bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Herpes Simplex Virus Capsid-Organelle Association in the Absence of the Large Tegument Protein UL36p
Authors: Kharkwal Himanshu , Furgiuele Sara Shanda , Smith Caitlin G. , Wilson Duncan W.
Published: September 2015

UL36p (VP1/2) is the largest protein encoded by herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) and resides in the innermost layer of the viral tegument, lying between the capsid and the envelope. UL36p performs multiple functions in the HSV life cycle, including an essential role in cytoplasmic envelopment. We earlier described the isolation of a virion-associated cytoplasmic membrane fraction from HSV-infected cells. Biochemical and ultrastructural analyses showed that the organelles in this buoyant fraction contain enveloped infectious HSV particles in their lumens and naked capsids docked to their cytoplasmic surfaces. These organelles can also recruit molecular motors and transport their cargo virions along microtubules
in vitro
. Here we examine the properties of these HSV-associated organelles in the absence of UL36p. We find that while capsid envelopment is clearly defective, a subpopulation of capsids nevertheless still associate with the cytoplasmic faces of these organelles. The existence of these capsid-membrane structures was confirmed by subcellular fractionation, immunocytochemistry, lipophilic dye fluorescence microscopy, thin-section electron microscopy, and correlative light and electron microscopy. We conclude that capsid-membrane binding can occur in the absence of UL36p and propose that this association may precede the events of UL36p-driven envelopment.

IMPORTANCE
Membrane association and envelopment of the HSV capsid are essential for the assembly of an infectious virion. Envelopment involves the complex interplay of a large number of viral and cellular proteins; however, the function of most of them is unknown. One example of this is the viral protein UL36p, which is clearly essential for envelopment but plays a poorly understood role. Here we demonstrate that organelles utilized for HSV capsid envelopment still accumulate surface-bound capsids in the absence of UL36p. We propose that UL36p-independent binding of capsids to organelles occurs prior to the function of UL36p in capsid envelopment.
Immune Protection against Virus Challenge in Aging Mice Is Not Affected by Latent Herpesviral Infections
Authors: Marandu Thomas F. , Oduro Jennifer D. , Borkner Lisa , Dekhtiarenko Iryna , Uhrlaub Jennifer L. , Drabig Anja , Kröger Andrea , Nikolich-Zugich Janko , Cicin-Sain Luka
Published: September 2015

Latent herpesvirus infections alter immune homeostasis. To understand if this results in aging-related loss of immune protection against emerging infections, we challenged old mice carrying latent mouse cytomegalovirus (CMV), herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1), and/or murine gammaherpesvirus 68 (MHV-68) with influenza virus, West Nile virus (WNV), or vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV). We observed no increase in mortality or weight loss compared to results seen with herpesvirus-negative counterparts and a relative but not absolute reduction in CD8 responses to acute infections. Therefore, the presence of herpesviruses does not appear to increase susceptibility to emerging infections in aging patients.
Near misses and unsafe conditions reported in a Pediatric Emergency Research Network
Authors: Ruddy Richard M , Chamberlain James M , Mahajan Prashant V , Funai Tomohiko , O'Connell Karen J , Blumberg Stephen , Lichenstein Richard , Gramse Heather L , Shaw Kathy N ,   and the Pediatric Emergency Care Applied Research Network
Published: September 2015

Objective

Patient safety may be enhanced by using reports from front-line staff of near misses and unsafe conditions to identify latent safety events. We describe paediatric emergency department (ED) near-miss events and unsafe conditions from hospital reporting systems in a 1-year observational study from hospitals participating in the Pediatric Emergency Care Applied Research Network (PECARN).

Design

This is a secondary analysis of 1 year of incident reports (IRs) from 18 EDs in 2007–2008. Using a prior taxonomy and established method, this analysis is of all reports classified as near-miss (events not reaching the patient) or unsafe condition. Classification included type, severity, contributing factors and personnel involved. In-depth review of 20% of IRs was performed.

Results

487 reports (16.8% of eligible IRs) are included. Most common were medication-related, followed by laboratory-related, radiology-related and process-related IRs. Human factors issues were related to 87% and equipment issues to 11%. Human factor issues related to non-compliance with procedures accounted for 66.4%, including 5.95% with no or incorrect ID. Handoff issues were important in 11.5%.

Conclusions

Medication and process-related issues are important causes of near miss and unsafe conditions in the network. Human factors issues were highly reported and non-compliance with established procedures was very common, and calculation issues, communications (ie, handoffs) and clinical judgment were also important. This work should enable us to help improve systems within the environment of the ED to enhance patient safety in the future.
Mind the gap: Improving discharge communication between secondary and primary care
Authors: Cresswell Aynsley , Hart Matthew , Suchanek Ondrej , Young Tania , Leaver Laurence , Hibbs Stephen
Published: September 2015

Foundation year doctors (FYDs) write most hospital discharge communication, although they have minimal training in this skill. Poor quality discharge summaries increase the risk of adverse events and rehospitalisation. With a multidisciplinary team approach, we developed a list of "golden rules" for good discharge communication. Against these standards, we analysed the quality of electronic inpatient discharge documentation (eIDD) sent over two months from OUH Trust. We found one third of eIDDs were missing details of the discharging doctor. In 68%, changes to medications were not documented clearly and follow-up was not completed in 40%.

