bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A molecular phylogenetic study of Cucujidae s.l. (Coleoptera: Cucujoidea)
Authors: MCELRATH THOMAS C. , ROBERTSON JAMES A. , THOMAS MICHAEL C. , OSBORNE JONATHAN , MILLER KELLY B. , MCHUGH JOSEPH V. , WHITING MICHAEL F.
Published: June 2015

Of all the superfamilies within the megadiverse order Coleoptera (Insecta), Cucujoidea (Cucujiformia) is arguably the most problematic taxonomically. The families comprising Cucujidae s.l. (Silvanidae, Laemophloeidae, Passandridae and Cucujidae s.s. represent a large portion of cucujoid diversity. Herein we present the results of a rigorous molecular phylogenetic analysis of Cucujidae s.l. using maximum‐likelihood and Bayesian analyses of seven genes. Representatives of over half of the families of Cucujoidea (excluding the cerylonid series), as well as a broad sampling of Silvanidae and Laemophloeidae, were analysed. The monophyly of Cucujidae s.l. is rejected but a subgrouping of taxa that may form the core of a natural cucujoid lineage is recovered. This clade consists of two large monophyletic groups including several families each. Relationships among these smaller cucujoid groups are discussed, including several novel phylogenetic hypotheses, whereas morphological characters considered significant for classification in Cucujidae s.l. are evaluated in light of these phylogenetic hypotheses. Silvaninae, Telephanini, Brontini and Brontinae are recovered as monophyletic in the Bayesian analysis, but the former two are recovered as paraphyletic in the maximum‐likelihood analysis. Our results support the placement of Psammoecus Latreille within Telephanini and also recover a paraphyletic Telephanus Erichson. Silvaninae is divided into three lineages, each representing a potential tribal lineage. Laemophloeidae is rendered paraphyletic in all analyses by Propalticidae and the latter is herein formally transferred to Laemophloeidae stat.n. Several suprageneric laemophloeid clades are recovered and discussed as potential higher‐level groups. Laemophloeus Dejean is not recovered as monophyletic.
Comparison of Methods for Modeling a Hydraulic Loader Crane With Flexible Translational Links
Authors: Pedersen Henrik C. , Andersen Torben O. , Nielsen Brian K.
Published: June 2015

When modeling flexible robots and structures for control purposes, most often the assumed modes (AMs) method is used to describe the deformation in combination with a floating reference frame formulation. This typically has the benefit of obtaining a low-order, but accurate model of the flexible structure, if the number of modes and AMs are properly chosen. The basis for using this method is, however, that the vibrations (deflections) are time and position independent, i.e., the expression is separable in space and time. This holds for the classic Euler–Bernoulli beam equation, but essentially does not hold for translational links. Hence, special care has to be taken when including flexible translational links. In the current paper, different methods for modeling a hydraulic loader crane with a telescopic arm are investigated and compared using both the finite segment (FS) and AMs method. The translational links are approximated by a single beam, respectively, multiple beam elements, with both one and two modes and using different mode shapes. The models are all validated against experimental data and the comparison is made for different operating scenarios. Based on the results, it is found that in most cases a single beam, low mode order approximation is sufficient to accurately model the mechanical structure and this yields similar results as the FS method.
Double-Sided Transferred Carbon Nanotube Arrays for Improved Thermal Interface Materials
Authors: McNamara Andrew J. , Joshi Yogendra , Zhang Zhuomin , Moon Kyoung-sik , Lin Ziyin , Yao Yagang , Wong Ching-Ping , Lin Wei
Published: June 2015

Recently, much attention has been given to reducing the thermal resistance attributed to thermal interface materials (TIMs) in electronic devices, which contribute significantly to the overall package thermal resistance. Thermal transport measured experimentally through several vertically aligned carbon nanotube (VACNT) array TIMs anchored to copper and silicon substrates is considered. A steady-state infrared (IR) microscopy experimental setup was designed and utilized to measure the cross-plane total thermal resistance of VACNT TIMs. Overall thermal resistance for the anchored arrays ranged from 4 to 50 mm2 KW-1. These values are comparable to the best current TIMs used for microelectronic packaging. Furthermore, thermal stability after prolonged exposure to a high-temperature environment and thermal cycling tests shows limited deterioration for an array anchored using a silver-loaded thermal conductive adhesive (TCA).
Micrometer‐resolved film dosimetry using a microscope in microbeam radiation therapy
Authors: Bartzsch Stefan , Lott Johanna , Welsch Katrin , Bräuer‐Krisch Elke , Oelfke Uwe
Published: June 2015

Purpose:

Microbeam radiation therapy (MRT) is a still preclinical tumor therapy approach that uses arrays of a few tens of micrometer wide parallel beams separated by a few 100 μm. The production, measurement, and planning of such radiation fields are a challenge up to now. Here, the authors investigate the feasibility of radiochromic film dosimetry in combination with a microscopic readout as a tool to validate peak and valley doses in MRT, which is an important requirement for a future clinical application of the therapy.

Methods:

Gafchromic® HD‐810 and HD‐V2 films are exposed to MRT fields at the biomedical beamline ID17 of the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF) and are afterward scanned with a microscope. The measured dose is compared with Monte Carlo calculations. Image analysis tools and film handling protocols are developed that allow accurate and reproducible dosimetry. The performance of HD‐810 and HD‐V2 films is compared and a detailed analysis of the resolution, noise, and energy dependence is carried out. Measurement uncertainties are identified and analyzed.

