efficiency with uncertain linguistic information. We utilize the uncertain linguistic weighted averaging (ULWA) operator to aggregate the uncertain linguistic information corresponding to each alternative and get the overall value of the alternatives and, then rank the alternatives and select the most desirable one(s). Finally, a numerical example for evaluating the urban tourism management efficiency with uncertain linguistic information is used to illustrate the proposed model.
The Biological Side of Water-Soluble Arene Ruthenium Assemblies
Authors: Therrien Bruno , Furrer Julien
Published: July 2014

This review article covers the synthetic strategies, structural aspects, and host-guest properties of ruthenium metalla-assemblies, with a special focus on their use as drug delivery vectors. The two-dimensional metalla-rectangles show interesting host-guest possibilities but seem less appropriate for being used as drug carriers. On the other hand, metalla-prisms allow encapsulation and possible targeted release of bioactive molecules and consequently show some potential as drug delivery vectors. The reactivity of these metalla-prisms can be fine-tuned to allow a fine control of the guest’s release. The larger metalla-cubes can be used to stabilize the formation of G-quadruplex DNA and can be used to encapsulate and release photoactive molecules such as porphins. These metalla-assemblies demonstrate great prospective in photodynamic therapy.
Immune Response, Safety, and Survival and Quality of Life Outcomes for Advanced Colorectal Cancer Patients Treated with Dendritic Cell Vaccine and Cytokine-Induced Killer Cell Therapy
Authors: Zhu Hui , Yang Xuejing , Li Jiali , Ren Yanjie , Zhang Tianyu , Zhang Chunze , Zhang Jintai , Li Jing , Pang Yan
Published: July 2014

Purpose.To determine the immune response after dendritic cell (DC) vaccine and cytokine-induced killer cells (CIK) therapy and assess its associated toxicity, survival benefit, and changes in the quality of life (QOL) of advanced colorectal cancer (CRC) patients.Methods.We recruited 100 patients with unresectable CRC orrelapsed CRC after surgery who received DC vaccine and CIK cells (group immunotherapy, group I), and, as a control, 251 patients who had similar characteristics and underwent similar treatments, except for this immunotherapy (group nonimmunotherapy, group NI). After a follow-up period of 489.2 ± 160.4 days, overall survival (OS) of the two groups was compared using the Kaplan-Meier method.Results.In group I, 62% of patients developed a positive delayed type hypersensitivity response, and most patients showed an improvement in physical strength (75.2%), appetite (74.2%), sleeping (72.1%), and body weight (70.1%). Adverse events were fever (29.5%), insomnia (19.2%), anorexia (9.1%), sore joints (5.4%), and skin rash (1.0%). No toxicity was observed in patients treated with DC vaccine and CIK therapy. OS was significantly longer in group I than in group NI (P= 0.043).Conclusion.DC vaccine and CIK therapy were safe and could induce an immune response against CRC, thereby improving QOL and prolonging OS.
Heat and Mass Transfer of Vacuum Cooling for Porous Foods‐Parameter Sensitivity Analysis
Authors: Zhang Zhijun , Zhang Yuekai , Su Tianyi , Zhang Wenhui , Zhao Lili , Li Xun
Published: July 2014

Based on the theory of heat and mass transfer, a coupled model for the porous food vacuum cooling process is constructed. Sensitivity analyses of the process to food density, thermal conductivity, specific heat, latent heat of evaporation, diameter of pores, mass transfer coefficient, viscosity of gas, and porosity were examined. The simulation results show that the food density would affect the vacuum cooling process but not the vacuum cooling end temperature. The surface temperature of food was slightly affected and the core temperature is not affected by the changed thermal conductivity. The core temperature and surface temperature are affected by the changed specific heat. The core temperature and surface temperature are affected by the changed latent heat of evaporation. The core temperature is affected by the diameter of pores. But the surface temperature is not affected obviously. The core temperature and surface temperature are not affected by the changed gas viscosity. The parameter sensitivity of mass transfer coefficient is obvious. The core temperature and surface temperature are affected by the changed mass transfer coefficient. In all the simulations, the end temperature of core and surface is not affected. The vacuum cooling process of porous medium is a process controlled by outside process.
Retrieval of Layer Averaged Relative Humidity Profiles from MHS Observations over Tropical Region
Authors: Gangwar R. K. , Gohil B. S. , Mathur A. K.
Published: July 2014

