bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Henoch Schonlein Purpura as a Cause of Renal Failure in an Adult
Authors: Kukrety Shweta , Vimalachandran Pradeepa , Kunadharaju Rajesh , Mehta Vishisht , Colanta Agnes , Abu Hazeem Mahmoud
Published: September 2016

Henoch Schonlein purpura (HSP) is an immune mediated disease associated Immunoglobulin A (IgA) deposition within the affected organs. While the disease is commonly seen in the pediatric age group, it is rarely seen in adults. We report the case of a 93-year-old Caucasian lady who presented with nonthrombocytopenic purpuric rash and acute kidney injury after an episode of bronchitis. Rapid and progressive deterioration of renal function prompted a kidney biopsy, which showed findings consistent with IgA nephropathy confirming the diagnosis of HSP. The patient was treated with high dose intravenous methylprednisolone followed by oral prednisone; however, her kidney disease progressed to end stage renal disease requiring hemodialysis. HSP is usually a self-limiting disease in children. However, adults are at an increased risk of severe renal involvement including end stage renal disease. Purpuric skin rash with renal involvement should raise suspicion for HSP. This is the oldest known patient with HSP.
Fault Diagnosis and Fault-Tolerant Control of Uncertain Robot Manipulators Using High-Order Sliding Mode
Authors: Van Mien , Franciosa Pasquale , Ceglarek Dariusz
Published: September 2016

A robust fault diagnosis and fault-tolerant control (FTC) system for uncertain robot manipulators without joint velocity measurement is presented. The actuator faults and robot manipulator component faults are considered. The proposed scheme is designed via an active fault-tolerant control strategy by combining a fault diagnosis scheme based on a super-twisting third-order sliding mode (STW-TOSM) observer with a robust super-twisting second-order sliding mode (STW-SOSM) controller. Compared to the existing FTC methods, the proposed FTC method can accommodate not only faults but also uncertainties, and it does not require a velocity measurement. In addition, because the proposed scheme is designed based on the high-order sliding mode (HOSM) observer/controller strategy, it exhibits fast convergence, high accuracy, and less chattering. Finally, computer simulation results for a PUMA560 robot are obtained to verify the effectiveness of the proposed strategy.
Experimental Study of the Effectiveness of Sacrificial Cladding Using Polymeric Foams as Crushable Core with a Simply Supported Steel Beam
Authors: Ousji H. , Belkassem B. , Louar M. A. , Reymen B. , Pyl L. , Vantomme J.
Published: September 2016

The present paper focuses on the study of the effectiveness of the sacrificial cladding using polymeric foam as crushable core to reduce the delivered blast energy using a simplified structure. The latter consists of a simply supported steel beam under a localized blast load. The tested sacrificial cladding has a cross-sectional area of 80 × 80 mm2. The effect of the front plate mass and the crushable core properties (plateau stress and thickness) is studied. Three polymeric foams are investigated: (a) the expanded polystyrene foam (PS13) with a density of 13 kg/m3, (b) the closed-cell polyurethane (PU30) with a density of 30 kg/m3, and (c) the open-cell polyurethane (PU50) with a density of 50 kg/m3. Four front plate masses are used: 144, 188, 336, and 495 g. All possible combinations are tested to determine their absorption capacity. The obtained results show that the absorption capability increases by increasing the front plate mass, the plateau stress, and the thickness of the crushable core. The open-cell polyurethane PU50 performs better. Disintegration problems are observed on the expanded polystyrene PS13 after the end of the compression process.
Development of a Pneumatically Driven Cell for Low Cost Automation
Authors: Valdiero Antonio Carlos , Mantovani Ivan Jr. , Fiegenbaum Andrei , Dambroz Giovani P. B. , Rasia Luiz A.
Published: September 2016

The present work addresses the development of a pneumatically driven manufacturing cell for low cost automation applications. This cell can be used in innovative applications as a low cost alternative to increase production and quality in industry. The state of the art shows that technological advances in computing have made possible a drop in equipment prices, making them more accessible. The aim of this work is to develop automation through a classic methodology for a manufacturing cell to minimize errors and facilitate the sequential logic conception. This experimental prototype has been developed at the UNIJUI with financial support by public organizations and companies. Pneumatic actuator used in bench driven has the following advantages: its maintenance is easy and simple, is of relatively low cost, self-cooling properties, and good power density (power/dimension rate), and is fast acting with high acceleration and installation flexibility. However, there are difficulties of control logic due to the complex systems. The sequential controller strategy design considers the pneumatic system, experimental results, and performance of the proposed control strategy.
Flutter Derivatives Identification and Aerodynamic Performance of an Optimized Multibox Bridge Deck
Authors: Wang Zhida , Dragomirescu Elena
Published: September 2016

The bridge deck sections used for long-span suspension bridges have evolved through the years, from the compact box deck girders geometrical configurations to twin-box and three-box bridge decks sections. The latest generation of split and multiple-box bridge decks proved to have better aerodynamic behavior; thus further optimization methods are sought for such geometrical configurations. A new type of multibox bridge deck, consisting of four aerodynamically shaped deck boxes, two side decks for the traffic lanes and two middle decks for the railway traffic, connected between them by stabilizing beams, was tested in the wind tunnel for identifying the flutter derivatives and to verify the aerodynamic performance of the proposed multibox deck. Aerodynamic static force coefficients were measured for the multibox bridge deck model, scaled 1 : 80, for Reynolds numbers up to 5.1 × 105, under angles of attack between −8° and 8°. Iterative Least Squares (ILS) method was employed for identifying the flutter derivatives of the multibox bridge deck model, based on the results obtained from the free vibration tests and based on the frequency analysis the critical flutter wind speed for the corresponding prototype of the multibox bridge was estimated at 188 m/s.
Down-Turner Syndrome: A Case with Double Monoclonal Chromosomal Abnormality
Authors: Manassero-Morales Gioconda , Alvarez-Manassero Denisse , Merino-Luna Alfredo
Published: September 2016