To improve this suboptimal state, we implemented interactive teaching sessions for FYDs, designed an e-learning module, and suggested software changes to the current electronic discharge proforma. Early re-audit one month after the first teaching sessions did not demonstrate any significant improvement. However, re-auditing after twelve months is planned.

Through data collection and discussion with key stakeholders, we have identified standards for discharge communication. We developed interventions to help the trust achieve these standards, aiming to enhance patient safety in the peri-discharge period. While discharge communication is delegated to less-experienced team members, they should receive clear guidance and training.
Improving efficiency management of radiopharmaceutical materials at a nuclear medicine department
Authors: Al Ahmed Ali , Al-Surimi Khaled
Published: September 2015

The cost of radiopharmaceutical materials is highly expensive compared with other resources employed in nuclear medicine department. Hence, inefficient utilization of these costly materials will lead to waste and more financial burden on the healthcare system, increasing the patient waiting list for important diagnostic procedures, especially in those with need urgent care on time. The available data for the previous 12 months about positron emission tomography / computed tomography (PET/CT) unit at nuclear medicine departments showed that over 16% of radiopharmaceutical materials were not utilized and being wasted due to increased number of cancelled or rescheduled oncology patients.

The overall financial cost for the underutilized radiopharmaceutical materials due to cancelled and rescheduled procedures for 142 patient were about 39,760 US dollar. Most of these are the oncology patients with diabetes arriving at the nuclear medicine department with high blood glucose level and so are not fit for the procedure. This project aims to improve the oncology diabetic patients preparation for PET/CT procedure to avoid wasting the radiopharmaceutical materials. After implementing the PDSA cycles on 14 oncology patients we found that the quantity of not utilized radiopharmaceuticals were significantly reduced. On the other hand, majority of oncology diabetic patients became more aware about the importance of following the required preparation instruction.
Soft palate displacement in horses
Authors: Allen Kate
Published: September 2015

In contrast to other athletic species such as people and greyhounds, which switch from nasal breathing at rest to oral breathing during exercise, the horse is an obligate nasal breather even during strenuous exercise. Dorsal displacement of the soft palate (DDSP) is a condition that occurs during exercise when the caudal border of the soft palate becomes displaced to a position above the epiglottis, resulting in obstruction of the rima glottidis during expiration. DDSP is considered to be the most common equine dynamic upper respiratory tract obstruction and is most prevalent in racehorses, but can also occur in sport and pleasure horses. This article gives an overview of DDSP and describes the more common treatments currently applied in the UK.
Recognising and dealing with bullying
Authors: Crowe Carolyne
Published: September 2015

Recognising that there is a problem is the first step to tackling bullying, says Carolyne Crowe, who discusses what to look out for, who is involved, what to do and how to deliver a zero‐tolerance attitude towards this form of harassment.
Consultation times: what pays?
Authors: Harwood Mark
Published: September 2015

The amount of time that vets allocate to consultations can have a significant impact on client satisfaction and practice profits, as well as dramatically affecting the day‐to‐day running of the business. With such potentially important outcomes, Mark Harwood considers how to decide what consultation times are best for a practice.
Lessons learned during the successful eradication of bovine tuberculosis from Australia
Authors: More S. J. , Radunz B. , Glanville R. J.
Published: September 2015

There are very few international examples of the successful eradication of bovine tuberculosis (TB, caused by infection with Mycobacterium bovis) from a national cattle population. This paper presents a brief overview of the successful TB eradication programme in Australia from 1970, with primary emphasis on lessons of international relevance that were learned from the Australian experience. The national brucellosis and tuberculosis eradication campaign ran for 27 years from 1970 to 1997 and has been followed by ongoing abattoir surveillance. Rapid progress towards eradication was made in southern Australia, but proved much more challenging in extensive pastoral areas of northern Australia. Declaration of TB freedom was made on December 31, 1997. A range of factors were critical to this success, including a compelling rationale for eradication, an agreed final outcome, industry commitment and financial support, a business model for programme planning, implementation and review, consistent and transparent technical standards underpinned by a strict regulatory regime and applied research, the critical role of abattoir surveillance, effective elimination of residual infection and objective measures of programme progress. Although direct translation of some of these experiences may not be possible, many of the lessons learned from the Australian experience may be relevant to other countries.
A Fulbright Scholar in New York
Authors: Chandler Kate
Published: September 2015

Kate Chandler is a principal inspector in the Animals in Science Regulation Unit at the Home Office. She recently applied for – and was awarded – a Fulbright award to study in New York and London
Long-term evaluation of the operational performance of fixed time ramp metering control strategy: a freeway corridor study
Authors: Osman Osama , Codjoe Julius , Ishak Sherif , Rodriguez Jose , Russell Marlene
Published: September 2015

Ramp metering is one of the successful active traffic control strategies to control traffic flow at entry points to freeways. This study evaluates the effectiveness of fixed-time ramp metering control strategy on the day-to-day operation of traffic over two segments (easternmost and westernmost) of the I-12 corridor in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Detector speeds and volumes were collected over 11 months and used to generate three performance measures, speed, travel time, and level of service to compare traffic conditions before and after the deployment of ramp meters. Comparative analysis, comprising statistical analysis, analysis of travel time savings, and level of service were then undertaken for traffic conditions before and after ramp meters installation. Overall, the results show some improvements in traffic conditions in the eastbound direction of the westernmost segment; however, the conditions slightly deteriorated on the westbound of the same segment. For the easternmost segment of I-12, no improvement was detected.
Comparing the diel cycles of dissolved organic matter fluorescence in a clear-water and two dark-water Wisconsin lakes: potential insights into lake metabolism
Authors: Watras Carl J. , Morrison Kenneth A. , Lottig Noah R. , Kratz Timothy K.
Published: September 2015