Results:

The dose was measured with a resolution of 5 × 1000 μm2 and an accuracy of 5% in the peak and between 10% and 15% in the valley region. As main causes for dosimetry uncertainties, statistical noise, film inhomogeneities, and calibration errors were identified. Calibration errors strongly increase at low doses and exceeded 3% for doses below 50 and 70 Gy for HD‐V2 and HD‐810 films, respectively. While the grain size of both film types is approximately 2 μm, the statistical noise in HD‐V2 is much higher than in HD‐810 films. However, HD‐810 films show a higher energy dependence at low photon energies.

Conclusions:

Both film types are appropriate for dosimetry in MRT and the microscope is superior to the microdensitometer used before at the ESRF with respect to resolution and reproducibility. However, a very careful analysis of the image data is required. Dosimetry at low photon energies should be performed with great caution due to the energy sensitivity of the films. In this respect, HD‐V2 films showed to have an advantage over HD‐810 films. However, HD‐810 films have a lower statistical noise level. When a higher resolution is required, e.g., for the dosimetry of pencil beam irradiations, noise may render HD‐V2 films inapplicable.
Long-term climate forcing by atmospheric oxygen concentrations
Authors: Poulsen Christopher J. , Tabor Clay , White Joseph D.
Published: June 2015

Change was in the air

The atmospheric fraction of molecular oxygen gas, O
2
, currently at 21%, is thought to have varied between around 35 and 15% over the past 500 million years. Because O
2
is not a greenhouse gas, often this variability has not been considered in studies of climate change. Poulson and Wright show that indirect effects of oxygen abundance, caused by contributions to atmospheric pressure and mean molecular weight, can affect precipitation and atmospheric humidity (see the Perspective by Peppe and Royer). These effects may thus have produced significant changes in the strength of greenhouse forcing by water vapor, surface air temperatures, and the hydrological cycle in the geological past.

Science
, this issue p.
1238
; see also p.
1210
Identification of Highly Pathogenic Microorganisms by Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization–Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry: Results of an Interlaboratory Ring Trial
Authors: Lasch Peter , Wahab Tara , Weil Sandra , Pályi Bernadett , Tomaso Herbert , Zange Sabine , Kiland Granerud Beathe , Drevinek Michal , Kokotovic Branko , Wittwer Matthias , Pflüger Valentin , Di Caro Antonino , Stämmler Maren , Grunow Roland , Jacob Daniela
Published: June 2015

In the case of a release of highly pathogenic bacteria (HPB), there is an urgent need for rapid, accurate, and reliable diagnostics. MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry is a rapid, accurate, and relatively inexpensive technique that is becoming increasingly important in microbiological diagnostics to complement classical microbiology, PCR, and genotyping of HPB. In the present study, the results of a joint exercise with 11 partner institutions from nine European countries are presented. In this exercise, 10 distinct microbial samples, among them five HPB,
Bacillus anthracis
,
Brucella canis
,
Burkholderia mallei
,
Burkholderia pseudomallei
, and
Yersinia pestis
, were characterized under blinded conditions. Microbial strains were inactivated by high-dose gamma irradiation before shipment. Preparatory investigations ensured that this type of inactivation induced only subtle spectral changes with negligible influence on the quality of the diagnosis. Furthermore, pilot tests on nonpathogenic strains were systematically conducted to ensure the suitability of sample preparation and to optimize and standardize the workflow for microbial identification. The analysis of the microbial mass spectra was carried out by the individual laboratories on the basis of spectral libraries available on site. All mass spectra were also tested against an in-house HPB library at the Robert Koch Institute (RKI). The averaged identification accuracy was 77% in the first case and improved to >93% when the spectral diagnoses were obtained on the basis of the RKI library. The compilation of complete and comprehensive databases with spectra from a broad strain collection is therefore considered of paramount importance for accurate microbial identification.
Reducing Unnecessary and Duplicate Ordering for Ovum and Parasite Examinations and Clostridium difficile PCR in Immunocompromised Patients by Using an Alert at the Time of Request in the Order Management System
Authors: Otto Caitlin C. , Shuptar Susan L. , Milord Philippe , Essick Connor J. , Nevrekar Reshma , Granovsky Svetlana L. , Seo Susan K. , Babady N. Esther , Martin Steven C. , Tang Yi-Wei , Pessin Melissa S.
Published: June 2015

We implemented hospital information system (HIS) alerts to deter unnecessary test orders for ovum and parasite (O&P) exams and
Clostridium difficile
PCR. The HIS alerts decreased noncompliant O&P orders (orders after >72 h of hospitalization) from 49.8% to 30.9%, an overall decrease of 19%, and reduced noncompliant
C. difficile
PCR orders (orders <7 days after a previous positive result) from 30.6% to 19.2%, an overall decrease of 31.9%.
SIRT1 Suppresses Human T-Cell Leukemia Virus Type 1 Transcription
Authors: Tang Hei-Man Vincent , Gao Wei-Wei , Chan Chi-Ping , Cheng Yun , Deng Jian-Jun , Yuen Kit-San , Iha Hidekatsu , Jin Dong-Yan
Published: June 2015

