bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scaffold‐Free Fabrication of Osteoinductive Cellular Constructs Using Mouse Gingiva‐Derived Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Okawa Hiroko , Kayashima Hiroki , Sasaki Jun-Ichi , Miura Jiro , Kamano Yuya , Kosaka Yukihiro , Imazato Satoshi , Yatani Hirofumi , Matsumoto Takuya , Egusa Hiroshi
Published: March 2016

Three‐dimensional (3D) cell constructs are expected to provide osteoinductive materials to develop cell‐based therapies for bone regeneration. The proliferation and spontaneous aggregation capability of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) thus prompted us to fabricate a scaffold‐free iPSC construct as a transplantation vehicle. Embryoid bodies of mouse gingival fibroblast‐derived iPSCs (GF‐iPSCs) were seeded in a cell chamber with a round‐bottom well made of a thermoresponsive hydrogel. Collected ball‐like cell constructs were cultured in osteogenic induction medium for 30 days with gentle shaking, resulting in significant upregulation of osteogenic marker genes. The constructs consisted of an inner region of unstructured cell mass and an outer osseous tissue region that was surrounded by osteoblast progenitor‐like cells. The outer osseous tissue was robustly calcified with elemental calcium and phosphorous as well as hydroxyapatite. Subcutaneous transplantation of the GF‐iPSC constructs into immunodeficient mice contributed to extensive ectopic bone formation surrounded by teratoma tissue. These results suggest that mouse GF‐iPSCs could facilitate the fabrication of osteoinductive scaffold‐free 3D cell constructs, in which the calcified regions and surrounding osteoblasts may function as scaffolds and drivers of osteoinduction, respectively. With incorporation of technologies to inhibit teratoma formation, this system could provide a promising strategy for bone regenerative therapies.
A Low Energy Consumption Storage Method for Cloud Video Surveillance Data Based on SLA Classification
Authors: Xiong Yonghua , Lu Chengda , Wu Min , Jiang Keyuan , Wang Dianhong
Published: March 2016

With the continuous expansion of the amount of data with time in mobile video applications such as cloud video surveillance (CVS), the increasing energy consumption in video data centers has drawn widespread attention for the past several years. Addressing the issue of reducing energy consumption, we propose a low energy consumption storage method specially designed for CVS systems based onthe service level agreement (SLA) classification. A novel SLA with an extra parameter of access time period is proposed and then utilized as a criterion for dividing virtual machines (VMs) and data storage nodes into different classifications. Tasks can be scheduled in real time for running on the homologous VMs and data storage nodes according to their access time periods. Any nodes whose access time periods do not encompass the current time will be placed into the energy saving state while others are in normal state with the capability of undertaking tasks. As a result, overall electric energy consumption in data centers is reduced while the SLA is fulfilled. To evaluate the performance, we compare the method with two related approaches using the Hadoop Distributed File System (HDFS). The results show the superiority and effectiveness of our method.
Multiple Giant Splenic Artery Aneurysms Causing Sinistral (Left-Sided) Portal Hypertension
Authors: Beksac Kemal , Karakoc Derya
Published: March 2016

Background. Splenic artery aneurysm is the most common type of visceral aneurysms. They are usually asymptomatic and have a potential for rupture and therefore life-threatening hemorrhage. It is rare for them to cause sinistral portal hypertension.Case Report. A 23-year-old female patient presented to our clinic with gastric varices, splenomegaly, pancytopenia, and normal liver functions. She was thus diagnosed with left-sided portal hypertension. Radiologic evaluation showed splenomegaly, splenic vein obstruction, and multiple aneurysms along the splenic artery ranging from 2.5 cm to 7 cm. Splenic artery aneurysm was thought to be the cause of portal hypertension and hypersplenism. We decided splenectomy is the best course of treatment. Pancytopenia could not be corrected preoperatively despite the transfusion treatment. Surgical exploration revealed multiple aneurysms deeply embedded in pancreas. Thrombocyte and erythrocyte transfusion was performed after splenic artery ligation to correct pancytopenia before further intervention. Splenic artery, spleen, and distal pancreas were resected en bloc. Patient’s blood parameters became normal within first postoperative day. Patient had an uneventful postoperative course and was discharged without incident.Conclusion. Splenic artery aneurysms are rare but potentially life-threatening incidents. Therefore, it is important to know the unusual presentations and prepare accordingly.
18F-FDG-PET Scanning Confirmed Infected Intracardiac Device-Leads withAbiotrophia defectiva
Authors: van Roeden Sonja , Hartog Hans , Bongers Vivian , Thijsen Steven , Sankatsing Sanjay
Published: March 2016

Abiotrophiaspecies are relatively slow growing pathogens, which may be present as commensal flora. However, invasive infections are frequently reported, like endocarditis, septic arthritis, osteomyelitis, and many other types of infection. In this case report we describe a 65-year-old male patient with an intracardiac device- (ICD-) lead infection caused byAbiotrophia defectiva. Diagnosis was confirmed by18F-FDG-PET scanning. This is remarkable, sinceAbiotrophia defectivais a slow growing pathogen causing low-grade infections. This case demonstrates that although infection of ICD-leads cannot be excluded in case of18F-FDG-PET-negative findings, positive findings are highly suggestive for infection.
SENP1-Mediated Desumoylation of DBC1 Inhibits Apoptosis Induced by High Glucose in Bovine Retinal Pericytes
Authors: Gao Jian , Chen Xia , Gu Qing , Liu Xiaoxiao , Xu Xun
Published: March 2016

