bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High dietary phosphate intake induces hypertension and augments exercise pressor reflex function in rats
Authors: Mizuno Masaki , Mitchell Jere H. , Crawford Scott , Huang Chou-Long , Maalouf Naim , Hu Ming-Chang , Moe Orson W. , Smith Scott A. , Vongpatanasin Wanpen
Published: May 2016

An increasing number of studies have linked high dietary phosphate (Pi) intake to hypertension. It is well established that the rise in sympathetic nerve activity (SNA) and blood pressure (BP) during physical exertion is exaggerated in many forms of hypertension, which are primarily mediated by an overactive skeletal muscle exercise pressor reflex (EPR). However, it remains unknown whether high dietary Pi intake potentiates the EPR-mediated SNA and BP response to exercise. Accordingly, we measured renal SNA (RSNA) and mean BP (MBP) in normotensive Sprague-Dawley rats fed a normal Pi diet (0.6%, n = 13) or high Pi diet (1.2%, n = 13) for 3 mo. As previously reported, we found that resting BP was significantly increased by 1.2% Pi diet in both conscious and anesthetized animals. Activation of the EPR by electrically induced hindlimb contraction triggered greater increases in ΔRSNA and ΔMBP in the 1.2% compared with 0.6% Pi group (126 ± 25 vs. 42 ± 9%; 44 ± 5 vs. 14 ± 2 mmHg, respectively, P < 0.01). Activation of the muscle mechanoreflex, a component of the EPR, by passively stretching hindlimb muscle also evoked greater increases in ΔRSNA and ΔMBP in the 1.2% compared with 0.6% Pi group (109 ± 27 vs. 24 ± 7%, 38 ± 7 vs. 8 ± 2 mmHg, respectively, P < 0.01). A similar response was produced by hindlimb intra-arterial capsaicin administration to stimulate the metaboreflex arm of the EPR. Thus, our data demonstrate a novel action of dietary Pi loading in augmenting EPR function through overactivation of both the muscle mechanoreflex and metaboreflex.
West Nile Virus Circulation in Mosquitoes in Greece (2010–2013)
Authors: Patsoula Eleni , Vakali Annita , Balatsos Georgios , Pervanidou Danai , Beleri Stavroula , Tegos Nikolaos , Baka Agoritsa , Spanakos Gregory , Georgakopoulou Theano , Tserkezou Persefoni , Van Bortel Wim , Zeller Herve , Menounos Panagiotis , Kremastinou Jenny , Hadjichristodoulou Christos
Published: May 2016

Background of the Study. Following a large West Nile virus (WNV) epidemic in Northern Greece in 2010, an active mosquito surveillance system was implemented, for a 3-year period (2011, 2012, and 2013).Description of the Study Site and Methodology. Using mainly CO2mosquito traps, mosquito collections were performed. Samples were pooled by date of collection, location, and species and examined for the presence of WNV.Results. Positive pools were detected in different areas of the country. In 2010, MIR and MLE values of 1.92 (95% CI: 0.00–4.57) and 2.30 (95% CI: 0.38–7.49) were calculated for the Serres Regional Unit in Central Macedonia Region. In 2011, the highest MIR value of 3.71(95% CI: 1.52–5.91) was recorded in the Regions of Central Greece and Thessaly. In 2012, MIR and MLE values for the whole country were 2.03 (95% CI: 1.73–2.33) and 2.15 (95% CI: 1.86–2.48), respectively, forCx. pipiens. In 2013, in the Regional Unit of Attica, the one outbreak epicenter, MIR and MLE values forCx. pipienswere 10.75 (95% CI: 7.52–13.99) and 15.76 (95% CI: 11.66–20.65), respectively.Significance of Results/Conclusions. The contribution of a mosquito-based surveillance system targeting WNV transmission is highlighted through the obtained data, as in most regions positive mosquito pools were detected prior to the date of symptom onset of human cases. Dissemination of the results on time to Public Health Authorities resulted in planning and application of public health interventions in local level.
The Injury and Therapy of Reactive Oxygen Species in Intracerebral Hemorrhage Looking at Mitochondria
Authors: Qu Jie , Chen Weixiang , Hu Rong , Feng Hua
Published: May 2016

Intracerebral hemorrhage is an emerging major health problem often resulting in death or disability. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been identified as one of the major damaging factors in ischemic stroke. However, there is less discussion about ROS in hemorrhage stroke. Metabolic products of hemoglobin, excitatory amino acids, and inflammatory cells are all sources of ROS, and ROS harm the central nervous system through cell death and structural damage, especially disruption of the blood‐brain barrier. We have considered the antioxidant system of the CNS itself and the drugs aiming to decrease ROS after ICH, and we find that mitochondria are key players in all of these aspects. Moreover, when the mitochondrial permeability transition pore opens, ROS‐induced ROS release, which leads to extensive liberation of ROS and mitochondrial failure, occurs. Therefore, the mitochondrion may be a significant target for elucidating the problem of ROS in ICH; however, additional experimental support is required.
Bayesian Train Localization with Particle Filter, Loosely Coupled GNSS, IMU, and a Track Map
Authors: Heirich Oliver
Published: May 2016

