bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Absence of significant adverse events following thalidomide administration in bitches diagnosed with mammary gland carcinomas
Authors: de Campos C. B. , Lavalle G. E. , Fialho Ligório S , Camargo Nunes F. , Carneiro R. A. , Amorim R. L. , Cassali G. D.
Published: August 2016

The aim of the study was to evaluate the incidence of adverse events (AEs) in female dogs diagnosed with advanced clinical stage mammary gland neoplasms following treatment with thalidomide. A prospective analysis of 29 female dogs treated with a high dose (HD) of 20 mg/kg/day of thalidomide for three months followed by a low dose (LD) of 10 mg/kg/day of thalidomide for three months was performed. All patients underwent physical examination, complete blood count, serum biochemistry profile, thoracic radiographs, and abdominal ultrasound analysis before the treatment and after the HD and LD. Clinical AEs were absent in 16/29 (55.17 per cent) patients following HD. An initial 3–5 day period of somnolence was described in 4/29 (13.79 per cent), prolonged somnolence in 5/29 (17.24 per cent), a short period of somnolence lasting only a few hours in 3/29 (10.34 per cent), and difficulty to rouse was described in 5/29 (17.24 per cent) cases. Two patients (6.89 per cent) presented with prolonged somnolence that interfered with activities of daily living, resulting in anticipation of the dose reduction to the proposed LD after 15 days of the HD treatment. Following dose reduction, AE improvement was observed in all patients. Albeit remaining within the reference ranges, erythrocytes, haematocrit, total leucocyte count, neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes and γ‐glutamyltranspeptidase showed significant alteration associated to thalidomide treatment.
Higher perceived risks of antimicrobial use are related to lower usage among pig farmers in four European countries
Authors: Visschers V. H. M. , Postma M. , Sjölund M. , Backhans A. , Collineau L. , Loesken S. , Belloc C. , Dewulf J. , Emanuelson U. , Grosse Beilage E. , Siegrist M. , Stärk K. D. C.
Published: August 2016

The prudent use of antimicrobials (AMs) should be widened in pig farming to reduce the risk of AM resistance (AMR) in human and veterinary medicine. It is therefore important to understand pig farmers’ motivators and the barriers to AM usage (AMU) on their farms. The authors investigated pig farmers’ self‐estimated levels of AMU, their perceived benefits and risks and the need for AMs in a cross‐sectional survey in Belgium, France, Germany and Sweden. The authors also compared these perceptions between the four countries and related them to pig farmers’ actual AMU. The results showed that farmers who used more AMs also estimated their own usage as higher. Farmers perceived many benefits but relatively few risks of AMU in pig farming. Some significant cross‐country differences in farmers’ perceptions were found, but they were relatively small. After controlling for country differences and farm differences, only perceived risks had a significant association with AMU. The authors therefore conclude that in order to promote prudent AMU, it seems most promising to focus on the structural differences in pig farming and veterinary medicine (e.g. legislation, role of the veterinarian) among countries. In addition, interventions which aim at reducing AMU should increase farmers’ awareness of the risks of extensive AMU.
Concentric and eccentric exercise, glycemic responses to a postexercise meal, and inflammation in women with high versus low waist circumference
Authors: Miles Mary P. , Horrigan Laura C. , Jay Sara E. , Brown Karen M. , Porter Jay W. , Steward Andrea N.
Published: August 2016