Pericyte loss is an early characteristic change in diabetic retinopathy, but its precise molecular mechanisms have not been elucidated. This study investigated the role of SENP1 in pericyte loss in diabetic retinopathy. We demonstrated that a high concentration of glucose inhibited the expression of the Sentrin/SUMO-specific protease 1 (SENP1), which resulted in an increase in DBC1 sumoylation in bovine retinal pericytes (BRPCs). Furthermore, SENP1 overexpression attenuated hyperemia-induced apoptosis of BPRCs, and SENP1 knockdown aggravated this effect. We also provide evidence that DBC1 sumoylation/desumoylation is involved in the SENP1-regulated apoptosis of BRPCs under high glucose conditions. Understanding the role of SENP1 in the pathogenesis of high glucose induced pericyte loss could help elucidate important targets for future pharmacological interventions.
Impaired Cytokine Responses to Epstein-Barr Virus Antigens in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients
Authors: Draborg Anette Holck , Sandhu Noreen , Larsen Nanna , Lisander Larsen Janni , Jacobsen Søren , Houen Gunnar
Published: March 2016

We analyzed cytokine responses against latent and lytic Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) antigens in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients and healthy controls (HCs) to obtain an overview of the distinctive immune regulatory response in SLE patients and to expand the previously determined impaired EBV-directed T-cell response. The concentrations of 14 cytokines (IL2, IL4, IL5, IL6, IL10, IL12, IL17, IL18, IL1β, IFNγ, TNFα, TNFβ, TGFβ, and GM-CSF) were quantified upon stimulation of whole blood with latent state antigen EBNA1, lytic cycle antigen EBV-EA/D, and the superantigen SEB. To avoid results affected by lack of lymphocytes, we focused on SLE patients with normal levels. Decreased induction of IL12, IFNγ, IL17, and IL6 upon EBNA1 stimulation and that of IFNγ, IL6, TNFβ, IL1β, and GM-CSF upon EBV-EA/D stimulation were detected in SLE patients compared to HCs. IFNγresponses, especially, were shown to be reduced. Induction of several cytokines was furthermore impaired in SLE patients upon SEB stimulation, but no difference was observed in basic levels. Results substantiate the previously proposed impaired regulation of the immune response against latent and lytic cycle EBV infection in SLE patients without lymphopenia. Furthermore, results indicate general dysfunction of leukocytes and their cytokine regulations in SLE patients.
The Effect of Customized Woven and Stacked Layer Orientation on Tensile and Flexural Properties of Woven Kenaf Fibre Reinforced Epoxy Composites
Authors: Hamdan A. , Mustapha F. , Ahmad K. A. , Mohd Rafie A. S. , Ishak M. R. , Ismail A. E.
Published: March 2016

The synthetic fibres have created some issues including risk of inhalation during fabrication process, renewability, biodegradability, and recyclability in composites industry. The usage of biocomposites as a replacement to synthetic fibres is beginning to be widespread. However, it is noted that lesser attention has been devoted to evaluating the mechanical properties of woven kenaf composites at various woven and stacked layer orientation. Thus, the research objective is to identify the effect of woven and stacked layer orientation on tensile and flexural properties of kenaf composites. Two types of fibre orientation are employed; type A contains a higher yarn density and type B contains a low yarn density. The tensile and flexural tests are conducted to analyze the mechanical properties of woven kenaf fibre composites and compare them to random chopped kenaf composites. The fracture interface between fibre and matrix epoxy is further investigated via scanning electron microscope. Type A kenaf improved up to 199% and 177% as compared to random chopped kenaf for flexural strength and tensile strength, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy analysis shows that resin matrix is properly induced into kenaf fibre gap hence giving additional strength to woven kenaf as compared to random chopped kenaf.
Out of Sight, out of Mind? An Audit Which Proposes a Follow-Up and Management Pathway for Inferior Vena Cava Filters
Authors: Logan Caitriona , O’Connell Niamh , Kavanagh John , McEniff Niall , Ryan Mark , Guiney Michael , Seery Orla , O’Donnell James , Ryan Kevin , White Barry
Published: March 2016

Insertion of an IVC filter can be a safe and effective way to avoid PE in thrombosis patients who cannot be anticoagulated. If temporary filters are not promptly removed they can become difficult to remove, causing avoidable complications and often requiring lifelong warfarin. In this study, two sequential audits of retrieval of temporary IVC filters were conducted before and after the implementation of a coordinated management strategy for IVC filter follow-up. 33 filter placements were examined over a 15-month period (Group A). Following implementation of the strategy a comparable 15-month period in which 33 IVC filters were placed was audited (Group B). Following implementation, failed retrievals dropped from 15% to 9%. The number successfully retrieved did not change at 45%. The number made permanent from the outset following expert discussion increased from 12% to 39%. The number of filters with no attempted retrieval and no consultation about retrieval decreased from 27% to 9% (these patients were lost to follow-up with multiple contact attempts made). In Group B 100% of placed IVC filters were followed up appropriately. The proposed model is an easily implemented plan to avoid patient morbidity caused by temporary IVC filters made unintentionally permanent by loss to follow-up.
Redox Imbalance and Viral Infections in Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Limongi Dolores , Baldelli Sara
Published: March 2016