Train localization is safety-critical and therefore the approach requires a continuous availability and a track-selective accuracy. A probabilistic approach is followed up in order to cope with multiple sensors, measurement errors, imprecise information, and hidden variables as the topological position within the track network. The nonlinear estimation of the train localization posterior is addressed with a novel Rao-Blackwellized particle filter (RBPF) approach. There, embedded Kalman filters estimate certain linear state variables while the particle distribution can cope with the nonlinear cases of parallel tracks and switch scenarios. The train localization algorithm is further based on a track map and measurements from a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receiver and an inertial measurement unit (IMU). The GNSS integration is loosely coupled and the IMU integration is achieved without the common strapdown approach and suitable for low-cost IMUs. The implementation is evaluated with real measurements from a regional train at regular passenger service over 230 km of tracks with 107 split switches and parallel track scenarios of 58.5 km. The approach is analyzed with labeled data by means of ground truth of the traveled switch way. Track selectivity results reach 99.3% over parallel track scenarios and 97.2% of correctly resolved switch ways.
Pleiotropic Effects of IL-2 on Cancer: Its Role in Cervical Cancer
Authors: Valle-Mendiola Arturo , Gutiérrez-Hoya Adriana , Lagunas-Cruz María del Carmen , Weiss-Steider Benny , Soto-Cruz Isabel
Published: May 2016

IL-2 receptor (IL-2R) signalling is critical for normal lymphocyte proliferation, but its role in cervical cancer is not fully understood. The receptor is composed of three chains: IL-2α, IL-2β, and IL-2γ. Intracellular signalling is initiated by ligand-induced heterodimerization of the IL-2βand IL-2γchains, resulting in the activation of multiple intracellular kinases. Recently, IL-2R was shown to be expressed on nonhaematopoietic cells, especially on several types of tumour cells. However, the function of this receptor on malignant cells has not been clearly defined. The expression of IL-2R and the production of IL-2 in cervical cancer cells have been documented as well as expression of molecules of the JAK-STAT pathway. In the current review we have highlighted the differences in the responses of molecules downstream from the IL-2R in normal lymphocytes and tumour cells that could explain the presence of tumour cells in an environment in which cytotoxic lymphocytes also exist and compete and also the effect of different concentrations of IL-2 that could activate effector cells of the immune system cells, which favour the elimination of tumour cells, or concentrations that may promote a regulatory microenvironment in which tumour cells can easily grow.
Decreased Cytotoxicity of Peripheral and Peritoneal Natural Killer Cell in Endometriosis
Authors: Jeung InCheul , Cheon Keunyoung , Kim Mee-Ran
Published: May 2016

Endometriosis causes significant chronic pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, and infertility and affects 10% of all women. In endometriosis, ectopic endometrium surviving after retrograde menstruation exhibits an abnormal immune response characterized by increased levels of activated macrophages and inflammatory cytokines. Particularly, dysfunctional natural killer (NK) cells play an important role in the pathogenesis of the disease by either facilitating or inhibiting the survival, implantation, and proliferation of endometrial cells. NK cells in the peritoneum and peritoneal fluid exhibit reduced levels of cytotoxicity in women with endometriosis. Several cytokines and inhibitory factors in the serum and peritoneal fluid also dysregulate NK cell cytotoxicity. Additionally, increased numbers of immature peripheral NK cells and induction of NK cell apoptosis are evident in the peritoneal fluid of women with endometriosis. The high rate of endometriosis recurrence after pharmaceutical or surgical treatment, which is associated with dysfunctional NK cells, indicates that new immunomodulatory management strategies are required. A good understanding of immune dysfunction would enable improvement of current treatments for endometriosis.
Robust Optimal Attitude Controller for MIMO Uncertain Hexarotor MAVs: Disturbance Observer-Based
Authors: Salim Nurul Dayana , Derawi Dafizal , Zamzuri Hairi , Nonami Kenzo , Abdul Rahman Mohd Azizi
Published: May 2016

This paper proposes a robust optimal attitude control design for multiple-input, multiple-output (MIMO) uncertain hexarotor micro aerial vehicles (MAVs) in the presence of parametric uncertainties, external time-varying disturbances, nonlinear dynamics, and coupling. The parametric uncertainties, external time-varying disturbances, nonlinear dynamics, and coupling are treated as the total disturbance in the proposed design. The proposed controller is achieved in two simple steps. First, an optimal linear-quadratic regulator (LQR) controller is designed to guarantee that the nominal closed-loop system is asymptotically stable without considering the total disturbance. After that, a disturbance observer is integrated into the closed-loop system to estimate the total disturbance acting on the system. The total disturbance is compensated by a compensation input based on the estimated total disturbance. Robust properties analysis is given to prove that the state is ultimately bounded in specified boundaries. Simulation results illustrate the robustness of the disturbance observer-based optimal attitude control design for hovering and aggressive flight missions in the presence of the total disturbance.
Experiment Research on Deformation Mechanism of CNT Film Material
Authors: Li Qiu , Ge Yong , Tan Xiaohua , Yu Qiang , Qiu Wei
Published: May 2016

Nanometer composite usually has multilevel structure, and deformation mechanism of its multilevel structure is the hot spot at present. The paper studies deformation mechanism of multilevel structure of CNT film material under tension loading and its influence on film mechanical properties by jointing multiscale experiment methods such as tensile test, digital image correlation, SEM observation, and in situ micro-Raman spectroscopy. The result shows that, during film loading process, the deformation of CNTs inside the film endures elastic elongation and glide successively, with very small axial elongation, which is about 7% of film deformation; the deformation of CNT bundle network structure endures deformation mechanism such as CNT bundle extension, rotation, and glide, and this structure deformation occupies about 93% of film deformation that large structure deformation makes CNT film have good toughness; during film loading process, the formation of CNT bundle long chain and glide mechanism in the chains help to improve film strength and toughness.
Coupling WRF Double-Moment 6-Class Microphysics Schemes to RRTMG Radiation Scheme in Weather Research Forecasting Model
Authors: Bae Soo Ya , Hong Song-You , Lim Kyo-Sun Sunny
Published: May 2016

