bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Co-Check: Collaborative Outsourced Data Auditing in Multicloud Environment
Authors: Mao Jian , Tian Wenqian , Zhang Yan , Cui Jian , Ma Hanjun , Bian Jingdong , Liu Jianwei , Zhang Jianhong
Published: October 2017

With the increasing demand for ubiquitous connectivity, wireless technology has significantly improved our daily lives. Meanwhile, together with cloud-computing technology (e.g., cloud storage services and big data processing), new wireless networking technology becomes the foundation infrastructure of emerging communication networks. Particularly, cloud storage has been widely used in services, such as data outsourcing and resource sharing, among the heterogeneous wireless environments because of its convenience, low cost, and flexibility. However, users/clients lose the physical control of their data after outsourcing. Consequently, ensuring the integrity of the outsourced data becomes an important security requirement of cloud storage applications. In this paper, we present Co-Check, a collaborative multicloud data integrity audition scheme, which is based on BLS (Boneh-Lynn-Shacham) signature and homomorphic tags. According to the proposed scheme, clients can audit their outsourced data in a one-round challenge-response interaction with low performance overhead. Our scheme also supports dynamic data maintenance. The theoretical analysis and experiment results illustrate that our scheme is provably secure and efficient.
Busemann-Petty Problems for Quasi Lp Intersection Bodies
Authors: Zhou Yanping , Wu Shanhe
Published: October 2017

We investigate the Lp dual geominimal surface area and volume forms of Busemann-Petty problems for the quasi Lp intersection bodies and establish some new geometric inequalities. Our results provide a significant complement to the researches on Busemann-Petty problems for intersection bodies.
In VitroActivity of Lactobacilli with Probiotic Potential Isolated from Cocoa Fermentation againstGardnerella vaginalis
Authors: Pessoa Wallace Felipe Blohem , Melgaço Ana Clara Correia , de Almeida Milena Evangelista , Ramos Louise Pereira , Rezende Rachel Passos , Romano Carla Cristina
Published: October 2017

Study of the probiotic potential of microorganisms isolated from fermented foods has been increasing, especially studies related to lactobacilli. In intestinal models, lactobacilli have demonstrated beneficial properties, such as anti-inflammatory activity and increased antibody production, but the molecular mechanisms involving probiotic and antagonistic action as well as their effect on human vaginal cells have not yet been fully elucidated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the functional and antagonistic properties of three strains of lactobacilli isolated from cocoa fermentation (Lactobacillus fermentum5.2,L. plantarum6.2, andL. plantarum7.1) againstGardnerella vaginalis. Our results show that the lactobacilli have potential use as probiotics, since they have high hydrophobicity and autoaggregation properties and effectively adhere to vaginal cells. Metabolites secreted into the culture medium and whole cells of the strains under study are capable of interfering with the growth ofG. vaginalisto different degrees. The elucidation of the antagonistic mechanisms as well as their effect on human cells may be useful in the development of a product containing such microorganisms or products secreted by them.
Risk Factors of Delirium in Sequential Sedation Patients in Intensive Care Units
Authors: Yang Jie , Zhou Yongfang , Kang Yan , Xu Binbin , Wang Peng , Lv Yinxia , Wang Zhen
Published: October 2017

Background. Delirium is a primary adverse event in ventilated patients who receive long-term monosedative treatment. Sequential sedation may reduce these adverse effects. This study evaluated risk factors for delirium in sequential sedation patients. Methods. A total of 141 patients who underwent sequential sedation were enrolled. Delirium was diagnosed using Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive Care Unit (CAM-ICU) scale. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regressions were used to predict risk factors. Results. Older age (≥51) (RR = 2.432, 95% CL 1.316–4.494, p=0.005), higher SOFA score (≥14) (RR = 2.022, 95% CL 1.076–3.798, p=0.029), regular smoking (RR = 2.366, 95% CL 1.277–4.382, p=0.006), and higher maintenance dose of midazolam (RR = 1.052, 95% CL 1.000–1.107, p=0.049) and fentanyl (RR = 1.045, 95% CL 1.019–1.072, p=0.001) when patients met sequential criteria, were independent risk factors of delirium. Sequential sedation with dexmedetomidine (RR = 0.448, 95% CL 0.209–0.963, p=0.040) was associated with a lower risk of delirium. Conclusions. Older age, higher SOFA score, regular smoking, and higher maintenance dose of midazolam and fentanyl when patients met sequential criteria were independent risk factors of delirium in sequential sedation patients. Sequential sedation with dexmedetomidine reduced risk of delirium.
Waldenstrom’s Macroglobulinemia: A Report of Two Cases, One with Severe Retinopathy and One with Renal Failure
Authors: Kudo Naoko , Usui Masakatsu , Nakabo Yukiharu , Yoshida Ken-ichi , Miki Kenji , Osafune Takashi , Nishimura Keisuke , Imashuku Shinsaku
Published: October 2017

