bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design of new aliphatic azido nitro compounds as plasticizer: an initial exploration on AFCTEE (1-azido-formic acid 1,1,1-trinitro-ethyl ester)
Authors: Yang Junqing , Gong Xuedong , Wang Guixiang
Published: February 2015

To explore new high-energy azido nitro compounds as plasticizers for propellants, AFCTEE (1-azido-formic acid 1,1,1-trinitro-ethyl ester) was designed and studied using density functional theory. The predicted density of AFCTEE, 1.90 gcm−3, is comparable to that of HMX (1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetraazacyclooctane) and much higher than that of general organic azido compounds. AFCTEE possesses higher energetic properties and chemical stability than the promising azido nitro plasticizer DAMNP (1,3-diazido-2-methyl-2-nitropropane) and the conventional plasticizer NG (nitroglycerine), and it has a moderate thermal stability. The pyrolysis of AFCTEE starts from the rupture of C–NO2 and then the breakage of N–N2 via Curtius rearrangement. This work is the initial exploration for AFCTEE, aiming at the energetics, spectra (IR, NMR, and UV), stability, and decomposition mechanism. Compared with DAMNP, the advantages of superior energetic properties and chemical stability suggest AFCTEE is a promising energetic azido nitro compound and is worth further investigation.
Oxidative shift in tissue redox potential increases beat-to-beat variability of action potential duration
Authors: Kistamás Kornél , Hegyi Bence , Váczi Krisztina , Horváth Balázs , Bányász Tamás , Magyar János , Szentandrássy Norbert , Nánási Péter P.
Published: February 2015

Profound changes in tissue redox potential occur in the heart under conditions of oxidative stress frequently associated with cardiac arrhythmias. Since beat-to-beat variability (short term variability, SV) of action potential duration (APD) is a good indicator of arrhythmia incidence, the aim of this work was to study the influence of redox changes on SV in isolated canine ventricular cardiomyocytes using a conventional microelectrode technique. The redox potential was shifted toward a reduced state using a reductive cocktail (containing dithiothreitol, glutathione, and ascorbic acid) while oxidative changes were initiated by superfusion with H2O2. Redox effects were evaluated as changes in “relative SV” determined by comparing SV changes with the concomitant APD changes. Exposure of myocytes to the reductive cocktail decreased SV significantly without any detectable effect on APD. Application of H2O2 increased both SV and APD, but the enhancement of SV was the greater, so relative SV increased. Longer exposure to H2O2 resulted in the development of early afterdepolarizations accompanied by tremendously increased SV. Pretreatment with the reductive cocktail prevented both elevation in relative SV and the development of afterdepolarizations. The results suggest that the increased beat-to-beat variability during an oxidative stress contributes to the generation of cardiac arrhythmias.
Non-Markovian model for the study of pitting corrosion in a water pipe system
Authors: Rosa A. C. P. , Vaveliuk P. , Moret M. A.
Published: February 2015

The main studies on pitting consist in proposing Markovian stochastic models, based on the statistics of extreme values and focused on growing the depth of wells, especially the deepest one. We show that a non-Markovian model, described by a nonlinear Fokker–Planck (nFP) equation, properly depicts the time evolution of a distribution of depth values of pits that were experimentally obtained. The solution of this equation in a steady-state regime is a q-Gaussian distribution, i.e. a long-tail probability distribution that is the main characteristic of a nonextensive statistical mechanics. The proposed model, that is applied to data from four inspections conducted on a section of a line of regular water service in power water reactor (PWR) nuclear power plants, is in agreement with experimental results.
A relative stack of principal G-bundles over $\mathcal{M}_{g, n}^{tw}$
Authors: Cheong Daewoong
Published: February 2015

In this paper, we record a proof that a relative moduli stack of principal G-bundles over a moduli stack of genus g, n-pointed twisted curves is a smooth Artin stack locally of finite type with the universal family. As an application, we reprove that the stack 𝒦g, n(𝒳, β) of Abramovich, Graber and Vistoli is a Deligne–Mumford stack of finite type when 𝒳 is a quotient stack.
The Effect of Thickness of Aluminium Films on Optical Reflectance
Authors: Lugolole Robert , Obwoya Sam Kinyera
Published: February 2015

In Uganda and Africa at large, up to 90% of the total energy used for food preparation and water pasteurization is from fossil fuels particularly firewood and kerosene which pollute the environment, yet there is abundant solar energy throughout the year, which could also be used. Uganda is abundantly rich in clay minerals such as ball clay, kaolin, feldspar, and quartz from which ceramic substrates were developed. Aluminium films of different thicknesses were deposited on different substrates in the diffusion pump microprocessor vacuum coater (Edwards AUTO 306). The optical reflectance of the aluminium films was obtained using a spectrophotometer (SolidSpec-3700/DUV-UV-VIS-NIR) at various wave lengths. The analysis of the results of the study revealed that the optical reflectance of the aluminium films was above 50% and increased with increasing film thickness and wavelength. Thus, this method can be used to produce reflector systems in the technology of solar cooking and other appliances which use solar energy.
Evaluation of Antibacterial Activity of Some Traditionally Used Medicinal Plants against Human Pathogenic Bacteria
Authors: Marasini Bishnu P. , Baral Pankaj , Aryal Pratibha , Ghimire Kashi R. , Neupane Sanjiv , Dahal Nabaraj , Singh Anjana , Ghimire Laxman , Shrestha Kanti
Published: February 2015