A method to explicitly calculate the effective radius of hydrometeors in the Weather Research Forecasting (WRF) double-moment 6-class (WDM6) microphysics scheme is designed to tackle the physical inconsistency in cloud properties between the microphysics and radiation processes. At each model time step, the calculated effective radii of hydrometeors from the WDM6 scheme are linked to the Rapid Radiative Transfer Model for GCMs (RRTMG) scheme to consider the cloud effects in radiative flux calculation. This coupling effect of cloud properties between the WDM6 and RRTMG algorithms is examined for a heavy rainfall event in Korea during 25–27 July 2011, and it is compared to the results from the control simulation in which the effective radius is prescribed as a constant value. It is found that the derived radii of hydrometeors in the WDM6 scheme are generally larger than the prescribed values in the RRTMG scheme. Consequently, shortwave fluxes reaching the ground (SWDOWN) are increased over less cloudy regions, showing a better agreement with a satellite image. The overall distribution of the 24-hour accumulated rainfall is not affected but its amount is changed. A spurious rainfall peak over the Yellow Sea is alleviated, whereas the local maximum in the central part of the peninsula is increased.
Higher Caloric Refeeding Is Safe in Hospitalised Adolescent Patients with Restrictive Eating Disorders
Authors: Parker Elizabeth K. , Faruquie Sahrish S. , Anderson Gail , Gomes Linette , Kennedy Andrew , Wearne Christine M. , Kohn Michael R. , Clarke Simon D.
Published: May 2016

Introduction. This study examines weight gain and assesses complications associated with refeeding hospitalised adolescents with restrictive eating disorders (EDs) prescribed initial calories above current recommendations.Methods. Patients admitted to an adolescent ED structured “rapid refeeding” program for >48 hours and receiving ≥2400 kcal/day were included in a 3-year retrospective chart review.Results. The mean (SD) age of the 162 adolescents was 16.7 years (0.9), admission % median BMI was 80.1% (10.2), and discharge % median BMI was 93.1% (7.0). The mean (SD) starting caloric intake was 2611.7 kcal/day (261.5) equating to 58.4 kcal/kg (10.2). Most patients (92.6%) were treated with nasogastric tube feeding. The mean (SD) length of stay was 3.6 weeks (1.9), and average weekly weight gain was 2.1 kg (0.8). No patients developed cardiac signs of RFS or delirium; complications included 4% peripheral oedema, 1% hypophosphatemia (<0.75 mmol/L), 7% hypomagnesaemia (<0.70 mmol/L), and 2% hypokalaemia (<3.2 mmol/L). Caloric prescription on admission was associated with developing oedema (95% CI 1.001 to 1.047;p=0.039). No statistical significance was found between electrolytes and calories provided during refeeding.Conclusion. A rapid refeeding protocol with the inclusion of phosphate supplementation can safely achieve rapid weight restoration without increased complications associated with refeeding syndrome.
Functional Connectivity Modulation by Acupuncture in Patients with Bell’s Palsy
Authors: Bian Yunpeng , He Xiaoxuan , Hu Sheng , Li Chuanfu , Xu Chunsheng , Kan Hongxing , Xue Qiuju , Yang Jun , Qiu Bensheng
Published: May 2016

Bell’s palsy (BP), an acute unilateral facial paralysis, is frequently treated with acupuncture in many countries. However, the mechanism of treatment is not clear so far. In order to explore the potential mechanism, 22 healthy volunteers and 17 BP patients with different clinical duration were recruited. The resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging scans were conducted before and after acupuncture at LI4 (Hegu), respectively. By comparing BP‐induced functional connectivity (FC) changes with acupuncture‐induced FC changes in the patients, the abnormal increased FC that could be reduced by acupuncture was selected. The FC strength of the selected FC at various stages was analyzed subsequently. Our results show that FC modulation of acupuncture is specific and consistent with the tendency of recovery. Therefore, we propose that FC modulation by acupuncture may be beneficial to recovery from the disease.
Research on Medicine Distribution Route Optimization for Community Health Service Institutions
Authors: Li Zhao , Ma Zhiqiang , Shi Wei , Qian Xianggen
Published: May 2016

At present, the optimization of medicine distribution route has become an urgent issue that needs to be solved in the unified medicine distribution for community health service institutions. Considering the characteristics of medicine distribution for community health service institutions, to minimize the overall cost (including refrigeration storage cost, vehicle fixed cost, and transportation cost) of medicine distribution in a certain region, a transport-distance-constrained local community medicine distribution route optimizing model is established. Then, a tabu-search-based algorithm originated from client direct arrangement ideology is put forward and MATLAB language is used to simulate the medicine distribution procedure. The simulated results show that the proposed algorithm is capable of obtaining an optimum distribution scheme cost with minimum transportation cost.
Rhinoscleroma with Pharyngolaryngeal Involvement Caused byKlebsiella ozaenae
Authors: Gonzales Zamora J. , Murali A. R.
Published: May 2016

Rhinoscleroma is a chronic, slowly progressive granulomatous bacterial infection that is endemic to the tropical world, namely, Central America and Africa. It is occasionally seen in the United States of America (USA). It predominately affects the nasal mucosa but can also involve the rest of the upper respiratory tract. The well-known causative agent for rhinoscleroma is the bacteriumKlebsiella rhinoscleromatis, a subspecies ofKlebsiella pneumoniae. However,Klebsiella ozaenaecan also, albeit very rarely, cause rhinoscleroma. The diagnosis is confirmed by histopathology examination that shows the characteristic Mikulicz cells, considered pathognomonic for this infection. We report a patient with histologically proven rhinoscleroma with pharyngolaryngeal involvement in whom cultures yieldedKlebsiella ozaenae. To the best of our knowledge, only two cases of rhinoscleroma due toKlebsiella ozaenaehave been reported in the literature to date. Our case illustrates the importance of recognizing this infection in a nonendemic setting such as the USA. A lack of awareness and a delay in the diagnosis of this disease can lead to complications including upper airway obstruction, physical deformity, and, rarely, sepsis. In addition, it must be remembered that the treatment of rhinoscleroma is challenging and requires a prolonged course of antibiotics to achieve a definite cure and avoid relapses.
Design and Evaluation of Voriconazole Loaded Solid Lipid Nanoparticles for Ophthalmic Application
Authors: Khare Anubha , Singh Inderbir , Pawar Pravin , Grover Kanchan
Published: May 2016