We report here two cases of Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinemia (WM), one with central nervous system (CNS) symptoms and severe retinopathy and one with renal failure. In both cases, the serum IgM levels exceeded 3,000 mg/dL and monoclonal IgM-kappa was observed in the blood. At onset, Case 1, a 63-year-old female, developed CNS symptoms—namely, drowsiness and syncope. Case 2, a 58-year-old male, had nausea and dysgeusia on admission associated with renal failure, which is quite rare in patients with WM. Both patients exhibited hyperviscosity-related retinopathy, but it was particularly severe in Case 1: she suddenly lost her vision after admission. However, her vision recovered completely during treatment. Case 2 required hemodialysis immediately after admission. Needle biopsy of his kidney revealed tubulointerstitial nephritis with marked infiltration with CD20-positive lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma cells. After treatment, Case 1 has been in a remission longer than 8 years, but Case 2 died of pneumonia in 6 months. Since the initial symptoms of WM are ambiguous and vary significantly and hyperviscosity-related ophthalmological problems or severe renal dysfunction can arise, it is essential to promptly measure serum IgM levels and to institute appropriate care immediately when WM is confirmed in a patient.
Application of Quasi-Subordination for Generalized Sakaguchi Type Functions
Authors: Altınkaya Şahsene
Published: October 2017

The author constructs a new class SqλG,s,t of univalent functions applying the Ruscheweyh derivative. Moreover, the coefficient estimates including a Fekete-Szegö inequality of this class were determined.
Antioxidant Activity of a Geopropolis from Northeast Brazil: Chemical Characterization and Likely Botanical Origin
Authors: Ferreira Joselena M. , Fernandes-Silva Caroline C. , Salatino Antonio , Message Dejair , Negri Giuseppina
Published: October 2017

Geopropolis is a product containing wax, plant resin, and soil particles. It is elaborated by stingless bees of tribe Meliponini. Methanol extracts of sample of geopropolis produced by Scaptotrigona postica (“mandaguari”) in the state of Rio Grande do Norte (RN, northeast Brazil) were analyzed for the determination of standard parameters (total phenols, total flavonoids, and radical scavenging activity) and chemical characterization by HPLC‐DAD‐MS/MS analysis. The sample analyzed has high contents of total phenols and flavonoids, as well as high antioxidant activity. The constituents characterized were mainly flavonols, such as quercetin methyl ethers, and methoxychalcones. Such chemical profile is similar to the composition of a green propolis from the same area of RN, which is produced by Africanized Apis mellifera, using shoot apices of Mimosa tenuiflora, popularly known as “jurema‐preta.” This finding provides evidence that “mandaguari” geopropolis and honeybee propolis have the same botanical origin in RN. The sharing of a plant resin source by phylogenetically distant bees (Apinae and Meliponinae) suggests that bee genetic factors play little role in the choice of plants for resin collection and that the availability of potential botanical sources plays a decisive role.
Success Rates of Pulpotomies in Primary Molars Using Calcium Silicate-Based Materials: A Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Guven Yeliz , Aksakal Sermin Dicle , Avcu Nilufer , Unsal Gulcan , Tuna Elif Bahar , Aktoren Oya
Published: October 2017

Objective. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare, both clinically and radiographically, the effects of calcium silicate-based materials (i.e., ProRoot MTA [PR-MTA], MTA-Plus [MTA-P], and Biodentine [BD]) and ferric sulfate [FS] in pulpotomy of primary molars. Materials and Methods. In this randomized clinical trial, 29 healthy 5- to 7-year-old children with at least four carious primary molars with no clinical or radiographic evidence of pulp degeneration were enrolled. The pulpotomy agents were assigned as follows: Group 1: BD; Group 2: MTA-P; Group 3: PR-MTA; and Group 4: FS. Clinical and radiographic evaluations were performed at 6, 12, and 24 months. Data were analyzed using chi-square tests. Results. Total success rates at 24 months were 82.75%, 86.2%, 93.1%, and 75.86%, respectively. No statistically significant differences in total success rates were observed among the groups at 6-, 12-, and 24-month follow-ups. When the groups were compared according to follow-up times, the success rates in each group did not vary significantly among the 6–12-month, 6–24-month, or 12–24-month periods (p>0.05). Conclusion. Although the success rates of BD, MTA-P, MTA-PR, and FS did not differ significantly, calcium silicate-based materials appeared to be more appropriate than FS in clinical practice.
Modeling Passengers’ Boarding Behavior at the Platform of High Speed Railway Station
Authors: Tang Tie-Qiao , Shao Yi-Xiao , Chen Liang , Shang Hua-Yan
Published: October 2017

Modeling passengers’ motion at high speed railway (HSR) station has been a hot topic in the field of pedestrian flow theory. However, little effort has been made to explore the passengers’ boarding behaviors at the platform of HSR station. This study proposes a cellular automaton (CA) model to study the passengers’ boarding behavior at the platform of HSR station. Some numerical tests are conducted to explore the passengers’ movements and the complex traffic phenomena (e.g., each passenger’s trajectory, congestion, and travel time) which occur during the boarding process. The numerical results illustrate that the passengers’ inflow rate and entrance choice behavior have significant impacts on the boarding efficiency. These results can help managers to understand the passengers’ boarding behavior and to improve the boarding efficiency.
Acute Hematogenous Osteomyelitis in a Five-Month-Old Male with Rickets
Authors: John Minnie , Al-Jadiri Aseel , Co Christabelle , Abulfaraj Maher , Santiago Lucia J.
Published: October 2017

Osteomyelitis is defined as an infection of the bone, bone marrow, and the surrounding soft tissues. Most cases of acute hematogenous osteomyelitis in children are caused by Gram-positive bacteria, principally Staphylococcus aureus. We present a case where a 5-month-old male had an acute onset of decreased movement of his left leg and increased irritability and was subsequently diagnosed with rickets and hematogenous osteomyelitis with bacteremia. The case explores a possible association between hematogenous osteomyelitis and rickets.
Drought Trends in the Iberian Peninsula over the Last 112 Years
Authors: Páscoa P. , Gouveia C. M. , Russo A. , Trigo R. M.
Published: October 2017