The worldwide increase of multidrug resistance in both community- and health-care associated bacterial infections has impaired the current antimicrobial therapy, warranting the search for other alternatives. We aimed to find thein vitroantibacterial activity of ethanolic extracts of 16 different traditionally used medicinal plants of Nepal against 13 clinical and 2 reference bacterial species using microbroth dilution method. The evaluated plants species were found to exert a range ofin vitrogrowth inhibitory action against the tested bacterial species, andCynodon dactylonwas found to exhibit moderate inhibitory action against 13 bacterial species including methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus, imipenem-resistantPseudomonas aeruginosa, multidrug-resistantSalmonella typhi, andS. typhimurium. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of tested ethanolic extracts were found from 31 to >25,000 μg/mL. Notably, ethanolic extracts ofCinnamomum camphora, Curculigo orchioides, andCurcuma longaexhibited the highest antibacterial activity againstS. pyogeneswith a MIC of 49, 49, and 195 μg/mL, respectively; whereas chloroform fraction ofCynodon dactylonexhibited best antibacterial activity againstS. aureuswith a MIC of 31 μg/mL. Among all,C. dactylon, C. camphora, C. orchioides, andC. longaplant extracts displayed a potential antibacterial activity of MIC < 100 μg/mL.
Using Community Informants to Estimate Maternal Mortality in a Rural District in Pakistan: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Mir Ali Mohammad , Shaikh Mohammad Saleem , Qomariyah Siti Nurul , Rashida Gul , Khan Mumraiz , Masood Irfan
Published: February 2015

Background.We aimed to assess the feasibility of using community-based informants’ networks to identify maternal deaths that were followed up through verbal autopsies (MADE-IN MADE-FOR technique) to estimate maternal mortality in a rural district in Pakistan.Methods. We used 4 community networks to identify deaths in women of reproductive age in the past 2 years in Chakwal district, Pakistan. The deaths recorded by the informants were followed up through verbal autopsies.Results. In total 1,143 Lady Health Workers (government employees who provide primary health care), 1577 religious leaders, 20 female lady councilors (elected representatives), and 130 nikah registrars (persons who register marriages) identified 2001 deaths in women of reproductive age. 1424 deaths were followed up with verbal autopsies conducted with the relatives of the deceased. 169 pregnancy-related deaths were identified from all reported deaths. Through the capture-recapture technique probability of capturing pregnancy-related deaths by LHWs was 0.73 and for religious leaders 0.49. Maternal mortality in Chakwal district was estimated at 309 per 100,000 live births.Conclusion. It is feasible and economical to use community informants to identify recent deaths in women of reproductive age and, if followed up through verbal autopsies, obviate the need for conducting large scale surveys.
Development of HPDC Advanced Dies by Casting with Reinforced Tool Steels
Authors: Vicario I. , Idoiaga J. K. , Arratibel E. , Erauskin I. , Plaza L. M. , Crespo I. , Caballero P.
Published: February 2015

High pressure die casting (HPDC) dies are nowadays manufactured with high quality forged steels. Cavities are made by electrical discharge machining (EDM) or by high speed milling. The average life of an aluminium HPDC die is about 125.000 injections. Refrigeration circuits have simple configurations, because they are produced by drilling the die with straight holes. They are limitations in the distances and diameters of holes. Sensors are placed where the geometry of the die permits an easy machining. In order to obtain complex figures, several rapid prototyping methods have been developed. However, there is a limitation in the life of the dies produced by this technique, from several parts to thousands. A new method to obtain semifinished high pressure die casting dies in a steel of higher mechanical properties and with the refrigeration circuits and sensors embedded into it is described in this paper. The method consists in producing a molten steel alloy with micro-nano-special ceramic particles inserted in it and casting the composite material in sand moulds of the desired geometry. The resultant solidified near-net shape die with the cooling tubes and sensors embedded into it. A use-life and a productivity about 50% and 10% higher are obtained.
Systematic HPLC/ESI-High Resolution-qTOF-MS Methodology for Metabolomic Studies in Nonfluorescent Chlorophyll Catabolites Pathway
Authors: Ríos José Julián , Roca María , Pérez-Gálvez Antonio
Published: February 2015

Characterization of nonfluorescent chlorophyll catabolites (NCCs) and dioxobilane-type nonfluorescent chlorophyll catabolite (DNCC) in peel extracts of ripened lemon fruits (Citrus limonL.) was performed by HPLC/ESI-high resolution-qTOF-MS method. Compounds were identified in samples on the basis of measured accurate mass, isotopic pattern, and characteristic fragmentation profile with an implemented software postprocessing routine. Three NCC structures already identified in other vegetal tissues were present in the lemon fruit peels (Cl-NCC1;Cl-NCC2;Cl-NCC4) while a new structure not defined so far was characterized (Cl-NCC3). This catabolite exhibits an exceptional arrangement of the peripheral substituents, allowing concluding that the preferences for the NCC modifications could be a species-related matter.
Albumin-to-Alkaline Phosphatase Ratio: A Novel Prognostic Index for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Chan Anthony W. H. , Chan Stephen L. , Mo Frankie K. F. , Wong Grace L. H. , Wong Vincent W. S. , Cheung Yue-Sun , Chan Henry L. Y. , Yeo Winnie , Lai Paul B. S. , To Ka-Fai
Published: February 2015