Introduction. The coexistence of Down and Turner syndromes due to double chromosome aneuploidy is very rare; it is even more rare to find the presence of a double monoclonal chromosomal abnormality.Objective. To report a unique case of double monoclonal chromosomal abnormality with trisomy of chromosome 21 and an X ring chromosome in all cells studied; no previous report has been found.Case Report. Female, 28 months old, with pathological short stature from birth, with the following dysmorphic features: tilted upward palpebral fissures, short neck, brachycephaly, and low-set ears. During the neonatal period, the infant presented generalized hypotonia and lymphedema of hands and feet. Karyotype showed 47,X,r(X),+21 [30].Conclusion. Clinical features of both Down and Turner syndromes were found, highlighting short stature that has remained below 3zscore from birth to the present, associated with delayed psychomotor development. G-banded karyotype analysis in peripheral blood is essential for a definitive diagnosis.
Development and Validation of a Simple Risk Score for Undiagnosed Type 2 Diabetes in a Resource-Constrained Setting
Authors: Bernabe-Ortiz Antonio , Smeeth Liam , Gilman Robert H. , Sanchez-Abanto Jose R. , Checkley William , Miranda J. Jaime , Study Group CRONICAS Cohort
Published: September 2016

Objective. To develop and validate a risk score for detecting cases of undiagnosed diabetes in a resource-constrained country.Methods. Two population-based studies in Peruvian population aged ≥35 years were used in the analysis: the ENINBSC survey (n=2,472) and the CRONICAS Cohort Study (n=2,945). Fasting plasma glucose ≥7.0 mmol/L was used to diagnose diabetes in both studies. Coefficients for risk score were derived from the ENINBSC data and then the performance was validated using both baseline and follow-up data of the CRONICAS Cohort Study.Results. The prevalence of undiagnosed diabetes was 2.0% in the ENINBSC survey and 2.9% in the CRONICAS Cohort Study. Predictors of undiagnosed diabetes were age, diabetes in first-degree relatives, and waist circumference. Score values ranged from 0 to 4, with an optimal cutoff ≥2 and had a moderate performance when applied in the CRONICAS baseline data (AUC = 0.68; 95% CI: 0.62–0.73; sensitivity 70%; specificity 59%). When predicting incident cases, the AUC was 0.66 (95% CI: 0.61–0.71), with a sensitivity of 69% and specificity of 59%.Conclusions. A simple nonblood based risk score based on age, diabetes in first-degree relatives, and waist circumference can be used as a simple screening tool for undiagnosed and incident cases of diabetes in Peru.
Predictors of Gestational Weight Gain among White and Latina Women and Associations with Birth Weight
Authors: Rosal Milagros C. , Wang Monica L. , Moore Simas Tiffany A. , Bodenlos Jamie S. , Crawford Sybil L. , Leung Katherine , Sankey Heather Z.
Published: September 2016

This study examined racial/ethnic differences in gestational weight gain (GWG) predictors and association of first-trimester GWG to overall GWG among 271 White women and 300 Latina women. Rates of within-guideline GWG were higher among Latinas than among Whites (28.7% versus 24.4%,p<0.016). Adjusted odds of above-guideline GWG were higher among prepregnancy overweight (OR = 3.4, CI = 1.8–6.5) and obese (OR = 4.5, CI = 2.3–9.0) women than among healthy weight women and among women with above-guideline first-trimester GWG than among those with within-guideline first-trimester GWG (OR = 4.9, CI = 2.8–8.8). GWG was positively associated with neonate birth size (p<0.001). Interventions targeting prepregnancy overweight or obese women and those with excessive first-trimester GWG are needed.
Rotavirus Recombinant VP6 Nanotubes Act as an Immunomodulator and Delivery Vehicle for Norovirus Virus-Like Particles
Authors: Malm Maria , Tamminen Kirsi , Lappalainen Suvi , Vesikari Timo , Blazevic Vesna
Published: September 2016

We have recently shown that tubular form of rotavirus (RV) recombinant VP6 protein has anin vivoadjuvant effect on the immunogenicity of norovirus (NoV) virus-like particle (VLP) vaccine candidate. In here, we investigatedin vitroeffect of VP6 on antigen presenting cell (APC) activation and maturation and whether VP6 facilitates NoV VLP uptake by these APCs. Mouse macrophage cell line RAW 264.7 and dendritic cell line JAWSII were used as model APCs. Internalization of VP6, cell surface expression of CD40, CD80, CD86, and major histocompatibility class II molecules, and cytokine and chemokine production were analyzed. VP6 nanotubes were efficiently internalized by APCs. VP6 upregulated the expression of cell surface activation and maturation molecules and induced secretion of several proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines. The mechanism of VP6 action was shown to be partially dependent on lipid raft-mediated endocytic pathway as shown by methyl-β-cyclodextrin inhibition on tumor necrosis factorαsecretion. These findings add to the understanding of mechanism by which VP6 exerts its immunostimulatory and immunomodulatory actions and further support its use as a part of nonlive RV-NoV combination vaccine.
Aberrant LncRNA Expression Profile in a Contusion Spinal Cord Injury Mouse Model
Authors: Ding Ya , Song Zhiwen , Liu Jinbo
Published: September 2016