The Iberian Peninsula (IP) is a drought-prone area located in the Mediterranean which presents a significant tendency towards dryness during the last decades, reinforcing the need for a continuous monitoring of drought. The long-term evolution of drought in the IP is analyzed, using the Standardized Precipitation Evaporation Index (SPEI) and the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI), for the period of 1901–2012 and for three subperiods: 1901–1937, 1938–1974, and 1975–2012. SPI and SPEI were calculated with a 12-month time scale, using data from the Climatic Research Unit (CRU) database. Trends in the drought indices, precipitation, and reference evapotranspiration (ET0) were analysed and series of drought duration, drought magnitude, time between drought events, and mean intensity of the events were computed. SPI and SPEI significant trends show areas with opposite signals in the period 1901–2012, mainly associated with precipitation trends, which are significant and positive in the northwestern region and significant and negative in the southern areas. Additionally, SPEI identified dryer conditions and an increase in the area affected by droughts, which agrees with the increase in ET0. The same spatial differences were identified in the drought duration, magnitude, mean intensity, and time between drought events.
Understanding Air Pollution from Induced Traffic during and after the Construction of a New Highway: Case Study of Highway 25 in Montreal
Authors: Amin Md. Shohel Reza , Tamima Umma , Amador Jimenez Luis
Published: October 2017

This study demonstrates through a case study that detailed analyses, even after the construction of a project, are feasible using current technologies and available data. A case study of highway 25 is used to illustrate the method and verify the levels of air contaminants from additionally induced traffic during and after the construction of highway. Natural traffic growth was removed from the effect of observed gas emissions by comparing observed levels on other further locations in the same metropolitan area. This study estimates air pollution from the additional traffic during and after the construction of A-25 extension project. NO2 levels were spatially interpolated during peak and off-peak hour traffic and traffic density simulated on the road network for four scenarios. Comparing the four scenarios, it was found that levels of NO2 concentrations were reduced at neighbor areas due to less traffic during the construction period. Levels of NO2 after the construction were higher than those in 2008. The simulated traffic density for four scenarios revealed that traffic density was significantly increased on both arterial and access roads within the close vicinity of the extension project during and after its construction.
PBF: A New Privacy-Aware Billing Framework for Online Electric Vehicles with Bidirectional Auditability
Authors: Hussain Rasheed , Son Junggab , Kim Donghyun , Nogueira Michele , Oh Heekuck , Tokuta Alade O. , Seo Jungtaek
Published: October 2017

Recently an online electric vehicle (OLEV) concept has been introduced, where vehicles are propelled by the wirelessly transmitted electrical power from the infrastructure installed under the road while moving. The absence of secure-and-fair billing is one of the main hurdles to widely adopt this promising technology. This paper introduces a new secure and privacy-aware fair billing framework for OLEV on the move through the charging plates installed under the road. We first propose two extreme lightweight mutual authentication mechanisms, a direct authentication and a hash chain-based authentication between vehicles and the charging plates that can be used for different vehicular speeds on the road. Second, we propose a secure and privacy-aware wireless power transfer on move for the vehicles with bidirectional auditability guarantee by leveraging game theoretic approach. Each charging plate transfers a fixed amount of energy to the vehicle and bills the vehicle in a privacy-aware way accordingly. Our protocol guarantees secure, privacy-aware, and fair billing mechanism for the OLEVs while receiving electric power from the infrastructure installed under the road. Moreover, our proposed framework can play a vital role in eliminating the security and privacy challenges in the deployment of power transfer technology to the OLEVs.
Isolation and Molecular Characterization of Amniotic Fluid-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Obtained from Caesarean Sections
Authors: Spitzhorn Lucas-Sebastian , Rahman Md Shaifur , Schwindt Laura , Ho Huyen-Tran , Wruck Wasco , Bohndorf Martina , Wehrmeyer Silke , Ncube Audrey , Beyer Ines , Hagenbeck Carsten , Balan Percy , Fehm Tanja , Adjaye James
Published: October 2017

Human amniotic fluid cells are immune-privileged with low immunogenicity and anti-inflammatory properties. They are able to self-renew, are highly proliferative, and have a broad differentiation potential, making them amenable for cell-based therapies. Amniotic fluid (AF) is routinely obtained via amniocentesis and contains heterogeneous populations of foetal-derived progenitor cells including mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). In this study, we isolated human MSCs from AF (AF-MSCs) obtained during Caesarean sections (C-sections) and characterized them. These AF-MSCs showed typical MSC characteristics such as morphology,in vitrodifferentiation potential, surface marker expression, and secreted factors. Besides vimentin and the stem cell marker CD133, subpopulations of AF-MSCs expressed pluripotency-associated markers such as SSEA4, c-Kit, TRA-1-60, and TRA-1-81. The secretome and related gene ontology (GO) terms underline their immune modulatory properties. Furthermore, transcriptome analyses revealed similarities with native foetal bone marrow-derived MSCs. Significant KEGG pathways as well as GO terms are mostly related to immune function, embryonic skeletal system, and TGFβ-signalling. An AF-MSC-enriched gene set included putative AF-MSC markersPSG5,EMX-2, andEVR-3. In essence, C-section-derived AF-MSCs can be routinely obtained and are amenable for personalized cell therapies and disease modelling.
Ki-67 Expression by Immunohistochemistry and Quantitative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction as Predictor of Clinical Response to Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Locally Advanced Breast Cancer
Authors: Prihantono Prihantono , Hatta Mochammad , Binekada Christian , Sampepajung Daniel , Haryasena Haryasena , Nelwan Berti , Asadul Islam Andi , Nilawati Usman Andi
Published: October 2017