Prognosis of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) depends on both tumour extent and hepatic function reserve. Liver function test (LFT) is a basic routine blood test to evaluate hepatic function. We first analysed LFT components and their associated scores in a training cohort of 217 patients who underwent curative surgery to identify LFT parameters with high performance (discriminatory capacity, homogeneity, and monotonicity of gradient). We derived a novel index, albumin-to-alkaline phosphatase ratio (AAPR), which had the highest c-index (0.646) andχ2(24.774) among other liver biochemical parameters. The AAPR was an independent prognostic factor for overall and disease-free survival. The adjusted hazard ratio of death and tumour relapse was 2.36 (P=0.002) and 1.85 (P=0.010), respectively. The independent prognostic significance of AAPR on top of 5 commonly used and well established staging systems was further confirmed in 2 independent cohorts of patients receiving surgical resection (n=256) and palliative therapy (n=425). In summary, the AAPR is a novel index readily derived from a simple low-cost routine blood test and is an independent prognostic indicator for patients with HCC regardless of treatment options.
Determination of Glycerin from a Marketed Personal Care Product Using Gas Chromatography
Authors: De Amit Kumar , Chowdhury Partha Pratim , Chattopadhyay Shyama Prasad
Published: February 2015

The current study presents a packed column gas chromatographic technique for the estimation of glycerin using a flame ionization detector from a marketed hair tonic in presence of resorcinol, ethanol, biotin, keratin hydrolysate, undecylenic acid alkylolamide (hyalkyl HBU), D-biotin, nicotinic acid, and polyvinylpyrrolidone. The validation studies show the proposed method to be specific, sensitive, precise, and accurate. The method is found to be linear in the concentration range 1.25 mg/mL to 10.02 mg/mL with r2 value 0.99. The limit of detection and the limit of quantitation were 0.01 mg/mL and 0.05 mg/mL, respectively. The method does not involve any complex sample preparation procedure and is therefore suitable for regular analysis of glycerin from marketed hair tonic.
Blue-Violet Light Irradiation Dose Dependently Decreases Carotenoids in Human Skin, Which Indicates the Generation of Free Radicals
Authors: Vandersee Staffan , Beyer Marc , Lademann Juergen , Darvin Maxim E.
Published: February 2015

In contrast to ultraviolet and infrared irradiation, which are known to facilitate cutaneous photoaging, immunosuppression, or tumour emergence due to formation of free radicals and reactive oxygen species, potentially similar effects of visible light on the human skin are still poorly characterized. Using a blue-violet light irradiation source and aiming to characterize its potential influence on the antioxidant status of the human skin, the cutaneous carotenoid concentration was measured noninvasively in nine healthy volunteers using resonance Raman spectroscopy following irradiation. The dose-dependent significant degradation of carotenoids was measured to be 13.5% and 21.2% directly after irradiation at 50 J/cm² and 100 J/cm² (P<0.05). The irradiation intensity was 100 mW/cm². This is above natural conditions; the achieved doses, though, are acquirable under natural conditions. The corresponding restoration lasted 2 and 24 hours, respectively. The degradation of cutaneous carotenoids indirectly shows the amount of generated free radicals and especially reactive oxygen species in human skin. In all volunteers the cutaneous carotenoid concentration dropped down in a manner similar to that caused by the infrared or ultraviolet irradiations, leading to the conclusion that also blue-violet light at high doses could represent a comparably adverse factor for human skin.
Expression of Prostanoid EP3 Receptors in Oral Squamous Epithelium and Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Kashif Muhammad , Ishfaq Muhammad , Nagi A. H.
Published: February 2015

Objectives. To carry out a descriptive analysis of the expression of the EP3 receptors of PGE2 in different histological grades of OSCC and adjacent normal epithelium. Material and Methods. A total of 46 patients presenting with various histological subtypes and grades of OSCC were recruited from Maxillofacial Surgery Department of Nishtar Institute of Dentistry Multan. Microscopically tumour subtyping and histological grading according to Anneroth’s grading system were carried out. Immunohistochemical staining with rabbit polyclonal EP3 receptor antibody was performed and sections were scored for intensity and proportion of positive adjacent squamous epithelial and tumour cells. Results. Out of 46 patients n=28 (60.9%) were well differentiated, n=15 (32.6%) were moderately differentiated, and only n=3 (6.5%) were poorly differentiated. All n=46 cases of OSCC were positive for EP3 receptor antibody, n=14 (30.4%) cases had strong intensity of anti EP3 antibody staining in tumour tissue, n=17 (37%) cases showed moderate intensity, and n=15 (32.6%) cases showed weak intensity. Conclusion. Prostanoid EP3 receptors are widely but variably expressed in OSCC. Most of well differentiated OSCC cases show a moderate to strong expression of EP3 receptors. However, insignificant statistical relation to histological grades of OSCC has been observed. This might be due to small sample size of the study.
Voltammetric Determination of Codeine on Glassy Carbon Electrode Modified with Nafion/MWCNTs
Authors: Piech Robert , Rumin Martyna , Paczosa-Bator Beata
Published: February 2015