Carbohydrate ingestion and level of concentric versus eccentric muscle activity may alter exercise-induced health benefits for individuals who have high waist circumference as a metabolic risk factor. The purpose of this study was to determine whether metabolic and inflammation responses to an exercise recovery meal differ between women with lower (Lo-WC, <80 cm) compared with higher (Hi-WC) waist circumference when the exercise is primarily concentric (uphill walking; UPHILL) versus primarily eccentric (downhill walking; DOWNHILL). Recreationally active women (age, 18–39 years; body mass index, 19–35.4 m·kg−2; Lo-WC, n = 13; Hi-WC, n = 10) completed UPHILL, DOWNHILL, and resting (CONTROL) conditions followed 30 min later by a mixed meal tolerance test (MMTT) with carbohydrates to protein ratio of 4:1, and blood glucose, insulin, and inflammation markers were compared across conditions. Compared with Lo-WC, the Hi-WC group had higher (p < 0.05) (i) insulin during the MMTT in CONTROL (mean ± SE; 48.5 ± 8.2 vs 22.9 ± 2.8 pmol·L−1), (ii) baseline (0.7 ± 0.4 vs 2.0 ± 1.7 pg·mL−1) interleukin-6 (IL-6), and (iii) IL-6 responses 8 h after UPHILL and CONTROL. Both groups had (i) increases in IL-6 at 0 h after UPHILL and at 8 h after DOWNHILL, and (ii) lower glycemic responses in UPHILL. Women with Hi-WC had higher IL-6 at rest and delayed increases in IL-6 after a high-carbohydrate meal in all conditions. This is consistent with an inflammation response to the meal and or uphill walking exercise. However, both concentrically and eccentrically biased exercises offered benefits to insulin responses to a high carbohydrate meal for Hi-WC.
Double quantum well triple barrier structures: analytical and numerical results
Authors: Martinz S.D.G. , Ramos R.V.
Published: August 2016

In this work, we report an analytical result for the transmissivity in a particular type of double quantum well triple barrier (DQW-TB) structure as well as numerical results, via the Numerov method, for bound states of a DQW-TB inside an infinite quantum well. In both cases we consider constant and position-dependent mass. In particular, the resonances of the DQW-TB found with the analytical formula are in good agreement with the energies of the bound states of an equal structure inside an infinite quantum well.
Modulation of the transducer function of Na+,K+-ATPase: new mechanism of heart remodeling
Authors: Lopatina Ekaterina V. , Kipenko Anna V. , Pasatetskaya Natalia A. , Penniyaynen Valentina A. , Krylov Boris V.
Published: August 2016

Endogenous digitalis-like factors were found in the mammalian and human blood. It was the starting point for the elucidation of the new non-pumping function of the Na+,K+-ATPase. It was previously well known that Na+,K+-ATPase is a pharmacological target receptor for cardiac glycosides (J.C. Skou. 1957. Biochim. Biophys. Acta, 23: 394–401). We have investigated the trophotropic effects of such agents as ouabain, epinephrine, norepinephrine, atenolol, and comenic acid using the organotypic tissue culture combined with the reconstruction of optical cross sections and confocal microscopy. It was shown that the growth zone of organotypic culture forms a multidimensional structure. Our results indicate that the cardiac glycoside ouabain applied in endogenous concentrations (10−8, 10−10 mol/L) can modulate transducer function of Na+,K+-ATPase and control the cell growth and proliferation. It was also shown that Src-kinase is involved in “endogenous” ouabain activated intracellular pathways as a series unit. Epinephrine (10−9–10−14 mol/L) and comenic acid (10−6–10−10 mol/L) were demonstrated to modulate the growth of 10- to 12-day-old chicken embryo cardiac tissue explants in a dose-dependent manner. Epinephrine and comenic acid regulate growth and proliferation of the cardiac tissue via receptor-mediated modulation Na+,K+-ATPase as a signal transducer. The trophotropic effects of the investigated agents specifically control the heart remodeling phenomenon.
Effects of oil field brine wastewater on saturated hydraulic conductivity of smectitic loam soils
Authors: Derby Nathan E. , Casey Francis X.M. , DeSutter Thomas M.
Published: August 2016

Spills of brine wastewater produced during oil well drilling are occurring more frequently in the Great Plains, resulting in crop production loss on affected soil. Remediation requires removal of salt from the topsoil, which might be accomplished by leaching to subsurface horizons or subsurface drains. A laboratory study determined the effects of brine on saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ks) of four nonimpacted surface soils from western North Dakota, USA. Repacked soil cores were subjected to saturated water flow, followed by one pore volume of brine. Subsequent saturated water flow leached brine from the soil and reduced Ks as much as 97% (0.086–0.003 cm h−1) within 24 h. Effluent total dissolved solids (TDS) approached 250 000 mg L−1 then declined (5 mg L−1) with continued leaching, but Ks did not increase. Removal of soluble salts during leaching increased the relative sodium concentrations (ESP > 55), causing clay swelling/dispersion and reduced Ks. Postbrine gypsum application (11.2 Mg ha−1) to replace exchangeable sodium with calcium did not improve Ks. This evidence suggests that if subsurface drainage is used for reclaiming brine-impacted soils that special attention be given to where dispersion/swelling is occurring, leaching water quality, and closely positioning calcium amendments within the high sodium zones.
Precision QCD measurements in DIS at HERA
Authors: Britzger Daniel
Published: August 2016