The present paper deals with the retrieval of the atmospheric layer averaged relative humidity profiles using data from the Microwave Humidity Sounder (MHS) onboard the MetOp satellite. The retrieval has been innovatively performed by firstly retrieving humidity for pairs of thick overlapping layers (TOLs) used subsequently to derive humidity for associated thin isolated layer (TIL). A water vapour dependent (WVD) algorithm has been developed and applied to infer the humidity of TOLs. Thus, the retrieved profiles have been finally compared with standard algorithm (NORM). These algorithms have been developed based on radiative transfer simulations and study of sensitivities of MHS channels on humidity of various types of layers (TOL, TIL). The algorithm has been tested with MHS data and validated using concurrent radiosonde as well as NCEP reanalysis data indicating profile errors of ~15% and ~19%, respectively.
Gold‐Catalyzed Growth of Aluminium‐Doped Zinc Oxide Nanorods by Sputtering Method
Authors: Rosli A. B. , Marbie M. M. , Herman S. H. , Ani M. H.
Published: July 2014

Aluminium‐doped zinc oxide (AZO) nanorods thin films were grown by RF magnetron sputtering on gold (Au) metal catalyst. The Au catalyst layers with 5, 10, and 15 nm thickness were deposited on glass substrates by sputtering method followed by annealing for 15 min at 500°C to form Au nanostructures on the glass substrate. The AZO thin films were then deposited on the Au catalyst at different deposition temperature varying from 200 to 500°C. Postdeposition annealing processes of the Au catalyst resulted in different morphologies of the Au catalyst layers depending on their thicknesses. This in turn gave different AZO morphologies which suggest that the Au catalyst layer thickness and the deposition temperature contribute to the growth mechanism of the AZO nanostructures. AZO nanorods thin films having hexagonal wurtzite structure with individual nanorods on the film surface were obtained from the samples deposited on 5 and 10 nm thick Au catalyst with the deposition temperature of 300°C.
Clinical, Laboratory, and Therapeutic Analyses of 21 Patients with Neonatal Thrombosis and Antiphospholipid Antibodies: A Literature Review
Authors: Peixoto Marcus Vinicius da Costa , de Carvalho Jozélio Freire , Rodrigues Carlos Ewerton Maia
Published: July 2014

Objectives. A review of the literature reports neonatal thrombosis and antiphospholipid antibodies cases through a retrospective study that focuses on the pathogenesis and main clinical and laboratory manifestations of this disease.Methods. The case reports were selected from PubMed. The keywords used to search were neonatal, antiphospholipid syndrome, thrombosis, and antiphospholipid antibodies. References that were published from 1987 to 2013 were reviewed.Results. Twenty-one cases of neonatal thrombosis and antiphospholipid antibodies were identified. Ten children were born preterm (before 37 weeks). Arterial involvement (17/21) was predominant, of which stroke (12/17) was the most prevalent clinical manifestation. Anti-cardiolipin antibodies were predominant (13/21) in the antiphospholipid antibody profiles. Treatments were based on the use of symptomatics such as antiepileptics (8/21), and 6/21 patients received heparin. There were 4 deaths (4/21); otherwise, the children recovered well, especially the neonates who suffered from strokes (9/12).Conclusion. Neonatal thrombosis and antiphospholipid antibodies are rare. The development of thrombotic manifestations in neonates seems not to be associated exclusively with the aPL, but their etiology may be linked to pre- and perinatal events. We noted good therapeutic responses, especially in stroke patients, who presented with favorable outcomes in 82% of the cases.
Back Analysis of Geomechanical Parameters in Underground Engineering Using Artificial Bee Colony
Authors: Zhu Changxing , Zhao Hongbo , Zhao Ming
Published: July 2014