A glassy carbon electrode modified with a Nafion/MWCNTs composite is shown to enable the determination of codeine using differential pulse voltammetry in phosphate buffer of pH 3.0. At a preconcentration time of 15 s, the calibration graph is linear in the 0.5 µM (0.15 mg·L−1) to 15 µM (4.5 mg·L−1) concentration range with a correlation coefficient of 0.998. The detection limit at a preconcentration time of 120 s is as low as 4.5 μg·L−1. The repeatability of the method at a 0.6 μg·L−1concentration level, expressed as the RSD, is 3.7% (forn=5). The method was successfully applied and validated by analyzing codeine in drug, human plasma, and urine samples.
Arthroscopic Removal of a Wire Fragment from the Posterior Septum of the Knee following Tension Band Wiring of a Patellar Fracture
Authors: Tamaki Yasuaki , Nakayama Takashi , Kita Kenichiro , Miyatake Katsutosi , Kawasaki Yoshiteru , Fujii Koji , Takeda Yoshitsugu
Published: February 2015

Tension band wiring with cerclage wiring is most widely used for treating displaced patellar fractures. Although wire breakage is not uncommon, migration of a fragment of the broken wire is rare, especially migration into the knee joint. We describe here a rare case of migration of a wire fragment into the posterior septum of the knee joint after fixation of a displaced patellar fracture with tension band wiring and cerclage wiring. Although it was difficult to determine whether the wire fragment was located within or outside the knee joint from the preoperative plain radiographs or three-dimensional computed tomography (3D CT), we found it arthroscopically through the posterior transseptal portal with assistance of intraoperative fluoroscopy. Surgeons who treat such cases should bear in mind the possibility that wire could be embedded in the posterior septum of the knee joint.
Ipsilateral Hip Dysplasia in Patients with Sacral Hemiagenesis: A Report of Two Cases
Authors: Morimoto Tadatsugu , Sonohata Motoki , Mawatari Masaaki
Published: February 2015

Sacral agenesis (SA) is a rare condition consisting of the imperfect development of any part of the sacrum. This paper describes two cases of the rare cooccurrence of ipsilateral SA and developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) and analyzes possible contributory factors for SA and DDH. Each of a 16-year-old female and 13-year-old female visited our hospital for left hip pain and limping. The findings of physical examinations showed a lower limb length discrepancy (left side) in both cases, as well as left hip pain without limitations of the range of motion or neurological deficits. Initial radiographs demonstrated left subluxation of the left hip with associated acetabular dysplasia and partial left sacral agenesis. MRI revealed a tethering cord with a fatty filum terminale, and periacetabular osteotomy combined with allogeneic bone grafting was performed. After the surgery, the patients experienced no further pain, with no leg length discrepancy and were able to walk without a limp, being neurologically normal with a normal left hip range of motion. The cooccurrence of SA and DDH suggests a plausible hypothesis to explain the embryogenic relationship between malformation of the sacrum and hip.
A New Model to Predict Productivity of Multiple-Fractured Horizontal Well in Naturally Fractured Reservoirs
Authors: Wang Junchao , Li Haitao , Wang Yongqing , Li Ying , Jiang Beibei , Luo Wei
Published: February 2015

In order to predict productivity of multiple-fractured horizontal well in fractured reservoir, flow models of reservoir and hydraulic fractures based on the volumetric source idealization are developed. The models are solved by utilizing Laplace transformation and orthogonal transformation, and flow rate of the well is calculated by coupling the two models. Compared to traditional point source functions, volumetric source function has many advantages in properties of function and programming calculation. The productivity predicting model is verified via an analytical ternary-porosity model. Moreover, a practical example of fractured horizontal well is studied to analyze the productivity and its influent factors. The result shows that flow rate of each fracture is different and inner fracture contributes least to productivity. Meanwhile, there are optimizing ranges for number, length, and conductivity of hydraulic fractures. In low-permeability reservoir, increasing surface area in contact with reservoir by increasing number and length of hydraulic fractures is the most effective method to improve the productivity.
Orbital Stability of Solitary Traveling Waves of Moderate Amplitude
Authors: Ouyang Zhengyong
Published: February 2015

We consider the orbital stability of solitary traveling wave solutions of an equation describing the free surface waves of moderate amplitude in the shallow water regime. Firstly, we rewrite this equation in Hamiltonian form and construct two invariants of motion. Then using the abstract stability theorem of solitary waves proposed by Grillakis et al. (1987), we prove that the solitary traveling waves of the equation under consideration are orbital stable.
Subjective Cognitive Impairment Subjects in Our Clinical Practice
Authors: Garcia-Ptacek Sara , Cavallin Lena , Kåreholt Ingemar , Kramberger Milica Gregoric , Winblad Bengt , Jelic Vesna , Eriksdotter Maria
Published: February 2015

