bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nitric oxide and chronic colitis
Authors: Grisham Matthew B , Aiko Satoshi
Published: April 2016

Nitric oxide (NO) is thought to play an important role in modulating the inflammatory response by virtue of its ability to affect bloodflow, leukocyte function and cell viability. The objective of this study was to assess the role that NO may play in mediating the mucosal injury and inflammation in a model of chronic granulomatous colitis using two pharmacologically different inhibitors of nitric oxide synthase (NOS). Chronic granulomatous colitis with liver and spleen inflammation was induced in female Lewis rats via the subserosal (intramural) injection of peptidoglycan/polysaccharide (PG/PS) derived from group A streptococci. Chronic NOS inhibition by oral administration of NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) (15 µmol/kg/day) or amino-guanidine (AG) (15 µmol/ kg/day) was found to attenuate the PG/PS-induced increases in macroscopic colonic inflammation scores and colonic myeloperoxidase activity. Only AG -- not L-NAME – attenuated the PG/PS-induced increases in colon dry weight. Both L-NAME and AG significantly attenuated the PG/PS-induced increases in spleen weight whereas neither was effective at significantly attenuating the PG/PS-induced increases in liver weight. Although both L-NAME and AG inhibited NO production in vivo, as measured by decreases in plasma nitrite and nitrate levels, only AG produced significantly lower values (38±3 versus 83±8 µM, respectively, P<0.05). Finally, L-NAME, but not AG, administration significantly increased mean arterial pressure from 83 mmHg in colitic animals to 105 mmHg in the PG/PS+ L-NAME-treated animals (P<0.05). It is concluded that NO may play an important role in mediating some of the pathophysiology associated with this model of chronic granulomatous colitis.
Appropriateness of Omeprazole Prescribing in Quebec’s Senior Population
Authors: Grégoire Jean-Pierre , Moisan Jocelyne , Chabot Isabelle , Gaudet Michel
Published: April 2016

BACKGROUND: Prescribing omeprazole for the treatment of digestive disorders accounts for an important part of the costs in Quebec’s drug benefit plan. In July 1993, the Quebec drug program listed omeprazole, with restriction, in its formulary. On January 1, 1994, this restriction was lifted; since then, omeprazole has been listed in the regular provincial formulary.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the appropriateness of initial omeprazole prescribing in the ambulatory senior population of Quebec in the 27 months after being listed without restriction.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS: A retrospective population-based cohort study was performed using prescription and medical services claims databases of the Quebec drug program. Data were extracted for elderly patients who received their first omeprazole prescription between July 1, 1994 and March 31, 1996. RESULTS: Among the 47,140 first-time users of omeprazole identified, 7516 (15.9%) had had an endoscopy in the previous six months, 2308 (4.9%) were given an antimicrobial agent and omeprazole simultaneously, and 22,730 (48.2%) received omeprazole after prior use of an H2receptor antagonist (H2RA) or a prokinetic drug. A total of 26,525 (56.3%) first-time users were prescribed omeprazole based on at least one of the three criteria listed above. Among these users, 729 (2.8%) received an H2RA concurrently with omeprazole. Altogether, 25,796 (54.7%) first-time users received omeprazole appropriately.

CONCLUSIONS: Although reimbursement for omeprazole prescriptions has not been restricted in Quebec since January 1, 1994, it was prescribed appropriately for elderly patients in the majority of cases studied.
Causation of Crohn’s Disease byMycobacterium aviumSubspeciesParatuberculosis
Authors: Hermon-Taylor John , Bull Timothy John , Sheridan Joseph Michael , Cheng Jun , Stellakis Michael Laurence , Sumar Nasira
Published: April 2016

Mycobacterium aviumsubspeciesparatuberculosis(MAP) is a member of the Mavium complex(MAC). It differs genetically from other MAC in having 14 to 18 copies of IS900 and a single cassette of DNA involved in the biosynthesis of surface carbohydrate. Unlike other MAC, MAP is a specific cause of chronic inflammation of the intestine in many animal species, including primates. The disease ranges from pluribacillary to paucimicrobial, with chronic granulomatous inflammation like leprosy in humans. MAP infection can persist for years without causing clinical disease. The herd prevalence of MAP infection in Western Europe and North America is reported in the range 21% to 54%. These subclinically infected animals shed MAP in their milk and onto pastures. MAP is more robust than tuberculosis, and the risk that is conveyed to human populations in retail milk and in domestic water supplies is high. MAP is harboured in the ileocolonic mucosa of a proportion of normal people and can be detected in a high proportion of full thickness samples of inflamed Crohn’s disease gut by improved culture systems and IS900 polymerase chain reaction if the correct methods are used. MAP in Crohn’s disease is present in a protease-resistant nonbacillary form, can evade immune recognition and probably causes an immune dysregulation. As with other MAC, MAP is resistant to most standard antituberculous drugs. Treatment of Crohn’s disease with combinations of drugs more active against MAC such as rifabutin and clarithromycin can bring about a profound improvement and, in a few cases, apparent disease eradication. New drugs as well as effective MAP vaccines for animals and humans are needed. The problems caused by MAP constitute a public health issue of tragic proportions for which a range of remedial measures are urgently needed.
An Analysis of an Inflammatory Bowel Disease Practise in an Urban Community Hospital
Authors: Adam David , Adam Jonathan , Price Howard
Published: April 2016

OBJECTIVES: To review an individual community gastroenterologist’s experience with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The aspects studied were distribution of disease, need for hospital admission, immunosuppressants, systemic steroids, and surgery and its indications. The incidence of cancer was also reviewed.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: The charts of all IBD patients (n=373) seen between 1993 and 1996 by an individual gastroenterologist in an urban community hospital were reviewed for the aforementioned information. Patients seen during this period may have been diagnosed with IBD before or during the period of 1993 to 1996.