Long noncoding RNAs (LncRNAs) play a crucial role in cell growth, development, and various diseases related to the central nervous system. However, LncRNA differential expression profiles in spinal cord injury are yet to be reported. In this study, we profiled the expression pattern of LncRNAs using a microarray method in a contusion spinal cord injury (SCI) mouse model. Compared with a spinal cord without injury, few changes in LncRNA expression levels were noted 1 day after injury. The differential changes in LncRNA expression peaked 1 week after SCI and subsequently declined until 3 weeks after injury. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to validate the reliability of the microarray, demonstrating that the results were reliable. Gene ontology (GO) analysis indicated that differentially expressed mRNAs were involved in transport, cell adhesion, ion transport, and metabolic processes, among others. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis showed that the neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction, the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, and focal adhesions were potentially implicated in SCI pathology. We constructed a dynamic LncRNA-mRNA network containing 264 LncRNAs and 949 mRNAs to elucidate the interactions between the LncRNAs and mRNAs. Overall, the results from this study indicate for the first time that LncRNAs are differentially expressed in a contusion SCI mouse model.
Short-Term Effects of Hydrokinesiotherapy in Hospitalized Preterm Newborns
Authors: de Oliveira Tobinaga Welcy Cassiano , de Lima Marinho Cirlene , Abelenda Vera Lucia Barros , de Sá Paula Morisco , Lopes Agnaldo José
Published: September 2016

Background. In the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) environment, preterm newborns are subject to environmental stress and numerous painful interventions. It is known that hydrokinesiotherapy promotes comfort and reduces stress because of the physiological properties of water.Objective. To evaluate the short-term effects of hydrokinesiotherapy on reducing stress in preterm newborns admitted to the NICU.Materials and Methods. Fifteen preterm newborns underwent salivary cortisol measurement, pain evaluation using the Neonatal Infant Pain Scale (NIPS), and heart rate, respiratory rate, and peripheral oxygen saturation measurements before and after the application of hydrokinesiotherapy.Results. The mean gestational age of the newborns was34.2±1.66weeks, and the mean weight was1823.3±437.4 g. Immediately after application of hydrokinesiotherapy, a significant reduction was observed in salivary cortisol(p=0.004), heart rate(p=0.003), and respiratory rate(p=0.004)and a significant increase was observed in peripheral oxygen saturation(p=0.002). However, no significant difference was observed in the NIPS score(p>0.05).Conclusion. In the present study, neonatal hydrotherapy promoted short-term relief from feelings of stress. Neonatal hydrokinesiotherapy may be a therapeutic alternative. However, this therapy needs to be studied in randomized, crossover, and blinded trials. This trial is registered withNCT02707731.
Traumatic Testicular Dislocation Associated with Lateral Compression Pelvic Ring Injury and T-Shaped Acetabulum Fracture
Authors: Wiznia Daniel Howard , Wang Mike , Yeon-Kim Chang , Tomaszewski Paul , Leslie Michael P.
Published: September 2016

We report a case of a unilateral testicular dislocation to the superficial inguinal region associated with a lateral compression type pelvic ring injury (OTA classification 61-C3.3a2, b2, c3) and left T-shaped acetabulum fracture (OTA classification 62-B2) in a 44-year-old male who was in a motorcycle accident. The testicular dislocation was noted during the emergency department primary survey, and its location and viability were verified with ultrasound. The testicle was isolated during surgical stabilization of the left acetabulum through a Pfannenstiel incision and modified-Stoppa approach and returned through the inguinal canal to the scrotum. In follow-up, the patient did not suffer urologic or sexual dysfunction. All motorcycle collision patients presenting with pelvic ring injuries or acetabulum fractures should be worked up for possible testicular dislocation with a scrotal exam. Advanced imaging and a urologic consult may be necessary to detect and treat these injuries.
Design and Verification of Secure Mutual Authentication Protocols for Mobile Multihop Relay WiMAX Networks against Rogue Base/Relay Stations
Authors: Huang Jie , Huang Chin-Tser
Published: September 2016

Mobile multihop relay (MMR) WiMAX networks have attracted lots of interest in the wireless communication industry recently because of its scalable coverage, improved data rates, and relatively low cost. However, security of MMR WiMAX networks is the main challenge to be addressed. In this paper, we first identify several possible attacks on MMR WiMAX networks in which a rogue base station (BS) or relay station (RS) can get authenticated and gain control over the connections and show that the current standard does not address this problem well. We then propose a set of new authentication protocols for protecting MMR WiMAX networks from rogue BS attack, rogue RS attack, and suppress-replay attack. Our protocols can provide centralized authentication by using a trusted authentication server to support mutual authentication between RS and BS, between RS and RS, and between mobile station (MS) and RS. Moreover, our protocols can also provide distributed authentication with a license issued by the trusted server. We use a formal tool called Scyther to analyze and verify the security properties of our protocols. The results show that our protocols can counter rogue BS and RS attacks and suppress-replay attack and are not susceptible to any known attacks.
Precise-Orientation-Beamforming Scheme for Wireless Communications between Buoys
Authors: Wu Zhihui , Zhang Bin , Qu Fengzhong , Cheng Ye , Zhang Zhujun , Ye Ying , Chen Ying , Yang Liuqing
Published: September 2016