Background: The clinical challenge in subjective cognitive impairment (SCI) is to identify which individuals will present cognitive decline. We created a statistical model to determine which variables contribute to SCI and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) versus Alzheimer's disease (AD) diagnoses. Methods: A total of 993 subjects diagnosed at a memory clinic (2007-2009) were included retrospectively: 433 with SCI, 373 with MCI and 187 with AD. Descriptive statistics were provided. A logistic regression model analyzed the likelihood of SCI and MCI patients being diagnosed with AD, using age, gender, Mini-Mental State Examination score, the ratio of β-amyloid 42 divided by total tau, and phosphorylated tau as independent variables. Results: The SCI subjects were younger (57.8 ± 8 years) than the MCI (64.2 ± 10.6 years) and AD subjects (70.1 ± 9.7 years). They were more educated, had less medial temporal lobe atrophy (MTA) and frequently normal cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers. Apolipoprotein E4/E4 homozygotes and apolipoprotein E3/E4 heterozygotes were significantly less frequent in the SCI group (6 and 36%) than in the AD group (28 and 51%). Within the regression model, cardiovascular risk factors, confluent white matter lesions, MTA and central atrophy increased the AD likelihood for SCI subjects. Conclusions: SCI patients form a distinct group. In our model, factors suggesting cardiovascular risk, MTA and central atrophy increased the AD likelihood for SCI subjects.
Panel of Urinary Diagnostic Markers for Non-Invasive Detection of Primary and Recurrent Urothelial Urinary Bladder Carcinoma
Authors: Soukup Viktor , Kalousová Marta , Capoun Otakar , Sobotka Roman , Breyl Zuzana , Pešl Michael , Zima Tomas , Hanuš Tomáš
Published: February 2015

Objectives: To determine the combination of urinary protein markers for noninvasive detection of primary and recurrent urothelial bladder carcinomas. Methods: Urinary concentrations of 27 biomarkers (NSE, ATT, AFABP, Resistin, Midkine, Clusterin, Uromodulin, ZAG2, HSP27, HSP 60, NCAM1/CD56, Angiogenin, Calreticulin, Chromogranin A, CEACAM1, CXCL1, IL13Ra2, Progranulin, VEGFA, CarbAnhydIX, Annexin-V, TIM4, Galectin1, Cystatin B, Synuclein G, ApoA1 and ApoA2) were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay or by electrochemiluminiscence immunoassay. Results: During the primary diagnostics, a group of 70 patients with primary occurrence of bladder cancer and 49 healthy control subjects were compared. For this clinical situation, the most accurate combination proved to be the combination of cytology with markers Midkine and Synuclein G (sensitivity 91.8%, specificity 97.5%). During the monitoring of patients with non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC), a group of 44 patients with cancer recurrence was compared with the group of 61 patients with a history of NMIBC without current disease. For this clinical situation, the most accurate combination proved to be the combination of cytology and erythrocytes count in urine sediment with markers Midkine, ZAG2, CEACAM1, and Synuclein G (sensitivity 92.68%, specificity 90.16%). A lower accuracy of the diagnostic panel and the necessity to use more markers in the case of recurrence was connected with a different structure of patients. Conclusions: Multi-marker test can significantly improve the bladder cancer detection both during the primary diagnostics and monitoring of patients with NMIBC. This outcome should result in other, larger studies.
Determination of Procalcitonin Levels in Patients with Nephropathia Epidemica - A Useful Tool or an Unnecessary Diagnostic Procedure?
Authors: Latus Joerg , Kitterer Daniel , Segerer Stephan , Artunc Ferruh , Alscher M. Dominik , Braun Niko
Published: February 2015

Background/Aims: Puumala virus causes nephropathia epidemica (NE), a milder form of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome that occurs in Central and Northern Europe. Several studies have sought to identify risk factors for severe NE. However, elevated procalcitonin (PCT) levels have not previously been investigated as a predictive marker for a severe course of NE. Methods: A cross-sectional prospective survey of 456 adults with serologically confirmed NE was performed. Results: PCT levels at the time of diagnosis were available for 43 out of 456 patients, and in 24 of these patients (56%) PCT levels were elevated (“PCT positive”). C-reactive protein (CRP) levels at admission to hospital and peak CRP levels during the acute course of the disease were higher in the PCT-positive compared with the PCT-negative group (p<0.05). Severe acute kidney injury (AKI) (RIFLE I and F) was present in similar numbers of PCT-positive and -negative patients (p=0.7), but antibiotics were more frequently used in the PCT-positive than the PCT-negative group (p<0.05). Within the PCT-positive group, PCT levels were similar among those receiving and not receiving antibiotics (p=0.13), and neither the duration of hospital stay nor CRP peak levels were lower in those treated with antibiotics (p=0.12 and p=0.13, respectively). Conclusions: Elevated PCT levels are common in patients with acute NE. There was no association between PCT levels and severity of disease, including AKI or thrombocytopenia. It is important to distinguish Puumala virus infection from other causes of AKI with thrombocytopenia. However, PCT might not be useful in differentiating hantavirus infection from bacterial infection.
Immunomodulatory Effects of Peplomycin on Immunosuppressive and Cytotoxic Cells in the Lesional Skin of Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Fujimura Taku , Kambayashi Yumi , Furudate Sadanori , Kakizaki Aya , Haga Takahiro , Hashimoto Akira , Aiba Setsuya
Published: February 2015