New and recent results on QCD measurements from the H1 and ZEUS experiments at the HERA ep collider are reviewed. The final results on the combined deep-inelastic neutral and charged current cross-sections are presented and their role in the extractions of parton distribution functions (PDFs) is studied. The PDF fits give insight into the compatibility of QCD evolution and heavy flavor schemes with the data as a function of kinematic variables such as the scale Q2. Measurements of jet production cross-sections in ep collisions provide direct proves of QCD and extractions of the strong coupling constants are performed. Charm and beauty cross-section measurements are used for the determination of the heavy quark masses. Their role in PDF fits is investigated. In the regime of diffractive DIS and photoproduction, dijet and prompt photon production cross-sections provide insights into the process of factorization and the nature of the diffractive exchange.
Isotopic properties of the well-established resonances for γn → ηn in the presence of a narrow exotic resonance
Authors: Tryasuchev Vladimir A. , Kondratyeva Alla G.
Published: August 2016

The isotopic structure of the well-established s-wave resonances in the presence of a hypnotized narrow resonance N(1670)1/2[Formula: see text] in the [Formula: see text] amplitude is discussed. Two sets of results coming out of fitting two different sets of the data are discussed.
Empirical formula for mass excess of heavy and superheavy nuclei
Authors: Manjunatha H. C. , Chandrika B. M. , Seenappa L.
Published: August 2016

A new empirical formula is proposed for mass excess of heavy and superheavy nuclei in the region Z = 96–129. The parameters of the formula are obtained by making a polynomial fit to the available theoretical and experimental data. The calculated mass excess values are compared with the experimental values and other results of the earlier proposed models such as finite range droplet model (FRDM) and Hartree–Fock–Bogoliubov (HFB) method. Standard deviation of calculated mass excess values for each atomic number is tabulated. The good agreement of present formula with the experiment and other models suggests that the present formula could be used to evaluate the mass excess values of heavy and superheavy nuclei in the region 96[Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]Z[Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]129. This formula is a model-independent formula and is first of its kind that produces a mass excess values with the only simple inputs of only Z and A.
Revisiting on-shell renormalization conditions in theories with flavor mixing
Authors: Grimus W. , Löschner M.
Published: August 2016

In this review, we present a derivation of the on-shell renormalization conditions for scalar and fermionic fields in theories with and without parity conservation. We also discuss the specifics of Majorana fermions. Our approach only assumes a canonical form for the renormalized propagators and exploits the fact that the inverse propagators are nonsingular in [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is the external four-momentum and [Formula: see text] is a pole mass. In this way, we obtain full agreement with commonly used on-shell conditions. We also discuss how they are implemented in renormalization.
Phase structure of binary Bose–Einstein condensates at finite temperature
Authors: Tran Huu Phat , Nguyen Tuan Anh , Le Viet Hoa , Dang Thi Minh Hue
Published: August 2016

The dynamical stability and its connection with phase structures of binary Bose–Einstein condensates (BECs) are systematically studied within framework of the Gross–Pitaevskii (GP) theory. We find that (a) the dynamical stability is the main factor governing both the symmetry breaking and the formation of various phases associated with the scenarios: symmetry restoration (SR) and inverse symmetry breaking (ISB); (b) the condensation of Bose gases might occur at constant temperature for chemical potentials varying in some definite regions. We suggest how to experimentally observe the foregoing phenomena whose possible existences in nature are theoretically confirmed.
Inter-subband structure factor for a quasi-one-dimensional polaron gas
Authors: Machado Paulo César Miranda , Osório Francisco Aparecido Pinto , Borges Antônio Newton
Published: August 2016