Background. Chemotherapy has become a standard of treatment in managing breast cancer. To achieve proper treatment for the right patients, the predictive marker is needed. Ki-67 is a biomarker of proliferation for solid tumor. Studies mentioned association of Ki-67 expression with chemotherapy response. The study aims are to evaluate whether Ki-67 expression detected by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) may predict clinical response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in breast cancer.Methods. This study utilized a longitudinal study. IHC and qRT-PCR methods were used for detection of Ki-67 expression. Chemotherapy response was calculated using RECIST. Data were analyzed with Chi-square and Wilcoxon’s test.Results. There were 48 subjects in this study. Analysis of Ki-67 expression with chemotherapy response has a significant correlation withp=0.025(<0.05), OR: 1.69, confidence interval (95% CI) 1.022–2.810. Analysis of Ki-67 mRNA expression with chemotherapy response has a significant correlationp=0.002(<0.05), OR: 6.85, confidence interval (95% CI) 1.064–44.193. Detection of Ki-67 expression using IHC and qRT-PCR has similar results,p=0.012(<0.05).Conclusion. These results suggest that Ki-67 expression detected by both IHC and qRT-PCR is considered to be a predictor of clinical response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in locally advanced breast cancer.
Noncoding RNA and Cardiomyocyte Proliferation
Authors: Qu Shuang , Zeng Chunyu , Wang Wei Eric
Published: October 2017

It is acknowledged that postnatal mammalian cardiomyocytes (CMs) turn over with a very limited efficacy in both physiological and pathological conditions. Recent studies showed that those newly formed CMs are derived from preexisting CMs. Thus, stimulating CM proliferation becomes a promising strategy for inducing cardiac regeneration. Noncoding RNAs were found differently expressed in CMs with different proliferation potential. Moreover, manipulation of noncoding RNAs, in particular microRNAs, was proved to promote or suppress CM proliferation, indicating that noncoding RNAs are involved in the underlying mechanism of CM proliferation. This review mainly summarizes the roles of noncoding RNAs, as a class of influential factors, in the regulation of CM proliferation.
Development of the Multiple Gene Knockout System with One-Step PCR in Thermoacidophilic Crenarchaeon Sulfolobus acidocaldarius
Authors: Suzuki Shoji , Kurosawa Norio
Published: October 2017

Multiple gene knockout systems developed in the thermoacidophilic crenarchaeon Sulfolobus acidocaldarius are powerful genetic tools. However, plasmid construction typically requires several steps. Alternatively, PCR tailing for high-throughput gene disruption was also developed in S. acidocaldarius, but repeated gene knockout based on PCR tailing has been limited due to lack of a genetic marker system. In this study, we demonstrated efficient homologous recombination frequency (2.8 × 104 ± 6.9 × 103 colonies/μg DNA) by optimizing the transformation conditions. This optimized protocol allowed to develop reliable gene knockout via double crossover using short homologous arms and to establish the multiple gene knockout system with one-step PCR (MONSTER). In the MONSTER, a multiple gene knockout cassette was simply and rapidly constructed by one-step PCR without plasmid construction, and the PCR product can be immediately used for target gene deletion. As an example of the applications of this strategy, we successfully made a DNA photolyase- (phr-) and arginine decarboxylase- (argD-) deficient strain of S. acidocaldarius. In addition, an agmatine selection system consisting of an agmatine-auxotrophic strain and argD marker was also established. The MONSTER provides an alternative strategy that enables the very simple construction of multiple gene knockout cassettes for genetic studies in S. acidocaldarius.
Range and Battery Depletion Concerns with Electric Vehicles
Authors: Miwa Tomio , Sato Hitomi , Morikawa Takayuki
Published: October 2017

This study investigates the effects of the range of a battery electric vehicle (EV) by using questionnaire data. The concern about battery depletion changes according to charging station deployment. Firstly, the methodology for deriving the probabilistic distribution of the daily travel distance is developed, which enables us to analyze people’s tolerance of the risk of battery depletion. Secondly, the desired range of an EV is modeled. This model considers the effect of changing charging station deployment and can analyze the variation in the desired range. Then, the intention of a household to purchase an EV is analyzed by incorporating range-related variables. The results show that people can live with a risk of battery depletion of around 2% to 5%. The deployment of charging stations at large retail facilities and/or workplace parking spaces reduces the desired range of an EV. Finally, the answers to the questionnaire show that the probability of battery depletion on a driving day has little effect on the intention to purchase an EV. Instead, people tend to evaluate the range by itself or directly compare it with their desired range.
Transversus Abdominis Plane Block: An Updated Review of Anatomy and Techniques
Authors: Tsai Hsiao-Chien , Yoshida Takayuki , Chuang Tai-Yuan , Yang Sheng-Feng , Chang Chuen-Chau , Yao Han-Yun , Tai Yu-Ting , Lin Jui-An , Chen Kung-Yen
Published: October 2017