RESULTS: Of the 373 patients, 219 had Crohn’s disease (CD) and 154 had ulcerative colitis (UC). The most common age of onset for both groups was 20 to 29 years. Distal UC and distal Crohn’s colitis patients rarely required surgery, hospitalization, systemic steroids or immunosuppressants. Eighty per cent of patients with small bowel CD and 51% of those with ileocolonic CD required at least one operation. Of the UC patients, 10.4% required surgery. Of the UC patients undergoing surveillance for cancer, none developed cancer but one developed significant dysplasia.

CONCLUSIONS: In both CD and UC the site of the inflammation plays a major role in determining the need for hospitalization, surgery, systemic steroids and immunosuppressants. Distal UC, the most common form of UC in this group of patients, is a very benign disease. Of all forms of IBD, small bowel CD had the greatest need for hospitalization, surgery and systemic steroids.
Prevalence of IgA Antibodies to Endomysium and Tissue Transglutaminase in Primary Biliary Cirrhosis
Authors: Gillett Helen R , Cauch-Dudek Karen , Healthcote E Jenny L , Freeman Hugh J
Published: April 2016

The association between celiac disease and primary biliary cirrhosis has been described in several case reports and small screening studies, with varying prevalence rates. Stored sera from 378 patients with primary biliary cirrhosis were tested for immunoglobulin (Ig) A endomysium and tissue transglutaminase antibodies. Ten patients were positive for both antibodies (2.6%); five of these patients had had small bowel biopsies confirming celiac disease. A further 44 patients (11.6%) had raised titres of IgA tissue transglutaminase antibody but were negative for IgA endomysium antibody. The increased prevalence of celiac-related antibodies in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis suggests that the two conditions are associated, although the reason for the association remains unclear. Patients with primary biliary cirrhosis should be considered to be at high risk for celiac disease. Although liver biochemistry does not improve when these patients are fed a gluten-free diet, the complications of untreated celiac disease warrant the identification and treatment of the condition in this population.
Normal Stress Differences and Yield Stresses in Attractive Particle Networks
Authors: Verrelli David I. , Kilcullen Adam R.
Published: April 2016

The nature of attractive particulate networks, yield stresses, and normal stress differences is systematically reviewed, each in terms of the relevant definitions, underlying mechanisms, and current measurement techniques. With this foundation, experimental observations of normal stress differences in some suspensions and colloidal systems are surveyed, along with constitutive models that allow for normal stress differences to arise prior to yielding. Yield stresses are a hallmark of attractive colloidal systems and vital in their processing. In contrast, little attention has been given to the role of normal stress differences in these systems. The presence or absence of normal stress differences necessarily affects the isotropy of the normal stress field through the solid particulate phase (treated as a continuum), in turn affecting estimation of yield stress. Given the importance of yield stresses in dealing with practical industrial problems, and in understanding fundamental behaviours, it is important to ensure that yield measurements can be relied upon.
In VivoInvestigation of ALBO-OS Scaffold Based on Hydroxyapatite and PLGA
Authors: Jokanović Vukoman , Čolović Božana , Marković Dejan , Petrović Milan , Jokanović Milan , Milosavljević Petar , Sopta Jelena
Published: April 2016

A synthetic bone substitute based on calcium hydroxyapatite (CHA) and poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA), described in this paper, was synthesized to fulfill specific requirements like biodegradability, satisfying mechanical properties, optimal porosity and nanotopology, osteoinductive and osteoconductive properties, and so forth. Structural and morphological properties of the new scaffold were analyzed by micro computed tomography and scanning electron microscopy, while its physicochemical properties were investigated by X-ray diffraction and infrared spectroscopy.In vivobiological investigations of the synthesized scaffold were conducted over the cutaneous irritation and biofunctionality assays on rabbits and the test of acute systemic toxicity on mice. The results showed that the scaffold is not irritant and that it does not exhibit any symptoms of acute toxicity. Biofunctionality assays which include evaluation of the presence of various cells of immune response, the presence of neoangiogenesis, percentage of mineralization of newly formed bone, and fibroplasia in the tissue indicated that the new scaffold is suitable for the application in maxillofacial and dental surgery as a bone substitute. Also, it showed significant advantages over commercial product Geistlich Bio-Oss® from the aspect of some parameters of immunological response.
Neuroprotective Activity of (-)-Epigallocatechin Gallate against Lipopolysaccharide-Mediated Cytotoxicity
Authors: Liu Jin-Biao , Zhou Li , Wang Yi-Zhong , Wang Xu , Zhou Yu , Ho Wen-Zhe , Li Jie-Liang
Published: April 2016

Lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) mediated systemic inflammation plays a critical role in neurodegenerative diseases. The present study was conducted to evaluate the protective effects of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), the major component in green tea, on LPS-mediated inflammation and neurotoxicity. LPS treatment of macrophages induced expression of proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6). However, EGCG pretreatment of macrophages significantly inhibited LPS-mediated induction of these cytokines. In addition, EGCG significantly diminished LPS-induced inflammatory cytokines in the peripheral mononuclear blood cells (PBMCs). Supernatant from EGCG-pretreated and LPS-activated macrophage cultures was found to be less cytotoxic to neurons than that from non-EGCG-pretreated and LPS-activated macrophage cultures. Furthermore, EGCG treatment of neurons could inhibit LPS-induced production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Thus EGCG represents a potent and useful neuroprotective agent for inflammation-mediated neurological disorders.
Phytochemical Composition and Antibacterial Activity of Hydroalcoholic Extracts ofPterospartum tridentatumandMentha pulegiumagainstStaphylococcus aureusIsolates
Authors: Aires Alfredo , Marrinhas Eduardo , Carvalho Rosa , Dias Carla , Saavedra Maria José
Published: April 2016

Pterospartum tridentatumandMentha pulegiumare largely used in Portuguese folk medicine to treat several human disorders and inflammatory processes but without any consistent evidence for those beneficial pointed properties. Thus, the aim of the current work is to evaluate its benefits and phytochemicals related to those beneficial properties. A distinct polyphenol profile betweenP. tridentatumandM. pulegiumwas found. Taxifolin, myricetin, ginestin, ginestein, and ginestein derivatives, biochanin A-glucoside, and biochanin A were identified inP. tridentatum, whilst inM. pulegiumthe luteolin-7-rutinoside, diosmin, and apigenin and respective derivatives were most representative polyphenols. These variations had implications in the antiradical and antibacterial activity and theP. tridentatumexhibited the highest antibacterial activity against methicillin-resistant and methicillin-sensitiveStaphylococcus aureusMSSA, which was mainly dose-dependent. This antibacterial activity seems to be related to high content of flavonols, flavones, and isoflavones, which can act synergistically with each other against this type of bacteria. Our results showed consistent evidence thatPterospartum tridentatumandMentha pulegiumare an important reservoir of phytochemicals with antiradical activity and antibacterial capacity and thus they might be used in a preventive way or in a combined pharmaceutical and antibiotic therapy against pathogenic bacteria.
The Pore Confinement Effect of FDU-12 Mesochannels on MoS2Active Phases and Their Hydrodesulfurization Performance
Authors: Liu Cong , Yuan Pei , Cui Chunsheng
Published: April 2016

FDU-12 silica with highly ordered face-centered cubic mesoporous structure is developed as support to prepare Mo/FDU-12 catalysts for hydrodesulfurization (HDS) of dibenzothiophene (DBT). A series of Mo/FDU-12 catalysts are synthesized by using incipient wetness impregnation method with different MoO3loadings (6, 8, 10, 12, and 15 wt.%). The objective of this work is to explore the pore confinement effect of FDU-12 mesochannels on the MoS2morphology with various metal loadings. It is found that, as increasing MoO3loadings from 6 to 15 wt.%, the MoS2nanocrystallites transform from monolayer to multilayer and the morphology changes from straight layered to curved and then to ring-like and finally to spherical-like morphology due to the restriction of cage-like pore channels of FDU-12 support. The HDS results show that the catalytic activity increases first and then decreases with the best HDS performance at the MoO3loading of 10 wt.%. In addition, we compared the HDS activity of Mo catalyst supported on FDU-12 with that on the commercialγ-Al2O3and SBA-15; the result exhibits that FDU-12 is superior to the other two supports due to its large pore size and ordered three-dimensional open pore channels.
Patient Isolation Precautions: Are They Worth It?
Authors: Sprague Elliott , Reynolds Steven , Brindley Peter
Published: April 2016

Isolation precautions are intended to minimize pathogen transmission and reduce hospital-acquired infections. More recently, the effectiveness of isolation precautions has been questioned because of increasing evidence of risks. These putative downsides are divided into a quantifiable monetary cost (i.e., a literal cost to the system) and clinically important but less easily quantifiable costs (i.e., “costs” to the patient). The authors also briefly review deisolation and alternatives to isolation. The present review is not arguing against appropriate isolation or precautions, simply that the authors consider both risks and benefits and disseminate up-to-date information. Their patient-focused goal is to mitigate risks for those who truly need isolating and to end isolation as soon as it is safe and appropriate to do so.
Trends in the Diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Mishra Surabhi , Rao Chythra R. , Shetty Avinash
Published: April 2016

Introduction. Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is defined as carbohydrate intolerance of variable degree with onset or recognition during pregnancy. As prevalence of diabetes is linked to impaired glucose tolerance during antenatal period, routine antenatal screening of GDM is required. However, screening tests for GDM remain controversial.Objective. To review different diagnostic criteria for GDM.Materials and Methods. Freely accessible, full-text articles from 1964 to 2015, available in PubMed in English language, pertaining to screening of GDM were reviewed.Results. First diagnostic criteria for GDM in 1964 by O’Sullivan and Mahan, modified by the National Diabetes Data Group (NDDG) in 1979 and Carpenter in 1982. The cut-off value as per WHO definition of GDM was 140 mg/dL, 2 hours after 75 g glucose intake. Diabetes in Pregnancy Study Group India (DIPSI), in 2006, endorsed WHO criteria but irrespective of the last meal timings. Being cost-effective, it formed the basis of national guidelines for Indians in 2014.Conclusions. As typical clinical scenarios are usually varied, practical guidelines that meet the constraints of low-resource settings like India are required.
A Mixed Method Research to Identify Perceived Reasons and Solutions for Low Uptake of Cervical Cancer Screening in Urban Families of Bhopal Region
Authors: Jain Nancy , Halder Ajay , Mehrotra Ragini
Published: April 2016