Accurate geomechanical parameters are critical in tunneling excavation, design, and supporting. In this paper, a displacements back analysis based on artificial bee colony (ABC) algorithm is proposed to identify geomechanical parameters from monitored displacements. ABC was used as global optimal algorithm to search the unknown geomechanical parameters for the problem with analytical solution. To the problem without analytical solution, optimal back analysis is time-consuming, and least square support vector machine (LSSVM) was used to build the relationship between unknown geomechanical parameters and displacement and improve the efficiency of back analysis. The proposed method was applied to a tunnel with analytical solution and a tunnel without analytical solution. The results show the proposed method is feasible.
Malarial Infection in HIV Infected Pregnant Women Attending a Rural Antenatal Clinic in Nigeria
Authors: Houmsou R. S. , Wama B. E. , Elkanah S. O. , Garba L. C. , Hile T. D. , Bingbeng J. B. , Kela S. L. , Amuta E. U.
Published: July 2014

Malaria still remains a challenging infection affecting the lives of several HIV infected pregnant women in sub-Saharan Africa. This study was undertaken to determine malarial infection in HIV infected pregnant women in relation to sociodemographic and obstetrical factors. The study also assessed relationship between malarial infection and haemoglobin level, CD4+ counts, and ART regimen, as well as predisposing risk factors that influenced occurrence of malarial infection in the women. Thick and thin blood smears were prepared and stained with Giemsa. Haemoglobin level was determined using a hematology analyzer, while the flow cytometry was used to measure CD4+ counts. Sociodemographic and obstetrical parameters were obtained through the administration of questionnaires. Of the 159 HIV infected pregnant women examined, 33.3% (59/159) had malarial infection. Malarial infection was significantly higher in pregnant women who were divorced, 40.24% (33/82) (χ2=5.72; P=0.05), were at their first trimester (4–12 weeks), 54.8% (17/31) (χ2=14.85; P=0.01), had CD4+ = [201–500 cells/μL], 42.42% (42/99) (χ2=10.13; P=0.00), and those that had severe anaemia (<8 dg/L), 100.00% (χ2= 45.75; P=0.00). However, risk factors that influenced the occurrence of malarial infection in the pregnant women were occupation (farming) (AOR=0.226; P=0.03), marital status (divorced) (AOR=2.80; P=0.02), gestation (first trimester) (AOR=0.33; P=0.00), haemoglobin level (Hb < 8 dg/L) (AOR=0.02; P=0.00), and CD4+ counts (low CD4+) (OR=0.40; P=0.05). The study reported endemicity of malaria in HIV infected pregnant women living in rural areas of Benue State, Nigeria. Malarial infection was higher in women that were divorced, and at their first trimester, had low CD4+ count, and had severe anaemia. Farming, divorce, gestation, severe anaemia, and low CD4+ counts were predisposing risk factors that influenced malaria occurrence in the HIV infected pregnant women. It is advocated that HIV infected pregnant women should be properly and thoroughly educated on malaria preventive measures in rural areas so as to avoid unpleasant effect of malaria during their pregnancies.
A Fairness Relation Based on the Asymmetric Choquet Integral and Its Application in Network Resource Allocation Problems
Authors: Honda Aoi , Köppen Mario
Published: July 2014

The recent problem of network resource allocation is studied where pairs of users could be in a favourable situation, given that the allocation scheme is refined by some add-on technology. The general question here is whether the additional effort can be effective with regard to the user’s experience of fairness. The computational approach proposed in this paper to handle this question is based on the framework of relational optimization. For representing different weightings for different pairs of users, the use of a fuzzy measure appears to be reasonable. The generalized Choquet integrals are discussed from the viewpoint of representing fairness and it is concluded that the asymmetric Choquet integral is the most suitable approach. A binary relation using the asymmetric Choquet integral is proposed. In case of a supermodular fuzzy measure, this is a transitive and cycle-free relation. The price of fairness with regard to a wireless channel allocation problem taking channel interference into account is experimentally studied and it can be seen that the asymmetric on relation actually selects allocations that perform on average between maxmin fairness and proportional fairness, and being more close to maxmin fairness as long as channel interference is not high.
The Effect of Diabetes Self-Management Education on Body Weight, Glycemic Control, and Other Metabolic Markers in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Yuan Chuang , Lai Christopher W. K. , Chan Lawrence W. C. , Chow Meyrick , Law Helen K. W. , Ying Michael
Published: July 2014

