bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GI-SVM: A sensitive method for predicting genomic islands based on unannotated sequence of a single genome
Authors: Lu Bingxin , Leong Hon Wai
Published: November 2015

Genomic islands (GIs) are clusters of functionally related genes acquired by lateral genetic transfer (LGT), and they are present in many bacterial genomes. GIs are extremely important for bacterial research, because they not only promote genome evolution but also contain genes that enhance adaption and enable antibiotic resistance. Many methods have been proposed to predict GI. But most of them rely on either annotations or comparisons with other closely related genomes. Hence these methods cannot be easily applied to new genomes. As the number of newly sequenced bacterial genomes rapidly increases, there is a need for methods to detect GI based solely on sequences of a single genome. In this paper, we propose a novel method, GI-SVM, to predict GIs given only the unannotated genome sequence. GI-SVM is based on one-class support vector machine (SVM), utilizing composition bias in terms of k-mer content. From our evaluations on three real genomes, GI-SVM can achieve higher recall compared with current methods, without much loss of precision. Besides, GI-SVM allows flexible parameter tuning to get optimal results for each genome. In short, GI-SVM provides a more sensitive method for researchers interested in a first-pass detection of GI in newly sequenced genomes.
Indirect (source-free) integration method. I. Wave-forms from geodesic generic orbits of EMRIs
Authors: Ritter Patxi , Aoudia Sofiane , Spallicci Alessandro D. A. M. , Cordier Stéphane
Published: November 2015

The Regge–Wheeler–Zerilli (RWZ) wave-equation describes Schwarzschild–Droste black hole perturbations. The source term contains a Dirac distribution and its derivative. We have previously designed a method of integration in time domain. It consists of a finite difference scheme where analytic expressions, dealing with the wave-function discontinuity through the jump conditions, replace the direct integration of the source and the potential. Herein, we successfully apply the same method to the geodesic generic orbits of EMRI (Extreme Mass Ratio Inspiral) sources, at second order. An EMRI is a Compact Star (CS) captured by a Super-Massive Black Hole (SMBH). These are considered the best probes for testing gravitation in strong regime. The gravitational wave-forms, the radiated energy and angular momentum at infinity are computed and extensively compared with other methods, for different orbits (circular, elliptic, parabolic, including zoom-whirl).
Anomalous Ferromagnetism and Electron Microscopy Characterization of High-Quality Neodymium Oxychlorides Nanocrystals
Authors: Zheng Xinliang , Feng Juan , Zhang Jiarui , Xing Hongna , Zheng Jiming , Wang Mingzi , Zong Yan , Bai Jintao , Li Xinghua
Published: November 2015

High-quality neodymium oxychlorides nanocrystals with cubic shape were synthesized by a nonhydrolytic thermolysis route. The morphology and crystal structure of the neodymium oxychlorides nanocubes were characterized by transmission electron microscopy at the nanoscale. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) image shows that the neodymium oxychlorides nanocrystals are nearly monodispersed with cube-like shape. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and selected area electron diffraction (SAED) patterns of numerous neodymium oxychlorides nanocubes suggest a pure crystal phase with tetragonal PbFCl matlockite structure. HRTEM image of individual neodymium oxychlorides nanocubes indicate that each nanocubes have a single-crystalline nature with high quality. Unlike the anti-ferromagnetism of the bulk, the neodymium oxychlorides nanocubes show clearly anomalous ferromagnetic characteristic at room temperature. This finding provides a new platform for the exploration of diluted magnetic semiconductors, rare earth-based nanomaterials and so on.
On efficient vaccine distribution strategy to suppress pandemic using social relation
Authors: Kim Donghyun , Guo Hao , Wang Wei , Lee Joong-Lyul , Kwon Sung-Sik , Tokuta Alade O.
Published: November 2015

In this paper, we investigate the problem of how to distribute vaccines, which will be supplied over time, so that the number of the infected can be minimized during a given mission period. The concept of temporal graph is adopted to abstract the constantly changing social relations over time. Then, we formally introduce the social-relation-based vaccine distribution planning problem (SVDP2) on the temporal graph. To solve the problem, we first introduce a new graph induction technique to combine the subgraphs in the temporal graph into a single directed acyclic graph. Then, we design a new technique based on a maximum flow algorithm to evaluate the quality of any feasible solution of the problem. Finally, we propose an enumeration algorithm which will search the solution space using the evaluation technique and find the best possible solution within polynomial time. Our simulation result shows the proposed algorithm is more efficient than a simple strategy which randomly distributes vaccines.
A Review of Prediction Methods for Two-Phase Pressure Loss in Mini/Micro-Channels
Authors: Yun Jung Hoon , Jeong Ji Hwan
Published: November 2015