Human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1)-associated diseases are poorly treatable, and HTLV-1 vaccines are not available. High proviral load is one major risk factor for disease development. HTLV-1 encodes Tax oncoprotein, which activates transcription from viral long terminal repeats (LTR) and various types of cellular promoters. Counteracting Tax function might have prophylactic and therapeutic benefits. In this work, we report on the suppression of Tax activation of HTLV-1 LTR by SIRT1 deacetylase. The transcriptional activity of Tax on the LTR was largely ablated when SIRT1 was overexpressed, but Tax activation of NF-κB was unaffected. On the contrary, the activation of the LTR by Tax was boosted when SIRT1 was depleted. Treatment of cells with resveratrol shunted Tax activity in a SIRT1-dependent manner. The activation of SIRT1 in HTLV-1-transformed T cells by resveratrol potently inhibited HTLV-1 proviral transcription and Tax expression, whereas compromising SIRT1 by specific inhibitors augmented HTLV-1 mRNA expression. The administration of resveratrol also decreased the production of cell-free HTLV-1 virions from MT2 cells and the transmission of HTLV-1 from MT2 cells to uninfected Jurkat cells in coculture. SIRT1 associated with Tax in HTLV-1-transformed T cells. Treatment with resveratrol prevented the interaction of Tax with CREB and the recruitment of CREB, CRTC1, and p300 to Tax-responsive elements in the LTR. Our work demonstrates the negative regulatory function of SIRT1 in Tax activation of HTLV-1 transcription. Small-molecule activators of SIRT1 such as resveratrol might be considered new prophylactic and therapeutic agents in HTLV-1-associated diseases.

IMPORTANCE
Human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) causes a highly lethal blood cancer or a chronic debilitating disease of the spinal cord. Treatments are unsatisfactory, and vaccines are not available. Disease progression is associated with robust expression of HTLV-1 genes. Suppressing HTLV-1 gene expression might have preventive and therapeutic benefits. It is therefore critical that host factors controlling HTLV-1 gene expression be identified and characterized. This work reveals a new host factor that suppresses HTLV-1 gene expression and a natural compound that activates this suppression. Our findings not only provide new knowledge of the host control of HTLV-1 gene expression but also suggest a new strategy of using natural compounds for prevention and treatment of HTLV-1-associated diseases.
Effect of denervation on the regulation of mitochondrial transcription factor A expression in skeletal muscle
Authors: Tryon Liam D. , Crilly Matthew J. , Hood David A.
Published: June 2015

The purpose of this study was to determine how the expression of mitochondrial transcription factor A (Tfam), a protein that governs mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) transcription and replication, is regulated during a state of reduced organelle content imposed by muscle disuse. We measured Tfam expression at 8 h, 16 h, 24 h, 3 days, or 7 days following denervation and hypothesized that decreases in Tfam expression would precede mitochondrial loss. Muscle mass was lowered by 13% and 38% at 3 and 7 days postdenervation, while cytochrome c oxidase activity fell by 33% and 39% at the same time points. Tfam promoter activation in vivo was reduced by 30–65% between 8 h and 3 days of denervation, while Tfam transcript half-life was increased following 8–24 h of denervation. Protein expression of RNA-binding proteins that promote mRNA degradation (CUG repeat-binding protein and K homology splicing regulator protein) was elevated at 3 and 7 days of denervation. Tfam localization within subsarcolemmal mitochondria was reduced after 3 and 7 days of denervation and was associated with suppression of the cytochrome c oxidase type I transcript at 3 days, indicating that denervation impairs both mitochondrial Tfam import and mtDNA transcription during an early period following denervation. These data suggest that putative signals downregulate Tfam transcription during the earliest stages following denervation but are counteracted by increases in Tfam mRNA stability. Import of Tfam into the mitochondrion seems to be the most critical point of regulation of this protein during the early onset of denervation, an impairment of which is coincident with the loss of mitochondria during muscle disuse.
Estradiol augments while progesterone inhibits arginine transport in human endothelial cells through modulation of cationic amino acid transporter-1
Authors: Bentur Ohad S. , Schwartz Doron , Chernichovski Tamara , Ingbir Merav , Weinstein Talia , Chernin Gil , Schwartz Idit F.
Published: June 2015

Decreased generation of nitric oxide (NO) by endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) characterizes endothelial dysfunction (ECD). Delivery of arginine to eNOS by cationic amino acid transporter-1 (CAT-1) was shown to modulate eNOS activity. We found in female rats, but not in males, that CAT-1 activity is preserved with age and in chronic renal failure, two experimental models of ECD. In contrast, during pregnancy CAT-1 is inhibited. We hypothesize that female sex hormones regulate arginine transport. Arginine uptake in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) was determined following incubation with either 17β-estradiol (E2) or progesterone. Exposure to E2 (50 and 100 nM) for 30 min resulted in a significant increase in arginine transport and reduction in phosphorylated CAT-1 (the inactive form) protein content. This was coupled with a decrease in phosphorylated MAPK/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2. Progesterone (1 and 100 pM for 30 min) attenuated arginine uptake and increased phosphorylated CAT-1, phosphorylated protein kinase Cα (PKCα), and phosphorylated ERK1/2 protein content. GO-6976 (PKCα inhibitor) prevented the progesterone-induced decrease in arginine transport. Coincubation with both progesterone and estrogen for 30 min resulted in attenuated arginine transport. While estradiol increases arginine transport and CAT-1 activity through modulation of constitutive signaling transduction pathways involving ERK, progesterone inhibits arginine transport and CAT-1 via both PKCα and ERK1/2 phosphorylation, an effect that predominates over estradiol.
Effects of p67phoxon the mitochondrial oxidative state in the kidney of Dahl salt-sensitive rats: optical fluorescence 3-D cryoimaging
Authors: Salehpour F. , Ghanian Z. , Yang C. , Zheleznova N. N. , Kurth T. , Dash R. K. , Cowley A. W. , Ranji M.
Published: June 2015