Purpose of Review. Transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block is a regional technique for analgesia of the anterolateral abdominal wall. This review highlights the nomenclature system and recent advances in TAP block techniques and proposes directions for future research.Recent Findings. Ultrasound guidance is now considered the gold standard in TAP blocks. It is easy to acquire ultrasound images; it can be used in many surgeries involving the anterolateral abdominal wall. However, the efficacy of ultrasound-guided TAP blocks is not consistent, which might be due to the use of different approaches. The choice of technique influences the involved area and block duration. To investigate the actual analgesic effects of TAP blocks, we unified the nomenclature system and clarified the definition of each technique. Although a single-shot TAP block is limited in duration, it is still the candidate of the analgesic standard for abdominal wall surgery because the use of the catheter technique and liposomal bupivacaine may overcome this limitation.Summary. Ultrasound-guided TAP blocks are commonly used. With the unified nomenclature and the development of catheter technique and/or liposomal local anesthetics, TAP blocks can be applied more appropriately to achieve better pain control.
A Case Study of Anomalous Snowfall with an Alberta Clipper
Authors: Rochette Scott M. , Market Patrick S. , Gravelle Chad M. , Niziol Thomas A.
Published: October 2017

An Alberta clipper moved over western New York state on 11-12 January 2004, producing snowfall amounts of up to 27 cm in portions of the region during a roughly 12-h period. In addition, lightning and thunder were reported. Such systems, known primarily for their fast motion and relatively dry nature, are not generally associated with significant snowfalls. A postmortem analysis of this event, following an ingredients-based methodology, revealed that as the weak low approached the lower Great Lakes, it came under the influence of coupled 300-hPa jets that produced enhanced divergence and significant upward vertical motion over western New York, resulting in the enhanced convective snowfall over the region for a limited time. Instability and possible enhancement via the Great Lakes are also investigated, which show that while there was at least modest instability over the region during the time of heavy snowfall, lake enhancement was unlikely.
Finding Optimal Team for Multiskill Task Based on Vehicle Sensors Data
Authors: Du Bowen , Tao Qian , Zhu Feng , Song Tianshu
Published: October 2017

These days, with the increasingly widespread employment of sensors, particularly those attached to vehicles, the collection of spatial data is becoming easier and more accurate. As a result, many relevant areas, such as spatial crowdsourcing, are gaining ever more attention. A typical spatial crowdsourcing scenario involves an employer publishing a task and some workers helping to accomplish it. However, most of previous studies have only considered the spatial information of workers and tasks, while ignoring individual variations among workers. In this paper, we consider the Software Development Team Formation (SDTF) problem, which aims to assemble a team of workers whose abilities satisfy the requirements of the task. After showing that the problem is NP-hard, we propose three greedy algorithms and a multiple-phase algorithm to approximately solve the problem. Extensive experiments are conducted on synthetic and real datasets, and the results verify the effectiveness and efficiency of our algorithms.
Influence of Enhanced Recovery Pathway on Surgical Site Infection after Colonic Surgery
Authors: Gronnier Caroline , Grass Fabian , Petignat Christiane , Pache Basile , Hahnloser Dieter , Zanetti Giorgio , Demartines Nicolas , Hübner Martin
Published: October 2017

Background. The present study aimed to evaluate a potential effect of ERAS on surgical site infections (SSI). Methods. Colonic surgical patients operated between May 2011 and September 2015 constituted the cohort for this retrospective analysis. Over 100 items related to demographics, surgical details, compliance, and outcome were retrieved from a prospectively maintained database. SSI were traced by an independent National surveillance program. Risk factors for SSI were identified by univariate and multinomial logistic regression. Results. Fifty-four out of 397 patients (14%) developed SSI. Independent risk factors for SSI were emergency surgery (OR 1.56; 95% CI 1.09–1.78, p=0.026), previous abdominal surgery (OR 1.7; 95% CI 1.32–1.87, p=0.004), smoking (OR 1.71; 95% CI 1.22–1.89, p=0.014), and oral bowel preparation (OR 1.86; 95% CI 1.34–1.97, p=0.013), while minimally invasive surgery (OR 0.3; 95% CI 0.16–0.56, p<0.001) protected against SSI. Compliance to ERAS items of >70% was not retained as a protective factor for SSI after multivariate analysis (OR 0.94; 95% CI 0.46–1.92, p=0.86). Conclusions. Smoking, open and emergency surgery, and bowel preparation were risk factors for SSI. ERAS pathway had no independent impact while minimally invasive approach did. This study was registered under ResearchRegistry.com (UIN researchregistry2614).
Hemothorax due to Ruptured Mycotic Aneurysm of Intercostal Arteries Associated with Infective Endocarditis
Authors: Liu Eddie Y. , Crawford Jennifer , Haddad Haissam
Published: October 2017

We present a case of hemothorax due to ruptured mycotic aneurysm in three intercostal arteries in a 40-year-old male with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infective endocarditis (IE) due to intravenous drug use. Microcoil embolization and thoracotomy successfully achieved hemostasis. Mycotic aneurysm is a rare complication of IE and is usually found in the intracranial vessels. Ruptured mycotic aneurysm in the intercostal arteries can be associated with IE and can present as acute hemothorax.
Fourier Spectroscopy: A Bayesian Way
Authors: Schmuck Stefan , Svensson Jakob
Published: October 2017