Previous methods and correlations for predicting two-phase frictional pressure loss in mini/micro-channels are reviewed and compared. The empirical correlations are classified into four groups of modeling approaches: Homogeneous equilibrium models (HEMs), separated flow models (SFMs), direct empirical correlations, and flow pattern specific correlations. In order to examine the characteristics of the predictive methods for two-phase pressure loss in mini-channels and to assess the accuracy of the previous models and correlations, extensive experimental data and correlations that are available in the open literature are collected. The 1175 and 1304 experimental data for the two-phase pressure drop for condensing and boiling flows, respectively, are gathered from 15 papers and reports. The results present that the size of the channel significantly influences the pressure drop. The comparison demonstrates that Cicchitti et al.’s two-phase viscosity model is recommended for predicting two-phase pressure loss when the HEM is used. In general, the SFM with the two-phase multipliers of Muller–Steinhagen and Heck and Kim and Mudawar outperforms others for channel diameters of less than 3[Formula: see text]mm.
Tunnel Magnetoresistance and Temperature Related Effects in Magnetic Tunnel Junctions with Embedded Nanoparticles
Authors: Useinov Arthur , Lai Chih-Huang
Published: November 2015

Temperature dependence of the tunnel magnetoresistance (TMR) was calculated in range of the quantum-ballistic model in the magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) with embedded nanoparticles (NPs). The electron tunnel transport through NP was simulated in range of double barrier approach, which was integrated into the model of the magnetic point-like contact. The resonant TMR conditions and temperature impact were explored in detail. Moreover, the possible reasons of the temperature induced resonant conditions were discussed in the range of the lead–tunneling cell (TC)–lead model near Kondo temperature. We also found that redistribution of the voltage drop becomes crucial in this model. Furthermore, the direct tunneling plays the dominant role and cannot be omitted in the quantum systems with the total tunneling thickness up to 5–6[Formula: see text]nm. Hence, Coulomb blockade model cannot explain Kondo-induced TMR anomalies in nanometer-sized tunnel junctions.
A Hybrid Feature Extraction Algorithm for Devanagari Script
Authors: Khanduja Deepti , Nain Neeta , Panwar Subhash
Published: November 2015

The efficiency of any character recognition technique is directly dependent on the accuracy of the generated feature set that could uniquely represent a character and hence correctly recognize it. This article proposes a hybrid approach combining the structural features of the character and a mathematical model of curve fitting to simulate the best features of a character. As a preprocessing step, skeletonization of the character is performed using an iterative thinning algorithm based on Raster scan of the character image. Then, a combination of structural features of the character like number of endpoints, loops, and intersection points is calculated. Further, the thinned character image is statistically zoned into partitions, and a quadratic curve-fitting model is applied on each partition forming a feature vector of the coefficients of the optimally fitted curve. This vector is combined with the spatial distribution of the foreground pixels for each zone and hence script-independent feature representation. The approach has been evaluated experimentally on Devanagari scripts. The algorithm achieves an average recognition accuracy of 93.4%.
Digital Digits
Authors: Shilkrot Roy , Huber Jochen , Steimle Jürgen , Nanayakkara Suranga , Maes Pattie
Published: November 2015

Finger augmentation devices, those that are worn and operated by fingers, are a rapidly growing field in the human--computer interaction domain. This field is rooted in ancient history; however, still the academic research arena is booming with new finger augmentations every year. This article strives to survey the entire body of work on finger augmentation devices and uncover the trends and the underexplored territories. We contribute a methodical classification of over 150 pieces of academic, product, patent, and concept work. We discuss the underlying sensing and feedback modalities and provide a definition, taxonomy, and reference for researchers of finger augmentation devices.
Indoor Positioning Using Visible LED Lights
Authors: Hassan Naveed Ul , Naeem Aqsa , Pasha Muhammad Adeel , Jadoon Tariq , Yuen Chau
Published: November 2015

Visible light LEDs, due to their numerous advantages, are expected to become the dominant indoor lighting technology. These lights can also be switched ON/OFF at high frequency, enabling their additional use for wireless communication and indoor positioning. In this article, visible LED light--based indoor positioning systems are surveyed and classified into two broad categories based on the receiver structure. The basic principle and architecture of each design category, along with various position computation algorithms, are discussed and compared. Finally, several new research, implementation, commercialization, and standardization challenges are identified and highlighted for this relatively novel and interesting indoor localization technology.
Experimental Design and Validation of an Accelerated Random Vibration Fatigue Testing Methodology
Authors: Jiang Yu , Yun Gun Jin , Zhao Li , Tao Junyong
Published: November 2015

Novel accelerated random vibration fatigue test methodology and strategy are proposed, which can generate a design of the experimental test plan significantly reducing the test time and the sample size. Based on theoretical analysis and fatigue damage model, several groups of random vibration fatigue tests were designed and conducted with the aim of investigating effects of both Gaussian and non-Gaussian random excitation on the vibration fatigue. First, stress responses at a weak point of a notched specimen structure were measured under different base random excitations. According to the measured stress responses, the structural fatigue lives corresponding to the different vibrational excitations were predicted by using the WAFO simulation technique. Second, a couple of destructive vibration fatigue tests were carried out to validate the accuracy of the WAFO fatigue life prediction method. After applying the proposed experimental and numerical simulation methods, various factors that affect the vibration fatigue life of structures were systematically studied, including root mean squares of acceleration, power spectral density, power spectral bandwidth, and kurtosis. The feasibility of WAFO for non-Gaussian vibration fatigue life prediction and the use of non-Gaussian vibration excitation for accelerated fatigue testing were experimentally verified.
Convex and Radially Concave Contoured Distributions
Authors: Richter Wolf-Dieter
Published: November 2015