Utilizing wireless sensor network (WSN) to monitor the marine environment is one of the major techniques in oceanographic monitoring, and how to increase the limited communication distance between the buoys in WSN has become a hot research issue. In this paper, a new technique called precise-orientation-beamforming (POB) which uses the beamforming algorithm to increase the communication distance between buoys is presented. As was widely applied in the radar and sonar, the beamforming method was not used to extend the communication distance between buoys so far. The POB method overcomes the unstable position of buoys caused by waves by implementing the orientation filter. The whole process includes two steps: First, the real-time attitude of the antenna array is calculated by the orientation filter. With the known relative direction of the destination node to the antenna array, the second step is to control phased array antenna beamforming parameters, directing the beam at the destination node. The POB scheme has been simulated under the condition of regular waves. The results reveal that POB provides significant power gains and improves the distance between two communicating nodes effectively.
Integrative Genome-Scale Analysis Identifies Epigenetic Mechanisms of Transcriptional Deregulation in Unfavorable Neuroblastomas
Authors: Henrich Kai-Oliver , Bender Sebastian , Saadati Maral , Dreidax Daniel , Gartlgruber Moritz , Shao Chunxuan , Herrmann Carl , Wiesenfarth Manuel , Parzonka Martha , Wehrmann Lea , Fischer Matthias , Duffy David J. , Bell Emma , Torkov Alica , Schmezer Peter , Plass Christoph , Höfer Thomas , Benner Axel , Pfister Stefan M. , Westermann Frank
Published: September 2016

The broad clinical spectrum of neuroblastoma ranges from spontaneous regression to rapid progression despite intensive multimodal therapy. This diversity is not fully explained by known genetic aberrations, suggesting the possibility of epigenetic involvement in pathogenesis. In pursuit of this hypothesis, we took an integrative approach to analyze the methylomes, transcriptomes, and copy number variations in 105 cases of neuroblastoma, complemented by primary tumor- and cell line–derived global histone modification analyses and epigenetic drug treatment in vitro. We found that DNA methylation patterns identify divergent patient subgroups with respect to survival and clinicobiologic variables, including amplified MYCN. Transcriptome integration and histone modification–based definition of enhancer elements revealed intragenic enhancer methylation as a mechanism for high-risk–associated transcriptional deregulation. Furthermore, in high-risk neuroblastomas, we obtained evidence for cooperation between PRC2 activity and DNA methylation in blocking tumor-suppressive differentiation programs. Notably, these programs could be re-activated by combination treatments, which targeted both PRC2 and DNA methylation. Overall, our results illuminate how epigenetic deregulation contributes to neuroblastoma pathogenesis, with novel implications for its diagnosis and therapy. Cancer Res; 76(18); 5523–37. ©2016 AACR.
RAIDD Mediates TLR3 and IRF7 Driven Type I Interferon Production
Authors: Maney Sathish Kumar , Xu Haifeng C. , Huang Jun , Pandyra Aleksandra A. , Ehlting Christian , Aguilar-Valenzuela Renan , Pozdeev Vitaly I. , McIlwain David R. , Zimmermann Albert , Bode Johannes G. , Hengel Hartmut , Kirschning Carsten J. , Kim Ira R. , Hiscott John , Brenner Dirk , Häussinger Dieter , Ohashi Pamela S. , Mak Tak W. , Lang Karl S. , Lang Philipp A.
Published: September 2016

Background/Aims: Viral infections represent a global health problem with the need for new viral therapies and better understanding of the immune response during infection. The most immediate and potent anti-viral defense mechanism is the production of type I interferon (IFN-I) which are activated rapidly following recognition of viral infection by host pathogen recognition receptors (PRR). The mechanisms of innate cellular signaling downstream of PRR activation remain to be fully understood. In the present study, we demonstrate that CASP2 and RIPK1 domain-containing adaptor with death domain (CRADD/RAIDD) is a critical component in type I IFN production. Methods: The role of RAIDD during IFN-I production was investigated using western blot, shRNA mediated lentiviral knockdown, immunoprecipitation and IFN-I driven dual luciferase assay. Results: Immunoprecipitation analysis revealed the molecular interaction of RAIDD with interferon regulatory factor 7 (IRF7) and its phosphorylating kinase IKKε. Using an IFN-4α driven dual luciferase analysis in RAIDD deficient cells, type I IFN activation by IKKε and IRF7 was dramatically reduced. Furthermore, deletion of either the caspase recruitment domain (CARD) or death domain (DD) of RAIDD inhibited IKKε and IRF7 mediated interferon-4α activation. Conclusion: We have identified that the adaptor molecule RAIDD coordinates IKKε and IRF7 interaction to ensure efficient expression of type I interferon.
Periodic Mechanical Stress Activates PKCδ-Dependent EGFR Mitogenic Signals in Rat Chondrocytes via PI3K-Akt and ERK1/2
Authors: He Peng , Shen Nan , Gao Gongming , Jiang Xuefeng , Sun Huiqing , Zhou Dong , Xu Nanwei , Nong Luming , Ren Kewei
Published: September 2016