Low uptake of cervical cancer screening is not a matter of poor coverage of health care facilities only. We wish to identify the perceived reasons behind low uptake of screening in Bhopal region and also possible solutions for an urban setting. In a mixed research, through a series of focused group discussions, we wished to do thematic interpretation of the perceptions towards cervical cancer screening by deductive content analysis of FGD and also to obtain a free list of perceived causes and solutions with Smith’s saliency score and perform cluster analysis by pile sorting. We found that the perceived reasons could be grouped into three themes which were(1) information gap leading to fear of unknown, (2) casual attitude, and(3) resource constrains and affordability issues. For the perceived solutions there were 11 codes which could be grouped into two groups; these wereincreasing awarenessandvaccination. Free list of perceived reasons and solutions has also been generated. No single solution can be suggested but a comprehensive approach with awareness campaigns, personalized encouragements, affordable and friendly health care with subsidized vaccination, and screening facilities are expected to increase awareness and acceptability and thus reduce burden of disease in the long run.
Multimodal Image Analysis in Acquired Vitelliform Lesions and Adult-Onset Foveomacular Vitelliform Dystrophy
Authors: Rocha Bastos Ricardo , Ferreira Carla Sofia , Brandão Elisete , Falcão-Reis Fernando , Carneiro Ângela M.
Published: April 2016

Purpose. To characterize vitelliform lesions (VLs) in adult-onset foveomacular vitelliform dystrophy (AOFVD) and acquired vitelliform (AVL) patients using multimodal image analysis.Methods. Retrospective study of twenty-eight eyes from nineteen patients diagnosed with AVL or AOFVD. They were evaluated by color fundus photographs, fundus autofluorescence (FAF), fluorescein angiography (FA), and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT).Results. Bilateral VLs were associated with AOFVD(p=0.013). Regular and centered VLs were associated with AOFVD (p=0.004andp=0.016), whereas irregular and noncentered lesions were more frequent in AVL patients. Visual acuity, greatest linear dimension (GLD), lesion height (LH), and pseudohypopyon were similar between groups. Whereas median LH and GLD in AVL group diminished significantly during follow-up (p=0.009andp=0.001), AOFVD lesions tended to become larger and thicker.Conclusions. When consulting a patient presenting a VL with unknown age of onset, familial history, or previous retinal diseases, some aspects of multimodal imaging assessment may lead the ophthalmologist to a correct diagnosis.
Adverse Effects of Subchronic Dose of Aspirin on Reproductive Profile of Male Rats
Authors: Vyas Archana , Ram Heera , Purohit Ashok , Jatwa Rameshwar
Published: April 2016

Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) is widely used for cardiovascular prophylaxis and as anti-inflammatory pharmaceutical. An investigation was carried out to evaluate the influence of subchronic dose of aspirin on reproductive profile of male rats, if any. Experimental animals were divided into three groups: control and aspirin subchronic dose of 12.5 mg/kg for 30 days and 60 days, respectively, while alterations in sperm dynamics, testicular histopathological and planimetric investigations, body and organs weights, lipid profiles, and hematology were performed as per aimed objectives. Subchronic dose of aspirin reduced sperm density, count, and mobility in cauda epididymis and testis; histopathology and developing primary spermatogonial cells (primary spermatogonia, secondary spermatogonia, and mature spermatocyte) count were also significantly decreased in rats. Hematological investigations revealed hemopoietic abnormalities in 60-day-treated animals along with dysfunctions in hepatic and renal functions. The findings of the present study revealed that administration with subchronic dose of aspirin to male rats resulted in altered reproductive profiles and serum biochemistry.
Oral 5-Aminosalicylate, Mesalamine Suppository, and Mesalamine Enema as Initial Therapy for Ulcerative Proctitis in Clinical Practice with Quality of Care Implications
Authors: Richter James M. , Arshi Nabeela K. , Oster Gerry
Published: April 2016

Background.Ulcerative proctitis (UP) is typically treated initially with oral 5-aminosalicylate (“5-ASA”), mesalamine suppository, or mesalamine enema (“UP Rx”). Little is known about their effectiveness in practice.Methods.Using a US health insurance database, we identified new-onset UP patients between January 1, 2005, and December 31, 2007, based on the following: (1) initiation of UP Rx; (2) endoscopy in prior 30 days resulting in diagnosis of UP; and (3) no prior encounters for ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease. We examined the incidence of therapy escalation and total costs in relation to initial UP Rx.Results.We identified 548 patients: 327 received mesalamine suppository, 138 received oral 5-ASA, and 83 received mesalamine enema, as initial UP Rx. One-third receiving oral 5-ASA experienced therapy escalation over 12 months, 21% for both mesalamine suppository and enema. Mean cumulative total cost of UP Rx over 12 months was $1552, $996, and $986 for patients beginning therapy with oral 5-ASA, mesalamine enema, and mesalamine suppository, respectively. Contrary to expert recommendations the treatments were often not continued prophylactically.Conclusions.Treatment escalation was common, and total costs of therapy were higher, in patients who initiated treatment with oral 5-ASA. Further study is necessary to assess the significance of these observations.
Hematological and Biochemistry Profile and Risk Factors Associated with Pulmonary Tuberculosis Patients in Guyana
Authors: Kurup Rajini , Flemming Keon , Daniram Sudish , Marks-James Shenika , Roberts Martin Roberta
Published: April 2016