Voriconazole is a second-generation antifungal agent with excellent broad spectrum of antifungal activity commercially available for oral and intravenous administration. Systemic administration of voriconazole is associated with side effects including visual and hepatic abnormalities. This study assessed the feasibility of using solid lipid nanoparticles for ocular delivery of voriconazole adopting stearic acid as lipidic material, tween 80 as a stabilizer, and Carbopol 934 as controlled release agent and for increasing the precorneal residence time in eye. The systems were prepared using two different methods, that is, ultrasonication method and microemulsion technique. The results indicated that the larger particle size of SLNs was found with microemulsion technique (308±3.52 nm to 343±3.51) compared to SLN prepared with ultrasonication method (234±3.52 nm to 288±4.58 nm). The polydispersity index values were less than 0.3 for all formulations and zeta potential of the prepared formulations by these two methods varied from −22.71±0.63 mV to −28.86±0.58 mV. Powder X-ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry indicated decrease in crystallinity of drug. The in vitro release study and the SLN formulations prepared with ultrasonication method demonstrated sustained release up to 12 hours. This study demonstrated that SLN prepared by ultrasonication method is more suitable than microemulsion technique without causing any significant effect on corneal hydration level.
Fiscal Decentralization and Regional Financial Efficiency: An Empirical Analysis of Spatial Durbin Model
Authors: Liu Jianmin , Hu Xiaomei , Tang Hongli
Published: May 2016

Based on panel data covering the period from 2003 to 2012 in China’s 281 prefecture-level cities, we use superefficiency SBM model to measure regional financial efficiency and empirically test the spatial effects of fiscal decentralization on regional financial efficiency with SDM. The estimated results indicate that there exist significant spatial spillover effects among regional financial efficiency with the features of time inertia and spatial dependence. The positive promoting effect of fiscal decentralization on financial efficiency in local region depends on the symmetry between fiscal expenditure decentralization and revenue decentralization. Additionally, there exists inconsistency in the spatial effects of fiscal expenditure decentralization and revenue decentralization on financial efficiency in neighboring regions. The negative effect of fiscal revenue decentralization on financial efficiency in neighboring regions is more significant than that of fiscal expenditure decentralization.
Analyses of Genetic Variations of Glutathione S-Transferase Mu1 and Theta1 Genes in Bangladeshi Tannery Workers and Healthy Controls
Authors: Akther Jobaida , Ebihara Akio , Nakagawa Tsutomu , Islam Laila N. , Suzuki Fumiaki , Hosen Md. Ismail , Hossain Mahmud , Nabi A. H. M. Nurun
Published: May 2016

Glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) belong to a group of multigene detoxification enzymes, which defend cells against oxidative stress. Tannery workers are at risk of oxidative damage that is usually detoxified by GSTs. This study investigated the genotypic frequencies of GST Mu1 (GSTM1) and GST Theta1 (GSTT1) in Bangladeshi tannery workers and healthy controls followed by their status of oxidative stress and total GST activity. Of the 188 individuals, 50.0% had both GSTM1 and GSTT1 (+/+), 12.2% had GSTM1 (+/−), 31.4% had GSTT1 (−/+) alleles, and 6.4% had null genotypes (−/−) with respect to both GSTM1 and GSTT1 alleles. Among 109 healthy controls, 54.1% were double positive, 9.2% had GSTM1 allele, 32.1% had GSTT1 allele, and 4.6% had null genotypes. Out of 79 tannery workers, 44.3% were +/+, 16.8% were +/−, 30.5% were −/+, and 8.4% were −/−. Though the polymorphic genotypes or allelic variants of GSTM1 and GSTT1 were distributed among the study subjects with different frequencies, the differences between the study groups were not statistically significant. GST activity did not vary significantly between the two groups and also among different genotypes while level of lipid peroxidation was significantly higher in tannery workers compared to controls irrespective of their GST genotypes.
Magnetodielectric and Metalomagnetic 1D Photonic Crystals Homogenization:ε-μLocal Behavior
Authors: Rodríguez Mora J. I. , Flores Méndez J. , Zenteno Mateo B. , Severiano Carrillo F. , Ambrosio Lázaro R. C.
Published: May 2016

A theory for calculating the effective optic response of photonic crystals with metallic and magnetic inclusions is reported, for the case when the wavelength of the electromagnetic fields is much larger than the lattice constant. The theory is valid for any type of Bravais lattice and arbitrary form of inclusions in the unitary cell. An equations system is obtained for macroscopic magnetic field and magnetic induction components expanding microscopic electromagnetic fields in Bloch waves. Permittivity and permeability effective tensors are obtained comparing the equations system with an anisotropic nonlocal homogenous medium. In comparison with other homogenization theories, this work uses only two tensors: nonlocal permeability and permittivity. The proposal showed here is based on the use of permeability equations, which are exact and very simple. We present the explicit form of these tensors in the case of binary 1D photonic crystals.
Antioxidants and Polyphenols: Concentrations and Relation to Male Infertility and Treatment Success
Authors: Silberstein Tali , Har-Vardi Iris , Harlev Avi , Friger Michael , Hamou Batel , Barac Tamar , Levitas Eli , Saphier Oshra
Published: May 2016