Aims.To comprehensively evaluate the effect of a short-term diabetes self-management education (DSME) on metabolic markers and atherosclerotic parameters in patients with type 2 diabetes.Methods.76 patients with type 2 diabetes were recruited in this study. They were divided into the intervention group(n=36)and control group(n=40). The patients in the intervention group received a 3-month intervention, including an 8-week education on self-management of diabetes mellitus and subsequent 4 weeks of practice of the self-management guidelines. The patients in the control group received standard advice on medical nutrition therapy. Metabolic markers, carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT), and carotid arterial stiffness (CAS) of the patients in both groups were assessed before and after the 3-month intervention.Results.There was a significant reduction in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c,-0.2±0.56% versus0.08±0.741%;P<0.05) and body weight (-1.19±1.39 kg versus-0.61±2.04 kg;P<0.05) in the intervention group as compared to the control group. However, no significant improvements were found in other metabolic markers, CIMT and CAS(P>0.05).Conclusions.DSME can improve HbA1c and body weight in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Long Memory Models to Generate Synthetic Hydrological Series
Authors: Pereira Guilherme Armando de Almeida , Souza Reinaldo Castro
Published: July 2014

In Brazil, much of the energy production comes from hydroelectric plants whose planning is not trivial due to the strong dependence on rainfall regimes. This planning is accomplished through optimization models that use inputs such as synthetic hydrologic series generated from the statistical model PAR(p) (periodic autoregressive). Recently, Brazil began the search for alternative models able to capture the effects that the traditional model PAR(p) does not incorporate, such as long memory effects. Long memory in a time series can be defined as a significant dependence between lags separated by a long period of time. Thus, this research develops a study of the effects of long dependence in the series of streamflow natural energy in the South subsystem, in order to estimate a long memory model capable of generating synthetic hydrologic series.
Switching Off Key Signaling Survival Molecules to Switch On the Resolution of Inflammation
Authors: Perez Denise Alves , Vago Juliana Priscila , Athayde Rayssa Maciel , Reis Alesandra Corte , Teixeira Mauro Martins , Sousa Lirlândia Pires , Pinho Vanessa
Published: July 2014

Inflammation is a physiological response of the immune system to injury or infection but may become chronic. In general, inflammation is self-limiting and resolves by activating a termination program named resolution of inflammation. It has been argued that unresolved inflammation may be the basis of a variety of chronic inflammatory diseases. Resolution of inflammation is an active process that is fine-tuned by the production of proresolving mediators and the shutdown of intracellular signaling molecules associated with cytokine production and leukocyte survival. Apoptosis of leukocytes (especially granulocytes) is a key element in the resolution of inflammation and several signaling molecules are thought to be involved in this process. Here, we explore key signaling molecules and some mediators that are crucial regulators of leukocyte survivalin vivoand that may be targeted for therapeutic purposes in the context of chronic inflammatory diseases.
Potential Therapeutic Strategies for Alzheimer’s Disease Targeting or Beyondβ-Amyloid: Insights from Clinical Trials
Authors: Jia Qiutian , Deng Yulin , Qing Hong
Published: July 2014