Objective.To evaluate the hematological and biochemistry profile of patients with or without HIV-TB at the Georgetown Chest Clinic, Guyana.Methods.An observational, laboratory based study was designed to assess the relationship of PTB and HIV with patients routine biochemical and hematological values. The study was conducted during the period January 2013 to December 2014; a total sample size of 316 patients was enrolled following exclusion and inclusion criteria.Results.Mean age of study population was 40.1 ± 13.8 (95% CI 38.6–41.7) and most were between 40 and 49 age group (27.8%, 95% CI 23.2–33.0). More males were in the study 74.4% (95% CI 69.3–78.8) than females 81% (95% CI 21.1–30.7). 30% (95% CI 25.3–35.3) had a sputum smear grade of 3+ and 62.5% (95% CI 47.0–75.7) showed a CD4count <200. The study demonstrated significantly low hemoglobin (Hb) 91.7% (95% CI 78.2–97.1), low WBC 27.8% (95% CI 15.8–44.0), high indirect bilirubin 7.4% (95% CI 2.1–23.3), ALT 41.8% (95% CI 28.4–56.7), and AST 72.2% (95% CI 57.3–83.3) among TB-HIV patients. Homelessness RR (relative risk) 2.2 (95% CI 0.48–12.3), smoking RR 1.09 (95% CI 1.01–1.19), and gender (male) RR 1.2 (95% CI 0.61–2.26) were main associated risk factors.Conclusions.There is slight variation among PTB and PTB-HIV coinfected patients in some hematological and biochemistry parameters.
A Hybrid Genetic Algorithm with a Knowledge-Based Operator for Solving the Job Shop Scheduling Problems
Authors: Piroozfard Hamed , Wong Kuan Yew , Hassan Adnan
Published: April 2016

Scheduling is considered as an important topic in production management and combinatorial optimization in which it ubiquitously exists in most of the real-world applications. The attempts of finding optimal or near optimal solutions for the job shop scheduling problems are deemed important, because they are characterized as highly complex andNP-hard problems. This paper describes the development of a hybrid genetic algorithm for solving the nonpreemptive job shop scheduling problems with the objective of minimizing makespan. In order to solve the presented problem more effectively, an operation-based representation was used to enable the construction of feasible schedules. In addition, a new knowledge-based operator was designed based on the problem’s characteristics in order to use machines’ idle times to improve the solution quality, and it was developed in the context of function evaluation. A machine based precedence preserving order-based crossover was proposed to generate the offspring. Furthermore, a simulated annealing based neighborhood search technique was used to improve the local exploitation ability of the algorithm and to increase its population diversity. In order to prove the efficiency and effectiveness of the proposed algorithm, numerous benchmarked instances were collected from the Operations Research Library. Computational results of the proposed hybrid genetic algorithm demonstrate its effectiveness.
Power Quality Investigation of Distribution Networks Embedded Wind Turbines
Authors: Elsherif A. , Fetouh T. , Shaaban H.
Published: April 2016

In recent years a multitude of events have created a new environment for the electric power infrastructure. The presence of small-scale generation near load spots is becoming common especially with the advent of renewable energy sources such as wind power energy. This type of generation is known as distributed generation (DG). The expansion of the distributed generators- (DGs-) based wind energy raises constraints on the distribution networks operation and power quality issues: voltage sag, voltage swell, voltage interruption, harmonic contents, flickering, frequency deviation, unbalance, and so forth. Consequently, the public distribution network conception and connection studies evolve in order to keep the distribution system operating in optimal conditions. In this paper, a comprehensive power quality investigation of a distribution system with embedded wind turbines has been carried out. This investigation is carried out in a comparison aspect between the conventional synchronous generators, as DGs are widely in use at present, and the different wind turbines technologies, which represent the foresightedness of the DGs. The obtained results are discussed with the IEC 61400-21 standard for testing and assessing power quality characteristics of grid-connected wind energy and the IEEE 1547-2003 standard for interconnecting distributed resources with electric power systems.
Enhancing the Security of Personal Identification Numbers with Three-Dimensional Displays
Authors: Lee Mun-Kyu , Kim Jin Bok , Franklin Matthew K.
Published: April 2016

Passwords and personal identification numbers (PINs) are convenient and ubiquitous, but they are quite vulnerable to attackers who stand near the user (“shoulder-surfers”). This problem may be partially resolved by changing the user interface, but previous solutions of this kind still give shoulder-surfing attackers a significant advantage over brute force search. This paper provides a novel solution based on three dimensions, particularly suitable for glasses-free three-dimensional (3D) displays found in many smartphones and handheld game consoles. A user at the “3D spot” may log in easily, while nearby shoulder-surfers gain no advantage. A detailed experimental usability analysis is performed to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed scheme in comparison to the existing methods.
Finite Difference Analysis of Transient Heat Transfer in Surrounding Rock Mass of High Geothermal Roadway
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Wan Zhijun , Gu Bin , Zhang Hongwei , Zhou Peng
Published: April 2016