The goal of the present study was to quantify and correlate the contribution of the cytosolic p67phoxsubunit of NADPH oxidase 2 to mitochondrial oxidative stress in the kidneys of the Dahl salt-sensitive (SS) hypertensive rat. Whole kidney redox states were uniquely assessed using a custom-designed optical fluorescence three-dimensional cryoimager to acquire multichannel signals of the intrinsic fluorophores NADH and FAD. SS rats were compared with SS rats in which the cytosolic subunit p67phoxwas rendered functionally inactive by zinc finger nuclease mutation of the gene (SSp67 phox-null rats). Kidneys of SS rats fed a 0.4% NaCl diet exhibited significantly ( P = 0.023) lower tissue redox ratio (NADH/FAD; 1.42 ± 0.06, n = 5) than SSp67 phox-null rats (1.64 ± 0.07, n = 5), indicating reduced levels of mitochondrial electron transport chain metabolic activity and enhanced oxidative stress in SS rats. When fed a 4.0% salt diet for 21 days, both strains exhibited significantly lower tissue redox ratios ( P < 0.001; SS rats: 1.03 ± 0.05, n = 9, vs. SSp67 phox-null rats: 1.46 ± 0.04, n = 7) than when fed a 0.4% salt, but the ratio was still significantly higher in SSp67 phoxrats at the same salt level as SS rats. These results are consistent with results from previous studies that found elevated medullary interstitial fluid concentrations of superoxide and H2O2in the medulla of SS rats. We conclude that the p67phoxsubunit of NADPH oxidase 2 plays an important role in the excess production of ROS from mitochondria in the renal medulla of the SS rat.
Isolation and perfusion of rat inner medullary vasa recta
Authors: Evans Kristen K. , Nawata C. Michele , Pannabecker Thomas L.
Published: June 2015

Outer medullary isolated descending vasa recta have proven to be experimentally tractable, and consequently much has been learned about outer medullary vasa recta endothelial transport, pericyte contractile mechanisms, and tubulovascular interactions. In contrast, inner medullary vasa recta have never been isolated from any species, and therefore isolated vasa recta function has never been subjected to in vitro quantitative evaluation. As we teased out inner medullary thin limbs of Henle's loops from the Munich-Wistar rat, we found that vasa recta could be isolated using similar protocols. We isolated ∼30 inner medullary vasa recta from 23 adult male Munich-Wistar rats and prepared them for brightfield or electron microscopy, gene expression analysis by RT-PCR, or isolated tubule microperfusion. Morphological characteristics include branching and nonbranching segments exhibiting a thin endothelium, axial surface filaments radiating outward giving vessels a hairy appearance, and attached interstitial cells. Electron microscopy shows multiple cells, tight junctions, and either continuous or fenestrated endothelia. Isolated vasa recta express genes encoding the urea transporter UT-B and/or the fenestral protein PV-1, genes expressed in descending or ascending vasa recta, respectively. The transepithelial NaCl permeability (383.3 ± 60.0 × 10−5 cm/s, mean ± SE, n = 4) was determined in isolated perfused vasa recta. Future quantitative analyses of isolated inner medullary vasa recta should provide structural and functional details important for more fully understanding fluid and solute flows through the inner medulla and their associated regulatory pathways.
Biomechanics of Lower Limbs during Walking among Candidates for Total Knee Arthroplasty with and without Low Back Pain
Authors: Burnett David R. , Campbell-Kyureghyan Naira H. , Topp Robert V. , Quesada Peter M.
Published: June 2015

The effect of joint pathologies, such as unilateral knee osteoarthritis (UKOA) or low back pain (LBP), on bilateral gait symmetry has gained increased attention during the past decade. This study is the first to compare gait patterns between patients with UKOA and LBP in combination and with UKOA only. Temporal, kinematic, and kinetic variables were measured bilaterally during gait stance phase in 31 subjects with UKOA and LBP (Group I) and 11 subjects with only UKOA (Group II). Group I patients exhibited less hip rotation in the affected limb (A) than in the nonaffected (NA) limb during walking in contrast to Group II patients. Group I patients had minimal bilateral differences in hip abduction and flexion, but Group II patients displayed significantly larger values in the NA limb compared to the A limb for both parameters. Hip flexion patterns were significantly different between Groups I and II. Subjects in both groups adapted gait patterns that minimized vertical ground reaction force, knee flexion motion, and stance time on the UKOA affected limb. The distinct kinematic gait patterns that were revealed in this study may provide clinical value for assessment of patients with UKOA in conjunction with LBP.
Estimating the Radiation Dose to the Fetus in Prophylactic Internal Iliac Artery Balloon Occlusion: Three Cases
Authors: Kai Kentaro , Hamada Tomohiro , Yuge Akitoshi , Kiyosue Hiro , Nishida Yoshihiro , Nasu Kaei , Narahara Hisashi
Published: June 2015

Background. Although radiation exposure is of great concern to expecting patients, little information is available on the fetal radiation dose associated with prophylactic internal iliac artery balloon occlusion (IIABO). Here we estimated the fetal radiation dose associated with prophylactic IIABO in Caesarean section (CS).Cases. We report our experience with the IIABO procedure in three consecutive patients with suspected placenta previa/accreta. Fetal radiation dose measurements were conducted prior to each CS by using an anthropomorphic phantom. Based on the simulated value, we calculated the fetal radiation dose as the absorbed dose. We found that the fetal radiation doses ranged from 12.88 to 31.6 mGy. The fetal radiation dose during the prophylactic IIABOs did not exceed 50 mGy.Conclusion. The IIABO procedure could result in a very small increase in the risk of harmful effects to the fetus.
Orbitofrontal18F-DOPA Uptake and Movement Preparation in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Marinelli Lucio , Piccardo Arnoldo , Mori Laura , Morbelli Silvia , Girtler Nicola , Castaldi Antonio , Picco Agnese , Trompetto Carlo , Ghilardi Maria Felice , Abbruzzese Giovanni , Nobili Flavio
Published: June 2015