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder with two hallmarks:β-amyloid plagues and neurofibrillary tangles. It is one of the most alarming illnesses to elderly people. No effective drugs and therapies have been developed, while mechanism-based explorations of therapeutic approaches have been intensively investigated. Outcomes of clinical trials suggested several pitfalls in the choice of biomarkers, development of drug candidates, and interaction of drug-targeted molecules; however, they also aroused concerns on the potential deficiency in our understanding of pathogenesis of AD, and ultimately stimulated the advent of novel drug targets tests. The anticipated increase of AD patients in next few decades makes development of better therapy an urgent issue. Here we attempt to summarize and compare putative therapeutic strategies that have completed clinical trials or are currently being tested from various perspectives to provide insights for treatments of Alzheimer’s disease.
Large-Scale Genomic Analysis of Codon Usage in Dengue Virus and Evaluation of Its Phylogenetic Dependence
Authors: Lara-Ramírez Edgar E. , Salazar Ma Isabel , López-López María de Jesús , Salas-Benito Juan Santiago , Sánchez-Varela Alejandro , Guo Xianwu
Published: July 2014

The increasing number of dengue virus (DENV) genome sequences available allows identifying the contributing factors to DENV evolution. In the present study, the codon usage in serotypes 1–4 (DENV1–4) has been explored for 3047 sequenced genomes using different statistics methods. The correlation analysis of total GC content (GC) with GC content at the three nucleotide positions of codons (GC1, GC2, and GC3) as well as the effective number of codons (ENC, ENCp) versus GC3 plots revealed mutational bias and purifying selection pressures as the major forces influencing the codon usage, but with distinct pressure on specific nucleotide position in the codon. The correspondence analysis (CA) and clustering analysis on relative synonymous codon usage (RSCU) within each serotype showed similar clustering patterns to the phylogenetic analysis of nucleotide sequences for DENV1–4. These clustering patterns are strongly related to the virus geographic origin. The phylogenetic dependence analysis also suggests that stabilizing selection acts on the codon usage bias. Our analysis of a large scale reveals new feature on DENV genomic evolution.
Treatment of Coexisting Chronic Neutrophilic Leukemia and Light Chain Multiple Myeloma with Hydroxyurea, Bortezomib, and Dexamethasone
Authors: Taiwo Evelyn , Wang Huiying , Lewis Robert
Published: July 2014

A 63-year-old female was incidentally found to have leukocytosis and referred to the hematology service for evaluation. Complete blood count (CBC) revealed neutrophilia with band predominance and mild thrombocytopenia. Peripheral blood flow cytometry was unremarkable without any evidence of lymphoproliferative disorder or myeloblasts. Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy revealed a markedly hypercellular marrow with myeloid lineage predominance and approximately 10% plasma cells. The monoclonal gammopathy was determined as lambda light chain with a kappa/lambda ratio of 0.06. Cytogenetics revealed normal karyotype, JAK2 kinase was negative, and rearrangement of BCR-ABL1, PDGFRA, PDGFRB, and FGFR1 was negative. The patient was diagnosed with chronic neutrophilic leukemia (CNL) associated with light chain multiple myeloma, complicated by a subdural hemorrhage. She was treated with hydroxyurea and bortezomib/dexamethasone and had complete response with normalization of CBC and kappa/lambda ratio. To the best of our knowledge, we report the first case of chronic neutrophilic leukemia and multiple myeloma treated with bortezomib/dexamethasone.
Night-Time Decibel Hell: Mapping Noise Exposure Zones and Individual Annoyance Ratings in an Urban Environment in Ghana
Authors: Zakpala Rachel N. , Armah Frederick Ato , Sackey Brigid M. , Pabi Opoku
Published: July 2014

Although accumulating evidence over the past thirty years indicates that noise is an environmental stressor in residential settings, much of the data emanated from studies in high-intensity, noise impact zones around airports or major roads. Little is known about religious noise, especially at night, which is increasingly a growing concern for both the general public and policy-makers in sub-Saharan Africa. Using geographical information systems (GIS), this study measured and mapped exposure to religious noise in a rapidly urbanising municipality in Ghana. Quantitative noise risk assessment was used to evaluate the risk of religious noise-induced hearing loss to residents in the exposed neighbourhoods. The results show that all neighbourhoods where churches were situated had at least one location with significant risk of noise-induced hearing loss. However, there was no statistically significant relationship between neighbourhoods where religious noise exposure was the highest and where noise annoyance was the highest. The magnitude of the noise values for night-time exposure is remarkable particularly given that excessive night-time noise exposure has the greatest detrimental effect on public health. There is the need to focus on vulnerable groups, sensitive hours of the night, and possible confounding with air pollution in order to wholly address this potential hazard.
Dracocephalum: Novel Anticancer Plant Acting on Liver Cancer Cell Mitochondria
Authors: Talari Mojtaba , Seydi Enayatollah , Salimi Ahmad , Mohsenifar Zhaleh , Kamalinejad Mohammad , Pourahmad Jalal
Published: July 2014