Integral representations of the locally defined star-generalized surface content measures on star spheres are derived for boundary spheres of balls being convex or radially concave with respect to a fan inRn. As a result, the general geometric measure representation of star-shaped probability distributions and the general stochastic representation of the corresponding random vectors allow additional specific interpretations in the two mentioned cases. Applications to estimating and testing hypotheses on scaling parameters are presented, and two-dimensional sample clouds are simulated.
Circadian Control of Global Transcription
Authors: Li Shujing , Zhang Luoying
Published: November 2015

Circadian rhythms exist in most if not all organisms on the Earth and manifest in various aspects of physiology and behavior. These rhythmic processes are believed to be driven by endogenous molecular clocks that regulate rhythmic expression of clock-controlled genes (CCGs). CCGs consist of a significant portion of the genome and are involved in diverse biological pathways. The transcription of CCGs is tuned by rhythmic actions of transcription factors and circadian alterations in chromatin. Here, we review the circadian control of CCG transcription in five model organisms that are widely used, including cyanobacterium, fungus, plant, fruit fly, and mouse. Comparing the similarity and differences in the five organisms could help us better understand the function of the circadian clock, as well as its output mechanisms adapted to meet the demands of diverse environmental conditions.
New Insights into the Role of Metformin Effects on Serum Omentin-1 Levels in Acute Myocardial Infarction: Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Alkuraishy Hayder M. , Al-Gareeb Ali I.
Published: November 2015

Background. Serum omentin-1 level was low in the most types of ischemic heart disease compared to normal subjects; it also dependently correlated with coronary heart disease; thus, omentin-1 is regarded as a novel biomarker in IHD.Objective. The aim of the present study was to establish the links between omentin-1 and acute myocardial infarction in metformin patients.Subjects and Methods. A cross-sectional study was performed on eighty-five patients with type II DM and acute MI. They are divided as follows: Group I, 62 patients with type II DM who received metformin prior to onset of acute MI; Group II, 23 patients with type II DM who did not receive metformin prior to onset of acute MI; and Group III, 30 normal healthy controls. Venous blood was drawn from each participant for determination of lipid profile, plasma omentin-1, cardiac troponin-I (cTn-I) and other routine tests.Results. Patients that presented with acute MI that received metformin show a significant difference in all biochemical parameters (p<0.001); metformin increases serum omentin-1 level and decreases serum cardiac troponin-I level compared with control subjects and nonmetformin treated patients.Conclusion. Metformin pharmacotherapy increases omentin-1 serum levels and may be regarded as a potential agent in the prevention of the occurrences of acute MI in diabetic patients.
A Combined Raman Spectroscopic and Thermogravimetric Analysis Study on Oxidation of Coal with Different Ranks
Authors: Zhang Weiqing , Jiang Shuguang , Hardacre Christopher , Goodrich Peter , Wang Kai , Shao Hao , Wu Zhengyan
Published: November 2015

Raman spectroscopy and nonisothermal thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) measurements have been reported for different rank coals (lignite, bituminous coal, and anthracite) and the relationship between the measurements was examined. It was found that the Raman spectra parameters can be used to characterize structure changes in the different rank coals, such as the band area ratios based on the curve-fitted results. Higher ranked coal was found to have higher values ofIGR/IAllandIG+GR/IAllbut lower values ofID/I(G+GR),IDL/I(G+GR),IS+SL/I(G+GR), andI(GL+GL')/I(G+GR). The oxidation properties of the coal samples were characterized by the reactivity indexesTig,T20%, andTmaxfrom TGA data which were found to correlate well with the band area ratios ofIGR/IAll,IG+GR/IAll, andIS+SL/I(G+GR). Based on these correlations, the Raman band area ratios were found to correlate with the oxidation activity of coal providing additional structural information which can be used to understand the changes in the TGA measurements.
The Use of Physical Restraint in Norwegian Adult Psychiatric Hospitals
Authors: Wynn Rolf
Published: November 2015

Background.The use of coercion within the psychiatric services is problematic and raises a range of ethical, legal, and clinical questions. “Physical restraint” is an emergency procedure used in psychiatric hospitals to control patients that pose an imminent physical danger. We wished to review the literature published in scientific peer-reviewed journals describing studies on the use of physical restraint in Norway, in order to identify the current state of knowledge and directions for future research.Design. The databases PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Embase were searched for studies relating to physical restraint (including holding) in Norwegian psychiatric hospitals, supplemented with hand searches.Results. 28 studies were included. Most of the studies were on rates of restraint, but there were also some studies on perceptions of patients and staff, case studies, and ethnographic studies. There was only one intervention study. There are differences in use between wards and institutions, which in part may be explained by differences in patient populations. Staff appear to be less negative to the use of restraint than patients.Conclusions. The studies that were identified were primarily concerned with rates of use and with patients’ and staff’s perspectives. More interventional studies are needed to move the field forward.
Primary Endometrial Adenocarcinoma with Signet-Ring Cells: A Rarely Observed Case and Review of the Literature
Authors: Akkalp Aslı Kahraman , Ozyurek Eser Sefik , Tetikkurt Umit Seza , Yalcin Senay , Koy Yazgi , Usta Abdullah Taner
Published: November 2015