In this work, the collective excitation spectra of quasi-one-dimensional plasmon in a rectangular GaAs quantum wire is investigated. Our calculations are performed within the Singwi, Tosi, Land and Sjölander (STLS) self-consistent theory taking into account the plasmon–longitudinal optical (LO) phonon coupling effects. We have employed a three subband model with only the first subband occupied by electrons and we have considered intra-subband and inter-subband transitions. We show that the polaronic effects cause the appearance of dips and oscillations in the static structure factor dispersion relation, which are directly related with the oscillator strength transfer between the collective excitation energy branches. We have also observed oscillations in the pair-correlation function that are characteristic of inter-subband transitions and it denotes partial localization of the particle.
Ultrafast dynamics of MnSi1.7 film studied by pump–probe technique
Authors: Han Yaping , Fu Qiang , Hou Qingrun , Wu Wenzhi
Published: August 2016

Manganese silicide (MnSi[Formula: see text]) semiconductor thin films with a thickness of 80 nm are prepared by magnetron sputtering deposition technology. The reflectivity change of thin film samples is studied by femtosecond (fs) pump–probe technique under different pump pulse energies and the laser pulse width is 120 fs. The results show that the transient reflectivity increases within a time-scale of about 100 fs. Then, a fast decay of reflectivity occurs in 0.6 picosecond (ps), and it is mainly due to the carrier–carrier scattering. Next, a slower decay of the reflectivity on a time-scale of dozens of ps is detected, and the Auger recombination and diffusion are the main processes. The effective mass of electron and hole in MnSi[Formula: see text] film are calculated by using the pseudo-potential plane wave method on first-principles methods. The effective mass of electron is 0.25[Formula: see text] ([Formula: see text] is the electron mass), while 0.13[Formula: see text] for hole. Experimental results are explained with the results of theoretical simulation.
Ultrasonic attenuation anomalies of n-type superconductor Pr2−xCexCuO4
Authors: Chong Tet Vui , Abd-Shukor R.
Published: August 2016

Pr[Formula: see text]Ce[Formula: see text]CuO4 ([Formula: see text] = 0 and 0.15) samples were prepared via solid state reaction. Pr2CuO4 sample is insulating while Pr[Formula: see text]Ce[Formula: see text]CuO4 sample exhibited an onset critical temperature, [Formula: see text] of 21 K. The temperature dependences of ultrasonic attenuation in these polycrystalline n-type superconductor Pr[Formula: see text]Ce[Formula: see text]CuO4 ([Formula: see text] = 0 and 0.15) samples have been measured between 80 K and 300 K using longitudinal and shear waves by pulse-echo-overlap method with frequencies between 5 MHz and 10 MHz. For the longitudinal mode, a pronounced attenuation peak around 200 K was observed in Pr2CuO4, but it is not observed in the superconducting material Pr[Formula: see text]Ce[Formula: see text]CuO4. For the shear mode, no pronounced attenuation peaks were observed in the samples. It is suggested that the attenuation peak in the [Formula: see text] = 0 sample at 200 K is due to the weak structural distortion induced by the magnetic transition.
Multi-cavity coupling acoustic metamaterials with low-frequency broad band gaps based on negative mass density
Authors: Yang Chuanhui , Wu Jiu Hui , Cao Songhua , Jing Li
Published: August 2016

This paper studies a novel kind of low-frequency broadband acoustic metamaterials with small size based on the mechanisms of negative mass density and multi-cavity coupling. The structure consists of a closed resonant cavity and an open resonant cavity, which can be equivalent to a homogeneous medium with effective negative mass density in a certain frequency range by using the parameter inversion method. The negative mass density makes the anti-resonance area increased, which results in broadened band gaps greatly. Owing to the multi-cavity coupling mechanism, the local resonances of the lower frequency mainly occur in the closed cavity, while the local resonances of the higher frequency mainly in the open cavity. Upon the interaction between the negative mass density and the multi-cavity coupling, there exists two broad band gaps in the range of 0–1800 Hz, i.e. the first-order band gap from 195 Hz to 660 Hz with the bandwidth of 465 Hz and the second-order band gap from 1157 Hz to 1663 Hz with the bandwidth of 506 Hz. The acoustic metamaterials with small size presented in this paper could provide a new approach to reduce the low-frequency broadband noises.
The vasopressin type 2 receptor and prostaglandin receptors EP2 and EP4 can increase aquaporin-2 plasma membrane targeting through a cAMP-independent pathway
Authors: Olesen Emma T. B. , Moeller Hanne B. , Assentoft Mette , MacAulay Nanna , Fenton Robert A.
Published: August 2016