Oxidative stress is induced by reactive oxygen substances (ROS) that are known to affect male fertility. The aims of this study were to prospectively investigate and characterize total antioxidant and specifically polyphenols concentrations and their relations to sperm quality and fertility treatment success. During their infertility treatment, sixty‐seven males were prospectively recruited to this study. After separation of the sperm from the semen sample, the semen fluid samples antioxidants and polyphenols concentrations were determined. Antioxidant concentration was significantly associated with sperm concentration and total motile count. Antioxidants concentration in the group of male with sperm concentration ≥ 15 × 106 was significantly higher than in the group of male with antioxidants concentration < 15 × 106 (830.3 ± 350 μM and 268.3 ± 220 μM, resp., p < 0.001). Polyphenols concentration did not differ between the groups of sperm concentration above and below 15 × 106 (178.7 ± 121 μM and 161.7 ± 61 μM, resp., p‐NS). No difference was found between fertilization rates and antioxidants or polyphenols concentrations. This is the first study that reports on polyphenols concentration within semen fluid. More studies are needed in order to investigate polyphenols role in male fertility.
On the Accuracy and Efficiency of Transient Spectral Element Models for Seismic Wave Problems
Authors: Mönkölä Sanna
Published: May 2016

This study concentrates on transient multiphysical wave problems for simulating seismic waves. The presented models cover the coupling between elastic wave equations in solid structures and acoustic wave equations in fluids. We focus especially on the accuracy and efficiency of the numerical solution based on higher-order discretizations. The spatial discretization is performed by the spectral element method. For time discretization we compare three different schemes. The efficiency of the higher-order time discretization schemes depends on several factors which we discuss by presenting numerical experiments with the fourth-order Runge-Kutta and the fourth-order Adams-Bashforth time-stepping. We generate a synthetic seismogram and demonstrate its function by a numerical simulation.
Production of Laccase byCochliobolussp. Isolated from Plastic Dumped Soils and Their Ability to Degrade Low Molecular Weight PVC
Authors: Sumathi Tirupati , Viswanath Buddolla , Sri Lakshmi Akula , SaiGopal D. V. R.
Published: May 2016

One of the utmost man-made problems faced today has been the ever-increasing plastic waste filling the world. It accounts for an estimated 20–30% (by volume) of municipal solid waste in landfill sites worldwide. Research on plastic biodegradation has been steadily growing over the past four decades. Several fungi have been identified that produce enzymes capable of plastic degradation in various laboratory conditions. This paper presents a study that determined the ability of fungi to degrade low molecular weight polyvinyl chloride (PVC) by the enzyme laccase. We have isolated a fungal species,Cochliobolussp., from plastic dumped soils and they were cultured on Czapek Dox Agar slants at 30°C. The effectiveness of this fungal species on the degradation of commercial low molecular weight polyvinyl chloride (PVC) was studied under laboratory conditions. Significant differences were observed from the FTIR, GC-MS, and SEM results in between control andCochliobolussp. treated PVC.
Shear Bond Strengths between Three Different Yttria-Stabilized Zirconia Dental Materials and Veneering Ceramic and Their Susceptibility to Autoclave Induced Low-Temperature Degradation
Authors: Sehgal Manoti , Bhargava Akshay , Gupta Sharad , Gupta Prateek
Published: May 2016

A study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of artificial aging through steam and thermal treatment as influencing the shear bond strength between three different commercially available zirconia core materials, namely, Upcera, Ziecon, and Cercon, layered with VITA VM9 veneering ceramic using Universal Testing Machine. The mode of failure between zirconia and ceramic was further analyzed as adhesive, cohesive, or mixed using stereomicroscope. X-ray diffraction and SEM (scanning electron microscope) analysis were done to estimate the phase transformation (m-phase fraction) and surface grain size of zirconia particles, respectively. The purpose of this study was to simulate the clinical environment by artificial aging through steam and thermal treatment so as the clinical function and nature of the bond between zirconia and veneering material as in a clinical trial of 15 years could be evaluated.
Characterization of Some Nigerian Coals for Power Generation
Authors: Chukwu M. , Folayan C. O. , Pam G. Y. , Obada D. O.
Published: May 2016

Five coal samples from Odagbo (Kogi State), Owukpa (Benue State), Ezimo (Enugu State), Amansiodo (Enugu State), and Inyi (Enugu State) of Nigerian coal deposits were subjected to proximate analysis, ultimate analysis, calorific value determination, and petrographic and thermogravimetric analysis to determine their suitability for power generation. Based on results of tests carried out, Amansiodo coal is a bituminous, low sulphur, and medium ash coal, while Owukpa coal is a subbituminous A, low sulphur, low ash coal rich in huminites, Odagbo coal is a subbituminous B, medium sulphur, low ash coal rich in huminites, Ezimo coal is a subbituminous C, low sulphur, high ash coal, and Inyi coal is a subbituminous C, low sulphur, high ash coal. Between Odagbo and Owukpa subbituminous coals, Owukpa has a lower ignition temperature (283.63°C) due to its higher volatile matter content (39.1%). However, Ezimo subbituminous coal, which has a lower volatile matter (31.1%), unexpectedly has the same ignition temperature as Owukpa (283.63°C) due to its higher liptinite content (7.2%) when compared with that of Owukpa (2.9%). The ease of combustion of the coal samples in decreasing order is Odagbo < Owukpa < Inyi < Ezimo < Amansiodo.
Regulation of GLI Underlies a Role for BET Bromodomains in Pancreatic Cancer Growth and the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Huang Yinshi , Nahar Sabikun , Nakagawa Akifumi , Fernandez-Barrena Maite G. , Mertz Jennifer A. , Bryant Barbara M. , Adams Curtis E. , Mino-Kenudson Mari , Von Alt Kate N. , Chang Kevin , Conery Andrew R. , Hatton Charlie , Sims Robert J. , Fernandez-Zapico Martin E. , Wang Xingpeng , Lillemoe Keith D. , Fernández-del Castillo Carlos , Warshaw Andrew L. , Thayer Sarah P. , Liss Andrew S.
Published: May 2016

Purpose: The initiation, progression, and maintenance of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) results from the interplay of genetic and epigenetic events. While the genetic alterations of PDAC have been well characterized, epigenetic pathways regulating PDAC remain, for the most part, elusive. The goal of this study was to identify novel epigenetic regulators contributing to the biology of PDAC.