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are essential molecules for many physiological functions and act as second messengers in a large variety of tissues. An imbalance in the production and elimination of ROS is associated with human diseases including neurodegenerative disorders. In the last years the notion that neurodegenerative diseases are accompanied by chronic viral infections, which may result in an increase of neurodegenerative diseases progression, emerged. It is known in literature that enhanced viral infection risk, observed during neurodegeneration, is partly due to the increase of ROS accumulation in brain cells. However, the molecular mechanisms of viral infection, occurring during the progression of neurodegeneration, remain unclear. In this review, we discuss the recent knowledge regarding the role of influenza, herpes simplex virus type‐1, and retroviruses infection in ROS/RNS‐mediated Parkinson’s disease (PD), Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
Estimation of Surface Area and Volume of a Nematode from Morphometric Data
Authors: Brown Simon , Pedley Kevin C. , Simcock David C.
Published: March 2016

Nematode volume and surface area are usually based on the inappropriate assumption that the animal is cylindrical. While nematodes are approximately circular in cross section, the radius varies longitudinally. We use standard morphometric data to obtain improved estimates of volume and surface area based on (i) a geometrical approach and (ii) a Bézier representation of the nematode. These new estimators require only the morphometric data available from Cobb’s ratios, but if fewer coordinates are available the geometric approach reduces to the standard estimates. Consequently, these new estimators are better than the standard alternatives.
Automatic Detection of Optic Disc in Retinal Image by Using Keypoint Detection, Texture Analysis, and Visual Dictionary Techniques
Authors: Akyol Kemal , Şen Baha , Bayır Şafak
Published: March 2016

With the advances in the computer field, methods and techniques in automatic image processing and analysis provide the opportunity to detect automatically the change and degeneration in retinal images. Localization of the optic disc is extremely important for determining the hard exudate lesions or neovascularization, which is the later phase of diabetic retinopathy, in computer aided eye disease diagnosis systems. Whereas optic disc detection is fairly an easy process in normal retinal images, detecting this region in the retinal image which is diabetic retinopathy disease may be difficult. Sometimes information related to optic disc and hard exudate information may be the same in terms of machine learning. We presented a novel approach for efficient and accurate localization of optic disc in retinal images having noise and other lesions. This approach is comprised of five main steps which are image processing, keypoint extraction, texture analysis, visual dictionary, and classifier techniques. We tested our proposed technique on 3 public datasets and obtained quantitative results. Experimental results show that an average optic disc detection accuracy of 94.38%, 95.00%, and 90.00% is achieved, respectively, on the following public datasets: DIARETDB1, DRIVE, and ROC.
Potential of M-Wave Elicited by Double Pulse for Muscle Fatigue Evaluation in Intermittent Muscle Activation by Functional Electrical Stimulation for Motor Rehabilitation
Authors: Miura Naoto , Watanabe Takashi
Published: March 2016

Clinical studies on application of functional electrical stimulation (FES) to motor rehabilitation have been increasing. However, muscle fatigue appears early in the course of repetitive movement production training by FES. Although M-wave variables were suggested to be reliable indices of muscle fatigue in long lasting constant electrical stimulation under the isometric condition, the ability of M-wave needs more studies under intermittent stimulation condition, because the intervals between electrical stimulations help recovery of muscle activation level. In this paper, M-waves elicited by double pulses were examined in muscle fatigue evaluation during repetitive movements considering rehabilitation training with surface electrical stimulation. M-waves were measured under the two conditions of repetitive stimulation: knee extension force production under the isometric condition and the dynamic movement condition by knee joint angle control. Amplitude of M-wave elicited by the 2nd pulse of a double pulse decreased during muscle fatigue in both measurement conditions, while the change in M-waves elicited by single pulses in a stimulation burst was not relevant to muscle fatigue in repeated activation with stimulation interval of 1 s. Fatigue index obtained from M-waves elicited by 2nd pulses was suggested to provide good estimation of muscle fatigue during repetitive movements with FES.
Inconclusive Predictions and Contradictions: A Lack of Consensus on Seed Germination Response to Climate Change at High Altitude and High Latitude
Authors: Jaganathan Ganesh K. , Dalrymple Sarah E.
Published: March 2016

Climate change directly affects arctic-alpine plants and acute responses to increased temperatures may be seen in their reproductive fitness and germination ability. However, uncertainties prevail in predicting whether a future warmer climate favors or hampers seed germination in high latitude and high altitude soils and seed germination research in such systems has not been able to provide generalizable patterns of response. The available literature on this subject has been conducted at various locations contributing to difficulties in predicting the response of arctic-alpine seeds to climate change. Here, we show that discrepancies in seed collection, dormancy breaking treatments, and germination conditions found in the published literature are possible reasons for our inability to draw large scale conclusions. We explore how these factors influence the results and highlight the fact that many of the previous investigations have reported the effects of warmer temperature, rather than a warmer climate and all the associated complex environmental interactions, on seed germination. We recommend that long-term monitoring of seed response to treatments that mimic the present and future alpine climate is likely to produce more ecologically meaningful insights and suggest several practical steps that researchers can take that would facilitate greater coherence between studies.
Comparison of Ondansetron and Dexamethasone for Prophylaxis of Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting in Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic Surgeries: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Maitra Souvik , Som Anirban , Baidya Dalim K. , Bhattacharjee Sulagna
Published: March 2016