The concepts of standard analysis techniques applied in the field of Fourier spectroscopy treat fundamental aspects insufficiently. For example, the spectra to be inferred are influenced by the noise contribution to the interferometric data, by nonprobed spatial domains which are linked to Fourier coefficients above a certain order, by the spectral limits which are in general not given by the Nyquist assumptions, and by additional parameters of the problem at hand like the zero-path difference. To consider these fundamentals, a probabilistic approach based on Bayes’ theorem is introduced which exploits multivariate normal distributions. For the example application, we model the spectra by the Gaussian process of a Brownian bridge stated by a prior covariance. The spectra themselves are represented by a number of parameters which map linearly to the data domain. The posterior for these linear parameters is analytically obtained, and the marginalisation over these parameters is trivial. This allows the straightforward investigation of the posterior for the involved nonlinear parameters, like the zero-path difference location and the spectral limits, and hyperparameters, like the scaling of the Gaussian process. With respect to the linear problem, this can be interpreted as an implementation of Ockham’s razor principle.
The Exercise-Induced Irisin Is Associated with Improved Levels of Glucose Homeostasis Markers in Pregnant Women Participating in 8-Week Prenatal Group Fitness Program: A Pilot Study
Authors: Szumilewicz Anna , Worska Aneta , Piernicka Magdalena , Kuchta Agnieszka , Kortas Jakub , Jastrzębski Zbigniew , Radzimiński Łukasz , Jaworska Joanna , Micielska Katarzyna , Ziemann Ewa
Published: October 2017

Background.Both exercise and pregnancy influence serum irisin concentration.Aim.To determine how the interaction of pregnancy and exercise affects irisin level and whether various patterns of exercise adherence had different effect on irisin concentration.Methods.It was a one-group pretest-posttest study among 9 Caucasian nulliparous healthy women in normal pregnancy (age23±3years,21±2weeks of gestation; mean ± SD) who participated in 8-week group fitness program. Before and after exercise intervention, we determined serum concentrations of irisin and selected parameters of lipid profile and glucose homeostasis markers.Results.In active women, irisin slightly decreased with the development of pregnancy. After 8 weeks of exercising, irisin correlated negatively with fasting glucose(R= −0.922;p=0.001), glycated hemoglobin(R= −0.784;p=0.012), and insulin concentrations(R= −0.845;p=0.004). In women exercising below recommended level, we observed a significant drop in irisin concentration, whereas in women exercising at least three times a week this myokine slightly increased (31% difference; 90% confidence limits ±28; a large, clear effect).Conclusions.Irisin stimulated by prenatal exercise may improve glucose homeostasis markers in healthy women and compensate for metabolic changes induced by pregnancy. Moreover, the frequency of exercise may regulate the changes in exercise-induced irisin concentration.
Clinical Application of CT-Guided Percutaneous Microwave Ablation for the Treatment of Lung Metastasis from Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Li Lin , Wu Ketong , Lai Haiyang , Zhang Bo
Published: October 2017

Objective. The aim of our research is to explore the clinical efficacy and safety of CT-guided percutaneous microwave ablation (MWA) for the treatment of lung metastasis from colorectal cancer. Materials and Methods. CT-guided percutaneous MWA was performed in 22 patients (male 14, female 8, mean age: 56.05 ± 12.32 years) with a total of 36 lung metastatic lesions from colorectal cancer between February 2014 and May 2017. Clinical data were retrospectively analyzed with respect to the efficacy, safety, and outcome. Results. Of the 36 lesions, 34 lesions (94.4%) reduced obviously with small cavitations or fibrous stripes formed and had no evidence of recurrence during follow-up. The volume of the other 2 lesions demonstrated local progression after 6 months by follow-up CT. The primary complications included pneumothorax (28%), chest pain (21%), and fever (5%). These symptoms and signs were obviously relieved or disappeared after several-day conservative treatment. The mean follow-up of the patients was 25.54 ± 12.58 months (range 2–41 months). The estimated progression-free survival rate was 94.4%. Conclusion. Our results demonstrate that CT-guided percutaneous MWA appears to be an effective, reliable, and minimally invasive method for the treatment of lung metastasis from colorectal cancer. This trial is registered with ChiCTR-ORC-17012904.
Intravenous Oxycodone versus Intravenous Morphine in Cancer Pain: A Randomized, Open-Label, Parallel-Group, Active-Control Study
Authors: Lee Kyung-Hee , Kang Jung-Hun , Oh Ho-Suk , Choi Moon-Ki , Shim Byoung-Yong , Eum Young-Jun , Park Hye-Jeong , Kang Jin-Hyong
Published: October 2017

Objective. To compare efficacy and safety of intravenous continuous infusion of oxycodone with morphine in patients with cancer pain.Methods. A 5-day, randomized, open-label, exploratory study at 6 sites in the Republic of Korea. Sixty-six adults aged ≥19 years with moderate-to-severe cancer pain (Numeric Rating Scale [NRS] ≥ 4) were enrolled. The study group received intravenous (IV) oxycodone, and the comparator group received IV morphine which were titrated depending on pain intensity. The efficacy endpoint is change in average NRS score from baseline to Day 5. Other assessments included worst, current, and average pain intensity; patient satisfaction; medication dose; and adverse events.Results. Both groups achieved >50% reduction in average pain intensity: from “moderate” at baseline (oxycodone versus morphine: 6.0 ± 1.8 versus 5.9 ± 1.4) to “mild” at Day 5 (2.5 ± 1.8 versus 2.8 ± 1.6). While this reduction was similar between groups (3.5 ± 2.2 versus 3.1 ± 1.8,Pvalue = 0.562), oxycodone achieved faster pain relief (average pain: 3.0 ± 1.6 versus 3.9 ± 1.6,Pvalue = 0.020) on Day 2 and significant NRS reductions for worst pain on Day 2 (Pvalue = 0.045) and current pain on Day 2 (Pvalue = 0.035) and Day 5 (Pvalue = 0.020) compared to morphine. Patient satisfaction, adverse events, and adverse drug reactions were similar for both groups.Conclusions. For Asian patients with cancer pain, IV oxycodone is faster acting and showed similar analgesic efficacy and safety profiles as IV morphine. This trial is registered with Clinicaltrials.govNCT02660229.
Estimation of Trait-Model Parameters in a MOD Score Linkage Analysis
Authors: Brugger Markus , Rospleszcz Susanne , Strauch Konstantin
Published: October 2017