In Parkinson’s disease (PD) degeneration of mesocortical dopaminergic projections may determine cognitive and behavioral symptoms. Choice reaction time task is related to attention, working memory, and goal-directed behavior. Such paradigm involves frontal cortical circuits receiving mesocortical dopamine which are affected early in PD. The aim of this study is to characterize the role of dopamine on the cognitive processes that precede movement in a reaction time paradigm in PD. We enrolled 16 newly diagnosed and untreated patients with PD without cognitive impairment or depression and 10 control subjects with essential tremor. They performed multiple-choice reaction time task with the right upper limb and brain18F-DOPA PET/CT scan. A significant inverse correlation was highlighted between average reaction time and18F-DOPA uptake in the left lateral orbitofrontal cortex. No correlations were found between reaction time and PD disease severity or between reaction time and18F-DOPA uptake in controls. Our study shows that in PD, but not in controls, reaction time is inversely related to the levels of dopamine in the left lateral orbitofrontal cortex. This novel finding underlines the role of dopamine in the lateral orbitofrontal cortex in the early stages of PD, supporting a relation between the compensatory cortical dopamine and movement preparation.
Altered Spontaneous Brain Activity in Schizophrenia: A Meta-Analysis and a Large-Sample Study
Authors: Xu Yongjie , Zhuo Chuanjun , Qin Wen , Zhu Jiajia , Yu Chunshui
Published: June 2015

Altered spontaneous brain activity as measured by ALFF, fALFF, and ReHo has been reported in schizophrenia, but no consensus has been reached on alternations of these indexes in the disorder. We aimed to clarify the regional alterations in ALFF, fALFF, and ReHo in schizophrenia using a meta-analysis and a large-sample validation. A meta-analysis of activation likelihood estimation was conducted based on the abnormal foci of ten studies. A large sample of 86 schizophrenia patients and 89 healthy controls was compared to verify the results of the meta-analysis. Meta-analysis demonstrated that the alternations in ALFF and ReHo had similar distribution in schizophrenia patients. The foci with decreased ALFF/fALFF and ReHo in schizophrenia were mainly located in the somatosensory cortex, posterior parietal cortex, and occipital cortex; however, foci with increased ALFF/fALFF and ReHo were mainly located in the bilateral striatum, medial temporal cortex, and medial prefrontal cortex. The large-sample study showed consistent findings with the meta-analysis. These findings may expound the pathophysiological hypothesis and guide future research.
Composites Based Green Poly(L-Lactic Acid) and Dioctyl Phthalate: Preparation and Performance
Authors: Cai Yan-Hua , Zhao Li-Sha , Zhang Yan-Hua
Published: June 2015

The effects of dioctyl phthalate (DOP) on performances of poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA) were investigated in detail using optical depolarizer, X-ray diffraction, melt index instrument, and electronic tensile tester. Crystallization performance showed that the half time of overall PLLA crystallizationt1/2decreased with increasing of crystallization temperature (80°C to 105°C), but thet1/2of PLLA/DOP composites firstly decreased and then increased, andt1/2of PLLA/DOP exhibited minimum value at 85°C. Compared to neat PLLA, 20%DOP made thet1/2decrease from 7258.3 s to 265.4 s. X-ray diffraction experiment further confirmed that DOP could accelerate the crystallization of PLLA. The fluidity of PLLA/DOP composites indicated that the melt mass flow rate firstly decreased and then greatly increased with increasing of DOP content. The mechanical performance showed that DOP could improve the general mechanical performance, and the elongation at break of PLLA/25%DOP was about 30 times longer than that of neat PLLA.
Development of Antiatherosclerotic Drugs on the basis of Natural Products Using Cell Model Approach
Authors: Orekhov Alexander N. , Sobenin Igor A. , Revin Victor V. , Bobryshev Yuri V.
Published: June 2015

Atherosclerosis including its subclinical form is one of the key medical and social problems. At present, there is no therapy available for widespread use against subclinical atherosclerosis. The use of synthetic drugs for the prevention of arteriosclerosis in its early stages is not sufficient because of the limited indications for severe side effects and high cost of treatment. Obviously, effective antiatherosclerotic drugs based on natural products would be a preferred alternative. Simple cell-based models for testing different natural products have been developed and the ability of natural products to prevent intracellular lipid accumulation in primary cell culture was evaluated. This approach utilizing cell models allowed to test effects of such direct antiatherosclerotic therapy, analyzing the effects mimicking those which can occur “at the level” of arterial wall via the inhibition of intracellular lipid deposition. The data from the carried out clinical trials support a point of view that the identification of antiatherosclerotic activity of natural products might offer a great opportunity for the prevention and treatment of atherosclerotic disease, reducing cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.
Recognizing Critical Behavior amidst Minijets at the Large Hadron Collider
Authors: Hwa Rudolph C.
Published: June 2015

The transition from quarks to hadrons in a heavy-ion collision at high energy is usually studied in two different contexts that involve very different transverse scales: local and nonlocal. Models that are concerned with thepTspectra and azimuthal anisotropy belong to the former, that is, hadronization at a local point in(η,ϕ)space, such as the recombination model. The nonlocal problem has to do with quark-hadron phase transition where collective behavior through near-neighbor interaction can generate patterns of varying sizes in the(η,ϕ)space. The two types of problems are put together in this paper both as brief reviews separately and to discuss how they are related to each other. In particular, we ask how minijets produced at LHC can affect the investigation of multiplicity fluctuations as signals of critical behavior. It is suggested that the existing data from LHC have sufficient multiplicities in smallpTintervals to make the observation of distinctive features of clustering of soft particles, as well as voids, feasible that characterize the critical behavior at phase transition from quarks to hadrons, without any ambiguity posed by the clustering of jet particles.
Genetic Variability in Glucosinolates in Seed ofBrassica juncea: Interest in Mustard Condiment
Authors: Merah Othmane
Published: June 2015