Experimental Design: In vivo pooled shRNA screens targeting 118 epigenetic proteins were performed in two orthotopic PDAC xenograft models. Candidate genes were characterized in 19 human PDAC cell lines, heterotopic xenograft tumor models, and a genetically engineered mouse (GEM) model of PDAC. Gene expression, IHC, and immunoprecipitation experiments were performed to analyze the pathways by which candidate genes contribute to PDAC.

Results: In vivo shRNA screens identified BRD2 and BRD3, members of the BET family of chromatin adaptors, as key regulators of PDAC tumor growth. Pharmacologic inhibition of BET bromodomains enhanced survival in a PDAC GEM model and inhibited growth of human-derived xenograft tumors. BET proteins contribute to PDAC cell growth through direct interaction with members of the GLI family of transcription factors and modulating their activity. Within cancer cells, BET bromodomain inhibition results in downregulation of SHH, a key mediator of the tumor microenvironment and canonical activator of GLI. Consistent with this, inhibition of BET bromodomains decreases cancer-associated fibroblast content of tumors in both GEM and xenograft tumor models.

Conclusions: Therapeutic inhibition of BET proteins offers a novel mechanism to target both the neoplastic and stromal components of PDAC. Clin Cancer Res; 22(16); 4259–70. ©2016 AACR.
EGFR-Mediated Reactivation of MAPK Signaling Induces Acquired Resistance to GSK2118436 in BRAF V600E–Mutant NSCLC Cell Lines
Authors: Kim Sung-Moo , Kim Hwan , Jang Kang Won , Kim Min Hwan , Sohn Jinyoung , Yun Mi Ran , Kang Han Na , Kang Chan Woo , Kim Hye Ryun , Lim Sun Min , Moon Yong Wha , Kim Joo Hang , Paik Soonmyung , Cho Byoung Chul
Published: May 2016

Although treatment of BRAF V600E–mutant non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLCV600E) with GSK2118436 has shown an encouraging efficacy, most patients develop resistance. To investigate the mechanisms of acquired resistance to GSK2118436 in NSCLCV600E, we established GSK2118436-resistant (GSR) cells by exposing MV522 NSCLCV600E to increasing GSK2118436 concentrations. GSR cells displayed activated EGFR–RAS–CRAF signaling with upregulated EGFR ligands and sustained activation of ERK1/2, but not MEK1/2, in the presence of GSK2118436. Treatment of GSR cells with GSK2118436 enhanced EGFR-mediated RAS activity, leading to the formation of BRAF–CRAF dimers and transactivation of CRAF. Interestingly, sustained activation of ERK1/2 was partly dependent on receptor-interacting protein kinase-2 (RIP2) activity, but not on MEK1/2 activity. Combined BRAF and EGFR inhibition blocked reactivation of ERK signaling and improved efficacy in vitro and in vivo. Our findings support the evaluation of combined BRAF and EGFR inhibition in NSCLCV600E with acquired resistance to BRAF inhibitors. Mol Cancer Ther; 15(7); 1627–36. ©2016 AACR.
An Integrative Approach Uncovers Biomarkers that Associate with Clinically Relevant Disease Outcomes in Vulvar Carcinoma
Authors: Lavorato-Rocha Andre M. , Akagi Erica M. , de Melo Maia Beatriz , Rodrigues Iara S. , Botelho Mayara Caroline Silva , Marchi Fabio A. , Fernandes Gabriel , Baiocchi Glauco , Soares Fernando A. , Rogatto Silvia Regina , Sato-Kuwabara Yukie , Rocha Rafael M.
Published: May 2016

Vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC) is a rare disease that has a high mortality rate (∼40%). However, little is known about its molecular signature. Therefore, an integrated genomics approach, based on comparative genome hybridization (aCGH) and genome-wide expression (GWE) array, was performed to identify driver genes in VSCC. To achieve that, DNA and RNA were extracted from frozen VSCC clinical specimens and examined by aCGH and GWE array, respectively. On the basis of the integration of data using the CONEXIC algorithm, PLXDC2 and GNB3 were validated by RT-qPCR. The expression of these genes was then analyzed by IHC in a large set of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded specimens. These analyses identified 47 putative drivers, 46 of which were characterized by copy number gains that were concomitant with overexpression and one with a copy number loss and downregulation. Two of these genes, PLXDC2 and GNB3, were selected for further validation: PLXDC2 was downregulated and GNB3 was overexpressed compared with non-neoplastic tissue. By IHC, both proteins were ubiquitously expressed throughout vulvar tissue. High expression of GNB3 and low PLXDC2 immunostaining in the same sample was significantly associated with less lymph node metastasis and greater disease-free survival. On the basis of a robust methodology never used before for VSCC evaluation, two novel prognostic markers in vulvar cancer are identified: one with favorable prognosis (GNB3) and the other with unfavorable prognosis (PLXDC2).