Background/Aims: The present study aimed to analyze the mechanisms by which periodic mechanical stress is translated into biochemical signals, and to verify the important role of signaling molecules including phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)-Akt, protein kinase C (PKC), and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in chondrocyte proliferation. The effects of periodic mechanical stress on the mitogenesis of chondrocytes have been studied extensively in recent years. However, the mechanisms underlying the ability of chondrocytes to sense and respond to periodic mechanical stress need further investigation. Methods: Two steps were undertaken in the experiment. In the first step, the cells were pretreated with shRNA targeted to Akt or EGFR or PKCδ or control scrambled shRNA. Moreover, they were pretreated with LY294002, GF109203X, Gö6976, rottlerin, and AG1478. They were maintained under static conditions or periodic mechanical stress for 3 days, 8 h per day, prior to direct cell counting and CCK-8 assay, respectively. In the second step, the cells were pretreated with shRNA targeted to Akt or EGFR or PKCδ or control scrambled shRNA. Moreover, they were pretreated with LY294002, AG1478, and rottlerin. They were maintained under static conditions or periodic mechanical stress for 1 h prior to Western blot analysis. Results: Proliferation was inhibited by pretreatment with PKC or PKCδ inhibitor GF109203X or rottlerin and by short hairpin RNA (shRNA) targeted to PKCδ, but not by PKCα inhibitor Gö6976 in chondrocytes in response to periodic mechanical stress. Meantime, rottlerin and shRNA targeted to PKCδ also attenuated EGFR, Akt, and ERK1/2 activation. Furthermore, inhibiting EGFR activity by AG1478 and shRNA targeted to EGFR abrogated chondrocyte proliferation and phosphorylation levels of Akt and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 subjected to periodic mechanical stress, while the phosphorylation site of PKCδ was not affected. In addition, pretreatment with the PI3K-Akt-selective inhibitor LY294002 and shRNA targeted to Akt reduced periodic mechanical stress-induced chondrocyte proliferation and phosphorylation of ERK1/2, while the phosphorylation levels of EGFR and PKCδ were not inhibited. Conclusion: These findings suggested that periodic mechanical stress promoted chondrocyte proliferation through PKCδ-EGFR-PI3K-Akt-ERK1/2. They provide a stronger viewpoint for further investigations into chondrocyte mechanobiology under periodic mechanical stress and the ways to improve the quality of tissue-engineered cartilage.
Silencing of Long Non-Coding RNA NONHSAT009968 Ameliorates the Staphylococcal Protein A-Inhibited Osteogenic Differentiation in Human Bone Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Cui Yi , Lu Sheng , Tan Hongbo , Li Jun , Zhu Min , Xu Yongqing
Published: September 2016

Background/Aims: Osteomyelitis is defined as an inflammation of the bones and bone marrow. The inflammatory microenvironment attenuates the osteogenic differentiation capacity of stem cells and inhibits osteoblast-mediated bone formation, leading to net bone loss. However, the whole expression profile, function and side effect of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) on osteogenic differentiation of stem cells in an inflammatory microenvironment of osteomyelitis are not known. Methods: In the present study, human bone mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) were treated with different concentrations of Staphylococcal protein A (SpA) to trigger an inflammatory microenvironment in vitro to partly duplicate the inflammatory microenvironment of osteomyelitis, which was confirmed using ELISA for detecting the inflammatory cytokines. The complete expression profiles of lncRNAs and mRNA during osteogenic differentiation of hBMSCs in an inflammatory microenvironment triggered by SpA were analyzed using a lncRNA microarray. LncRNA expression levels were verified by quantitative reverse transcription PCR analysis (qRT-PCR). The expression of NONHSAT009968 in hB-MSCs was silenced by infection with lentivirus expressing NONHSAT009968-shRNA. The expression of Runx2, OCN, OPN, COL1A1, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity was detected by western blot. Alizarin red staining and ALP activity detection were carried out. Results: The results of ELISA showed that SpA treatment induced secretion of inflammatory cytokines IL-1A, IL-6, and TNFA. The results of alizarin red staining and ALP detection showed that SpA treatment suppressed the osteogenic differentiation of hBMSCs. A total of 2033 lncRNAs were found with aberrant expression in SpA-treated hBMSCs compared to controls. Among these lncRNAs, 641 were down-regulated and 1392 were up-regulated. Based on the results of qRT-PCR, lncRNA NONHSAT009968 was chosen for further investigation. The results of alizarin red staining, ALP activity detection, and western blot detection of Runx2, OCN, OPN, COL1A1, and ALP indicated that NONHSAT009968 silencing ameliorates SpA-inhibited osteogenic differentiation in hBMSCs. Conclusion: Our present study provides a basis for future analyses of the role of lncRNAs in osteoblastic differentiation in an inflammatory environment triggered by SpA, and lncRNA NONHSAT009968 might be a new target for promoting osteoblast formation.
Hepatitis B Virus X Protein Modulates Apoptosis in NRK-52E Cells and Activates Fas/FasL Through the MLK3-MKK7-JNK3 Signaling Pathway
Authors: He Ping , Zhang Beiru , Liu Dajun , Bian Xiaohui , Li Detian , Wang Yanqiu , Sun Guangping , Zhou Guangyu
Published: September 2016

Background/Aims: The hepatitis B virus X protein (HBx) contributes to HBV-induced injury of renal tubular cells and induces apoptosis via Fas/FasL up-regulation. However, the mechanism of Fas/FasL activation is unknown. Recent studies indicated that HBx induction of apoptosis in hepatic cells depends on activating the MLK3-MKK7-JNKs signaling module, which then up-regulates FasL expression. In this study, we used NRK-52E cells transfected an HBx expression vector to examine the role of the MLK3-MKK7-JNKs signaling pathway on HBx-induced renal tubular cell injury. Methods: NRK-52E cells were transfected with pc-DNA3.1(+)-HBx to establish an HBx over-expression model, and with pc-DNA3.1(+)-HBx and pSilencer3.1-shHBx to establish an HBx low expression model. One control group was not transfected and another control group was transfected with an empty plasmid. Cell proliferation was determined by the formazan dye method (Cell Counting Kit-8) and apoptosis was measured by flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy. Western blotting was used to measure the expression of Fas, FasL, and MLK3-MKK7-JNKs signaling pathway-related proteins. The activity of caspase-8 was measured by spectrophotometry. Results: Transfection of NRK-52E cells with pc-DNA3.1(+)-HBx inhibited cell proliferation and increased apoptosis and caspase-8 activity. The expression of Fas, FasL, and MLK3-MKK7-JNKs signaling pathway-related proteins were also greater in the pc-DNA3.1(+)-HBx group, but lower in RNAi group. Furthermore, the activity of MLK3-MKK7-JNKs signaling pathway, expression of Fas/FasL, and apoptosis were significantly lower in the pc-DNA3.1(+)-HBx group when treated with K252a, a known inhibitor of MLK3. Conclusions: Our results show that HBx induces apoptosis in NRK-52E cells and activates Fas/FasL via the MLK3-MKK7-JNK3-c-Jun signaling pathway.
Tau Tubulin Kinase TTBK2 Sensitivity of Glutamate Receptor GluK2
Authors: Nieding Kristina , Matschke Veronika , Meuth Sven G. , Lang Florian , Seebohm Guiscard , Strutz-Seebohm Nathalie
Published: September 2016