The cycling of organic carbon is fundamental to aquatic ecosystems, reflecting processes that extend from terrestrial watersheds to fish. Here, we use embedded fluorescence sensors that sample at high frequency to investigate the daily dynamics of a proxy for the major pool of organic carbon (chromophoric dissolved organic matter, CDOM) in a clear-water Wisconsin lake (∼3 mg C·L−1). We compare the diel CDOM cycle in this lake with cycles observed previously in two dark-water lakes (10 to 20 mg C·L−1). Despite differences in DOM quality and quantity, diel fluorescence cycles were evident in the epilimnia and hypolimnia of all three lakes. The amplitude differed among lakes, but the timing of the diel cycles was similar, with increases in fluorescence during nighttime and decreases during daylight (except in the aphotic hypolimnion of the darkest lake). The amplitude of the diel cycle increased with increasing DOM concentration, and estimates of DOM turnover based on the magnitude of oscillation ranged from 0.28 mg C·L−1·day−1in the darkest lake to 0.14 mg C·L−1·day−1in the clear lake. Independent estimates of free water metabolism based on the daily dynamics of O2or CO2were in general agreement, ranging from 0.32 to 0.06 mg C·L−1·day−1. Although absolute rates of turnover varied directly with DOM concentration, relative rates were highest in clear waters (∼5%·day−1). We conclude that these daily oscillations may be a common property of lakes and that they may provide insights into internal DOM processing over short time scales.
Strategic Technology Adoption Under Dispersed Information and Information Learning
Authors: Kasahara Tetsuya
Published: September 2015

In this paper, we analyze the technology adoption problem of firms when relevant information about a new technology is dispersed among them. Developing a continuous time model in which imperfectly and differently informed multiple firms determine strategically when to adopt a new technology, we show that the phenomena of an economically inefficient initial delay of adoption, a staggered adoption, and an inefficiently early mass adoption can arise in equilibrium, particularly in the form of strategic delay, informational learning, and herding behavior, respectively. We also address the incentive scheme that helps to achieve efficient collective adoption of the new technology under dispersed information and show under what conditions, if any, such an incentive scheme can work well.
Spironolactone ameliorates arterial medial calcification in uremic rats: the role of mineralocorticoid receptor signaling in vascular calcification
Authors: Tatsumoto Narihito , Yamada Shunsuke , Tokumoto Masanori , Eriguchi Masahiro , Noguchi Hideko , Torisu Kumiko , Tsuruya Kazuhiko , Kitazono Takanari
Published: September 2015

Vascular calcification (VC) is a critical complication in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The effects of spironolactone (SPL), a mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) antagonist, on VC have not been fully investigated in CKD. The present in vivo study determined the protective effects of SPL on VC in CKD rats. Rats were divided into a control group and four groups of rats with adenine-induced CKD. Three groups were treated with 0, 50, and 100 mg·kg−1·day−1SPL for 8 wk, and one group was treated with 100 mg·kg−1·day−1SPL for the last 2 wk of the 8-wk treatment period. After 8 wk, CKD rats developed azotemia and hyperphosphatemia, with increases in the expression of serum and glucocorticoid-regulated kinase-1 and sodium-phosphate cotransporter, in inflammation and oxidative stress level, in osteogenic signaling and apoptosis, and in aortic calcification, compared with control rats. SPL dose dependently decreased these changes in the aortas, concomitant with improvements in renal inflammation, tubulointerstitial nephritis, and kidney function. SPL neither lowered blood pressure level nor induced hyperkalemia. Treatment of CKD rats for the last 2 wk with 100 mg·kg−1·day−1SPL attenuated VC compared with CKD rats with the same degree of kidney function and hyperphosphatemia. In conclusion, SPL dose dependently inhibits the progression of VC by suppressing MR signaling, local inflammation, osteogenic transition, and apoptosis in the aortas of CKD rats.
Feedback control of variability in the cycle period of a central pattern generator
Authors: Hooper Ryan M. , Tikidji-Hamburyan Ruben A. , Canavier Carmen C. , Prinz Astrid A.
Published: September 2015

We address how feedback to a bursting biological pacemaker with intrinsic variability in cycle length can affect that variability. Specifically, we examine a hybrid circuit constructed of an isolated crab anterior burster (AB)/pyloric dilator (PD) pyloric pacemaker receiving virtual feedback via dynamic clamp. This virtual feedback generates artificial synaptic input to PD with timing determined by adjustable phase response dynamics that mimic average burst intervals generated by the lateral pyloric neuron (LP) in the intact pyloric network. Using this system, we measure network period variability dependence on the feedback element's phase response dynamics and find that a constant response interval confers minimum variability. We further find that these optimal dynamics are characteristic of the biological pyloric network. Building upon our previous theoretical work mapping the firing intervals in one cycle onto the firing intervals in the next cycle, we create a theoretical map of the distribution of all firing intervals in one cycle to the distribution of firing intervals in the next cycle. We then obtain an integral equation for a stationary self-consistent distribution of the network periods of the hybrid circuit, which can be solved numerically given the uncoupled pacemaker's distribution of intrinsic periods, the nature of the network's feedback, and the phase resetting characteristics of the pacemaker. The stationary distributions obtained in this manner are strongly predictive of the experimentally observed distributions of hybrid network period. This theoretical framework can provide insight into optimal feedback schemes for minimizing variability to increase reliability or maximizing variability to increase flexibility in central pattern generators driven by pacemakers with feedback.
Microwave Assisted Hydrolysis of Holocellulose Catalyzed with Sulfonated Char Derived from Lignin-Rich Residue
Authors: Wang Kui , Xie Xinfeng , Si Zhan , Jiang Jianchun , Wang Jingxin
Published: September 2015