Brassica junceais mostly used for oil production which implies selection of genotypes with low glucosinolates level and high oil content. In contrast, condiment production needs varieties with high level in some glucosinolates including sinigrin. The genetic variability was studied mostly by molecular tools. The objectives were almost the decrease of glucosinolates level in order to use the oilcake for animal feed. The aim of this work is to study the genetic variability for different glucosinolates and their relationships with agronomical traits within a large collection ofBrassica junceagenotypes for condiment uses. A collection of 190 genotypes from different origins was studied in Dijon (France). Oil content and total glucosinolates, and sinigrin and gluconapin levels were measured. Flowering and maturation durations, seed yield, and yield components were also measured. Large variability was observed between genotypes for the measured traits within the studied collection. Total glucosinolates varied twofold between extreme genotypes. Values of sinigrin content varied from 0 to more than 134 µmol·g−1. Correlations between glucosinolates traits and both phenological and agronomical characters are presented and discussed for their potential for industrial condiment uses.
Early Experience in Da Vinci Robot-Assisted Partial Nephrectomy: An Australian Single Centre Series
Authors: Ting Francis , Savdie Richard , Chopra Sam , Yuen Carlo , Brenner Phillip
Published: June 2015

Introduction and Objectives.To demonstrate the safety and efficacy of the robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) technique in an Australian setting.Methods.Between November 2010 and July 2014, a total of 76 patients underwent 77 RAPN procedures using the Da Vinci Surgical System© at our institution. 58 of these procedures were performed primarily by the senior author (PB) and are described in this case series.Results.Median operative time was 4 hours (range 1.5–6) and median warm ischaemic time (WIT) was 8 minutes (range 0–30) including 11 cases with zero ischaemic time. All surgical margins were clear with the exception of one patient who had egress of intravascular microscopic tumour outside the capsule to the point of the resection margin. Complications were identified in 9 patients (15.8%). Major complications included conversion to open surgery due to significant venous bleeding (n=1), reperfusion injury (n=1), gluteal compartment syndrome (n=1), DVT/PE (n=1), and readmission for haematuria (n=1).Conclusion.This series demonstrates the safety and efficacy of the RAPN technique in an Australian setting when performed by experienced laparoscopic surgeons in a dedicated high volume robotic centre.
Moderate and Large Deviations for the Smoothed Estimate of Sample Quantiles
Authors: He Xiaoxia , Liu Xi , Yao Chun
Published: June 2015

We derive the moderate and large deviations principle for the smoothed sample quantile from a sequence of independent and identically distributed samples of sizen.
Proteomic Investigation on Grp94-IgG Complexes Circulating in Plasma of Type 1 Diabetic Subjects
Authors: Roveri Antonella , Zaccarin Mattia , Pagetta Andrea , Tramentozzi Elisa , Finotti Paola
Published: June 2015

The glucose-regulated protein94 (Grp94) has been found in complexes with IgG in plasma of Type 1 (T1) diabetic subjects; however, the pathogenetic meaning of Grp94-IgG complexes has not yet been elucidated. To shed light on the nature and structure of these complexesin vivo, we conducted a proteomic analysis on plasma of both T1 diabetic subjects and healthy control subjects. IgG purified from plasma was submitted to 2D PAGE followed by Western blotting and mass analysis. Grp94 was detected in plasma of all diabetic but not control subjects and found linked with its N-terminus to the IgG heavy chain. Mass analysis of heavy chain of IgG that binds Grp94 alsoin vitro, forming stable complexes with characteristics similar to those of native ones, permitted identifying CH2 and CH3 regions as those involved in binding Grp94. At the electron microscopy, IgG from diabetic plasma appeared as fibrils of various lengthes and dimensions, suggestive of elevated aggregating tendency conferred to IgG by Grp94. The nonimmune nature of complexes turned out to be responsible for the particular stability and structure adopted by complexes in plasma of diabetic subjects. Results are of relevance to understanding the pathogenetic mechanisms underlying diabetes and its complications.
Extensive Epidermoid Cyst and Breathing Difficulty
Authors: Soares Ciro Dantas , Gurgel Alberto Costa , Souza Júnior Francisco de Assis de , de Oliveira Samila Neres , Carvalho Maria Goretti Freire de , Oliveira Hanieri Gustavo
Published: June 2015

Epidermoid cysts are common cystic lesions in the skin, ovaries, and testicles, but their occurrence in the oral cavity is uncommon. They consist of cysts delimited by a fibrous capsule without cutaneous annexes and are lined by stratified squamous epithelium. The differential diagnosis includes ranula, dermoid cysts, and lingual thyroid. Despite their benign presentation, these cysts can cause functional limitations, requiring special clinical attention for extensive lesions located in regions that preserve vital structures. This paper aims to report a case of epidermoid cyst in patient with swallowing and breathing difficulty, highlighting the clinical and surgical planning.
All‐Polymer Solar Cells Based on Fully Conjugated Donor‐Acceptor Block Copolymers with Poly(naphthalene bisimide) Acceptor Blocks: Device Performance and Thin Film Morphology
Authors: Nakabayashi Kazuhiro , Mori Hideharu
Published: June 2015