An extremely rare case of a “primary endometrial adenocarcinoma with signet-ring cells” is presented in this study with microscopical images of the characteristic coexistence of the tumour and intermediate precancerous areas containing signet-ring cells.
Numerical Analysis of a Distributed Optimal Control Problem Governed by an Elliptic Variational Inequality
Authors: Olguín Mariela , Tarzia Domingo A.
Published: November 2015

The objective of this work is to make the numerical analysis, through the finite element method with Lagrange’s triangles of type 1, of a continuous optimal control problem governed by an elliptic variational inequality where the control variable is the internal energyg. The existence and uniqueness of this continuous optimal control problem and its associated state system were proved previously. In this paper, we discretize the elliptic variational inequality which defines the state system and the corresponding cost functional, and we prove that there exist a discrete optimal control and its associated discrete state system for each positiveh(the parameter of the finite element method approximation). Finally, we show that the discrete optimal control and its associated state system converge to the continuous optimal control and its associated state system when the parameterhgoes to zero.
Comparing Three Dual-Task Methods and the Relationship to Physical and Cognitive Impairment in People with Multiple Sclerosis and Controls
Authors: Kirkland Megan C. , Wallack Elizabeth M. , Rancourt Samantha N. , Ploughman Michelle
Published: November 2015

Dual-tasking (DT) is a measure to detect impairments in people with multiple sclerosis (MS). We compared three DT methods to determine whether cognitive (Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA)) or physical disability (Expanded Disease Severity Scale; EDSS) was related to DT performance. We recruited MS participants with low disability (<3 EDSS,n=13) and high disability (≥3 EDSS,n=9) and matched controls (n=13). Participants walked at self-selected (SS) speed on an instrumented walkway (Protokinetics, Havertown, USA), followed by DT walks in randomized order: DT ABC (reciting every second letter of the alphabet), DT 7 (serially subtracting 7’s from 100), and DT 3 (counting upwards, leaving out multiples and numbers that include 3). DT 7 resulted in the most consistent changes in performance. Both MS and control groups reduced velocity and cadence and shortened step length during DT with no significant differences between groups. Control subjects widened stride width by about 1 cm while MS subjects (collapsed as one group) did not. MS subjects with higher disability significantly increased percentage time in double support during DT compared to SS (F=12.95,p<0.001). The change in DS was related to cognitive and not physical disability (r=0.54,  p<0.05).
ZnO-PLLA Nanofiber Nanocomposite for Continuous Flow Mode Purification of Water from Cr(VI)
Authors: Burks T. , Akthar F. , Saleemi M. , Avila M. , Kiros Y.
Published: November 2015

Nanomaterials of ZnO-PLLA nanofibers have been used for the adsorption of Cr(VI) as a prime step for the purification of water. The fabrication and application of the flexible ZnO-PLLA nanofiber nanocomposite as functional materials in this well-developed architecture have been achieved by growing ZnO nanorod arrays by chemical bath deposition on synthesized electrospun poly-L-lactide nanofibers. The nanocomposite material has been tested for the removal and regeneration of Cr(IV) in aqueous solution under a “continuous flow mode” by studying the effects of pH, contact time, and desorption steps. The adsorption of Cr(VI) species in solution was greatly dependent upon pH. SEM micrographs confirmed the successful fabrication of the ZnO-PLLA nanofiber nanocomposite. The adsorption and desorption of Cr(VI) species were more likely due to the electrostatic interaction between ZnO and Cr(VI) ions as a function of pH. The adsorption and desorption experiments utilizing the ZnO-PLLA nanofiber nanocomposite have appeared to be an effective nanocomposite in the removal and regeneration of Cr(VI) species.
Yokukansan Increases 5-HT1AReceptors in the Prefrontal Cortex and Enhances 5-HT1AReceptor Agonist-Induced Behavioral Responses in Socially Isolated Mice
Authors: Ueki Toshiyuki , Mizoguchi Kazushige , Yamaguchi Takuji , Nishi Akinori , Ikarashi Yasushi , Hattori Tomohisa , Kase Yoshio
Published: November 2015

The traditional Japanese medicine yokukansan has an anxiolytic effect, which occurs after repeated administration. In this study, to investigate the underlying mechanisms, we examined the effects of repeated yokukansan administration on serotonin 1A (5-HT1A) receptor density and affinity and its expression at both mRNA and protein levels in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) of socially isolated mice. Moreover, we examined the effects of yokukansan on a 5-HT1Areceptor-mediated behavioral response. Male mice were subjected to social isolation stress for 6 weeks and simultaneously treated with yokukansan. Thereafter, the density and affinity of 5-HT1Areceptors were analyzed by a receptor-binding assay. Levels of 5-HT1Areceptor protein and mRNA were also measured. Furthermore, (±)-8-hydroxy-2-(dipropylamino)tetralin hydrobromide (8-OH-DPAT; a 5-HT1Areceptor agonist) was injected intraperitoneally, and rearing behavior was examined. Social isolation stress alone did not affect 5-HT1Areceptor density or affinity. However, yokukansan significantly increased receptor density and decreased affinity concomitant with unchanged protein and mRNA levels. Yokukansan also enhanced the 8-OH-DPAT-induced decrease in rearing behavior. These results suggest that yokukansan increases 5-HT1Areceptors in the PFC of socially isolated mice and enhances their function, which might underlie its anxiolytic effects.
Effects of a Group of High-Rise Structures on Ground Motions under Seismic Excitation
Authors: Chen Qing-jun , Li Wen-ting
Published: November 2015