Background/Aims: Theoretically, the trait-model parameters (disease allele frequency and penetrance function) can be estimated without bias in a MOD score linkage analysis. We aimed to practically evaluate the MOD score approach regarding its ability to provide unbiased trait-model parameters for various pedigree-type and trait-model scenarios. We further investigated the ability of the MOD score approach to detect imprinting using affected sib pairs (ASPs) and affected half-sib pairs (AHSPs) when all parental genotypes are missing. Methods: Simulated pedigree data were analyzed using the GENEHUNTER-MODSCORE software package. Parameter estimation performance in terms of bias and variability was evaluated with regard to trait-model type and pedigree complexity. Results: Generally, parameters were estimated with lower bias and variability with increasing pedigree complexity, especially for recessive and overdominant models. However, dominant and additive models could hardly be distinguished even when using 3-generation pedigrees. Imprinting could clearly be detected for mixtures of mainly ASPs and only few AHSPs with the common parent of the imprinted sex, even though no parental genotypes were available. Conclusion: Our results provide guidance to researchers regarding the possibility to estimate trait-model parameters by a MOD score analysis, including the degree of imprinting, with certain types of pedigrees.
Sulphonated Formononetin Induces Angiogenesis through Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor/cAMP Response Element-Binding Protein/Early Growth Response 3/Vascular Cell Adhesion Molecule 1 and Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway
Authors: Dong Zhaoju , Shi Yanan , Zhao Huijuan , Li Ning , Ye Liang , Zhang Shuping , Zhu Haibo
Published: October 2017

Background: Sodium formononetin-3’-sulphonate (Sul-F) is a derivative of the isoflavone formononetin. In this study, we investigated whether Sul-F can regulate angiogenesis and the potential mechanism in vitro. Methods: We examined the effects of Sul-F on cell proliferation, cell invasion, and tube formation in the human umbilical vein endothelial cell line (HUVEC). To better understand the mechanism involved, we investigated effects of the following compounds: cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) inhibitor 2-naphthol-AS-E-phosphate (KG-501), early growth response 3 (Egr-3) siRNA, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) antagonist soluble VEGF receptor 1 (sFlt-1), VEGF receptor 2 blocker SU-1498, Wnt5a antagonist WIF-1 recombinant protein (WIF-1), and inhibitor of Wnt/β-catenin recombinant Dickkopf-1 protein (DKK-1). HUVEC proliferation was tested by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT). A scratch adhesion test was used to assess cell invasion ability. Matrigel tube formation assay was performed to test capillary tube formation ability. Activation of the VEGF/CREB/Egr-3/Vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1) pathway in HUVEC was tested by Western blot analysis. Results: Our results suggest that Sul-F induced angiogenesis in vitro by enhancing cell proliferation, invasion, and tube formation. The increase in proliferation and tube formation by Sul-F was counteracted by DKK-1, WIF-1, SU1498, KG-501, sFlt-1, and Egr-3 siRNA. Conclusions: These results may suggest that Sul-F induces angiogenesis in vitro via a programed Wnt/β-catenin pathway and VEGF/CREB/Egr-3/VCAM-1 signaling axis.
Pazopanib and Statin-Induced Rhabdomyolysis
Authors: Logue Jennifer M. , Kiani Bahram , Bitting Rhonda L.
Published: October 2017

Background: The VEGF inhibitor pazopanib is a widely used first-line therapy for the treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma. Potential drug-drug interactions and toxicities may be underrecognized. Case Presentation: A 73-year-old woman with metastatic renal cell carcinoma on treatment with pazopanib presented with progressive inability to ambulate. The initial concern was for metastasis to the spine. However, MRI of the spine revealed diffuse muscle edema with no metastatic deposits or lytic lesions. Upon further evaluation, creatine kinase was significantly elevated and the diagnosis of rhabdomyolysis was made. With aggressive hydration and discontinuation of both pazopanib and rosuvastatin, the patient made a full recovery. Conclusion: This case of drug-induced rhabdomyolysis demonstrates an unexpected toxicity resulting from concomitant pazopanib and rosuvastatin therapy. This combination is predicted to be safe due to different, nonoverlapping effects on the cytochrome p450 enzymes. Discontinuation of statin therapy in patients with metastatic cancer should be considered when the risk of cancer-related death exceeds the risk of cardiovascular-related death.
Application of Digital PCR in Detecting Human Diseases Associated Gene Mutation
Authors: Tong Yu , Shen Shizhen , Jiang Hui , Chen Zhi
Published: October 2017