All‐polymer solar cells are fabricated by using poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) and fully conjugated donor‐acceptor (D‐A) block copolymer (P3HT‐PNBI‐P3HT) as donor and acceptor materials, respectively. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) and grazing incidence wide angle X‐ray scattering (GIWAXS) analyses reveal that device performance strongly depends on the P3HT:P3HT‐PNBI‐P3HT thin film morphology. Indeed, the π‐π stacking nanomorphology rich in the edge‐on orientation is formed in the P3HT:P3HT‐PNBI‐P3HT thin film by optimizing the fabrication conditions, for example, thermal annealing temperature and cast solvent. Consequently, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 1.60% is achieved with an open‐circuit voltage (Voc) of 0.59 V, short‐current (Jsc) of 4.43 mA/cm2, and fill factor (FF) of 0.61. These results suggest that P3HT‐PNBI‐P3HT has the huge potential for the usage as a nonfullerene acceptor material.
The Human IL-22 Receptor Is Regulated through the Action of the Novel E3 Ligase Subunit FBXW12, Which Functions as an Epithelial Growth Suppressor
Authors: Franz Joseph , Jerome Jacob , Lear Travis , Gong Qiaoke , Weathington Nathaniel M.
Published: June 2015

Interleukin- (IL-) 22 signaling is protective in animal models of pneumonia and bacteremia byKlebsiella pneumoniaeand mediates tissue recovery from influenza andStaph aureusinfection. We recently described processing of mouse lung epithelial IL-22 receptor (IL-22R) by ubiquitination on the intracellular C-terminal. To identify cellular factors that regulate human IL-22R, we screened receptor abundance while overexpressing constituents of the ubiquitin system and identify that IL-22R can be shuttled for degradation by multiple previously uncharacterized F-box protein E3 ligase subunits. We observe that in human cells IL-22R is destabilized by FBXW12. FBXW12 causes depletion of endogenous and plasmid-derived IL-22R in lung epithelia, binds the E3 ligase constituent Skp-1, and facilitates ubiquitination of IL-22Rin vitro. FBXW12 knockdown with shRNA increases IL-22R abundance and STAT3 phosphorylation in response to IL-22 cytokine treatment. FBXW12 shRNA increases human epithelial cell growth and cell cycle progression with enhanced constitutive activity of map kinases JNK and ERK. These findings indicate that the heretofore-undescribed protein FBXW12 functions as an E3 ligase constituent to ubiquitinate and degrade IL-22R and that therapeutic FBXW12 inhibition may enhance IL-22 signaling and bolster mucosal host defense and infection containment.
The Profile of Inelastic Collisions from Elastic Scattering Data
Authors: Dremin I. M.
Published: June 2015

Using the unitarity relation in combination with experimental data about the elastic scattering in the diffraction cone, it is shown how the shape and the darkness of the inelastic interaction region of colliding protons change with increase of their energies. In particular, the collisions become fully absorptive at small impact parameters at LHC energies that results in some special features of inelastic processes. Possible evolution of this shape with the dark core at the LHC to the fully transparent one at higher energies is discussed that implies that the terminology of the black disk would be replaced by the black toroid. The approach to asymptotics is disputed. The ratio of the real to imaginary parts of the nonforward elastic scattering amplitude is briefly discussed. All the conclusions are only obtained in the framework of the indubitable unitarity condition using experimental data about the elastic scattering of protons in the diffraction cone without any reference to quantum chromodynamics (QCD) or phenomenological approaches.
Stereoselective Separation and Acute Toxicity of Tau-Fluvalinate to Zebrafish
Authors: Jia Qi , Xu Nana , Mu Pengqian , Wang Bo , Yang Shuming , Qiu Jing
Published: June 2015

Tau-fluvalinate (TFLV) is one of the most potent chiral synthetic pyrethroids to control a wide range of pests in agricultural fields, especially in apiary. In this study, two stereoisomers of TFLV were fully separated by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with a semipreparative chiral column using cellulose-tris(3,5-dimethylphenylcarbamate) as chiral stationary phase andn-hexane and 2-propanol (96/4, v/v) as mobile phase at a flow rate of 2.5 mL min−1. The (+)-stereoisomer was first eluted by detecting with an optical rotation detector. After obtaining pure single stereoisomer of TFLV, acute toxicities of each isomer and TFLV standard to zebrafish were evaluated. The results showed that the (+)-stereoisomer exhibited 273.4 times higher toxicity than the (−)-stereoisomer and 6.7 times higher than TFLV standard, according to their LC50values at 96 h after exposure. This indicates that the toxicity of TFLV mainly originates from (+)-stereoisomer. These results are very helpful to prepare single stereoisomer of chiral pesticides and evaluate their different toxicological effects to aquatic organisms.
Potential Effects of Pomegranate Polyphenols in Cancer Prevention and Therapy
Authors: Turrini Eleonora , Ferruzzi Lorenzo , Fimognari Carmela
Published: June 2015