Background.Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is a significant complication after laparoscopic surgeries. Ondansetron and dexamethasone are most commonly used drugs for PONV prophylaxis. Comparisons of these two drugs have not been systematically reviewed till date.Methods.PubMed, PubMed Central, and CENTRAL databases were searched with the following words: “dexamethasone,” “ondansetron,” “laparoscopy,” and “PONV” to identify randomized trials that compared ondansetron and dexamethasone for PONV prophylaxis after laparoscopic surgeries.Results.Data of 592 patients from 7 RCTs have been included in this meta-analysis. Incidence of postoperative nausea at 4–6 h is significantly lower when dexamethasone was used instead of ondansetron (p=0.04; OR 0.49, 95% CI 0.24–0.98, M-H fixed). Incidence of nausea is similar at 24 hours (p=0.08, OR 0.71, 95% CI 0.48, 1.05; M-H fixed); vomiting is also similar at 4–6 h (p=0.43, OR 1.27, 95% CI 0.70–2.27; M-H fixed) and also at 24 h (p=0.46, OR 0.92, 95% CI 0.73, 1.16; M-H fixed).Conclusion.Dexamethasone is superior to ondansetron in preventing postoperative nausea after 4–6 h of laparoscopic surgeries. However, both the drugs are of equal efficacy in preventing postoperative vomiting up to 24 h after surgery. However, results should be interpreted with caution due to clinical heterogeneity in the included studies.
Two Different Maintenance Strategies in the Hospital Environment: Preventive Maintenance for Older Technology Devices and Predictive Maintenance for Newer High-Tech Devices
Authors: Sezdi Mana
Published: March 2016

A maintenance program generated through the consideration of characteristics and failures of medical equipment is an important component of technology management. However, older technology devices and newer high-tech devices cannot be efficiently managed using the same strategies because of their different characteristics. This study aimed to generate a maintenance program comprising two different strategies to increase the efficiency of device management: preventive maintenance for older technology devices and predictive maintenance for newer high-tech devices. For preventive maintenance development, 589 older technology devices were subjected to performance verification and safety testing (PVST). For predictive maintenance development, the manufacturers’ recommendations were used for 134 high-tech devices. These strategies were evaluated in terms of device reliability. This study recommends the use of two different maintenance strategies for old and new devices at hospitals in developing countries. Thus, older technology devices that applied only corrective maintenance will be included in maintenance like high-tech devices.
Charge Trapping in Monolayer and Multilayer Epitaxial Graphene
Authors: Liu Chieh-I , Wang Pengjie , Mi Jian , Lee Hsin-Yen , Zhang Chi , Lin Xi , Chuang Chiashain , Aoki Nobuyuki , Elmquist Randolph E. , Liang Chi-Te
Published: March 2016

We have studied the carrier densitiesnof multilayer and monolayer epitaxial graphene devices over a wide range of temperaturesT. It is found that, in the high temperature regime (typicallyT≥ 200 K),ln⁡(n)shows a linear dependence of 1/T, showing activated behavior. Such results yield activation energiesΔEfor charge trapping in epitaxial graphene ranging from 196 meV to 34 meV. We find thatΔEdecreases with increasing mobility. Vacuum annealing experiments suggest that both adsorbates on EG and the SiC/graphene interface play a role in charge trapping in EG devices.
Metastatic Colon Cancer in an 18-Year-Old without Predisposing Factors
Authors: Mirchandani Divya , Kulpa Jolanta , Khawar Nayaab , Kochin Israel , Narula Pramod , Sundaram Revathy
Published: March 2016

While colorectal carcinoma is a common gastrointestinal cancer in adults, it is rare in pediatrics with an incidence of 1 : 1,000,000 and represents a fraction of neoplasms encountered in children. Malignant neoplasms represent a major cause of mortality in the pediatric age group. While presenting with weight loss, iron deficiency, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, and change in bowel habits, or symptoms similar to acute appendicitis, the working diagnosis may be considered to be anorexia. This case illustrates the importance of considering colon cancer among other disease entities as a cause of unintentional weight loss in adolescents. While this is a rare occurrence in the pediatric population, significant unintentional weight loss with altered bowel habits should prompt a search for underlying malignancy—even in the absence of a positive family history or predisposing cancer syndromes.
Juvenile Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada Disease in Which Good Visual Prognosis Was Derived from Swift and Definitive Diagnosis
Authors: Yoshida Atsushi , Tominaga Satoko , Kawashima Hidetoshi
Published: March 2016

We report an 8-year-old girl who manifested Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada (VKH) disease. At the first visit, conjunctival hyperemia, inflammation in the anterior chamber, serous retinal detachment, and papillitis were observed in both eyes. Fluorescein angiography (FA) revealed bilateral subretinal fluid and papillitis. Ocular computed tomography (OCT) showed subretinal fluid and choroidal hypertrophy underneath macula in both eyes. Cerebrospinal fluid examination indicated aseptic meningitis. Systemic data did not suggest the other systemic diseases. Therefore, she was diagnosed with incomplete VKH disease. After corticosteroid pulse therapy, oral prednisolone was administered for seven months. Eighteen days after the induction of the treatments, inflammation in the anterior chamber and serous retinal detachment of both eyes disappeared completely. For seven months after the induction of the treatments, she had no relapses of any symptoms. Cerebrospinal fluid examination and FA for children are difficult to conduct, since it is difficult to get informed consent of these examinations from their parents. However, those thorough examinations enable us to make a swift and definitive diagnosis of VKH disease, thus assuring good visual prognosis. We have to bear in mind that juvenile VKH disease is very rare, yet when it occurs, ophthalmologic examinations help us diagnose and treat it.
Thyroid Carcinoma Showing Thymic-Like Differentiation Causing Fracture of the Trachea
Authors: Marini Aikaterini , Kanakis Meletios , Valakis Konstantinos , Laschos Nikolaos , Chorti Maria , Lioulias Achilleas
Published: March 2016