Background/Aims: Inherited, autosomal dominant spinocerebellar ataxia type 11 (SCA11) is caused by loss of function mutations of TTBK2 (tau tubulin kinase 2). Mutations observed in patients with SCA11 include truncated TTBK2(450). The present study explored the possibility that TTBK2 influences the function of the glutamate receptor GluK2. Methods: GluK2 was expressed in Xenopus oocytes without and with additional expression of wild type TTBK2, the truncated mutant TTBK2(450), or the kinase dead mutants TTBK2(KD) and TTBK2(450/KD). GluK2 current was determined by dual electrode voltage clamp and GluK2 protein abundance in the cell membrane utilizing confocal microscopy. Results: Glutamate exposure of GluK2 expressing oocytes generated a current, which was significantly lower in oocytes expressing GluK2 together with TTBK2 wt or TTBK2(KD) than in oocytes expressing GluK2 alone or together with either TTBK2(450) or TTBK2(450/KD). According to confocal microscopy of EGFP-tagged GluK2, TTBK2 wt decreased the GluK2 protein abundance in the cell membrane. Overexpression of an inactive RAB5(N133I) mutant but not RAB5wt could reverse the TTBK2 effect on GluK2 suggesting that RAB5 function is required for the effect. Conclusions: TTBK2 down-regulates GluK2 activity by decreasing the receptor protein abundance in the cell membrane via RAB5-dependent endocytosis, an effect that may protect against neuroexcitotoxicity.
Population Pharmacodynamic Model for Bayesian Prediction of Myelosuppression Profiles Based on Routine Clinical Data after Gemcitabine and Carboplatin Treatment
Authors: Chisaki Yugo , Terada Tomohiro , Yano Yoshitaka
Published: September 2016

Background: Hematological toxicity is a serious adverse event and is often a dose-limiting factor in anticancer drugs. The objective of the present study was to develop a modeling and simulation (M&S) procedure for predictions of time course profiles of blood cell counts that reflect myelosuppression profiles. Methods: A method for Bayesian prediction of myelosuppression profiles during chemotherapy using a population pharmacodynamic model is proposed, and predictabilities of nadir values and times to nadir (Tnadir) after gemcitabine and carboplatin treatment were evaluated. The model is based on an equation for Erlang distribution, which we previously proposed, and it explains time course profiles of platelet (PLT), red blood cell (RBC) and white blood cell (WBC). Results and Conclusion: PLT, RBC and WBC counts were retrospectively collected from 61 time courses (a total of 472 points) of 27 cancer patients. Predictive performance by a one-point Bayesian prediction was evaluated using data from day 8 in consideration of applicability to outpatients. Some good predictability was obtained for nadir values with some exceptions for PLT and RBC, whereas the predictability of Tnadir was insufficient. Although the predictability was not acceptable enough, this M&S approach could be used for supportive care during cancer chemotherapy.
Clinical Manifestation of Parkinson's Disease in Association with Rapid Eye Movement Sleep Behavior Disorder Onset
Authors: Zhang Hui , Gu Zhuqin , Sun Liang , Cao Ming , Li Dawei , Ma Jinghong , Chan Piu
Published: September 2016

Aims: To confirm whether the presence and/or timing of rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (RBD) onset were associated with differences in clinical features of Parkinson's disease (PD), clinical characteristics of PD patients with RBD occurring before and after PD diagnosis were investigated. Methods: Consecutive PD patients were enrolled between July 2011 and February 2012. RBD questionnaire Hong Kong and clinical interviews were used to identify RBD symptoms and onsets. All patients underwent evaluations to collect clinical and treatment information. Results: Of all 79 PD patients, 21 (26.6%) and 22 (27.8%) patients had RBD prior to (RBD-PD) and after PD diagnosis (PD-RBD), respectively. Thirty-six (45.6%) PD patients reported no RBD at the time of study (PD-NRBD). PD-RBD had similar clinical features as PD-NRBD did except that Epworth sleepiness scale score was significantly higher in PD-RBD (p = 0.04). Compared to PD-RBD and PD-NRBD, RBD-PD had a higher frequency of reporting excessive daytime sleepiness (p = 0.019, p = 0.008, respectively) and constipation (p = 0.046, p = 0.032, respectively). Conclusion: Our preliminary results suggest that RBD-PD might be clinically different from PD-RBD, which appears to share similar characteristics with PD-NRBD, regarding only non-motor functions.
Clinical and laboratory tests for the diagnosis of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia
Authors: Nagler Michael , Bakchoul Tamam
Published: September 2016