A three-dimensional simulation was created to determine the seismic performance of coupled systems with a group of up to 100 pile-high-rise structures resting on soil layers using system modal, harmonic, and time domain analysis. The results demonstrated that the existence of a structural group mitigates the structural responses with respect to the single-structure-soil interaction (SSI) and results in significantly nonuniform ground seismic motions. Due to the influence of a structural group, adjacent structures can exhibit fully alternating mechanical behavior, and buildings in the urban fringe are subjected to stronger shaking than downtown buildings. The overall trend of the influence of structural groups is that ground motions are lessened inside an urban area, and ground motions at the locations between structures differ from those at the locations of the structures. Moreover, the effective distance of a structural group on ground motions is associated with the urban width. Less distance between structures enhances the interaction effect. In addition, the soil properties can greatly influence the system’s seismic responses and can even completely change the effect trends. The results in our paper are consistent with the phenomena observed in the Mexico City earthquake and the 1976 earthquake in Friuli, Italy.
Analysis and Simulation on UMP and EMT Characters of Turbogenerator under Axial Air-Gap Eccentricity
Authors: He Yu-Ling , Deng Wei-Qi , Tang Gui-Ji
Published: November 2015

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of the axial air-gap eccentricity (AAGE) on the electromagnetic characters such as the axial unbalanced magnetic pull (UMP) and the electromagnetic torque (EMT). Firstly, the theoretical model of AAGE is set up, and the formulas of the axial UMP and EMT are deduced. Then the simulation study of a SDF-9 nonsalient pole synchronous generator is taken with Ansoft Maxwell to calculate the detailed axial UMPs and EMTs under normal condition and five AAGE conditions, respectively, with 2 mm to 10 mm rotor displacements. It is shown that an apparent axial UMP will be produced due to AAGE, while EMT and the phase current will be decreased. In addition, the magnetic flux density (MFD) on the stator end and the rotor end, which are more far from the center position of the stator core in the axial direction, will be decreased, while the MFD on the other ends will be generally kept stable. As AAGE develops, the axial UMP will be increased, while EMT and the phase current will be decreased. The proposed work offers a reference for the fault diagnosis and monitoring on AAGE.
Effect of Weight‐Reduction in Obese Mice Lacking Toll‐Like Receptor 5 and C57BL/6 Mice Fed a Low‐Fat Diet
Authors: Wu Shao-Chun , Rau Cheng-Shyuan , Lu Tsu-Hsiang , Tzeng Siou-Ling , Wu Yi-Chan , Wu Chia-Jung , Lin Chia-Wei , Hsieh Ching-Hua
Published: November 2015

Background. This study aims to investigate the effect of feeding low‐fat diet (LFD) to diet‐induced obesity (DIO) mice lacking TLR5 (TLR5−/−), which have a tendency to develop glucose intolerance with increased adiposity, compared to that in C57BL/6 mice. Results. TLR5−/− and C57BL/6 male mice were divided into three subgroups: (1) control, mice were fed a standard AIN‐76A (fat: 11.5 kcal%) diet for 12 weeks; (2) DIO, mice were fed a 58 kcal% high‐fat diet (HFD) for 12 weeks; and (3) diet, mice were fed a HFD for 8 weeks to induce obesity and then switched to a 10.5 kcal% LFD for 4 weeks. The glucose intolerance in DIO TLR5−/− mice was more significant than that in DIO C57BL/6 mice and was not attenuated by a switch to the LFD. Weight‐reduction with LFD had significantly decreased the epididymal fat mass in C57BL/6 mice but not in TLR5−/− mice. In addition, the LFD‐fed TLR5−/− mice showed significantly higher expression of ghrelin in the serum and resistin in the epididymal fat than that in C57BL/6 mice. Conclusions. This study demonstrated that TLR5 gene knockout impairs some effects of weight‐reduction in DIO.
Significance of Polymorphisms and Expression of Enzyme-Encoding Genes Related to Glutathione in Hematopoietic Cancers and Solid Tumors
Authors: Zmorzyński Szymon , Świderska-Kołacz Grażyna , Koczkodaj Dorota , Filip Agata Anna
Published: November 2015

Antioxidant compounds such as glutathione and its enzymes have become the focus of attention of medical sciences. Glutathione, a specific tripeptide, is involved in many intercellular processes. The glutathione concentration is determined by the number of GAG repeats in gamma-glutamylcysteine synthetase. GAG polymorphisms are associated with an increased risk of schizophrenia, berylliosis, diabetes, lung cancer, and nasopharyngeal tumors. Cancer cells with high glutathione concentration are resistant to chemotherapy treatment. The oxidized form of glutathione is formed by glutathione peroxidases (GPXs). The changes in activity of GPX1, GPX2, and GPX3 isoforms may be associated with the development of cancers, for example, prostate cancer or even colon cancer. Detoxification of glutathione conjugates is possible due to activity of glutathione S-transferases (GSTs). Polymorphisms in GSTM1, GSTP1, and GSTO1 enzymes increase the risk of developing breast cancer and hepatocellular carcinoma. Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidases (GGTs) are responsible for glutathione degradation. Increased activity of GGT correlates with adverse prognosis in patients with breast cancer. Studies on genes encoding glutathione enzymes are continued in order to determine the correlation between DNA polymorphisms in cancer patients.
Study on Molecular Recognition betweenEuphorbia FactorL713283 andβ-Tubulin via Molecular Simulation Methods
Authors: Chang Shan , He Hong-qiu , Kong Ren , Xie Zhen-jian , Hu Jian-ping
Published: November 2015