Thyroid carcinoma showing thymic-like differentiation (CASTLE) comprises a rare neoplasm of the thyroid gland which arises from ectopic thymic tissue or remnants of brachial pouches. CASTLE is regarded as an indolent neoplasm with a favorable prognosis, irrespective of its metastatic potential. Diagnosis is difficult as clinicopathological features have not been yet well-defined. Radiological findings are not specific and only immunohistochemical positivity for CD5 and CD117 staining is highly suggestive of CASTLE. Despite lack of universally accepted treatment recommendations, the mainstay treatment includes thyroidectomy and systematic lymph node dissection. We report a case of CASTLE tumour with very uncommon characteristics developed in a 76-year-old man, who presented with rapidly deteriorating dyspnea and severe cough, resulting in respiratory failure. At surgery, a suspicious looking tumour arising from the upper pole of the right lobe of the thyroid gland, surrounding the trachea and displacing the right common carotid artery, was identified. The patient underwent en bloc resection of the tumour with the thyroid gland and regional lymph node dissection. This is the first reported case of CASTLE causing tracheal ring fracture.
The Relationship between Nanocluster Precipitation and Thermal Conductivity in Si/Ge Amorphous Multilayer Films: Effects of Cu Addition
Authors: Mohd Tamidi Ahmad Ehsan , Sasajima Yasushi
Published: March 2016

We have used a molecular dynamics technique to simulate the relationship between nanocluster precipitation and thermal conductivity in Si/Ge amorphous multilayer films, with and without Cu addition. In the study, the Green-Kubo equation was used to calculate thermal conductivity in these materials. Five specimens were prepared: Si/Ge layers, Si/(Ge + Cu) layers, (Si + Cu)/(Ge + Cu) layers, Si/Cu/Ge/Cu layers, and Si/Cu/Ge layers. The number of precipitated nanoclusters in these specimens, which is defined as the number of four-coordinate atoms, was counted along the lateral direction of the specimens. The observed results of precipitate formation were considered in relation to the thermal conductivity results. Enhancement of precipitation of nanoclusters by Cu addition, that is, densification of four-coordinate atoms, can prevent the increment of thermal conductivity. Cu dopant increases the thermal conductivity of these materials. Combining these two points, we concluded that Si/Cu/Ge is the best structure to improve the conversion efficiency of the Si/Ge amorphous multilayer films.
Expression of Migration-Related Genes in Human Colorectal Cancer and Activity of a Disintegrin and Metalloproteinase 17
Authors: Walkiewicz Katarzyna , Kozieł Paweł , Bednarczyk Martyna , Błażelonis Adam , Mazurek Urszula , Muc-Wierzgoń Małgorzata
Published: March 2016

Introduction.The ability to form metastases which depends on the mechanisms of cell migration is an important element of the progression of cancer. In the present study we analyzed the genes involved in the regulation of migration in colon cancer cells.Materials and Methods.A total of 20 pairs of surgically removed tumoral and healthy (marginal) tissues samples from colorectal cancer patients at clinical stages I-II and III-IV were analyzed. The isolation of RNA from CRC and normal tissues and its subsequent molecular analysis were performed according to manufacturer’s instructions. Microarray data analysis was performed using the GeneSpring 11.5 platform and Significance Analysis of Microarrays (SAM). In SAM analysis to identify significantly differentially expressed genes score andq-value parameters were used.Results.The largest increase in expression of genes was shown by MMP9, ADAM17, EphA2, and TIMP.Conclusions.Presented genes, especially ADAM17, MMP9, EphA2, TIMP1, ICAM 11, and CD4, may be used as prognostic markers of advanced stages of colorectal cancer, contributing to the development of new lines of therapy focused on reducing metastasis of the primary tumor.
Preparation and Property of Xylan/Poly(Methacrylic Acid) Semi-Interpenetrating Network Hydrogel
Authors: Sun Xiao-Feng , Feng Yang , Shi Xiaodi , Wang Yaxiong
Published: March 2016

Xylan/poly(methacrylic acid) semi-interpenetrating network hydrogels were synthesized, and these hydrogels were fabricated using various ratios of xylan and methacrylic acid and cross-linked by N,N′-methylenebisacrylamide. The chemical structure and morphology of the prepared hydrogels were characterized by FT-IR spectroscopy and SEM analysis. The porous structure of the prepared hydrogels was found, and the interconnected porous channels increased when the content of xylan was increased in the hydrogels. The hydrogels presented excellent pH sensitivity and swelling reversibility. The dynamic swelling kinetics were also studied, and all obtained results indicated that the prepared xylan/poly(methacrylic acid) semi-IPN hydrogel could be used in biomedical fields, especially for drug release.
Development of Ammonia Gas Sensor Using Optimized Organometallic Reagent
Authors: Aubrecht J. , Kalvoda L.
Published: March 2016