Background: Continuous intra-arterial administration of peplomycin (PEP) through a tumor-feeding artery using an intravascular indwelling catheter is one of the best treatments for cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) on cosmetic areas. Although this reagent is useful for the treatment of SCC, its immunomodulatory effect on the tumor microenvironment is still unknown. Objective/Methods: In this study, we investigated the immunomodulatory effects of PEP on the tumor-infiltrating regulatory T cells and tumor-associated macrophages as well as CD8+TIA-1+ cytotoxic T cells in the lesional skin of 5 patients with SCC on the lips. Results: Our data suggest that, in addition to the direct antitumor effects, PEP decreased immunosuppressive cells and increased cytotoxic T lymphocytes at the tumor sites, which might maintain antitumor immune response against SCC.
Premature Pubarche, Hyperinsulinemia and Hypothyroxinemia: Novel Manifestations of Congenital Portosystemic Shunts (Abernethy Malformation) in Children
Authors: Bas Serpil , Guran Tulay , Atay Zeynep , Haliloglu Belma , Abalı Saygın , Turan Serap , Bereket Abdullah
Published: February 2015

Congenital portosystemic shunt (CPSS) is persistence of an anomalous embryological connection of the portal vein with a large vein of the vena cava system. Clinical presentations include neonatal cholestasis, liver tumors, and encephalopathy, but can be variable in timing and symptomatology. We report 2 girls who presented 10 years apart with the same complaint of early pubarche at age 7 years, with inappropriately low DHEAS levels. In addition to hyperandrogenemia (elevated testosterone and androstenedione) and advanced bone age, both had hyperinsulinemia, and hypothyroxinemia. The 2nd case also had symptomatic hypoglycemia. Presentation of CPSS with this combination of findings in prepubertal children has not been reported previously. With further investigations, we proposed novel mechanisms explaining these manifestations. Hyperandrogenemia is caused by decreased hepatic sulfation of DHEA to less active DHEAS due to shunting of DHEA to systemic circulation. Elevated DHEA is then used for synthesis of more potent androgens. Shunting of postabsorbtive glucose from portal to systemic circulation causes early hyperglycemia leading to exaggerated insulin secretion. Insulin bypasses the hepatic metabolism directly entering into the systemic circulation, which results in hyperinsulinemia, then in turn causes late hypoglycemia. Finally, hypothyroxinemia was linked to thyroxin-binding globulin deficiency, which has not been reported in CPSS.
Nucleus Pulposus Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Acidic Conditions Mimicking Degenerative Intervertebral Discs Give Better Performance than Adipose Tissue-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Han Bin , Wang Hai-chao , Li Hao , Tao Yi-qing , Liang Cheng-zhen , Li Fang-cai , Chen Gang , Chen Qi-xin
Published: February 2015

The microenvironment of the intervertebral disc (IVD) is characterized by matrix acidity, hypoxia, hyperosmolarity and limited nutrition, which are major obstacles to stem cell-based regeneration. Our recent work showed that nucleus pulposus mesenchymal stem cells (NPMSCs) had advantages over traditional sources of cell therapy under IVD-like hypoxic and hyperosmotic conditions. Here, we examined the viability, proliferation and matrix metabolism of NPMSCs compared with adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs) under IVD-like acidic conditions in vitro. ADMSCs and NPMSCs from Sprague-Dawley rats were cultured at four different pH levels representing the standard condition (pH 7.4) and the normal, mildly degenerated and severely degenerated IVD (pH 7.1, 6.8 and 6.5, respectively). Cell viability was examined by annexin-V-fluorescein isothiocyanate/propidium iodide staining. Cell proliferation was measured using a cell counting kit cell proliferation assay. The expression of aggrecan, collagen-I, collagen-II, matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs-4 (ADAMTS4) and the tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-3 (TIMP-3) was measured at mRNA and protein levels by RT-PCR and Western blotting. In both cell types, acidic pH inhibited cell viability and proliferation, downregulated the expression of aggrecan, collagen-I, collagen-II and TIMP-3, and upregulated the expression of MMP-2 and ADAMTS4. Compared with ADMSCs, NPMSCs were significantly less inhibited in viability and proliferation; they expressed significantly higher levels of aggrecan and collagen-II, and lower levels of MMP-2 and ADAMTS4. Thus, an acidic environment is a major obstacle for IVD regeneration by ADMSCs or NPMSCs. NPMSCs appeared less sensitive to inhibition by acidic pH and might be promising candidates for cell-based IVD regeneration.
Absence of Varicella Zoster Virus Reactivation after Infliximab Administration for Plaque Psoriasis
Authors: El Hayderi Lara , Bontems Sébastien , Meex Cécile , Nikkels Arjen F.
Published: February 2015

Background: Herpes zoster (HZ) in patients receiving tumor necrosis factor (TNF) antagonists may be more severe and the incidence seems increased. The influence of TNF antagonists on varicella zoster virus (VZV) reactivation is unknown. Objective: To prospectively search in a pilot study for VZV DNA in sequential blood samples before and after infliximab administration. Setting: University medical center. Subjects and Methods: Blood samples of six patients with longstanding and severe plaque psoriasis were taken on day 1 (before infliximab administration) and on days 2, 7, 21 and 42 for the determination of VZV viremia by ORF21 real-time polymerase chain reaction. Patients with varicella, HZ and normal subjects were included as controls. Results: None of the six patients presented VZV viremia at any of the time points. High-load viremia was present during varicella, low-load viremia in some HZ patients and no viremia in the control patients. Limitations: Small number of patients. Conclusions: In this pilot study, infliximab did not reactivate VZV and did not induce subclinical VZV viremia.
Premature Adrenarche - A Common Condition with Variable Presentation
Authors: Utriainen Pauliina , Laakso Saila , Liimatta Jani , Jääskeläinen Jarmo , Voutilainen Raimo
Published: February 2015