Euphorbia factorL713283 is a new lathyrane diterpene isolated fromEuphorbia lathyrisand shows strong anticancer activity. By using molecular similarity analysis,β-tubulin was identified as one of the possible targets of L713283. We further investigated the binding modes of L713283 withβ-tubulin using molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation methods. The results indicated that the binding site betweenβ-tubulin and L713283 was composed of the four regions, that is, residues Phe20~Glu27, Leu225~Thr232, Phe270~Gly277, and Ile356~Met363. MM/GBSA method was used to calculate the binding free energy and determine the key residues for the association of L713283 withβ-tubulin. It was found that nonpolar interactions made the major contributions for the binding. In addition, we compared the binding pocket and motion modes of L713283-free and L713283-boundβ-tubulin systems. It is proposed that L713283 may bind toβ-tubulin and favor the formation ofαβ-tubulin dimmer. This work provides possible explanation for molecular mechanism of the anticancer agent L713283, and the strategy used here could benefit the investigation of possible target profile for those bioactive agents with unknown mechanisms.
Endometrial Mesenchymal Stem Cells Isolated from Menstrual Blood by Adherence
Authors: Du Xue , Yuan Qing , Qu Ye , Zhou Yuan , Bei Jia
Published: November 2015

Objective. To find a convenient and efficient way to isolate MSCs from human menstrual blood and to investigate their biological characteristics, proliferative capacity, and secretion levels. Methods. MSCs were isolated from menstrual blood of 3 healthy women using adherence. Cell immunological phenotype was examined by flow cytometry; the adipogenic, osteogenic, and chondrogenic differentiation of MSCs was examined by Oil‐Red‐O staining, ALP staining, and Alcian Blue staining, respectively; and the secretion of cytokines, including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), and insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1), was detected using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Results. MB‐MSCs were successfully isolated from human menstrual blood using adherence. They were positive for CD73, CD105, CD29, and CD44, but negative for CD31 and CD45. The differentiated MB‐MSCs were positive for ALP staining, Oil‐Red‐O staining, and Alcian Blue staining. In addition, they could secrete antiapoptotic cytokines, such as VEGF, IGF‐1, and HGF. Conclusion. It is feasible to isolate MSCs from human menstrual blood, thus avoiding invasive procedures and ethical controversies. Adherence could be a promising alternative to the density gradient centrifugation for the isolation of MSCs from menstrual blood.
Alterations of the Neuroinflammatory Markers IL-6 and TRAIL in Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Wu Ya-Ying , Hsu Jung-Lung , Wang Han-Cheng , Wu Shyh-Jong , Hong Chen-Jee , Cheng Irene Han-Juo
Published: November 2015

Objective: We aimed to identify biomarkers of Alzheimer's disease (AD) in order to improve diagnostic accuracy at mild stage. Methods: AD patients aged >50 years were included in the disease group. We evaluated the relationship between potential blood and cerebrospinal fluid inflammatory biomarkers, cognitive status, temporal lobe atrophy and disease severity. Inflammatory biomarkers including interleukin 6 (IL-6), IL-18, fractalkine and tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) levels were measured. APOE genotypes were determined. Results: We enrolled 41 subjects in the disease group and 40 subjects in the normal control group. The majority (88.9%) of subjects in the disease group had mild AD. Elevated levels of plasma IL-6 and decreased levels of plasma TRAIL in the disease group were noted. Plasma levels of IL-6 and TRAIL were significantly correlated with their cerebrospinal fluid levels. Conclusion: Plasma IL-6 and TRAIL were identified as potential biomarkers of AD at an early stage.
The Filum Terminale Revisited: A Histological Study in Human Fetuses
Authors: Jang Hyung Suk , Cho Kwang Ho , Chang Hyuk , Jin Zhe Wu , Rodriguez-Vazquez Jose Francisco , Murakami Gen
Published: November 2015

Previous studies have suggested that secondary neurulation provides no functional neurons but only the filum terminale. However, no studies have confirmed that the coccygeal and lower sacral nerves do not originate from the secondary neural tube but only from the primary tube. To obtain a better understanding of these relationships, we examined sagittal or frontal sections from 20 embryonic and fetal specimens ranging from 6 to 14 weeks of gestation. During the growth of the vertebral column as well as the subsequent upward migration of the caudal end of the dural sac, the secondary neural tube was stretched to maintain the original attachment to the coccyx or the lower sacral vertebra. The filum-like structure showed much individual variability but in all cases appeared to be derived from the stretched neural tube. Intermediate age morphology revealed that the secondary neural tube itself provided an initial filum terminale before the ascent of the dural sac. Given that the coccygeal and lower sacral nerves are likely to originate from the secondary neural tube, these parts of the tube persisted and differentiated into spinal neurons to form the anococcygeal nerves. Likewise, the filum terminale was also most likely to contain some neurons that persisted postnatally. Depending on the timing and site of degeneration of the secondary neural tube, individual variations could occur in proportion to the amount of sensory and motor elements in the anococcygeal nerve supply.
Clinical and Cognitive Phenotype of Mild Cognitive Impairment Evolving to Dementia with Lewy Bodies
Authors: Cagnin Annachiara , Bussè Cinzia , Gardini Simona , Jelcic Nela , Guzzo Caterina , Gnoato Francesca , Mitolo Micaela , Ermani Mario , Caffarra Paolo
Published: November 2015