Reliable, continuous, and spatially distributed monitoring of dangerous or irritating chemical substances belongs to standard functions of contemporary industrial and public security systems. Fiber-optic-based detection provides feasible platform to fulfill such aims. This paper deals with characterization of ammonia sensing elements based on multimode polysiloxane-clad silica-core optical fibers sensitized with 5-(4′-dioctylamino phenylimino) quinoline-8-1 cobalt bromide complex reagent immobilized into the cross-linked polymer matrix from a proper mixture of organic solvents and a radical scavenger contributing to the desired long-term stability of optical properties. The applied sensing mechanism combines optical detection principle with chemical reaction of the reagent and ammonia resulting in changes in the visible near-infrared optical absorption spectrum of the cladding layer, influencing via evanescent optical field interactions the spectral distribution of the guided light intensity. Reaction kinetics of short fiber sections exposed to ammonia/nitrogen mixture of various ammonia concentrations is tested and evaluated. The obtained sensitivity, limit of detection, and forward response time of the prepared sensors amount to1.52⁎10-5 ppm−1, 31 ppm, and 25 s, respectively. The obtained results are promising for fabrication of distributed fiber-optic sensors applicable to detection and location of ammonia gas leaks in industrial as well as general public premises.
A Genetic Algorithm and Fuzzy Logic Approach for Video Shot Boundary Detection
Authors: Thounaojam Dalton Meitei , Khelchandra Thongam , Singh Kh. Manglem , Roy Sudipta
Published: March 2016

This paper proposed a shot boundary detection approach using Genetic Algorithm and Fuzzy Logic. In this, the membership functions of the fuzzy system are calculated using Genetic Algorithm by taking preobserved actual values for shot boundaries. The classification of the types of shot transitions is done by the fuzzy system. Experimental results show that the accuracy of the shot boundary detection increases with the increase in iterations or generations of the GA optimization process. The proposed system is compared to latest techniques and yields better result in terms ofF1scoreparameter.
A Rare Presentation of Autonomously Functioning Papillary Thyroid Cancer: Malignancy in Marine-Lenhart Syndrome Nodule
Authors: Uludag Mehmet , Aygun Nurcihan , Ozel Alper , Yener Ozturk Feyza , Karasu Rabia , Ozguven Banu Yilmaz , Citgez Bulent , Mihmanli Mehmet , Isgor Adnan
Published: March 2016

Objective. Marine-Lenhart Syndrome (MLS) is defined as concomitant occurrence of autonomously functioning thyroid nodule (AFTN) with Graves’ disease (GD). Malignancy in a functional nodule is rare. We aimed to present an extremely rare case of papillary thyroid cancer in a MLS nodule with lateral lymph node metastases.Case. A 43-year-old male presented with hyperthyroidism and Graves’ ophthalmopathy. On Tc99m pertechnetate scintigraphy, a hyperactive nodule in the left upper thyroid pole was detected and the remaining tissue showed a mildly increased uptake. The ultrasonography demonstrated 15.5 × 13.5 × 12 mm sized hypoechoic nodule in the left upper pole of the thyroid and round lymph nodes on the left side of the neck. Fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) of the nodule and lymph node revealed cytological findings consistent with papillary cancer. Total thyroidectomy with central and left modified radical neck dissection was performed. On pathologic examination, two foci of micropapillary cancer were detected. The skip metastases were present in three lymph nodes on the neck.Conclusion. AFTN can be seen rarely in association with GD. It is not possible to exclude malignancy due to the clinical and imaging findings. In the presence of suspicious clinical and sonographic features, FNAB should be performed.
Costate Estimation of PMP-Based Control Strategy for PHEV Using Legendre Pseudospectral Method
Authors: Wei Hanbing , Chen Yao , Peng Zhiyuan
Published: March 2016

Costate value plays a significant role in the application of PMP-based control strategy for PHEV. It is critical for terminal SOC of battery at destination and corresponding equivalent fuel consumption. However, it is not convenient to choose the approximate costate in real driving condition. In the paper, the optimal control problem of PHEV based on PMP has been converted to nonlinear programming problem. By means of KKT condition costate can be approximated as KKT multipliers of NLP divided by the LGL weights. A kind of general costate estimation approach is proposed for predefined driving condition in this way. Dynamic model has been established in Matlab/Simulink in order to prove the effectiveness of the method. Simulation results demonstrate that the method presented in the paper can deduce the closer value of global optimal value than constant initial costate value. This approach can be used for initial costate and jump condition estimation of PMP-based control strategy for PHEV.
Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy: Current Clinical Opinions and Anesthesiologists Perspective
Authors: Malik Indira , Wadhwa Rachna
Published: March 2016

Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), a minimally invasive method for removal of renal calculi, was initially started in the 1950s but gained popularity about two decades later and has now become standard practice for management. There has been an immense improvement in technique and various guidelines have been established for treatment of renal stones. However, it has its own share of complications which can be attributed to surgical technique as well as anesthesia related complications. PubMed and Google search yielded more than 30 articles describing the different complications seen in this procedure, out of which 15 major articles were selected for writing this review. The aim of this review article is to describe the implications of the complications associated with PCNL related to the anesthesiologist. The anesthesiologist is as much responsible for the management of the patient perioperatively as the surgeon. Therefore, it is mandatory to be familiar with the various complications, some of which may be life threatening and he should be able to manage them efficiently. The paper also analyses the advantages and drawbacks of the available options in anesthesia, that is, general and regional, both of which are employed for PCNL.
Defining Prolonged Length of Acute Care Stay for Surgically and Conservatively Treated Patients with Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage: A Population-Based Analysis
Authors: Stein Marco , Misselwitz Björn , Hamann Gerhard F. , Kolodziej Malgorzata A. , Reinges Marcus H. T. , Uhl Eberhard
Published: March 2016