A microwave assisted green process has been developed for production of sugars through liquefying holocellulose catalyzed with sulfonated char derived from the lignin-rich residue produced during pretreatment of lignocellulose. Various reaction parameters including the hydrolysis temperature, hydrolysis time, catalyst content, and the ratio of water to feedstock were evaluated. The maximum sugars yield of 82.6% (based on the dry mass of holocellulose) was obtained under the optimum reaction conditions. The sulfonated char showed superior catalytic performance to that of dilute sulfuric acid in converting holocellulose into sugars under microwave irradiation.
Functional and Morphological Correlations before and after Video-Documented 23-Gauge Pars Plana Vitrectomy with Membrane and ILM Peeling in Patients with Macular Pucker
Authors: Mayer Wolfgang J. , Fazekas Clara , Schumann Ricarda , Wolf Armin , Compera Denise , Kampik Anselm , Haritoglou Christos
Published: September 2015

Purpose. To assess functional and morphological alterations following video-documented surgery for epiretinal membranes.Methods. Forty-two patients underwent video-documented 23-gauge vitrectomy with peeling of epiretinal (ERM) and inner limiting membrane (ILM). Patient assessment was performed before and 3 and 6 months including best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), slit lamp biomicroscopy, SD-OCT, and central 2° and 18° microperimetry. In addition, all video-documented areas of peeling on the retinal surface were evaluated postoperatively using an additional focal 2° microperimetry. Retinal sensitivity and BCVA were correlated with morphological changes (EZ and ELM) in the foveal region and in regions of membrane peeling.Results. Overall, BCVA increased from 0.6 (±0.2) to 0.2 (±0.2) logMAR after 6 months with an increase in retinal sensitivity (17.9 ± 2.7 dB to 26.8 ± 3.1 dB,p<0.01). We observed a significant correlation between the integrity of the EZ but not of the ELM and the retinal sensitivity, overall and in peeling areas (p<0.05). However, no significant correlation between alterations in the area of peeling and overall retinal sensitivity regarding visual acuity gain could be observed after 6 months (p>0.05). In contrast, overall postoperative retinal sensitivity was significantly decreased in patients with a visual acuity gain lower than 2 lines (p<0.05) correlating with EZ defects seen in OCT.Conclusions. Mechanical trauma of epiretinal membrane and ILM peeling due to the use of intraocular forceps may affect the outer retinal structure. Nevertheless, these changes seem to have no significant impact on postoperative functional outcome.
Hyperchloremic Metabolic Acidosis due to Cholestyramine: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Kamar Fareed B. , McQuillan Rory F.
Published: September 2015

Cholestyramine is a bile acid sequestrant that has been used in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia, pruritus due to elevated bile acid levels, and diarrhea due to bile acid malabsorption. This medication can rarely cause hyperchloremic nonanion gap metabolic acidosis, a complication featured in this report of an adult male with concomitant acute kidney injury. This case emphasizes the caution that must be taken in prescribing cholestyramine to patients who may also be volume depleted, in renal failure, or taking spironolactone.
Retinal Changes Induced by Epiretinal Tangential Forces
Authors: Romano Mario R. , Comune Chiara , Ferrara Mariantonia , Cennamo Gilda , De Cillà Stefano , Toto Lisa , Cennamo Giovanni
Published: September 2015

Two kinds of forces are active in vitreoretinal traction diseases: tangential and anterior-posterior forces. However, tangential forces are less characterized and classified in literature compared to the anterior-posterior ones. Tangential epiretinal forces are mainly due to anomalous posterior vitreous detachment (PVD), vitreoschisis, vitreopapillary adhesion (VPA), and epiretinal membranes (ERMs). Anomalous PVD plays a key role in the formation of the tangential vectorial forces on the retinal surface as consequence of gel liquefaction (synchysis) without sufficient and fast vitreous dehiscence at the vitreoretinal interface. The anomalous and persistent adherence of the posterior hyaloid to the retina can lead to vitreomacular/vitreopapillary adhesion or to a formation of avascular fibrocellular tissue (ERM) resulting from the proliferation and transdifferentiation of hyalocytes resident in the cortical vitreous remnants after vitreoschisis. The right interpretation of the forces involved in the epiretinal tangential tractions helps in a better definition of diagnosis, progression, prognosis, and surgical outcomes of vitreomacular interfaces.
Management of a Periodontal Pocket Using a Removable Orthodontic Appliance and Nonsurgical Periodontal Therapy
Authors: Köseoğlu Serhat , Fidancıoğlu Ahmet , Sağlam Mehmet , Savran Levent
Published: September 2015