Based on finite difference method, a mathematical model and a numerical model written by Fortran language were established in the paper. Then a series of experiments were conducted to figure out the evolution law of temperature field in high geothermal roadway. Research results indicate that temperature disturbance range increases gradually as the unsteady heat conduction goes on and it presents power function relationship with dimensionless time. Based on the case analysis, there is no distinct expansion of temperature disturbance range after four years of ventilation, when the temperature disturbance rangeR=13.6.
Primary Hydatid Cyst of Umbilicus, Mimicking an Umbilical Hernia
Authors: Tarahomi Mohammadreza , Alizadeh Otaghvar Hamidreza , Ghavifekr Nazila hasanzadeh , Shojaei Daryanaz , Goravanchi Farhood , Molaei Amir
Published: April 2016

Hydatid cyst caused byEchinococcus granulosusdemonstrates an endemic infection in several countries such as Middle Eastern countries. Liver is the most frequently involved organ, followed by the lung. The case we present is solitary primary localization of cyst in abdominal wall which is extremely rare. A 57-year-old woman presented with an abdominal wall lesion in umbilical area that had been evolving for about 2 years with recent complaint of pain and discomfort. We detected a midline abdominal mass12⁎13centimeters in diameter which was bulged out in umbilicus. Preoperative clinical diagnosis of incarcerated umbilical hernia was made due to its physical examination while surgical exploration disproved the primary diagnosis and we found cystic mass adherent to superficial fascia without any communication to peritoneal space. The cyst was excised completely without any injury or perforation of containing capsule. The diagnosis of hydatid cyst was confirmed by histopathological examination of specimen. The retrograde evaluation showed no involvement of other organs. The patient was followed for two years and no recurrence of hydatid disease has been observed. Hydatid cyst should be considered as a differential diagnosis of abdominal wall and umbilical lesions especially in endemic regions.
Tetrahydro-iso-alpha Acids Antagonize Estrogen Receptor Alpha Activity in MCF-7 Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Lempereur Maëlle , Majewska Claire , Brunquers Amandine , Wongpramud Sumalee , Valet Bénédicte , Janssens Philippe , Dillemans Monique , Van Nedervelde Laurence , Gallo Dominique
Published: April 2016

Tetrahydro-iso-alpha acids commonly called THIAA or Tetra are modified hop acids extracted from hop (Humulus lupulusL.) which are frequently used in brewing industry mainly in order to provide beer bitterness and foam stability. Interestingly, molecular structure of tetrahydro-iso-alpha acids is close to a new type of estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) antagonists aimed at disrupting the binding of coactivators containing an LxxLL motif (NR-box). In this work we show that THIAA decreases estradiol-stimulated proliferation of MCF-7 (ERα-positive breast cancer cells). Besides, we show that it inhibits ERαtranscriptional activity. Interestingly, this extract fails to compete with estradiol for ERαbinding and does not significantly impact the receptor turnover rate in MCF-7 cells, suggesting that it does not act like classical antiestrogens. Hence, we demonstrate that THIAA is able to antagonize ERαestradiol-induced recruitment of the LxxLL binding motif.
Ly6E/K Signaling to TGFβ Promotes Breast Cancer Progression, Immune Escape, and Drug Resistance
Authors: AlHossiny Midrar , Luo Linlin , Frazier William R. , Steiner Noriko , Gusev Yuriy , Kallakury Bhaskar , Glasgow Eric , Creswell Karen , Madhavan Subha , Kumar Rakesh , Upadhyay Geeta
Published: April 2016

Stem cell antigen Sca-1 is implicated in murine cancer stem cell biology and breast cancer models, but the role of its human homologs Ly6K and Ly6E in breast cancer are not established. Here we report increased expression of Ly6K/E in human breast cancer specimens correlates with poor overall survival, with an additional specific role for Ly6E in poor therapeutic outcomes. Increased expression of Ly6K/E also correlated with increased expression of the immune checkpoint molecules PDL1 and CTLA4, increased tumor-infiltrating T regulatory cells, and decreased natural killer (NK) cell activation. Mechanistically, Ly6K/E was required for TGFβ signaling and proliferation in breast cancer cells, where they contributed to phosphorylation of Smad1/5 and Smad2/3. Furthermore, Ly6K/E promoted cytokine-induced PDL1 expression and activation and binding of NK cells to cancer cells. Finally, we found that Ly6K/E promoted drug resistance and facilitated immune escape in this setting. Overall, our results establish a pivotal role for a Ly6K/E signaling axis involving TGFβ in breast cancer pathophysiology and drug response, and highlight this signaling axis as a compelling realm for therapeutic invention. Cancer Res; 76(11); 3376–86. ©2016 AACR.
T-cell Landscape in a Primary Melanoma Predicts the Survival of Patients with Metastatic Disease after Their Treatment with Dendritic Cell Vaccines
Authors: Vasaturo Angela , Halilovic Altuna , Bol Kalijn F. , Verweij Dagmar I. , Blokx Willeke A.M. , Punt Cornelis J.A. , Groenen Patricia J.T.A. , van Krieken J. Han J.M. , Textor Johannes , de Vries I. Jolanda M. , Figdor Carl G.
Published: April 2016

Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes appear to be a predictor of survival in many cancers, including cutaneous melanoma. We applied automated multispectral imaging to determine whether density and distribution of T cells within primary cutaneous melanoma tissue correlate with survival of metastatic melanoma patients after dendritic cell (DC) vaccination. CD3+ T cell infiltration in primary tumors from 77 metastatic melanoma patients was quantified using the ratio of intratumoral versus peritumoral T-cell densities (I/P ratio). Patients with longer survival after DC vaccination had stronger T-cell infiltration than patients with shorter survival in a discovery cohort of 19 patients (P = 0.000026) and a validation cohort of 39 patients (P = 0.000016). I/P ratio was the strongest predictor of survival in a multivariate analysis including M substage and serum lactate dehydrogenase level. To evaluate I/P ratio as a predictive biomarker, we analyzed 19 chemotherapy-treated patients. Longer survival times of DC-vaccinated compared with chemotherapy-treated patients was observed for high (P = 0.000566), but not low (P = 0.154) I/P ratios. In conclusion, T-cell infiltration into primary melanoma is a strong predictor of survival after DC vaccination in metastatic melanoma patients who, on average, started this therapy several years after primary tumor resection. The infiltration remains predictive even after adjustment for late-stage prognostic markers. Our findings suggest that the I/P ratio is a potential predictive biomarker for treatment selection. Cancer Res; 76(12); 3496–506. ©2016 AACR.
Secretome Signature Identifies ADAM17 as Novel Target for Radiosensitization of Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Sharma Ashish , Bender Sabine , Zimmermann Martina , Riesterer Oliver , Broggini-Tenzer Angela , Pruschy Martin N.
Published: April 2016

Purpose: Ionizing radiation (IR) induces intracellular signaling processes as part of a treatment-induced stress response. Here we investigate IR-induced ADAM17 activation and the role of ADAM17-shed factors for radiation resistance in non–small cell lung cancer.

Experimental Design: Large-scale secretome profiling was performed using antibody arrays. Secretion kinetics of ADAM17 substrates was determined using ELISA across multiple in vitro and in vivo models of non–small cell lung cancer. Clonogenic survival and tumor xenograft assays were performed to determine radiosensitization by ADAM17 inhibition.

Results: On the basis of a large-scale secretome screening, we investigated secretion of auto- or paracrine factors in non–small cell lung cancer in response to irradiation and discovered the ADAM17 network as a crucial mediator of resistance to IR. Irradiation induced a dose-dependent increase of furin-mediated cleavage of the ADAM17 proform to active ADAM17, which resulted in enhanced ADAM17 activity in vitro and in vivo. Genetic or pharmacologic targeting of ADAM17 suppressed IR-induced shedding of secreted factors, downregulated ErbB signaling in otherwise cetuximab-resistant target cells, and enhanced IR-induced cytotoxicity. The combined treatment modality of IR with the ADAM17 inhibitor TMI-005 resulted in a supra-additive antitumor response in vivo demonstrating the potential of ADAM17 targeting in combination with radiotherapy.

Conclusions: Radiotherapy activates ADAM17 in non–small cell lung cancer, which results in shedding of multiple survival factors, growth factor pathway activation, and IR-induced treatment resistance. We provide a sound rationale for repositioning ADAM17 inhibitors as short-term adjuvants to improve the radiotherapy outcome of non–small cell lung cancer. Clin Cancer Res; 22(17); 4428–39. ©2016 AACR.
Autophagy Inhibition Dysregulates TBK1 Signaling and Promotes Pancreatic Inflammation
Authors: Yang Shenghong , Imamura Yu , Jenkins Russell W. , Cañadas Israel , Kitajima Shunsuke , Aref Amir , Brannon Arthur , Oki Eiji , Castoreno Adam , Zhu Zehua , Thai Tran , Reibel Jacob , Qian Zhirong , Ogino Shuji , Wong Kwok K. , Baba Hideo , Kimmelman Alec C. , Pasca Di Magliano Marina , Barbie David A.
Published: April 2016

Autophagy promotes tumor progression downstream of oncogenic KRAS, yet also restrains inflammation and dysplasia through mechanisms that remain incompletely characterized. Understanding the basis of this paradox has important implications for the optimal targeting of autophagy in cancer. Using a mouse model of cerulein-induced pancreatitis, we found that loss of autophagy by deletion of Atg5 enhanced activation of the IκB kinase (IKK)-related kinase TBK1 in vivo, associated with increased neutrophil and T-cell infiltration and PD-L1 upregulation. Consistent with this observation, pharmacologic or genetic inhibition of autophagy in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cells, including suppression of the autophagy receptors NDP52 or p62, prolonged TBK1 activation and increased expression of CCL5, IL6, and several other T-cell and neutrophil chemotactic cytokines in vitro. Defective autophagy also promoted PD-L1 upregulation, which is particularly pronounced downstream of IFNγ signaling and involves JAK pathway activation. Treatment with the TBK1/IKKϵ/JAK inhibitor CYT387 (also known as momelotinib) not only inhibits autophagy, but also suppresses this feedback inflammation and reduces PD-L1 expression, limiting KRAS-driven pancreatic dysplasia. These findings could contribute to the dual role of autophagy in oncogenesis and have important consequences for its therapeutic targeting. Cancer Immunol Res; 4(6); 520–30. ©2016 AACR.
Hampered Lung Maturation in Methimazole-Induced Hypothyroidism in Fetal Chicken: Morphological and Molecular Correlates to Human Fetal Development
Authors: Bjørnstad Sigrid , Samara Athina , Erichsen Aage , Paulsen Ragnhild E. , Glover Joel C. , Roald Borghild
Published: April 2016