Apical membrane targeting of the collecting duct water channel aquaporin-2 (AQP2) is essential for body water balance. As this event is regulated by Gs coupled 7-transmembrane receptors such as the vasopressin type 2 receptor (V2R) and the prostanoid receptors EP2 and EP4, it is believed to be cAMP dependent. However, on the basis of recent reports, it was hypothesized in the current study that increased cAMP levels are not necessary for AQP2 membrane targeting. The role and dynamics of cAMP signaling in AQP2 membrane targeting in Madin-Darby canine kidney and mouse cortical collecting duct (mpkCCD14) cells was examined using selective agonists against the V2R (dDAVP), EP2 (butaprost), and EP4 (CAY10580). During EP2 stimulation, AQP2 membrane targeting continually increased during 80 min of stimulation; whereas cAMP levels reached a plateau after 10 min. EP4 stimulation caused a rapid and transient increase in AQP2 membrane targeting, but did not significantly increase cAMP levels. After washout of the EP2 agonist or dDAVP, AQP2 membrane abundance remained elevated for at least 80 min, whereas cAMP levels rapidly decreased. Similar effects of the EP2 agonist were also observed for AQP2 constitutively nonphosphorylated at ser-269. The adenylyl cyclase inhibitor SQ22536 did not prevent AQP2 targeting during stimulation of each receptor, nor after dDAVP washout. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that although direct stimulation with cAMP causes AQP2 membrane targeting, cAMP is not necessary for receptor-mediated AQP2 membrane targeting and Gs-coupled receptors can also signal through an alternative pathway that increases AQP2 membrane targeting.
A neuronal lactate uptake inhibitor slows recovery of extracellular ion concentration changes in the hippocampal CA3 region by affecting energy metabolism
Authors: Angamo Eskedar Ayele , Rösner Joerg , Liotta Agustin , Kovács Richard , Heinemann Uwe
Published: August 2016

Astrocyte-derived lactate supports pathologically enhanced neuronal metabolism, but its role under physiological conditions is still a matter of debate. Here, we determined the contribution of astrocytic neuronal lactate shuttle for maintenance of ion homeostasis and energy metabolism. We tested for the effects of α-cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid (4-CIN), which could interfere with energy metabolism by blocking monocarboxylate-transporter 2 (MCT2)-mediated neuronal lactate uptake, on evoked potentials, stimulus-induced changes in K+, Na+, Ca2+, and oxygen concentrations as well as on changes in flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) autofluorescence in the hippocampal area CA3. MCT2 blockade by 4-CIN reduced synaptically evoked but not antidromic population spikes. This effect was dependent on the activation of KATP channels indicating reduced neuronal ATP synthesis. By contrast, lactate receptor activation by 3,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid (3,5-DHBA) resulted in increased antidromic and orthodromic population spikes suggesting that 4-CIN effects are not mediated by lactate accumulation and subsequent activation of lactate receptors. Recovery kinetics of all ion transients were prolonged and baseline K+ concentration became elevated by blockade of lactate uptake. Lactate contributed to oxidative metabolism as both baseline respiration and stimulus-induced changes in Po2 were decreased, while FAD fluorescence increased likely due to a reduced conversion of FAD into FADH2. These data suggest that lactate shuttle contributes to regulation of ion homeostatsis and synaptic signaling even in the presence of ample glucose.
Dynamic compensation mechanism gives rise to period and duty-cycle level sets in oscillatory neuronal models
Authors: Rotstein Horacio G. , Olarinre Motolani , Golowasch Jorge
Published: August 2016