Purpose. As documented in the literature, bony defects can be managed by an orthodontic approach.Methods. This case report describes the treatment of a bony defect caused by orthodontic malposition through phase I periodontal therapy and a simple removable orthodontic appliance used for the first time in a 20-year-old girl.Results. The periodontal pocket was reduced from 8 mm to 3 mm shortly after treatment.Conclusion. This case report concludes that orthodontic therapy can be used successfully in treatment of bony defects caused by mesially tilted molars.
Complications of Macular Peeling
Authors: Asencio-Duran Mónica , Manzano-Muñoz Beatriz , Vallejo-García José Luis , García-Martínez Jesús
Published: September 2015

Macular peeling refers to the surgical technique for the removal of preretinal tissue or the internal limiting membrane (ILM) in the macula for several retinal disorders, ranging from epiretinal membranes (primary or secondary to diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachment…) to full-thickness macular holes, macular edema, foveal retinoschisis, and others. The technique has evolved in the last two decades, and the different instrumentations and adjuncts have progressively advanced turning into a safer, easier, and more useful tool for the vitreoretinal surgeon. Here, we describe the main milestones of macular peeling, drawing attention to its associated complications.
Open and Closed Endotracheal Suctioning and Arterial Blood Gas Values: A Single-Blind Crossover Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Faraji Azam , Khatony Alireza , Moradi Gholamreza , Abdi Alireza , Rezaei Mansour
Published: September 2015

Aim. This study was aimed at comparing the effects of the open and closed suctioning techniques on the arterial blood gas values in patients undergoing open-heart surgery.Methods. In a clinical trial, we recruited 42 patients after open-heart surgery in an educational hospital. Each patient randomly underwent both open and closed suctioning. ABGs, PaO2, SaO2, PaCO2, were analyzed before and one, five, and fifteen minutes after each suctioning episode.Results. At first the pressure of oxygen in arterial blood increased; however, this increase in the open technique was greater than that of the closed system(P<0.001). The pressure of oxygen decreased five and fifteen minutes after both suctioning techniques(P<0.05). The trends of carbon dioxide variations after the open and closed techniques were upward and downward, respectively. Moreover, the decrease in the level of oxygen saturation five and fifteen minutes after the open suctioning was greater than that of the closed suctioning technique(P<0.05).  Conclusion. Arterial blood gas disturbances in the closed suctioning technique were less than those of the open technique. Therefore, to eliminate the unwanted effects of endotracheal suctioning on the arterial blood gases, the closed suctioning technique is recommended.
A Randomized, Double-Blind Pilot Study of Dose Comparison of Ramosetron to Prevent Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting
Authors: Kim Ka-Rham , Kang Gaeun , Ki Myung-Seo , Shim Hyun-Jeong , Hwang Jun-Eul , Bae Woo-Kyun , Chung Ik-Joo , Kim Jong-Keun , Jeong Seongwook , Cho Sang-Hee
Published: September 2015

Purpose. This study was conducted to determine the optimal dose titration of ramosetron to prevent the Rhodes Index of Nausea, Vomiting, and Retching (RINVR).Methods. Patients treated with folic acid, 5-fluorouracil, and oxaliplatin were randomized into three groups (0.3 mg, 0.45 mg, and 0.6 mg ramosetron before chemotherapy). The pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics using RINVR were evaluated.Results. Seventeen, 15, and 18 patients received ramosetron at doses of 0.3 mg, 0.45 mg, and 0.6 mg, respectively.Tmax(h),Cmax(ng/mL), andAUClast(ng·h/mL) were associated with dose escalation significantly, showing a reverse correlation with the RINVR during chemotherapy. Acute CINV was observed in four patients (22.2%), two patients (14.3%), and one (5.6%) patient and a delayed CINV on day 7 was found in eight (47%), three (21.4%), and five (27.8%) patients in each group. The complete response rate was increased with dose escalation (35.3%, 50.0%, and 72.2% in each group) and also showed the tendency for decreasing moderate-to-severe CINV.Conclusions. This study shows a trend regarding the dose-response relationship for ramosetron to prevent CINV, including delayed emesis. It suggested that dose escalation should be considered in patients with CINV in a subsequent cycle of chemotherapy, and an individual approach using RINVR could be useful to monitor CINV.
Flocking Control of Multiple Mobile Agents with the Rules of Avoiding Collision
Authors: Zhou Hongtao , Zhou Wenfeng , Zeng Wei
Published: September 2015

This paper investigates the flocking and the coordinative control problems of multiple mobile agents with the rules of avoiding collision. We propose a set of control laws using hysteresis in adding new links and applying new potential function to guarantee that the fragmentation of the network can be avoided, under which all agents approach a common velocity vector, and asymptotically converge to a fixed value of interagent distances and collisions between agents can be avoided throughout the motion. Furthermore, we extend the flocking algorithm to solve the flocking situation of the group with a virtual leader agent. The laws can make all agents asymptotically approach the virtual leader and collisions can be avoided between agents in the motion evolution. Finally, some numerical simulations are showed to illustrate the theoretical results.
Effect of Heating at Oven-Dry State on Steam Treated Bamboo Powder Thermal Fluidity
Authors: Kajikawa S. , Iizuka T.
Published: September 2015