Dracocephalum kotschyiBoiss. (Labiatae) is a native Iranian medicinal plant which has been used in combination withPeganum harmalaL. as a remedy for many forms of human cancer especially leukemia and gastrointestinal malignancies. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. In this investigation HCC was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of diethylnitrosamine (DEN) in corn oil at 200 mg/kg body weight to rats. Two weeks after DEN administration, cancer development was promoted with dietary 2-acetylaminofluorene (2-AAF) (0.02%, w/w) for 2 weeks. Serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) concentration, serum alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activities were also determined for confirmation of hepatocellular carcinoma induction. Then rat hepatocytes were isolated with collagen perfusion technique and tumoral hepatocytes were sorted by flow cytometry. Finally isolated mitochondria obtained from both tumoral and nontumoral hepatocytes were used for any probable toxic effect ofDracocephalum kotschyiethanolic extract. Our results showed thatD. kotschyiextract (250 µg/mL) induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation, mitochondrial membrane permeabilization (MMP), and mitochondrial swelling and cytochrome c release only in tumoral but not nontumoral hepatocyte. These findings proposeDracocephalum kotschyias a promising candidate for future anticancer research.
Anandamide Protects HT22 Cells Exposed to Hydrogen Peroxide by Inhibiting CB1 Receptor-Mediated Type 2 NADPH Oxidase
Authors: Jia Ji , Ma Lei , Wu Mingchun , Zhang Lei , Zhang Xiajing , Zhai Qian , Jiang Tao , Wang Qiang , Xiong Lize
Published: July 2014

Background.Endogenous cannabinoid anandamide (AEA) protects neurons from oxidative injury in rodent models; however the mechanism of AEA-induced neuroprotection remains to be determined. Activation of neuronal NADPH oxidase 2 (Nox2) contributes to oxidative damage of the brain, and inhibition of Nox2 can attenuate cerebral oxidative stress. We aimed to determine whether the neuronal Nox2 was involved in protection mediated by AEA.Methods.The mouse hippocampal neuron cell line HT22 was exposed to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) to mimic oxidative injury of neurons. The protective effect of AEA was assessed by measuring cell metabolic activity, apoptosis, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, cellular morphology, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), and antioxidant and oxidant levels and Nox2 expression.Results.HT22 cells exposed to H2O2demonstrated morphological changes, decreased LDH release, reduced metabolic activity, increased levels of intracellular ROS and oxidized glutathione (GSSG), reduced levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), and reduced glutathione (GSH) and increased expression of Nox2. AEA prevented these effects, a property abolished by simultaneous administration of CB1 antagonist AM251 or CB1-siRNA.Conclusion.Nox2 inhibition is involved in AEA-induced cytoprotection against oxidative stress through CB1 activation in HT22 cells.
Continental Monophyly and Molecular Divergence of Peninsular Malaysia’sMacaca fascicularis fascicularis
Authors: Abdul-Latiff Muhammad Abu Bakar , Ruslin Farhani , Faiq Hamdan , Hairul Mohd Salleh , Rovie-Ryan Jeffrine Japning , Abdul-Patah Pazil , Yaakop Salmah , Md-Zain Badrul Munir
Published: July 2014