Rhythmic oscillation in neurons can be characterized by various attributes, such as the oscillation period and duty cycle. The values of these features depend on the amplitudes of the participating ionic currents, which can be characterized by their maximum conductance values. Recent experimental and theoretical work has shown that the values of these attributes can be maintained constant for different combinations of two or more ionic currents of varying conductances, defining what is known as level sets in conductance space. In two-dimensional conductance spaces, a level set is a curve, often a line, along which a particular oscillation attribute value is conserved. In this work, we use modeling, dynamical systems tools (phase-space analysis), and numerical simulations to investigate the possible dynamic mechanisms responsible for the generation of period and duty-cycle levels sets in simplified (linearized and FitzHugh-Nagumo) and conductance-based (Morris-Lecar) models of neuronal oscillations. A simplistic hypothesis would be that the tonic balance between ionic currents with the same or opposite effective signs is sufficient to create level sets. According to this hypothesis, the dynamics of each ionic current during a given cycle are well captured by some constant quantity (e.g., maximal conductances), and the phase-plane diagrams are identical or are almost identical (e.g., cubic-like nullclines with the same maxima and minima) for different combinations of these maximal conductances. In contrast, we show that these mechanisms are dynamic and involve the complex interaction between the nonlinear voltage dependencies and the effective time scales at which the ionic current's dynamical variables operate.
Long-Term Simulation of Daily Streamflow Using Radar Rainfall and the SWAT Model: A Case Study of the Gamcheon Basin of the Nakdong River, Korea
Authors: Noh Huiseong , Lee Jongso , Kang Narae , Lee Dongryul , Kim Hung Soo , Kim Soojun
Published: August 2016

In recent years, with the increasing need for improving the accuracy of hydrometeorological data, interests in rain-radar are also increasing. Accordingly, with high spatiotemporal resolution of rain-radar rainfall data and increasing accumulated data, the application scope of rain-radar rainfall data into hydrological fields is expanding. To evaluate the hydrological applicability of rain-radar rainfall data depending on the characteristics of hydrological model, this study appliedRgaugeandRradarto a SWAT model in the Gamcheon stream basin of the Nakdong River and analyzed the effect of rainfall data on daily streamflow simulation. The daily rainfall data forRgauge,RZ, andRKDPwere utilized as input data for the SWAT model. As a result of the daily runoff simulation for analysis periods usingRZ(P)andRKDP(P), the simulation which utilizedRgaugereflected the rainfall-runoff characteristics better than the simulations which appliedRZ(P)orRKDP(P). However, in the rainy or wet season, the simulations which utilizedRZ(P)orRKDP(P)were similar to or better than the simulation that appliedRgauge. This study reveals that analysis results and degree of accuracy depend significantly on rainfall characteristics (rainy season and dry season) and QPE algorithms when conducting a runoff simulation with radar.
Chitosan-Alginate Nanoparticle System Efficiently Delivers Doxorubicin to MCF-7 Cells
Authors: Katuwavila Nuwanthi P. , Perera A. D. L. Chandani , Samarakoon Sameera R. , Soysa Preethi , Karunaratne Veranja , Amaratunga Gehan A. J. , Karunaratne D. Nedra
Published: August 2016

A chitosan-alginate nanoparticle system encapsulating doxorubicin (DOX) was prepared by a novel ionic gelation method using alginate as the crosslinker. These nanoparticles were around 100 nm in size and more stable with higher positive zeta potential and had higher % encapsulation efficiency (95%) than DOX loaded chitosan nanoparticles (DOX Csn NP) crosslinked with sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP). FTIR spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis revealed successful loading of DOX.In vitrodrug release showed an initial release phase followed by slow release phase with higher cumulative release obtained with DOX loaded chitosan-alginate nanoparticles (DOX Csn-Alg NP). Thein vitrocytotoxicity of DOX released from the two nanoparticle systems showed a notable difference on comparison with that of free DOX on the MCF-7 cell line. The SRB assay, AO/EB staining, and fluorescence uptake study indicated that free DOX only showed dose dependent cytotoxicity, whereas both dose and time dependency were exhibited by the two sets of NPs. While both systems show sustained release of DOX, from the cell viability plots, DOX Csn-Alg NPs showed their superiority over DOX Csn NPs. The results obtained are useful for developing DOX Csn-Alg NPs as a sustained release carrier system for DOX.
Interval Oscillation Criteria for Forced Second-Order Nonlinear Delay Dynamic Equations with Damping and Oscillatory Potential on Time Scales
Authors: Agwa Hassan A. , Khodier Ahmed M. M. , Hassan Heba A.
Published: August 2016