A rapid diagnostic work-up is required in patients with suspected heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT). However, diagnosis of HIT is challenging due to a number of practical issues and methodological limitations. Many laboratory tests and a few clinical scoring systems are available but the individual characteristics and the diagnostic accuracy of these are hard to appraise. The 4Ts score is a well evaluated clinical assessment tool with the potential to rule out HIT in many patients. Still, it requires experience and is subject to a relevant inter-observer variability. Immunoassays such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays or recently developed rapid assays are able to exclude HIT in a number of patients. But, accuracy of immunoassays differs depending on type of assay, threshold, antibody specificity and even manufacturer. Due to a comparatively low positive predictive value, HIT cannot be confirmed by immunoassays alone. In addition, only some of them are immediately accessible, particularly in small laboratories. While functional assays such as the serotonin release assay (SRA) and the heparin-induced platelet activation assay (HIPA) are considered as gold standard for diagnosis of HIT, they require a highly specialised laboratory. In addition, some of them are not adequately evaluated. In clinical practice, we recommend an integrated diagnostic approach combining not only clinical assessment (the 4Ts score) but immunoassays and functional assays as well. We propose a clear diagnostic algorithm supporting clinical decision-making. Furthermore, we provide an overview of all current laboratory techniques for HIT and discuss diagnostic pathways and strategies to reduce diagnostic errors, and future perspectives.
A new species of Gastrodia (Orchidaceae: Gastrodieae, Epidendroideae) from Java
Authors: TSUKAYA HIROKAZU , HIDAYAT ARIEF
Published: September 2016

Gastrodia Brown (1810: 330) is a mycoheterotrophic genus of Orchidaceae that consists of ca. 50 species (Tan et al. 2012, Suetsugu 2014, Huang et al. 2015). It is characterized by a fleshy tuber or coralloid root system, fused sepals and petals, and two mealy pollinia without caudicles. Since most Gastrodia species have completely fused sepals and petals, observation of the perianth is difficult, and identification of this genus is often imprecise. As a result of re-examination of floral characters, several new taxa in this genus have been reported in China, Taiwan, Japan, Madagascar and other countries during the last decade (Meng et al. 2007, Hsu et al. 2010, Hsu & Kuo 2011, Yeh et al. 2011, Hsu et al. 2012, Tan et al. 2012, Suetsugu 2013, 2014, Huang et al. 2015, Martos et al. 2015). Most of these new taxa belong to the section Codonanthus (Schlechter 1911), which has a short inflorescence (<40 cm).
A taxonomic revision of the afrotropical species of Selenops Latreille, 1819 (Araneae, Selenopidae)
Authors: CORRONCA J. A.
Published: September 2016

The Afrotropical species of the genus Selenops (Araneae, Selenopidae) are revised. Twenty-eight species are recognized and figured. The female of Selenops lumbo Corronca is described for the first time and eleven new species are described: Selenops angolaensis sp. nov. (female only) from Moçâdemes, Angola; S. ansieae sp. nov. (female only) from the Waterberg District, South Africa; S. cristis sp. nov. from Acara, S.W. Coast Africa (Namibia?); S. dilamen sp. nov. (female only) from Tabora, Zaïre; S. dilon sp. nov. (female only) from Nelspruit, South Africa; S. feron sp. nov. (female only) from Baviaanspoort, South Africa; S. florenciae sp. nov. (female only) from Vilha Salazar, Angola; S. ilcuria sp. nov. (female only) from Marken, South Africa; S. lucibel sp. nov. from Kalahari; S. saldali sp. nov. (female only) from Achimota, Ghana and S. viron sp. nov. (female only) from Turkana, Kenya. Three species are listed as species inquirendae: S. fugitivus Walckenaer, 1837, S. modestellus Strand, 1907 and S. nanus Strand, 1907. S. ovambicus Lawrence, 1940 is here considered as a valid species. Lectotype and paralectotypes are designated for S. tenebrosus Lawrence, 1940 and S. krugeri Lawrence, 1940. Distribution data are given for all species and new data extend the ranges of some previously known species. A key to all recognized species is provided.
Revision of some Dexosarcophaga species described by R. Dodge (Diptera: Sarcophagidae)
Authors: DE MELLO-PATIU CÁTIA ANTUNES
Published: September 2016

Dodge published some important papers on the Neotropical fauna of Sarcophagidae and proposed a considerable number of new taxa, but many of his illustrations of male terminalia are poor in details and do not allow a reliable segregation of closely related species. In this work, five species of Dexosarcophaga Townsend, 1917 described by Dodge are revised: D. itaqua Dodge, 1966; D. lopesi Dodge, 1968; D. varenna (Dodge, 1968) and D. currani Dodge, 1968 are recognised as valid species, while D. quecetuba Dodge, 1966 is proposed as a junior synonym of D. transita Townsend, 1917, SYN.N. and D. varenna as a senior synonym of D. dominicensis Lopes, 1973, SYN.N.
Two new acoels (Acoela, Platyhelminthes) from the central coast of California
Authors: HOOGE MATTHEW D. , TYLER SETH
Published: September 2016

From a survey of interstitial acoel flatworms at Bodega Bay, California, the new species Haplogonaria phyllospadicis sp. nov., (Haploposthiidae) and Stylomecynostomum bodegensis gen. nov. sp. nov. (Mecynostomidae) are described, and new distributional records for two species of acoels, Raphidophallus actuosus (Convolutidae) and Paratomella rubra (Paratomellidae), previously unknown from the Pacific coast of North America, are also reported.
Description of the female and larval stage of Odontophotopsis succinea Viereck (Hymenoptera: Mutillidae), with new synonymy and notes
Authors: PITTS JAMES P. , PARKER FRANK D.
Published: September 2016

Four specimens of Odontophotopsis succinea Viereck eclosed from cocoons of Oxybelus uniglumis (L.) (Hymenoptera: Crabronidae) collected in Davis, California. One specimen is a female and is described below. The larval stage is also described based on a larval exuvium. This record represents the second host record and the first descriptions of the female and the larva for Odontophotopsis. After study of the holotypes of several Odontophotopsis species by JPP, O. annulata Baker is synonymized with O. succinea Viereck.
Hexapodibius christenberryae, a new species of tardigrade from North America (Eutardigrada, Calohypsibiidae)
Authors: PILATO GIOVANNI , BINDA MARIA GRAZIA
Published: September 2016