Adrenarche refers to a maturational increase in the secretion of adrenal androgen precursors, mainly dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and its sulfate (DHEAS). In premature adrenarche (PA), clinical signs of androgen action appear before the age of 8/9 years in girls/boys, concurrently with the circulating DHEA(S) concentrations above the usually low prepubertal level. The most pronounced sign of PA is the appearance of pubic/axillary hair, but also other signs of androgen effect (adult type body odor, acne/comedones, greasy hair, accelerated statural growth) are important to recognize. PA children are often overweight and taller than their peers, and the higher prevalence of PA in girls than in boys is probably explained by higher female adiposity and peripheral DHEA(S) conversion to active androgens. PA diagnosis requires exclusion of other causes of androgen excess: congenital adrenal hyperplasia, androgen-producing tumors, precocious puberty, and exogenous source of androgens. PA has been linked with unfavorable metabolic features including hyperinsulinism, dyslipidemia, and later-appearing ovarian hyperandrogenism. Although this common condition is usually benign, PA children with additional risk factors including obesity should be followed up, with the focus on weight and lifestyle. Long-term follow-up studies are warranted to clarify if the metabolic changes detected in PA children persist until adulthood.
A Comparative Analysis of Media Lengua and Quichua Vowel Production
Authors: Stewart Jesse
Published: February 2015

This study presents a comparative analysis of F1 and F2 vowel frequencies from Pijal Media Lengua (PML) and Imbabura Quichua. Mixed-effects models are used to test Spanish-derived high and low vowels against their Quichua-derived counterparts for statistical significance. Spanish-derived and Quichua-derived high vowels are also tested against Spanish-derived mid vowels. This analysis suggests that PML may be manipulating as many as eight vowels where Spanishderived high and low vowels coexist as near-mergers with their Quichua-derived counterparts, while high and mid vowels coexist with partial overlap. Quichua, traditionally viewed as a three-vowel system, shows similar results and may be manipulating as many as six vowels.
Hippo Signaling Pathway Reveals a Spatio-Temporal Correlation with the Size of Primordial Follicle Pool in Mice
Authors: Xiang Cheng , Li Jia , Hu Liaoliao , Huang Jian , Luo Tao , Zhong Zhisheng , Zheng Yuehui , Zheng Liping
Published: February 2015

Background: The Hippo signaling pathway, a highly conserved cell signaling system, exists in most multicellular organisms and regulates cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. It has been reported that the members of Hippo signaling are expressed in mammalian ovaries, but the exact functions of this pathway in primordial follicle development remains unclear. Methods: To analyze the spatio-temporal correlation between the core component of Hippo pathway and the size of primordial follicle pool, Western blot, Real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry were used, and the expression and localization of MST1, LATS2 and YAP1 mRNA and protein were examined in 3 d, 1 m, 5 m, 16 m postnatal mice ovary and the culture model of mice primordial follicle in vitro. Results: Both the protein and mRNA expression of the MST1 and LATS2 were decreased significantly as mouse age increased (p < 0.05), however, the mRNA expression of them increased significantly in 16 m compared with 5 m as well as the protein expression of LATS2.The expression of YAP showed the opposite trend, and the significant protein expression of pYAP was increased before 1 m, after which no significant change was observed. Moreover, the ratio of pYAP/YAP decreased significantly. Culturing ovaries for 8 d in vitro resulted in the activation of primordial follicles in 3 d postnatal mice ovaries, and these developed into primary follicles with the expression of PCNA increasing significantly (p < 0.05). The mRNA and protein expression of MST and LATS decreased significantly (p < 0.05), and the expression of YAP increased significantly (p < 0.05, p < 0.01), whereas the ratio of pYAP/YAP decreased significantly (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The above results reveal that the expression of the core components of Hippo pathway changed during mouse follicular development, especially before and after primordial follicle activation in vitro. The primordial follicle activation may be related to the significant decrease of the ratio of pYAP1/YAP1. In conclusion, Hippo signaling pathway expressed in mice ovaries and have spatio-temporal correlation with the size of primordial follicle pool.
Familiarization Effects on Word Intelligibility in Dysarthric Speech
Authors: Kim Heejin , Nanney Suzanne
Published: February 2015

Background/Aims: This study investigated the effects of familiarization on naïve listeners' ability to perceive dysarthric speech produced by speakers with cerebral palsy and evaluated the degree of intelligibility improvement, both in the short and long term, as a function of (1) familiarization paradigms and (2) the number of familiarization phases. Methods: A total of 120 listeners (30 listeners/speaker) were recruited to complete word transcription tasks over a 6-week period. The listeners were assigned to one of the following familiarization paradigms: passive familiarization with audio signal only, active familiarization with both audio and orthography, and no explicit familiarization. Intelligibility scores were measured as the percentage of words correctly transcribed. Results: The active familiarization paradigm that provided listeners with both audio and orthography resulted in higher intelligibility scores compared to the passive familiarization and no explicit familiarization conditions. The degree of intelligibility improvement as a function of passive familiarization varied depending on the speaker. Last, the advantage of active familiarization was also found as a long-term effect. Conclusion: Our findings provide evidence for the benefits of familiarization in enhancing the intelligibility of dysarthric speech and support the efficacy of familiarization paradigms as an intervention technique in the management of dysarthria.
Quercetin Inhibits Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor-Induced Choroidal and Retinal Angiogenesis in vitro
Authors: Li Fangting , Bai Yujing , Zhao Min , Huang Lvzhen , Li Shanshan , Li Xiaoxin , Chen Yi
Published: February 2015