Background: Molecular understanding of lung development is crucial for developing therapies and diagnostic tools. Animal models with altered thyroid hormone signaling provide mechanistic insight into thyroid-dependent neonatal lung disease. Repression of Klf2 (Krüppel-like factor 2), a suggested T3 target gene, is associated with disrupted lung development in mice. Klf2 is proposed to be specifically involved in type I pneumocyte differentiation. Objectives: To explore mechanisms of thyroid-dependent lung disease, we studied developing chicken fetuses with experimentally induced hypothyroidism. Methods: Morphology and the expression of a panel of molecules linked to Klf2 were assessed using histology, immunohistochemistry, Western blot and qPCR. Results: Methimazole injections at E14 hampered lung maturation. The effects of methimazole were evident in several tissue compartments, and impacted on both pneumocyte and vascular differentiation, suggesting cellular and molecular pleiotropy. Conclusions: Concomitant expression changes in a panel of selected microRNAs regulated by Klf2 suggest importance in lung development. These microRNAs may thus represent potential clinical targets and diagnostic and prognostic tools in thyroid-dependent lung disease.
Epstein-Barr Virus EBNA-2 Polymorphic Patterns in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma in Southern China
Authors: Wu Guocai , Liu Xia , Liu Song , Shu Jun , Sun Zhifu , Luo Bing
Published: April 2016

Objectives: The aim of this study was to characterize the specific Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) polymorphisms from nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) patients and healthy donors in Southern China, and to explore the relationship between EBV genotypes and NPC. Methods: The EBNA-2 gene of 32 EBV-positive NPCs and 39 EBV-positive throat washing (TW) samples from healthy individuals from Southern China was analyzed using PCR and sequencing. Results: We found E2-A to be the predominant subtype in Southern China. The distribution of EBNA-2 subtypes between NPCs and TWs was significantly different (p < 0.01) and the E2-A subtype was overly represented in NPCs. Conclusions: E2-A is the predominant subtype in Southern China, and the distribution of EBNA-2 subtypes between NPCs and TWs is significantly different. In Southern China, the E2-A subtype is significantly more frequent in NPCs than TWs, and is also more common than in Northern China. This suggests that the E2-A subtype may play an important role in the pathogenesis of NPC and that EBNA-2 gene variations are tumor-specific polymorphisms.
Differences in Clinical Features of Methamphetamine Users with Persistent Psychosis and Patients with Schizophrenia
Authors: Wang Liang-Jen , Lin Shih-Ku , Chen Yi-Chih , Huang Ming-Chyi , Chen Tzu-Ting , Ree Shao-Chun , Chen Chih-Ken
Published: April 2016

Background: Methamphetamine exerts neurotoxic effects and elicits psychotic symptoms. This study attempted to compare clinical differences between methamphetamine users with persistent psychosis (MAP) and patients with schizophrenia. In addition, we examined the discrimination validity by using symptom clusters to differentiate between MAP and schizophrenia. Methods: We enrolled 53 MAP patients and 53 patients with schizophrenia. The psychopathology of participants was assessed using the Chinese version of the Diagnostic Interview for Genetic Studies and the 18-item Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale. Logistic regression was used to examine the predicted probability scores of different symptom combinations on discriminating between MAP and schizophrenia. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses and area under the curve (AUC) were further applied to examine the discrimination validity of the predicted probability scores on differentiating between MAP and schizophrenia. Results: We found that MAP and schizophrenia demonstrated similar patterns of delusions. Compared to patients with schizophrenia, MAP experienced significantly higher proportions of visual hallucinations and of somatic or tactile hallucinations. However, MAP exhibited significantly lower severity in conceptual disorganization, mannerism/posturing, blunted affect, emotional withdrawal, and motor retardation compared to patients with schizophrenia. The ROC analysis showed that a predicted probability score combining the aforementioned 7 items of symptoms could significantly differentiate between MAP and schizophrenia (AUC = 0.77). Conclusion: Findings in the current study suggest that nuanced differences might exist in the clinical presentation of secondary psychosis (MAP) and primary psychosis (schizophrenia). Combining the symptoms as a whole may help with differential diagnosis for MAP and schizophrenia.
Āyurveda's Contributions to Vegetarian Nutrition in Medicine
Authors: Manohar Ram , Kessler Christian S.
Published: April 2016

Āyurveda is one of the oldest codified traditional systems of medicine on a global scale. Grounded in Indian culture it has developed a sophisticated approach to healthy nutrition and nutritional therapy for the management of diseases within the framework of its whole systems paradigm. Medical interventions have been considered to be ineffective without the support of a balanced diet. Vegetarian nutrition plays a key role in customized preventive and therapeutic Āyurvedic strategies based on an individualized approach to healthcare, while broadly labeling Āyurveda as ‘vegetarian medicine' would be an exaggeration. Revolt against animal slaughter, compassion through spiritual practices, and the Āyurvedic understanding of the nutritional properties of the plant kingdom led to the dominance of vegetarianism in India. Āyurveda elaborates on 8 crucial aspects to be considered with respect to a balanced diet. This paper illuminates the complex historic embedding of the Āyurvedic nutritional approach and gives a detailed text-based explanation on why and how vegetarian nutrition can be applied in both prevention and cure of diseases from the perspective of traditional Indian medicine.