In hot molding processes of woody material, it is important to understand the effect of oven-dry heating on the property of woody biomass material, such as thermal fluidity. In this study, thermal flow tests of untreated and steam treated bamboo powder were conducted to investigate the effects of heating at an oven-dry state on thermal fluidity. The test temperature was set to 200°C. Before the thermal flow test, powder was dry-heated in a capillary rheometer at 200°C with a variable heating time. Thermogravimetry was conducted to understand the thermal changes of the powder during an increasing temperature and constant temperature. Fluidity of untreated powder was improved with a short dry-heating but decreased with a long dry-heating. In contrast, steam treated powder fluidity was high compared to untreated one, but its fluidity did not improve from dry-heating. From these thermogravimetry results, the chemical changes associated with component volatilization relate with the thermal fluidity. Therefore, the decrease in fluidity from dry-heating occurred because fluidity related components escape from the powder through volatilization.
A Nonpolynomial Optimal Algorithm for Sequencing Inspectors in a Repeat Inspection System with Rework
Authors: Yang Moon Hee , Cho Jae Hyung
Published: September 2015

Assuming that two types of inspection errors are nonidentical and that only the items rejected by an inspector are reworked and sent to the next inspection cycle, we formulate a combinatorial optimization problem for simultaneously determining both the minimum frequency of inspection-rework cycles and the optimal sequence of inspectors selected from a set of available inspectors, in order to meet the constraints of the outgoing quality level. Based on the inherent properties from our mathematical model, we provide a nonpolynomial optimal algorithm with a time complexity ofO(2m).
Initial Experience of Sorafenib Neoadjuvant Therapy Combined with Retroperitoneoscopy in Treating T2 Large Renal Carcinoma
Authors: Lin Chun-hua , Yuan He-jia , Wang Ke , Wu Ji-tao , Liu Qing-zuo , Yu Sheng-qiang , Men Chang-ping , Gao Zhen-li , Wang Jiahui
Published: September 2015

Objectives. To investigate the safety and feasibility of sorafenib neoadjuvant therapy combined with retroperitoneoscopic radical nephrectomy (RRN) in treating T2 large renal cell carcinoma (RCC).Methods. Retrospectively analyzed 5 cases (2 males and 3 females, aged 52–73 years) of T2 stage large RCC who receive preoperative sorafenib targeted treatment (400 mg bid for 1–3 months) and RRN between March, 2013, and July, 2014. Patient information, therapeutic regimen, drug adverse effect, tumor changes before and after surgery, and perioperative parameters were recorded.Results. During the sorafenib therapy adverse effects included 2 cases of hypertension (Grade I toxicity), 1 case of hand-foot syndrome (Grade I), and 1 case of diarrhea (Grade II), which were all tolerable for patients. CT scan and histopathological tests confirmed significant reduction in the longest dimension (LD) and medium density (MD) of the tumor after therapy as well as tumor hemorrhage, necrosis, and cystic degeneration. All 5 patients received RRN surgery successfully around 2 weeks after drug discontinuation with only 1 case of perioperative complication.Conclusions. Sorafenib neoadjuvant therapy could significantly reduce the size and aggressiveness of T2 large renal tumors, thus reducing the operative challenge and enabling patients who were previously disqualified for operation to receive surgical treatment.
Heterogeneity of Breast Cancer Associations with Common Genetic Variants inFGFR2according to the Intrinsic Subtypes in Southern Han Chinese Women
Authors: Liang Huiying , Yang Xuexi , Chen Lujia , Li Hong , Zhu Anna , Sun Minying , Wang Haitao , Li Ming
Published: September 2015

GWAS have identified variation in theFGFR2locus as risk factors for breast cancer. Validation studies, however, have shown inconsistent results by ethnics and pathological characteristics. To further explore this inconsistency and investigate the associations ofFGFR2variants with breast cancer according to intrinsic subtype (Luminal-A, Luminal-B, ER−&PR−&HER2+, and triple negative) among Southern Han Chinese women, we genotyped rs1078806, rs1219648, rs2420946, rs2981579, and rs2981582 polymorphisms in 609 patients and 882 controls. Significant associations with breast cancer risk were observed for rs2420946, rs2981579, and rs2981582 with OR (95% CI) per risk allele of 1.19 (1.03–1.39), 1.24 (1.07–1.43), and 1.17 (1.01–1.36), respectively. In subtype specific analysis, above three SNPs were significantly associated with increased Luminal-A risk in a dose-dependent mannerPtrend<0.01; however, only rs2981579 was associated with Luminal-B, and none were linked to ER−&PR− subtypes (ER−&PR−&HER2+ and triple negative). Haplotype analyses also identified common haplotypes significantly associated with luminal-like subtypes (Luminal-A and Luminal-B), but not with ER−&PR− subtypes. Our results suggest that associations ofFGFR2SNPs with breast cancer were heterogeneous according to intrinsic subtype. Future studies stratifying patients by their intrinsic subtypes will provide new insights into the complex genetic mechanisms underlying breast cancer.
Core-Level Modeling and Frequency Prediction for DSP Applications on FPGAs
Authors: Wang Gongyu , Stitt Greg , Lam Herman , George Alan
Published: September 2015