Implications: This genomics study reveals markers that associate with prognosis and may provide guidance for better treatment in vulvar cancer. Mol Cancer Res; 14(8); 720–9. ©2016 AACR.
Thoracoamniotic Shunting for Fetal Hydrothorax: Predictors of Intrauterine Course and Postnatal Outcome
Authors: Mallmann Michael R. , Graham Viola , Rösing Bettina , Gottschalk Ingo , Müller Andreas , Gembruch Ulrich , Geipel Annegret , Berg Christoph
Published: May 2016

Objective: To assess predictors for survival and complications among a relatively large cohort of fetuses with hydrothorax treated by thoracoamniotic shunting. Methods: All cases with hydrothorax treated by thoracoamniotic shunting in a 10-year period (2002-2011) in two centers were retrospectively reviewed. Results: A total of 78 fetuses with hydrothorax treated with thoracoamniotic shunting were included in the study. Mean gestational age at diagnosis was 25.6 weeks (12-34 weeks). Initial thoracoamniotic shunting was performed at a mean gestational age of 26.5 weeks (16-33 weeks). A mean of 2.53 shunts (1-7) were inserted per fetus. Of the 78 fetuses, 9 (11.5%) died in utero, 69 (88.5%) were born alive and 46 (59%) survived. Prognostic markers significantly associated with nonsurvival were polyhydramnios, hydrops placentae and mediastinal shift at initial scan, onset of hydrops after first shunt placement, rupture of membranes, a shunt-birth interval <4 weeks and low gestational age at birth. In our cohort, fetuses with trisomy 21 had a significantly better survival than euploid fetuses. Conclusions: Although associated with a significant rate of repeated interventions, thoracoamniotic shunting in fetuses with severe hydrothorax results in an overall survival rate of 59%. Fetuses with hydrothorax and trisomy 21 have a better survival when compared to euploid fetuses.
СУЧАСНІ АСПЕКТИ ОЦІНКИ ЯКОСТІ ЖИТТЯ У ХВОРИХ НА ХРОНІЧНЕ ОБСТРУКТИВНЕ ЗАХВОРЮВАННЯ ЛЕГЕНЬ
Authors: Lenets U. A. , Stelmah O. M.
Published: May 2016

У статті проаналізовано сучасні методи оцінки якості життя у хворих на хронічне обструктивне захворювання легень та роль медичної сестри у проведенні опитувань пацієнтів даної групи.
ЗДОРОВ’Я МОЛОДІ – ЗАПОРУКА НАШОГО МАЙБУТНЬОГО
Authors: Oksytenko O. V.
Published: May 2016

У статті висвітлено проблеми, з якими стикається молодь ХХІ століття, та оптимальні шляхи, які максимально наближають суспільство до вирішення проблем молодого покоління.
МЕДСЕСТРИНСЬКИЙ ПРОЦЕС У КЛІНІЧНІЙ ФАРМАКОЛОГІЇ
Authors: Lomova N. O.
Published: May 2016

У статті розглянуто роль медичної сестри у виконанні лікарських призначень з позиції медсестринського процесу. В Україні ця тема нова, тоді як у США та Канаді клінічна фармакологія для медсестер викладається саме таким чином.  Розглянуто основні моменти, на які нееобхідно звертати увагу медичним сестрам, коли вони роздають або вводять лікарські засоби пацієнтам.

Стаття буде корисною як практикуючим медсестрам, так і студентам та викладачам клінічної фармакології в медичних коледжах, училищах.
НЕГАТИВНИЙ ВПЛИВ ХІМІЧНИХ ЧИННИКІВ НА МЕДИЧНУ СЕСТРУ В УМОВАХ ЛІКУВАЛЬНОГО ЗАКЛАДУ ТА ЗАХОДИ ЩОДО ЇХ ПРОФІЛАКТИКИ
Authors: Lytvynyuk V. V.
Published: May 2016

У статті  розглянуто вплив хімічних речовин на здоров’я медичних працівників середньої ланки різних клінічних закладів та заходи щодо їх профілактиці. 
ПЕРСПЕКТИВИ ПІДГОТОВКИ МЕДИЧНОЇ СЕСТРИ-БАКАЛАВРА З ДИСЦИПЛІНИ «АНЕСТЕЗІОЛОГІЯ ТА РЕАНІМАТОЛОГІЯ»
Authors: Ryzhkovskyi A. V. , Hrubska O. S. , Nosko H. V.
Published: May 2016

У статті проведено порівняльний аналіз систем професійної підготовки медсестер України і Канади з метою удосконалення вітчизняної системи підготовки медсестер. Окреслено основні відмінності у специфіці роботи і обов’язками медсестер реанімаційних відділень України і Канади. Вказано на гостру необхідність удосконалення професійної підготовки українських медсестер зі спеціальності «Анестезіологія і реаніматологія» і запропоновано кроки для досягнення цієї мети. 
ВПРОВАДЖЕННЯ ВІЙСЬКОВО-МЕДИЧНИХ ДИСЦИПЛІН У ПІДГОТОВКУ ФЕЛЬДШЕРІВ ТА МЕДИЧНИХ СЕСТЕР
Authors: Lyashok O. M. , Bondar S. O. , Varava O. B.
Published: May 2016

У статті розглянуто шляхи модернізації військово-медичної підготовки у медичних коледжах та питання оптимізації навчання майбутніх медиків невідкладній допомозі в екстремальних умовах зони АТО.
СТАНДАРТИЗАЦІЯ ДІЯЛЬНОСТІ МЕДСЕСТРИНСЬКОЇ СЛУЖБИ ЛЬВІВСЬКОЇ ОБЛАСТІ
Authors: Galapats N. B.
Published: May 2016

Впровадження медсестринського процесу в практичну охорону здоров'я – це необхідна умова для створення науково-обгрунтованого професійного догляду за пацієнтом. Медсестринський процес як універсальна технологія медсестринської справи може і повинен використовуватись медсестрами у своїй повсякденній діяльності для своєчасного виявлення та усунення ризику розвитку захворювань, зменшення ускладнень, що дозволить підвищити якість життя пацієнта. 
EFFECTIVENESS OF CANEPHRON® N IN THE COMPLEX MANAGEMENT OF SUBCLINICAL GOUTY NEPHROPATHY
Authors: Smiyan S. I. , Franchuk M. V. , Komorovsky R. R.
Published: May 2016