The phylogenetic relationships of long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis fascicularis) populations distributed in Peninsular Malaysia in relation to other regions remain unknown. The aim of this study was to reveal the phylogeography and population genetics of Peninsular Malaysia’sM. f. fascicularisbased on the D-loop region of mitochondrial DNA. Sixty-five haplotypes were detected in all populations, with only Vietnam and Cambodia sharing four haplotypes. The minimum-spanning network projected a distant relationship between Peninsular Malaysian and insular populations. Genetic differentiation (FST, Nst) results suggested that the gene flow among Peninsular Malaysian and the other populations is very low. Phylogenetic tree reconstructions indicated a monophyletic clade of Malaysia’s population with continental populations (NJ = 97%, MP = 76%, and Bayesian = 1.00 posterior probabilities). The results demonstrate that Peninsular Malaysia’sM. f. fascicularisbelonged to Indochinese populations as opposed to the previously claimed Sundaic populations.M. f. fascicularisgroups are estimated to have colonized Peninsular Malaysia ~0.47 million years ago (MYA) directly from Indochina through seaways, by means of natural sea rafting, or through terrestrial radiation during continental shelf emersion. Here, the Isthmus of Kra played a central part as biogeographical barriers that then separated it from the remaining continental populations.
Netrins and Their Roles in Placental Angiogenesis
Authors: Dakouane-Giudicelli Mbarka , Alfaidy Nadia , de Mazancourt Philippe
Published: July 2014

Netrins, a family of laminin-related proteins, were originally identified as axonal guidance molecules. Subsequently, netrins were found to modulate various biological processes including morphogenesis, tumorogenesis, adhesion, and, recently, angiogenesis. In human placenta, the most vascularized organ, the presence of netrins has also been reported. Recent studies demonstrated the involvement of netrins in the regulation of placental angiogenesis. In this review we focused on the role of netrins in human placental angiogenesis. Among all netrins examined, netrin-4 and netrin-1 have been found to be either pro- or antiangiogenic factors. These opposite effects appear to be related to the endothelial cell phenotype studied and seem also to depend on the receptor type to which netrin binds, that is, the canonical receptor member of the DCC family, the members of the UNC5 family, or the noncanonical receptor members of the integrin family or DSCAM.
Modeling Biology Spanning Different Scales: An Open Challenge
Authors: Castiglione Filippo , Pappalardo Francesco , Bianca Carlo , Russo Giulia , Motta Santo
Published: July 2014

It is coming nowadays more clear that in order to obtain a unified description of the different mechanisms governing the behavior and causality relations among the various parts of a living system, the development of comprehensive computational and mathematical models at different space and time scales is required. This is one of the most formidable challenges of modern biology characterized by the availability of huge amount of high throughput measurements. In this paper we draw attention to the importance of multiscale modeling in the framework of studies of biological systems in general and of the immune system in particular.
Cytoskeleton Modifications and Autophagy Induction in TCam-2 Seminoma Cells Exposed to Simulated Microgravity
Authors: Ferranti Francesca , Caruso Maria , Cammarota Marcella , Masiello Maria Grazia , Corano Scheri Katia , Fabrizi Cinzia , Fumagalli Lorenzo , Schiraldi Chiara , Cucina Alessandra , Catizone Angela , Ricci Giulia
Published: July 2014

The study of how mechanical forces may influence cell behavior via cytoskeleton remodeling is a relevant challenge of nowadays that may allow us to define the relationship between mechanics and biochemistry and to address the larger problem of biological complexity. An increasing amount of literature data reported that microgravity condition alters cell architecture as a consequence of cytoskeleton structure modifications. Herein, we are reporting the morphological, cytoskeletal, and behavioral modifications due to the exposition of a seminoma cell line (TCam-2) to simulated microgravity. Even if no differences in cell proliferation and apoptosis were observed after 24 hours of exposure to simulated microgravity, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis revealed that the change of gravity vector significantly affects TCam-2 cell surface morphological appearance. Consistent with this observation, we found that microtubule orientation is altered by microgravity. Moreover, the confocal analysis of actin microfilaments revealed an increase in the cell width induced by the low gravitational force. Microtubules and microfilaments have been related to autophagy modulation and, interestingly, we found a significant autophagic induction in TCam-2 cells exposed to simulated microgravity. This observation is of relevant interest because it shows, for the first time, TCam-2 cell autophagy as a biological response induced by a mechanical stimulus instead of a biochemical one.
Hemodynamics Modeling and Simulation of Anterior Communicating Artery Aneurysms
Authors: Li Jianjun , Wang Shengzhang , Lu Gang , Zhang Xiaolong
Published: July 2014