Gene mutation has been considered a research hotspot, and the rapid development of biomedicine has enabled significant advances in the evaluation of gene mutations. The advent of digital polymerase chain reaction (dPCR) elevates the detection of gene mutations to unprecedented levels of precision, especially in cancer-associated genes. dPCR has been utilized in the detection of tumor markers in cell-free DNA (cfDNA) samples from patients with different types of cancer in samples such as plasma, cerebrospinal fluid, urine and sputum, which confers significant value for dPCR in both clinical applications and basic research. Moreover, dPCR is extensively used in detecting pathogen mutations related to typical features of infectious diseases (e.g., drug resistance) and mutation status of heteroplasmic mitochondrial DNA, which determines the manifestation and progression of mtDNA-related diseases, as well as allows for the prenatal diagnosis of monogenic diseases and the assessment of the genome editing effects. Compared with real-time PCR (qPCR) and sequencing, the higher sensitivity and accuracy of dPCR indicates a great advantage in the detection of rare mutation. As a new technique, dPCR has some limitations, such as the necessity of highly allele-specific probes and a large sample volume. In this review, we summarize the application of dPCR in the detection of human disease-associated gene mutations.
Aspirin Inhibits Platelet-Derived Sphingosine-1-Phosphate Induced Endothelial Cell Migration
Authors: Polzin Amin , Knoop Betül , Böhm Andreas , Dannenberg Lisa , Zurek Mark , Zeus Tobias , Kelm Malte , Levkau Bodo , Rauch Bernhard H.
Published: October 2017

Background: Aspirin plays a crucial role in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. We previously described that aspirin has effects beyond inhibition of platelet aggregation, as it inhibited thrombin-mediated release of sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) from human platelets. S1P is a bioactive lipid with important functions on inflammation and apoptosis. In endothelial cells (EC), S1P is a key regulator of cell migration. In this study, we aimed to analyze the effects of aspirin on platelet-induced EC migration. Methods: Human umbilical EC migration was measured by Boyden chamber assay. EC migration was induced by platelet supernatants of thrombin receptor-activating peptide-1 (AP1) stimulated platelets. To investigate the S1P receptor subtype that promotes EC migration, specific inhibitors of S1P receptor subtypes were applied. Results: S1P induced EC migration in a concentration-dependent manner. EC migration induced by AP1-stimulated platelet supernatants was reduced by aspirin. S1P1 receptor inhibition almost completely abolished EC migration induced by activated platelets. The inhibition of S1P2 or S1P3 receptor had no effect. Conclusion: Aspirin inhibits EC migration induced by activated platelets that is in part due to S1P and mediated by the endothelial S1P1 receptor. The clinical significance of this novel mechanism of aspirin action has to be investigated in future studies.
Cholecystokinin Expression in the Development of Postinfarction Heart Failure
Authors: Dong Xiaoying , Wang Can , Zhang Jingqi , Wang Siyue , Li Hongjian , Kang Yang , Tian Shuangquan , Fu Lu
Published: October 2017

Background/Aims: Cholecystokinin (CCK) is expressed in cardiomyocytes and may also play an important role in cardiovascular regulation. Clinical studies have shown that plasma CCK levels are an independent marker of cardiovascular mortality in cardiac disease. However, whether the development of postinfarction heart failure is associated with changes in CCK expression is unknown. Methods: To investigate CCK expression patterns and the association between CCK expression and heart functional parameters, we randomized male Sprague-Dawley rats into myocardial infarction (MI) or sham operation (SO) groups. CCK expression levels were assessed by western blotting, immunohistochemistry, real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) at different time points (2, 4 or 6 weeks) after surgery. Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) concentrations were determined using Western blotting and ELISA, myocardial morphology was assessed by microscopy. Results: Plasma CCK and BNP levels were significantly increased in all the MI groups compared with the corresponding SO groups. However, the degree to which myocardial CCK mRNA and protein expression levels were increased the MI groups compared with the SO groups was greater in the 4- and 6-week groups than in the 2-week group. Furthermore, plasma CCK levels were positively correlated with BNP concentrations and left ventricular end-systolic diameter (LVDs) and significantly negatively correlated with the ejection fraction (EF) and shortening fraction (SF) in model animals. Conclusions: Heart failure progression after infarction is associated with upregulated CCK levels; thus, CCK may be useful as a novel marker of heart failure.
TMEM106a is a Novel Tumor Suppressor in Human Renal Cancer
Authors: Wu Chenglong , Xu Juan , Wang Han , Zhang Jinghua , Zhong Jianhua , Zou Xiaowen , Chen Yan , Yang Gang , Zhong Yuantang , Lai Daihuan , Li Xuyi , Tang Aifa
Published: October 2017

Background/Aims: In recent years the diagnosis and management of renal cancer has changed greatly, although the mechanism is still elusive. TMEM106a is a conserved type II transmembrane protein which is a key factor to regulate macrophage activation. Its inactivation in gastric cancer is frequently observed to be associated with poor prognosis. The role of TMEM106a in renal cancer remained unclear. Methods: TMEM106a expression profiling was performed in a panel of renal cancer cell lines and primary renal tissue cells. Then TMEM106a was overexpressed by a viral system in a renal cancer cell line with low level of TMEM106a. This stable cell line was assessed in multiple cell growth and migration assays. The results from TMEM106a overexpressing cell line were then confirmed with primary renal cells by siRNA knockdown of TMEM106a. Results: TMEM106a expression level was reduced in renal cancer cells compared to normal primary renal cells. Restoration of TMEM106a expression in TMEM106a-low renal cancer cells resulted in attenuated proliferation, reduced cell migration and enhanced caspase 3 dependent apoptosis compared to control cells. TMEM106a knockdown in primary renal cells led to increased colony formation compared to the control cells with scrambled siRNA transfection. Conclusion: TMEM106a is a novel tumor suppressor in renal cancer.