Background. The risk of chronic kidney failure increases by 3–10 times with the steady increasing of uric
acid level in the blood. It is known that the protein fractions is closely correlated with the level of uric acid.
Objective. Microalbuminuria and microglobulinuria are predictors of kidney damage. The study involved
50 patients with gout who had never received preventive treatment of gouty nephropathy. We choosed Canephron
N (Bionorica, Neumarkt, Germany) as a combined phytodrug with nephroprotective effect. All studied patients
were men with obesity.
Results. According to standard examination kidney damage haven’t been found, but laboratory tests on
microproteinuria showed that the vast majority of patients have signs of subclinical gouty nephropathy.
Conclusions. Canephron N in complex gout treatment helps to decrease uric acid level in the blood and
increase its excretion.
KEY WORDS: gout, chronic kidney disease, hyperuricemia, canephron n
SUPPLY OF ANTIHYPERTEN SIVE DRUG S AND CARDIOVA SCULAR MORTALITY IN POLAND IN 2000–2010
Authors: Baranski K. , Zejda J. E.
Published: May 2016

Background and objective. In Poland, the sale of antihypertensive drugs has significantly increased since
2000. According to that fact, the aim of our study was to determine if the increased use of antihypertensive drugs
correlates with the decreasing mortality due to cardiovascular diseases (CVD) including hypertension (HT).
Methods. The analysis is based on data on annual national sales (million units) of four types of antihypertensive
drugs in 2000–2010. For the same period standardized mortality rates were calculated based on the data available
from the Central Statistical Office in Poland. Data analysis involved correlation analysis between annual mortality
rates due CVD and HT and country-wide annual sales of antihypertensive drugs (2000–2010).
Results. In the period 2000–2010, standardized mortality rates of CVD in the whole population followed a
decreasing trend. Analysis of correlation of CVD with specific drug provided the following findings: diuretics
(r=-0.97; p<0.0001) beta-blockers (r=-1.0; p<0.0001) renin-angiotensin system (RAS) inhibitors (r=-0.72 p=0.01)
calcium-channel blockers (r=-0.82; p=0.001) Standardized mortality rates for the HT showed fluctuating trend.
Correlations of that mortality with global sale of these drugs were no longer negative: r=0.54; p=0.08, r=0.56;
p=0.08 r=0.55; p=0.07; r=0.63; p=0.03, respectively.
Conclusions. In Poland, in 2000–2010, an improved access to pharmacological control of HT was associated
with an apparent reduction in mortality from CVD but not from HT. The latter findings might reflect imprecise
definition of HT as a cause of death or the fact that HT leads to other cardiologic events usually reported as a
cause of death.
KEY WORDS: antihypertensive drug therapy, cardiovascular disease, hypertension.
Impact of New-Onset Left Bundle Branch Block and Periprocedural Permanent Pacemaker Implantation on Clinical Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement
Authors: Regueiro Ander , Abdul-Jawad Altisent Omar , Del Trigo María , Campelo-Parada Francisco , Puri Rishi , Urena Marina , Philippon François , Rodés-Cabau Josep
Published: May 2016

Background—

Available data on the clinical impact of new-onset left bundle branch block (LBBB) and permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) remains controversial. We aimed to evaluate the impact of (1) periprocedural new-onset LBBB or PPI post-TAVR on cardiac mortality and all-cause 1-year mortality and (2) new-onset LBBB on the need for PPI at 1-year follow-up.

Methods and Results—

We performed a systematic search from PubMed and EMBASE databases for studies reporting raw data on new-onset LBBB post-TAVR and the need for PPI or mortality at 1-year follow-up, or on 1-year mortality according to the need for periprocedural PPI post-TAVR. Data from 17 studies, including 4756 patients (8 studies) and 7032 patients (11 studies) for the evaluation of the impact of new-onset LBBB and periprocedural PPI post-TAVR were sourced, respectively (with 2 studies used for both outcomes). New-onset LBBB post-TAVR was associated with a higher risk of PPI (risk ratio [RR], 2.18; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.28–3.70) and cardiac death (RR, 1.39; 95% CI, 1.04–1.86) during follow-up, as well with a tendency toward an increase in all-cause mortality (RR, 1.21; 95% CI, 0.98–1.50). Periprocedural PPI post-TAVR was not associated with any increased risk of all-cause mortality at 1 year (RR, 1.03; 95% CI, 0.9–1.18), yet a tendency toward a protective effect on cardiac death was observed (RR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.60–1.03).

Conclusions—

New-onset LBBB post-TAVR is a marker of an increased risk of cardiac death and need for PPI at 1-year follow-up. The need for PPI early post-TAVR did not increase the risk of death.
Mechanical Regulation of Cardiac Aging in Model Systems
Authors: Sessions Ayla O. , Engler Adam J.
Published: May 2016

Unlike diet and exercise, which individuals can modulate according to their lifestyle, aging is unavoidable. With normal or healthy aging, the heart undergoes extensive vascular, cellular, and interstitial molecular changes that result in stiffer less compliant hearts that experience a general decline in organ function. Although these molecular changes deemed cardiac remodeling were once thought to be concomitant with advanced cardiovascular disease, they can be found in patients without manifestation of clinical disease. It is now mostly acknowledged that these age-related mechanical changes confer vulnerability of the heart to cardiovascular stresses associated with disease, such as hypertension and atherosclerosis. However, recent studies have aimed at differentiating the initial compensatory changes that occur within the heart with age to maintain contractile function from the maladaptive responses associated with disease. This work has identified new targets to improve cardiac function during aging. Spanning invertebrate to vertebrate models, we use this review to delineate some hallmarks of physiological versus pathological remodeling that occur in the cardiomyocyte and its microenvironment, focusing especially on the mechanical changes that occur within the sarcomere, intercalated disc, costamere, and extracellular matrix.