Field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) provide a promising technology that can improve performance of many high-performance computing and embedded applications. However, unlike software design tools, the relatively immature state of FPGA tools significantly limits productivity and consequently prevents widespread adoption of the technology. For example, the lengthy design-translate-execute (DTE) process often must be iterated to meet the application requirements. Previous works have enabled model-based, design-space exploration to reduce DTE iterations but are limited by a lack of accurate model-based prediction of key design parameters, the most important of which is clock frequency. In this paper, we present a core-level modeling and design (CMD) methodology that enables modeling of FPGA applications at an abstract level and yet produces accurate predictions of parameters such as clock frequency, resource utilization (i.e., area), and latency. We evaluate CMD’s prediction methods using several high-performance DSP applications on various families of FPGAs and show an average clock-frequency prediction error of 3.6%, with a worst-case error of 20.4%, compared to the best of existing high-level prediction methods, 13.9% average error with 48.2% worst-case error. We also demonstrate how such prediction enables accurate design-space exploration without coding in a hardware-description language (HDL), significantly reducing the total design time.
Trachoma and Ocular Chlamydial Infection in the Era of Genomics
Authors: Derrick Tamsyn , Roberts Chrissy h. , Last Anna R. , Burr Sarah E. , Holland Martin J.
Published: September 2015

Trachoma is a blinding disease usually caused by infection with Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct) serovars A, B, and C in the upper tarsal conjunctiva. Individuals in endemic regions are repeatedly infected with Ct throughout childhood. A proportion of individuals experience prolonged or severe inflammatory episodes that are known to be significant risk factors for ocular scarring in later life. Continued scarring often leads to trichiasis and in‐turning of the eyelashes, which causes pain and can eventually cause blindness. The mechanisms driving the chronic immunopathology in the conjunctiva, which largely progresses in the absence of detectable Ct infection in adults, are likely to be multifactorial. Socioeconomic status, education, and behavior have been identified as contributing to the risk of scarring and inflammation. We focus on the contribution of host and pathogen genetic variation, bacterial ecology of the conjunctiva, and host epigenetic imprinting including small RNA regulation by both host and pathogen in the development of ocular pathology. Each of these factors or processes contributes to pathogenic outcomes in other inflammatory diseases and we outline their potential role in trachoma.
Role of Mas Receptor Antagonist A799 in Renal Blood Flow Response to Ang 1-7 after Bradykinin Administration in Ovariectomized Estradiol-Treated Rats
Authors: Dehghani Aghdas , Saberi Shadan , Nematbakhsh Mehdi
Published: September 2015

Background. The accompanied role of Mas receptor (MasR), bradykinin (BK), and female sex hormone on renal blood flow (RBF) response to angiotensin 1-7 is not well defined. We investigated the role of MasR antagonist (A779) and BK on RBF response to Ang 1-7 infusion in ovariectomized estradiol-treated rats.Methods. Ovariectomized Wistar rats received estradiol (OVE) or vehicle (OV) for two weeks. Catheterized animals were subjected to BK and A799 infusion and mean arterial pressure (MAP), RBF, and renal vascular resistance (RVR) responses to Ang 1-7 (0, 100, and 300 ng kg−1 min−1) were determined.Results. Percentage change of RBF (%RBF) in response to Ang1-7 infusion increased in a dose-dependent manner. In the presence of BK, when MasR was not blocked, %RBF response to Ang 1-7 in OVE group was greater than OV group significantly (P<0.05). Infusion of 300 ng kg−1 min−1Ang 1-7 increased RBF by6.9±1.9% in OVE group versus0.9±1.8% in OV group. However when MasR was blocked, %RBF response to Ang 1-7 in OV group was greater than OVE group insignificantly.Conclusion. Coadministration of BK and A779 compared to BK alone increased RBF response to Ang 1-7 in vehicle treated rats. Such observation was not seen in estradiol treated rats.
A Dual Band Patch Antenna with a Pinwheel-Shaped Slots EBG Substrate
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyan , Teng Zhaopeng , Liu Zhiqing , Li Bincheng
Published: September 2015

A dual band microstrip patch antenna integrated with pinwheel-shaped electromagnetic band-gap (EBG) structures is proposed. The patch antenna consists of a pair of spiral slots on the patch and is fed by using coaxial line. Its full-wave simulation predicts dual bands from 4.43 GHz to 4.56 GHz and from 4.96 GHz to 5.1 GHz in the C-band. The designed EBG with eight pinwheel-shaped slots addresses smaller frequency drift compared with the traditional square mushroom-like EBG when applied to the patch antenna. With the help of designed EBG structure, the impedance bandwidth, radiation efficiency, and gain of the patch antenna are improved significantly. The 10 dB impedance bandwidth is extended by 3.4% and 6.5% at the low- and high-frequency bands, respectively. The radiation efficiency is increased by 5% and 17.8%, and the realized gain is enhanced by 1.87 dB and 1.56 dB at 4.57 GHz and 5.06 GHz, respectively. The designed EBG structure may have many applications in other types of planar antennas.
Strain and Dimension Effects on the Threshold Voltage of Nanoscale Fully Depleted Strained-SOI TFETs
Authors: Li Yu-Chen , Zhang He-Ming , Liu Shu-lin , Hu Hui-Yong
Published: September 2015

A novel nanoscale fully depleted strained-SOI TFET (FD-SSOI TFET) is proposed and exhaustively simulated through Atlas Device Simulator. It is found that FD-SSOI TFET has the potential of improved on-current and steep subthreshold swing. Furthermore, the effect of strain and dimension on the threshold voltage of FD-SSOI TFET is thoroughly studied by developing a model based on its physical definition. The validity of the model is tested for FD-SSOI TFET by comparison to 2D device simulations. It is shown that the proposed model can predict the trends of threshold voltage very well. This proposed model provides valuable reference to the FD-SSOI TFETs design, simulation, and fabrication.
Monte Carlo Alpha Iteration Algorithm for a Subcritical System Analysis
Authors: Shim Hyung Jin , Jang Sang Hoon , Kang Soo Min
Published: September 2015