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of quercetin on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-induced choroidal and retinal angiogenesis in vitro using a rhesus macaque choroid-retinal endothelial (RF/6A) cell line. Methods: RF/6A cells were cultured in Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium containing 10% fetal bovine serum. Then the cells were treated with different concentrations (from 0 to 100 μM) of quercetin and 100 ng/ml VEGF. The cell proliferation was assessed using cholecystokinin octapeptide dye. The cell migration was investigated by a Transwell assay. The tube formation was measured on Matrigel. Furthermore, the impact of quercetin's effects on VEGF-induced activation of VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR-2) downstream signal pathways was tested by Western blot analysis. Results: Quercetin inhibits RF/6A cell proliferation in a dose-dependent fashion: 22.7, 31.5 and 36.7% inhibition on treatment with 10, 50 and 100 μM quercetin, respectively. VEGF-induced migration and tube formation of RF/6A cells were also significantly inhibited by quercetin in a dose-dependent manner. Quercetin inhibits VEGF-induced VEGFR-2 downstream signal pathways of RF/6A. Conclusions: The results show that quercetin inhibits VEGF-induced cell proliferation, migration and tube formation of RF/6A. We suggest that quercetin inhibits VEGF-induced choroidal and retinal angiogenesis in vitro. Collectively, the findings in the present study suggest that quercetin inhibits VEGF-induced choroidal and retinal angiogenesis by targeting the VEGFR-2 pathway. This suggests that quercetin is a choroidal and retinal angiogenesis inhibitor.
Rare Disease Registries Classification and Characterization: A Data Mining Approach
Authors: Santoro Michele , Coi Alessio , Lipucci Di Paola Michele , Bianucci Anna Maria , Gainotti Sabina , Mollo Emanuela , Taruscio Domenica , Vittozzi Luciano , Bianchi Fabrizio
Published: February 2015

Background: The European Commission and Patients Organizations identify rare disease registries (RDRs) as strategic instruments to develop research and improve knowledge in the field of rare diseases. Interoperability between RDRs is needed for research activities, validation of therapeutic treatments, and public health actions. Sharing and comparing information requires a uniform and standardized way of data collection, so levels of interconnection between RDRs with similar aims and/or nature of data should be identified. The objective of this study is to define a classification and characterization of RDRs in order to identify different profiles and informative needs. Methods: Exploratory statistical analyses (cluster analysis and random forest) were applied to data derived from the EPIRARE project (‘Building Consensus and Synergies for the EU Rare Disease Patient Registration') survey on the activities and needs of RDRs. Results: The cluster analysis identified 3 main typologies of RDRs: public health, clinical and genetic research, and treatment registries. The analysis of the most informative variables, identified by the random forest method, led to the characterization of 3 types of RDRs and the definition of different profiles and informative needs. Conclusions: These results represent a useful source of information to facilitate the harmonization and interconnection of RDRs in accordance with the different profiles identified. It could help sharing the information between RDRs with similar profiles and, whenever possible, interconnections between registries with different profiles.
The Agreement between the MMSE and IQCODE Tests in a Community-Based Sample of Subjects Aged 70 Years or Older Receiving In-Home Nursing: An Explorative Study
Authors: Kirkevold Øyvind , Selbæk Geir
Published: February 2015

Aim: It was the aim of this study to compare the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) with the Informant Questionnaire for Cognitive Decline in the Elderly (IQCODE) and to explore the characteristics of subjects with possible dementia with only one of the two tools. Methods: We used a random sample of patients aged 70+ receiving social service or in-home nursing. The patients were tested with the MMSE, and the next of kin was interviewed using the following: the IQCODE, the Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia (CSDD), the Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI), instrumental activities of daily living (IADL), personal ADL (PADL) and the General Medical Health Rating (GMHR). Results: Subjects with dementia defined only according to the MMSE showed a pattern of scores on IADL, PADL, CSDD, NPI-10 and GMHR similar to the no-dementia group according to both the MMSE and the IQCODE. Those with dementia defined only according to the IQCODE showed a pattern of scores similar to the possible dementia group according to both the MMSE and the IQCODE.
Ultrasound-Guided Retrieval and Position Replacement of a Dislodged Fetal Pleuro-Amniotic Shunt: A Novel Approach for a Known Complication of Feto-Amniotic Shunting
Authors: Adams Tracy M. , Kunzier Nadia B. , Chavez Martin R. , Vintzileos Anthony M.
Published: February 2015

Untreated fetal pleural effusion can cause significant perinatal morbidity and mortality. Treatment of pleural effusions with pleuro-amniotic shunting has been shown to improve outcomes. Pleuro-amniotic shunting is associated with complications including ruptured membranes, preterm labor and shunt dislodgement into either the amniotic cavity or the fetal thorax. Shunt dislodgement into the thoracic cavity can cause prenatal complications from the shunt itself or may necessitate neonatal surgery for removal. We present a case where a novel ultrasound-guided technique was used to replace the dislodged pleural shunt in utero, thereby effectively draining the effusion while simultaneously obviating the need for neonatal surgery and decreasing possible perinatal complications.