Background. The definition of prolonged length of stay (LOS) during acute care remains unclear among surgically and conservatively treated patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH).Methods. Using a population-based quality assessment registry, we calculated change points in LOS for surgically and conservatively treated patients with ICH. The influence of comorbidities, baseline characteristics at admission, and in-hospital complications on prolonged LOS was evaluated in a multivariate model.Results. Overall, 13272 patients with ICH were included in the analysis. Surgical therapy of the hematoma was documented in 1405 (10.6%) patients. Change points for LOS were 22 days (CI: 8, 22; CL 98%) for surgically treated patients and 16 days (CI: 16, 16; CL: 99%) for conservatively treated patients. Ventilation therapy was related to prolonged LOS in surgically (OR: 2.2, 95% CI: 1.5–3.1;P<0.001) and conservatively treated patients (OR: 2.5, 95% CI: 2.2–2.9;P<0.001). Two or more in-hospital complications in surgical patients (OR: 2.7, 95% CI: 2.1–3.5) and ≥1 in conservative patients (OR: 3.0, 95% CI: 2.7–3.3) were predictors of prolonged LOS.Conclusion. The definition of prolonged LOS after ICH could be useful for several aspects of quality management and research. Preventing in-hospital complications could decrease the number of patients with prolonged LOS.
Nao-Xue-Shu Oral Liquid Protects and Improves Secondary Brain Insults of Hypertensive Cerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Jiang Hongning , Qin Ying , Liu Te , Zhang Liang , Wang Mingzhe , Qin Baofeng , Jiang Wenfei , Liao Weilong , Pan Weidong
Published: March 2016

Aim. To determine one traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) Nao-Xue-Shu oral liquid which protects and improves secondary brain insults (SBI) in hypertensive cerebral hemorrhage (HCH). Methods. 158 patients with HCH were divided into routine clinical medicine plus Nao-Xue-Shu oral liquid (n = 78) as treatment group, and routine clinical medicine (n = 80) only served as the control group. The incidence of SBI and the classification of a favorable prognosis and a bad prognosis using the Glasgow outcome scale (GOS) were assessed to evaluate the clinical effects. The changes of IL‐6 and TNF‐α levels were determined to study the mechanism of the effects for the TCM. Results. The incidence of SBI at the end of week 2 was 8.97% in the treatment group and 23.75% in the control group, and the difference was significant (P < 0.001). The incidence of a favorable prognosis was 48.72% in the treatment group and 32.72% in the control group, and the difference was significant (P < 0.01) at the end of week 2. These findings indicate clear differences for IL‐6 and TNF‐α at the end of week 1 and week 2 compared with before treatment for the treatment group and a marked difference at the end of week 2 between the two groups. It also shows a significant difference between the end of week 2 and before treatment for IL‐6 and TNF‐α for the control group, although the difference was much smaller than the treatment group. Conclusion. Nao-Xue-Shu oral liquid could protect against the occurrence of SBI and improve HCH and SBI patients. It may also decrease the damage and the mass effects of the hematoma by reducing IL‐6 and TNF‐α to obtain the effects, and thus it is a potentially suitable drug for HCH and SBI.
Current Status of Standardization of Traditional Chinese Medicine in China
Authors: Wang Juan , Guo Yi , Li Gui Lan
Published: March 2016

As an important component of traditional medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is widely spread and applied in more than 100 countries across the world. The standardization of TCM is very important for the international application of Chinese medicine. In this paper, we have explained and analyzed the standardization situations of TCM in China with the purpose of providing reference for standardization and international development of TCM.
Treatment of Iatrogenic Aortocoronary Arteriovenous Fistula with Coronary Covered Stent
Authors: Ornek Ender , Kundi Harun , Kiziltunc Emrullah , Cetin Mustafa
Published: March 2016

An 83-year-old man, who underwent coronary artery bypass operation of left internal mammary artery (LIMA) to left anterior descending (LAD) artery, with sequential saphenous vein to the first and second obtuse marginal (OM) branches of circumflex artery 5 years ago and coronary artery stent implantation to right coronary artery 2 months ago, was admitted to the hospital with syncope and chest pain. Aortosaphenous graft selective angiography revealed that first sequential side to side ligation was inadvertently anastomosed to left posterolateral coronary vein with resultant flow into the coronary sinus and distal end to side sequential anastomosis to OM 2 coronary artery which was filling very weakly. In order to close this iatrogenic coronary arteriovenous fistula and to supply saphenous vein flow to OM artery, we decided to implant a graft covered stent into the saphenous vein at the same session.
Nine-Lump Kinetic Study of Catalytic Pyrolysis of Gas Oils Derived from Canadian Synthetic Crude Oil
Authors: Zhang Rui , Li Li , Liu Zhichang , Meng Xianghai
Published: March 2016