It is a general agreement that hemodynamics plays very important role in the initiation, growth, and rupture of cerebral aneurysms and hemodynamics in the anterior communicating artery aneurysms is considered the most complex in all cerebral aneurysms and it is difficult to find some reasonable relationship between the hemodynamics parameters and the rupture risk. In this paper, the 3D geometries of four anterior communicating artery aneurysms were generated from the CTA data and the computational models with bilateral feeding arteries for the four aneurysms were constructed. The blood flow was simulated by computational fluid dynamics software and the hemodynamics parameters such as velocity, wall shear stress, and oscillatory shear index were calculated. The following results were observed: one of the four models only needs the left feeding artery; the max normalized wall shear stress locates at the aneurysmal neck of the largest aneurysm; the max oscillatory shear index locates at the aneurysmal sac of the largest aneurysm. The conclusion was drawn that the anterior communicating artery aneurysm has higher rupture risk from the hemodynamics viewpoint if the max wall shear stress locates at the neck and the max oscillatory shear index locates at the dome.
Intra-Articular Osteoid Osteoma Mimicking Juvenile Arthritis
Authors: Traore Sidi Yaya , Dumitriu Dana Ioana , Docquier Pierre-Louis
Published: July 2014

In case of intra-articular osteoid osteoma, misdiagnosis as juvenile arthritis may occur, delaying adequate treatment. We report cases of intra-articular osteoid osteomas in children that were misdiagnosed and initially inappropriately treated with intra-articular corticoid injection. Diagnosis of osteoid osteoma was finally given by CT-scan and appropriate treatment by radiofrequency ablation or surgical ablation was performed. Clinicians and radiologists should be aware of the potentially confusing clinical and imaging findings associated with intra-articular osteoid osteoma.
Flow Mode Magnetorheological Dampers with an Eccentric Gap
Authors: Choi Young-Tai , Wereley Norman M.
Published: July 2014

This paper analyzes flow mode magnetorheological (MR) dampers with an eccentric annular gap (i.e., a nonuniform annular gap). To this end, an MR damper analysis for an eccentric annular gap is constructed based on approximating the eccentric annular gap using a rectangular duct with a variable gap, as well as a Bingham-plastic constitutive model of the MR fluid. Performance of flow mode MR dampers with an eccentric gap was assessed analytically using both field-dependent damping force and damping coefficient, which is the ratio of equivalent viscous field-on damping to field-off damping. In addition, damper capabilities of flow mode MR dampers with an eccentric gap were compared to a concentric gap (i.e., uniform annular gap).
Performance Investigation of CMM Measurement Quality Using Flick Standard
Authors: Ali Salah H. R.
Published: July 2014

Quality of coordinate measuring machine (CMM) in dimension and form metrology is designed and performed at the NIS. The experimental investigation of CMM performance is developed by using reference Flick standard. The measurement errors of corresponding geometric evaluation algorithm (LSQ, ME, MC, and MI) and probe scanning speed (1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 mm/s) are obtained through repeated arrangement, comparison, and judgment. The experimental results show that the roundness error deviation can be evaluated effectively and exactly for CMM performance by using Flick standard. Some of influencing quantities for diameter and roundness form errors may dominate the results at all fitting algorithms under certain circumstances. It can be shown that the 2 mm/s probe speed gives smaller roundness error than 1, 3, 4, and 5 mm/s within 0.2 : 0.3 μm. It ensures that measurement at 2 mm/s is the best case to satisfy the high level of accuracy in the certain condition. Using Flick standard as a quality evaluation tool noted a high precision incremental in diameter and roundness form indication. This means a better transfer stability of CMM quality could be significantly improved. Moreover, some error formulae of data sets have been postulated to correlate the diameter and roundness measurements within the application range. Uncertainty resulting from CMM and environmental temperature has been evaluated and confirmed the quality degree of confidence in the proposed performance investigation.