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine which characteristics could better distinguish dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) from Alzheimer's disease (AD) at the mild cognitive impairment (MCI) stage, with particular emphasis on visual space and object perception abilities. Methods: Fifty-three patients with mild cognitive deficits that were eventually diagnosed with probable DLB (MCI-DLB: n = 25) and AD (MCI-AD: n = 28) at a 3-year follow-up were retrospectively studied. At the first visit, the patients underwent cognitive assessment including the Qualitative Scoring Mini Mental State Examination Pentagon Test and the Visual Object and Space Perception Battery. The Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire, Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) and questionnaires for cognitive fluctuations and sleep disorders were also administered. Results: The best clinical predictor of DLB was the presence of soft extrapyramidal signs (mean UPDRS score: 4.04 ± 5.9) detected in 72% of patients, followed by REM sleep behavior disorder (60%) and fluctuations (60%). Wrong performances in the pentagon's number of angles were obtained in 44% of DLB and 3.7% of AD patients and correlated with speed of visual attention. Executive functions, visual attention and visuospatial abilities were worse in DLB, while verbal episodic memory impairment was greater in AD. Deficits in the visual-perceptual domain were present in both MCI-DLB and AD. Conclusions: Poor performance in the pentagon's number of angles is specific of DLB and correlates with speed of visual attention. The dorsal visual stream seems specifically more impaired in MCI-DLB with respect to the ventral visual stream, the latter being involved in both DLB and AD. These cognitive features, associated with subtle extrapyramidal signs, should alert clinicians to a diagnostic hypothesis of DLB.
Triple Negative Breast Cancer versus Non-Triple Negative Breast Cancer Treated with Breast Conservation Surgery Followed by Radiotherapy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Pan Xin-Bin , Qu Song , Jiang Yan-Ming , Zhu Xiao-Dong
Published: November 2015

Background: The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of breast conservation surgery (BCS) followed by radiotherapy (RT) in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) versus non-TNBC. Methods: We searched the MEDLINE and EMBASE databases from inception through March 31, 2014, using search terms related to TNBC, BCS, and RT. Studies comparing the efficacy of BCS followed by RT in TNBC versus non-TNBC were reviewed. Results: 5 studies including 2,922 non-TNBC and 510 TNBC cases were selected. The overall quality of included studies was deemed moderate to high. Compared with non-TNBC, the pooled relative risk of 5-year local relapse-free survival was 1.315 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.967-1.789; p = 0.008) for TNBC, and that of 5-year overall survival, regional relapse-free survival, and distant metastasis-free survival was 1.929 (95% CI 1.392-2.674; p = 0.000), 3.052 (95% CI 1.629-5.715; p = 0.000), and 2.407 (95% CI 1.910-3.034; p = 0.000), respectively. Conclusion: The local control rate of TNBC treated with BCS plus RT is similar to that of non-TNBC.
Sexual Dysfunction in Men Receiving Methadone Maintenance Treatment: Clinical History and Psychobiological Correlates
Authors: Gerra Gilberto , Manfredini Matteo , Somaini Lorenzo , Maremmani Icro , Leonardi Claudio , Donnini Claudia
Published: November 2015

Abstract: A variety of studies evidenced a relationship between drug use disorders and sexual dysfunction. In particular, heroin and opioid agonist medications to treat heroin dependence have been found to be associated with erectile dysfunction and reduced libido. Controversial findings also indicate the possibility of factors other than the pharmacological effects of opioid drugs concurring to sexual dysfunction. With the present study, we investigated the link between sexual dysfunction and long-term exposure to opioid receptor stimulation (heroin dependence, methadone maintenance treatment, methadone dosage), the potentially related hormonal changes reflecting hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis function and prolactin (PRL) pituitary release, the role of adverse childhood experiences in the clinical history and the concomitant symptoms of comorbid mental health disorders in contributing to sexual problems. Forty male patients participating in a long-term methadone treatment program were included in the present study and compared with 40 healthy control subjects who never used drugs nor abused alcohol. All patients and controls were submitted to the Arizona Sexual Experiences Scale (ASEX), Child Experiences of Care and Abuse-Questionnaire (CECA-Q) and the Symptom Check List-90 Scale. A blood sample for testosterone and PRL assays was collected. Methadone dosages were recorded among heroin-dependent patients on maintenance treatment. Methadone patients scored significantly higher than controls on the 5-item rating ASEX scale, on CECA-Q and on Symptoms Check List 90 (SCL 90) scale. Testosterone plasma levels were significantly lower and PRL levels significantly higher in methadone patients with respect to the healthy control group. ASEX scores reflecting sexual dysfunction were directly and significantly correlated with CECA-Q neglect scores and SCL 90 psychiatric symptoms total score. The linear regression model, when applied only to addicted patients, showed that methadone dosages were not significantly correlated with sexual dysfunction scores except for ‘erectile dysfunction', for which an inverse association was evidenced. Testosterone values showed a significant inverse correlation with ASEX sexual dysfunction scores, CECA-Q neglect scores and psychiatric symptom at SCL 90 among methadone patients. PRL levels were directly and significantly correlated with sexual dysfunction scores, psychiatric symptoms at SCL 90 and CECA-Q neglect scores. Both testosterone and PRL did not correlate with methadone dosages. The present findings appear to support the view of childhood adversities and comorbid psychiatric symptoms contributing to sexual dysfunction and related hormonal changes among methadone patients, challenging the assumption that attributes sexual problems entirely to the direct pharmacological effects of opioid agonist medications.
Mitosis and Interphase of the Highly Polyploid Palm Voanioalagerardii (2n = 606 ± 3)
Authors: Röser Martin
Published: November 2015