Catalytic pyrolysis of gas oils derived from Canadian synthetic crude oil on a kind of zeolite catalyst was conducted in a confined fluidized bed reactor for the production of light olefins. The overall reactants and products were classified into nine species, and a nine-lump kinetic model was proposed to describe the reactions based on appropriate assumptions. This kinetic model had 24 rate constants and a catalyst deactivation constant. The kinetic constants at 620°C, 640°C, 660°C, and 680°C were estimated by means of nonlinear least-square regression method. Preexponential factors and apparent activation energies were then calculated according to the Arrhenius equation. The apparent activation energies of the three feed lumps were lower than those of the intermediate product lumps. The nine-lump kinetic model showed good calculation precision and the calculated yields were close to the experimental ones.
Pioglitazone Protected against Cardiac Hypertrophy via Inhibiting AKT/GSK3βand MAPK Signaling Pathways
Authors: Wei Wen-Ying , Ma Zhen-Guo , Xu Si-Chi , Zhang Ning , Tang Qi-Zhu
Published: March 2016

Peroxisome proliferator activated receptorγ(PPARγ) has been closely involved in the process of cardiovascular diseases. This study was to investigate whether pioglitazone (PIO), a PPARγagonist, could protect against pressure overload-induced cardiac hypertrophy. Mice were orally given PIO (2.5 mg/kg) from 1 week after aortic banding and continuing for 7 weeks. The morphological examination and biochemical analysis were used to evaluate the effects of PIO. Neonatal rat ventricular cardiomyocytes were also used to verify the protection of PIO against hypertrophy in vitro. The results in our study demonstrated that PIO remarkably inhibited hypertrophic response induced by aortic banding in vivo. Besides, PIO also suppressed cardiac fibrosis in vivo. PIO treatment also inhibited the activation of protein kinase B (AKT)/glycogen synthase kinase-3β(GSK3β) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) in the heart. In addition, PIO alleviated angiotensin II-induced hypertrophic response in vitro. In conclusion, PIO could inhibit cardiac hypertrophy via attenuation of AKT/GSK3βand MAPK pathways.
Emerging Role and Therapeutic Implication of Wnt Signaling Pathways in Autoimmune Diseases
Authors: Shi Juan , Chi Shuhong , Xue Jing , Yang Jiali , Li Feng , Liu Xiaoming
Published: March 2016

The Wnt signaling pathway plays a key role in many biological aspects, such as cellular proliferation, tissue regeneration, embryonic development, and other systemic effects. Under a physiological condition, it is tightly controlled at different layers and arrays, and a dysregulated activation of this signaling has been implicated into the pathogenesis of various human disorders, including autoimmune diseases. Despite the fact that therapeutic interventions are available for ameliorating disease manifestations, there is no curative therapy currently available for autoimmune disorders. Increasing lines of evidence have suggested a crucial role of Wnt signaling during the pathogenesis of many autoimmune diseases; in addition, some of microRNAs (miRNAs), a class of small, noncoding RNA molecules capable of transcriptionally regulating gene expression, have also recently been demonstrated to possess both physiological and pathological roles in autoimmune diseases by regulating the Wnt signaling pathway. This review summarizes currently our understanding of the pathogenic roles of Wnt signaling in several major autoimmune disorders and miRNAs, those targeting Wnt signaling in autoimmune diseases, with a focus on the implication of the Wnt signaling as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets in immune diseases, as well as miRNA-mediated regulation of Wnt signaling activation in the development of autoimmune diseases.
Development of Constitutive Model for Precast Prestressed Concrete Segmental Columns
Authors: Hafezolghorani Esfahani M. , Hejazi F. , Vaghei R. , Nikbakht E. , Tze D. C. J.
Published: March 2016

The interest of using precast segmental columns in construction of concrete bridges has significantly increased in recent years. One research area of concrete bridges is the application of Precast Prestressed Concrete Segmental (PPCS) Column in any structural analysis software or FE program code. Modeling a PPCS column, which consists of various materials with interaction between them, is complicated and time-consuming. This research attempts to formulate the stiffness matrix of PPCS columns in order to form the constitutive model in linear form to evaluate the response of the columns. A two-dimensional finite element model is presented in the finite element package ANSYS. Parametric studies are conducted by finite element models to verify the constitutive models for the PPCS column with a different number of concrete segments. Comparison between the constitutive model and the FE program results indicates that the constitutive model is accurate enough to predict the deformation of the PPCS columns.
An Improved Phase-Locked-Loop Control with Alternative Damping Factors for VSC Connected to Weak AC System
Authors: Yuan Bin , Xu Jianzhong , Zhao Chengyong , Yuan Yijia
Published: March 2016

The gains of phase-locked-loop (PLL) have significant impacts on the power transfer limits for the voltage source converter (VSC) connected to weak AC system. Therefore, in this paper, an improved PLL control, respectively, with alternative damping factors for rectifier and inverter is proposed. First, it is proved that the impedance angle of AC system has a great impact on the small-signal stability of the VSC system. With the same variation tendency of Thévenin equivalent resistance, the limits of power transmission are changing in opposite trends for rectifier and inverter. Second, the improved PLL with alternative damping factors is proposed based on the participation factor analysis. Third, the optimal damping factors of the improved PLL control for rectifier and inverter are calculated. Simulations and calculations validated the following three conclusions: (1) in rectifying operation, the equivalent system resistance has a negative impact on the stability of the system and this is not the case for inverting operation; (2) adding the alternative damping factors to PLL control shows similar results compared with changing the impedance angle of AC system; (3) the proposed optimal damping factors of PLL can effectively extend the power transfer limits under both rectifier and inverter modes.