Theα-kiteration method which searches the fundamental mode alpha-eigenvalue via iterative updates of the fission source distribution has been successfully used for the Monte Carlo (MC) alpha-static calculations of supercritical systems. However, theα-kiteration method for the deep subcritical system analysis suffers from a gigantic number of neutron generations or a huge neutron weight, which leads to an abnormal termination of the MC calculations. In order to stably estimate the prompt neutron decay constant (α) of prompt subcritical systems regardless of subcriticality, we propose a new MC alpha-static calculation method named as theαiteration algorithm. The new method is derived by directly applying the power method for theα-mode eigenvalue equation and its calculation stability is achieved by controlling the number of time source neutrons which are generated in proportion toαdivided by neutron speed in MC neutron transport simulations. The effectiveness of theαiteration algorithm is demonstrated for two-group homogeneous problems with varying the subcriticality by comparisons with analytic solutions. The applicability of the proposed method is evaluated for an experimental benchmark of the thorium-loaded accelerator-driven system.
Effects of Vitreomacular Adhesion on Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Kang Eui Chun , Koh Hyoung Jun
Published: September 2015

Herein, we review the association between vitreomacular adhesion (VMA) and neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Meta-analyses have shown that eyes with neovascular AMD are twice as likely to have VMA as normal eyes. VMA in neovascular AMD may induce inflammation, macular traction, decrease in oxygenation, sequestering of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and other cytokines or may directly stimulate VEGF production. VMA may also interfere with the treatment effects of anti-VEGF therapy, which is the standard treatment for neovascular AMD, and releasing VMA can improve the treatment response to anti-VEGF treatment in neovascular AMD. We also reviewed currently available methods of relieving VMA.
Orthostatic Intolerance Is Independent of the Degree of Autonomic Cardiovascular Adaptation after 60 Days of Head-Down Bed Rest
Authors: Liu Jiexin , Li Yongzhi , Verheyden Bart , Chen Zhanghuang , Wang Jingyu , Li Yinghui , Aubert André E. , Yuan Ming
Published: September 2015

Spaceflight and head-down bed rest (HDBR) can induce the orthostatic intolerance (OI); the mechanisms remain to be clarified. The aim of this study was to determine whether or not OI after HDBR relates to the degree of autonomic cardiovascular adaptation. Fourteen volunteers were enrolled for 60 days of HDBR. A head-up tilt test (HUTT) was performed before and after HDBR. Our data revealed that, in all nonfainters, there was a progressive increase in heart rate over the course of HDBR, which remained higher until 12 days of recovery. The mean arterial pressure gradually increased until day 56 of HDBR and returned to baseline after 12 days of recovery. Respiratory sinus arrhythmia and baroreflex sensitivity decreased during HDBR and remained suppressed until 12 days of recovery. Low-frequency power of systolic arterial pressure increased during HDBR and remained elevated during recovery. Three subjects fainted during the HUTT after HDBR, in which systemic vascular resistance did not increase and remained lower until syncope. None of the circulatory patterns significantly differed between the fainters and the nonfainters at any time point. In conclusion, our data indicate that the impaired orthostatic tolerance after HDBR could not be distinguished by estimation of normal hemodynamic and/or neurocardiac data.
Impact ofCYP1A1Polymorphisms on Susceptibility to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wang Cheng-Di , Chen Nan , Huang Lin , Wang Jia-Rong , Chen Zhi-Yuan , Jiang Ya-Mei , He Ya-Zhou , Ji Yu-Lin
Published: September 2015

Objective.Several studies have evaluated the association betweenCYP1A1polymorphisms and the susceptibility of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) with inconclusive results. We performed the first comprehensive meta-analysis to summarize the association betweenCYP1A1polymorphisms and COPD risk.Method.A systematic literature search was conducted (up to April 2015) in five online databases: PubMed, EMBASE, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), WeiPu, and WanFang databases. The strength of association was calculated by odds ratio (OR) and corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI).Results.Seven case-control studies with 1050 cases and 1202 controls were included. Our study suggested a significant association between the MspI polymorphism and COPD risk (CC versus TC + TT: OR = 1.57, CI: 1.09–2.26,P=0.02; CC versus TT: OR = 1.73, CI: 1.18–2.55,P=0.005). For the Ile/Val polymorphism, a significant association with COPD risk was observed (GG versus AG + AA: OR = 2.75, CI: 1.29–5.84,P= 0.009; GG versus AA: OR = 3.23, CI: 1.50–6.93,P=0.003; AG versus AA: OR = 1.39, CI: 1.01–1.90,P=0.04). Subgroup analysis indicated a significant association between the MspI variation and COPD risk among Asians (CC versus TC + TT: OR = 1.70, CI: 1.06–2.71,P=0.03; CC versus TT: OR = 1.84, CI: 1.11–3.06,P=0.02).Conclusion.The MspI and Ile/Val polymorphisms might alter the susceptibility of COPD, and MspI polymorphism might play a role in COPD risk among Asian population.