Cancer is the second leading cause of death and is becoming the leading one in old age. Vegetable and fruit consumption is inversely associated with cancer incidence and mortality. Currently, interest in a number of fruits high in polyphenols has been raised due to their reported chemopreventive and/or chemotherapeutic potential. Pomegranate has been shown to exert anticancer activity, which is generally attributed to its high content of polyphenols. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of known targets and mechanisms along with a critical evaluation of pomegranate polyphenols as future anticancer agents. Pomegranate evokes antiproliferative, anti-invasive, and antimetastatic effects, induces apoptosis through the modulation of Bcl-2 proteins, upregulates p21 and p27, and downregulates cyclin-cdk network. Furthermore, pomegranate blocks the activation of inflammatory pathways including, but not limited to, the NF-κB pathway. The strongest evidence for its anticancer activity comes from studies on prostate cancer. Accordingly, some exploratory clinical studies investigating pomegranate found a trend of efficacy in increasing prostate-specific antigen doubling time in patients with prostate cancer. However, the genotoxicity reported for pomegranate raised certain concerns over its safety and an accurate assessment of the risk/benefit should be performed before suggesting the use of pomegranate or its polyphenols for cancer-related therapeutic purposes.
Yang Deficiency Body Constitution Acts as a Predictor of Diabetic Retinopathy in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: Taichung Diabetic Body Constitution Study
Authors: Lee Cheng-Hung , Li Tsai-Chung , Tsai Chia-I , Lin Shih-Yi , Lee I-Te , Lee Hsin-Jung , Wu Ya-Chi , Su Yi-Chang
Published: June 2015

Objective. Diabetic retinopathy (DR), the most common microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus (DM), can cause severe visual impairment and blindness. To prevent the development of DR, identifying the associated risk factors for patient classification is critical. We conducted a cross-sectional study to determine whether body constitution (BC) is an independent predictor of DR.Method. 673 type 2 DM (T2DM) patients were recruited from a medical center, all received DR examination and body constitution questionnaire to assess BC. Other risk factors for DR were also recorded, including life style, history of diabetes, and blood pressure, etc. Multiple logistic regression analysis was conducted to calculate the odds ratios (ORs) for DR.Results. The prevalence of DR was significantly lower in Yang deficiency patients compared with non-Yang deficiency patients (24.69% versus 38.18%P=0.02). After adjusting for other risk factors, we observed that patients exhibiting Yang deficiency BC were less likely to present with DR (OR = 0.531; 95% confidence interval = 0.312–0.903,P=0.018).Conclusion. In addition to traditional risk factors, Yang deficiency BC might be an independent predictor of DR among T2DM patients and the results can be used as evidence for traditional Chinese medicine patient classification.
Comorbidity Assessment in Skin Cancer Patients: A Pilot Study Comparing Medical Interview with a Patient-Reported Questionnaire
Authors: Lee Erica H. , Nijhawan Rajiv I. , Nehal Kishwer S. , Dusza Stephen W. , Levine Amanda , Hill Amanda , Barker Christopher A.
Published: June 2015

Background.Comorbidities are conditions that occur simultaneously but independently of another disorder. Among skin cancer patients, comorbidities are common and may influence management.Objective.We compared comorbidity assessment by traditional medical interview (MI) and by standardized patient-reported questionnaire based on the Adult Comorbidity Evaluation-27 (ACE-27).Methods.Between September 2011 and October 2013, skin cancer patients underwent prospective comorbidity assessment by a Mohs surgeon (MI) and a radiation oncologist (using a standardized patient-reported questionnaire based on the ACE-27, the PRACE-27). Comorbidities were identified and graded according to the ACE-27 and compared for agreement.Results.Forty-four patients were evaluated. MI and PRACE-27 identified comorbidities in 79.5% and 88.6% (p=0.12) of patients, respectively. Among 27 comorbid ailments, the MI identified 9.9% as being present, while the PRACE-27 identified 12.5%. When there were discordant observations, PRACE-27 was more likely than MI to identify the comorbidity (OR=5.4, 95% CI = 2.4–14.4,p<0.001). Overall comorbidity scores were moderate or severe in 43.2% (MI) versus 59.1% (PRACE-27) (p=0.016).Limitations.Small sample size from a single institution.Conclusion.Comorbidities are common in skin cancer patients, and a standardized questionnaire may better identify and grade them. More accurate comorbidity assessments may help guide skin cancer management.
Structural and Function Correlation of Cone Packing Utilizing Adaptive Optics and Microperimetry
Authors: Supriya Dabir , Shwetha Mangalesh , Kiran Anupama Kumar , Kummelil Mathew Kurian , Berendschot Tos T. J. M. , Schouten Jan S. A. G. , Bharamshetter Roopa , Naresh Yadav K. , Rohit Shetty , Hegde Bharath
Published: June 2015

Aim. To assess the functional aspects of cone mosaic and correlate cone packing with retinal sensitivity utilizing microperimetry in emmetropes at different eccentricities.Methods. Twenty-four healthy volunteers underwent microperimetry (MAIA Centervue, Italy) and assessment of photoreceptors using adaptive optics retinal camera, rtx1 (Imagine Eyes, Orsay, France), at 2 and 3 degrees from the foveal centre in 4 quadrants: superior, inferior, temporal, and nasal. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 17 (IBM). Spearman’s correlation tests were used to establish correlation between mean cone packing density and retinal sensitivity at different quadrants.Results. Thirteen females and 11 males (age range 20–40 years) were included. The cone density was found to be significantly different among all quadrants (temporal = 25786.68/mm2 ± 4367.07/mm2, superior = 23009.35/mm2 ± 5415.81/mm2, nasal = 22838.09/mm2 ± 4166.22/mm2, and inferior = 21097.53/mm2 ± 4235.84/mm2). A statistical significanceP<0.008was found between orthogonal meridians, that is, temporal, nasal48624.77/mm2>superior, inferior (44106.88/mm2). A drop in retinal sensitivity was observed as the eccentricity increasedP<0.05. It was also found that as cone packing density decreased retinal sensitivity also decreasedP<0.05in all quadrants. This was observed at both 2 and 3 degrees.Conclusion. It is of crucial importance to establish normative variations in cone structure-function correlation. This may help in detection of subtle pathology and its early intervention.