The endemic, highly polyploid, monotypic Madagascan palm genus Voanioala (2n ≈ 606) was studied with regard to mitotic stages and interphase. Features of the cell cycle, morphology and sizes of metaphase chromosomes, fluorochrome banding patterns, and silver staining of NORs of such an extremely high polyploid organism are reported for the first time. On a whole, karyokinesis appears to be stable and efficient. A comparison with closely related palm taxa reveals that V. gerardii is 38-ploid, and comparison with the closely related genera Butia, Cocos (coconut) and Jubaea shows that Voanioala has lost ∼35% of its DNA amount subsequent to polyploidization and has suppressed between 74 and 88% of the original nucleolar organizers. About 10 active NORs are present in the nuclei. An auto- or allopolyploid origin of Voanioala is discussed with respect to currently available nuclear gene data. The biogeographic relations to Jubaeopsis, a closely related, monotypic, apparently likewise relict palm genus from eastern mainland South Africa are discussed. From a cytogenetic point of view, a common polyploid ancestor of both genera is most likely, but the available molecular phylogenetic data are not univocal.
Complete Idiopathic Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism due to Homozygous GNRH1 Mutations in the Mutational Hot Spots in the Region Encoding the Decapeptide
Authors: Mengen Eda , Tunc Selma , Kotan L. Damla , Nalbantoglu Ozlem , Demir Korcan , Gurbuz Fatih , Turan Ihsan , Seker Gül , Yuksel Bilgin , Topaloglu A. Kemal
Published: November 2015

Introduction: Mutations of the human GNRH1 gene are an extremely rare cause of normosmic idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (nIHH), with only 6 mutations so far described. Patients: As part of a larger study, families with IHH were screened for mutations in genes known to be associated with IHH. In family 1, a 15-year and 9-month-old boy first presented during infancy with micropenis and bilateral cryptorchidism. His pubic and axillary hair is at stage 4 and 2, respectively. His testes are 1 ml bilaterally, and his stretched penile length is 3.6 cm. In family 2, a 19-year and 2-month-old man was referred because of absence of secondary sexual characteristics. His 13-year and 8-month-old sister did not have any breast development. Results: In 3 patients from 2 independent families we identified GNRH1 mutations. In the proband from family 1, a homozygous 1-base deletion (c.87delA) leading to a frameshift mutation (p.G29GfsX12) was identified. In family 2, the affected siblings had a novel homozygous mutation of c.G92A leading to p.R31H. Conclusion: Both mutations in these families are located in the region encoding the decapeptide and in the loci where the mutations have been described before. Therefore, these areas can be considered as mutational hot spots, indicating priority for routine diagnostic gene mutation analysis.
Cystic Lesions in Autoimmune Pancreatitis
Authors: Gompertz Macarena , Morales Claudia , Aldana Hernán , Castillo Jaime , Berger Zoltán
Published: November 2015

Autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) can be chronic or recurrent, but frequently completely reversible after steroid treatment. A cystic lesion in AIP is a rare finding, and it can mimic a pancreatic cystic neoplasm. Difficulties in an exact diagnosis interfere with treatment, and surgery cannot be avoided in some cases. We report the history of a 63-year-old male presenting with jaundice and pruritus. AIP was confirmed by imaging and elevated IgG4 blood levels, and the patient completely recovered after corticosteroid therapy. One year later, he presented with a recurrent episode of AIP with elevated IgG4 levels, accompanied by the appearance of multiple intrapancreatic cystic lesions. All but 1 of these cysts disappeared after steroid treatment, but the remaining cyst in the pancreatic head was even somewhat larger 1 year later. Pancreatoduodenectomy was finally performed. Histology showed the wall of the cystic lesion to be fibrotic; the surrounding pancreatic tissue presented fibrosis, atrophy and lymphoplasmacytic infiltration by IgG4-positive cells, without malignant elements. Our case illustrates the rare possibility that cystic lesions can be part of AIP. These pseudocysts appear in the pancreatic segments involved in the autoimmune disease and can be a consequence of the local inflammation or related to ductal strictures. Steroid treatment should be initiated, after which these cysts can completely disappear with recovery from AIP. Surgical intervention may be necessary in some exceptional cases.