A new species of Hexapodibius is described: Hexapodibius christenberryae, from North America. It is the only known species of Hexapodibius having only two macroplacoids. The other five species of the genus known to date have three macroplacoids.
Chromidotilapia melaniae and C. nana, two new cichlid species (Perciformes, Cichlidae) from Gabon, Central Africa
Authors: LAMBOJ ANTON
Published: September 2016

Chromidotilapia melaniae and C. nana, two new cichlid species, are described from southern Gabon and the southern parts of the Ogooue-River system in Gabon. C. melaniae differs from congeners by a combination of coloration, morphometric and meristic characters. C. nana is the smallest known species of the genus and is distinguished from congeners in having a single row of teeth in both jaws of adults (versus multiple rows). Both new species are pair-bonding, biparental, oviphilic mouthbrooders. Intrageneric relationships of Chromidotilapia in Gabon are discussed.
Taxonomic status of Veithia Oudemans, 1941 and redescriptions of two species described by Oudemans (Acari: Smarididae)
Authors: ZHANG ZHI-QIANG
Published: September 2016

Veithia Oudemans, 1941, previously considered nomen dubium, is revisited and confirmed a junior synonym of Fessonia Heyden, 1826. Fessonia schneideri (Oudemans, 1941) comb. nov. and Fessonia assmuthi (Oudemans, 1941) comb. nov. are redescribed from type specimens and compared with related species.
Gymnoamblyopus novaeguineae, a new genus and species of worm goby from Papua New Guinea (Gobiidae: Amblyopinae)
Authors: MURDY EDWARD O. , FERRARIS, JR. CARL J.
Published: September 2016

A new genus and species of worm goby, Gymnoamblyopus novaeguineae, is described on the basis of a single specimen from the Fly River, Papua New Guinea. It differs from all other amblyopine gobies by the following combination of characters: only one anal-fin pterygiophore anterior to first hemal spine; no Y-shaped second anal-fin pterygiophore; no chin barbels; no scales; no raised dermal folds or ridges; pleural ribs short and posteriorly directed; and mouth vertical. This new taxon is figured and a key to the “Taenioides” group of the Amblyopinae is provided.
New genus and species of eriophyid mites (Acari, Eriophyidae) from Myrtaceae in Brazil, with notes on damages caused by Aculus pitangae Boczek & Davis
Authors: FLECHTMANN CARLOS H.W. , DE MORAES GILBERTO J.
Published: September 2016

Surveys conducted on cultivated myrtaceous plants in southeast Brazil led to the discovery of a new genus and three new species of eriophyid mites. Diptilostatus Flechtmann, n. g., is described based on the type species Diptilostatus nudipalpus Flechtmann, n. sp., collected on Eugenia uniflora L. Calacarus kleithria Flechtmann, n. sp. is described from the same plant, while Aculus conspicillatus Flechtmann, n. sp. is described from Psidium guajava Raddi. Differently from what was mentioned in the original description of Aculus pitangae Boczek & Davis, A. pitangae was observed that it may distort and change the texture of leaves of E. uniflora, its host plant.
Tergoceracris, a new genus and six new species of montane grasshoppers (Orthoptera: Acrididae: Ommatolampinae) from Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico
Authors: PEREZ-GELABERT DANIEL E. , OTTE DANIEL
Published: September 2016

The new genus Tergoceracris consists of six new species; all are brachypterous, semi-arboreal and montane grasshoppers. They are distinguished from all other known neotropical acridoids by having exaggerated and vertically projecting furculae in the males. Two new species are from the Dominican Republic (Tergoceracris ocampensis n. sp. and Tergoceracris ebanoverde n. sp.) and four from Puerto Rico (Tergoceracris guajataca n. sp., Tergoceracris cerropunta n. sp., Tergoceracris cayey n. sp., and Tergoceracris luquillensis n. sp.).
The placement of Engiscaptomyza, Grimshawomyia, and Titanochaeta, three clades of endemic Hawaiian Drosophilidae (Diptera)
Authors: O’GRADY PATRICK , BONACUM JAMES , DESALLE R. , DO VAL FRANCISCA
Published: September 2016

Based on a combination of molecular and morphological characters, two endemic Hawaiian genera, Titanochaeta Knab and Grimshawomyia Hardy, are transferred to subgenera within the genus Scaptomyza Hardy as is the Drosophila subgenus Engiscaptomyza Kaneshiro. Replacement names for three preoccupied species, Scaptomyza (Titanochaeta) neoevexa O’Grady et al., nom. nov. (for Titanochaeta evaza Hardy), S. (Titanochaeta) neokauaiensis O’Grady et al., nom. nov. (for Titanochaeta kauaiensis Hardy), and S. (Titanochaeta) neosilvicola O’Grady et al., nom. nov. (for Titanochaeta silvicola Hardy), are proposed. This brings the total number of described species in the genus Scaptomyza to 272, of which 141 are endemic to the Hawaiian Archipelago. In comparison, the genus Drosophila contains 368 species endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. Keys for the identification of the Hawaiian subgenera of Scaptomyza and species of Engiscaptomyza, Titanochaeta, and Grimshawomyia are also included.
A new species of Aleurocanthus Quaintance & Baker (Homoptera: Aleyrodidae) from Areca catechu in India, with comments on the status of Aleurodes nubilans Buckton
Authors: DAVID B. VASANTHARAJ , MANJUNATHA M.
Published: September 2016

A new species of whitefly, Aleurocanthus arecae sp. nov., collected from arecanut (Areca catechu) in Karnataka state in India, is described and illustrated. The status of Aleurodes nubilans Buckton is discussed and considered a nomen dubium.