We are concerned with the interval oscillation of general type of forced second-order nonlinear dynamic equation with oscillatory potential of the formrtg1xt,xΔtΔ+p(t)g2(x(t),xΔ(t))xΔ(t)+q(t)f(x(τ(t)))=e(t), on a time scaleT. We will use a unified approach on time scales and employ the Riccati technique to establish some oscillation criteria for this type of equations. Our results are more general and extend the oscillation criteria of Erbe et al. (2010). Also our results unify the oscillation of the forced second-order nonlinear delay differential equation and the forced second-order nonlinear delay difference equation. Finally, we give some examples to illustrate our results.
Cancer Feature Selection and Classification Using a Binary Quantum-Behaved Particle Swarm Optimization and Support Vector Machine
Authors: Xi Maolong , Sun Jun , Liu Li , Fan Fangyun , Wu Xiaojun
Published: August 2016

This paper focuses on the feature gene selection for cancer classification, which employs an optimization algorithm to select a subset of the genes. We propose a binary quantum-behaved particle swarm optimization (BQPSO) for cancer feature gene selection, coupling support vector machine (SVM) for cancer classification. First, the proposed BQPSO algorithm is described, which is a discretized version of original QPSO for binary 0-1 optimization problems. Then, we present the principle and procedure for cancer feature gene selection and cancer classification based on BQPSO and SVM with leave-one-out cross validation (LOOCV). Finally, the BQPSO coupling SVM (BQPSO/SVM), binary PSO coupling SVM (BPSO/SVM), and genetic algorithm coupling SVM (GA/SVM) are tested for feature gene selection and cancer classification on five microarray data sets, namely, Leukemia, Prostate, Colon, Lung, and Lymphoma. The experimental results show that BQPSO/SVM has significant advantages in accuracy, robustness, and the number of feature genes selected compared with the other two algorithms.
Comparison of Acid Red 114 Dye Adsorption by Fe3O4and Fe3O4Impregnated Rice Husk Ash
Authors: Kaykioglu Gul , Gunes Elcin
Published: August 2016

The removal of Acid Red 114 (AR114) dye by adsorption process, using the magnetic nanoparticle (RHA-MNP) which is produced from rice husk ash burned at 300°C and the magnetic nanoparticle (MNP, Fe3O4), was studied. Batch processes were used under different test parameters: pH (2, 4, 6, and 10) and without pH, initial dye concentration (20, 40, 60, 80, and 100 mg/L), and contact time (0, 1, 5, 10, 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, and 150 min). Optimum conditions for AR114 removal were found to be at natural pH (pH without correction) for both adsorbents. Freundlich isotherm was found to be more consistent for MNP and Langmuir isotherm was found to be more consistent for RHA-MNP. The maximum adsorption capacities of MNP and RHA-MNP adsorbents for AR114 dye were equal to 111 mg/g. The kinetic experimental data fitted the pseudo-second-order model for both MNP and RHA-MNP. It can be concluded that RHA-MNP which is a waste could be used as low-cost adsorbent to remove AR114 from aqueous solution.
Based on Fuzzy Bayesian Network of Oil Wharf Handling Risk Assessment
Authors: Hou Zhiqiang , Zhao Peng
Published: August 2016

In order to make the risk assessment method of oil wharf handling more reasonable, basic data calibration method more accurate, and assessment findings more objective, the fuzzy weights of the relative probability of basic events are calibrated by ANP decision-making (Analytic Network Process). ANP decision-making is appropriate for reflecting the dependence between the basic events and the feedback relationship. The calibration value is used as the probability value of each basic event. Based on the fault tree model, the relationship between the accidents caused by the Bayesian network is constructed, and the important degree of the basic events is quantitatively evaluated. The case focuses on wharf handling gasoline fire and explosions, using ANP method to calibrate probability, and analyzing and sorting the structural importance, the probability importance, and critical degree of each basic event through forward and backward reasoning. The results showed that the evaluation model can better characterize the effect of the basic events on the top events, which can be targeted to identify security weaknesses in oil wharf handling process. It has some practical significance for finding security risks and improving working conditions and the overall system safety level.
Circulating Resistin Levels and Risk of Colorectal Cancer: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yang Gui , Fan Wei , Luo Baohong , Xu Zhigao , Wang Ping , Tang Shihui , Xu Peipei , Yu Mingxia
Published: August 2016

Objectives. Published data on resistin levels in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) were conflicting and heterogeneous. We conducted a meta-analysis of observational studies to examine the association of circulating resistin levels with carcinogenesis of the CRC.Methods. Potentially eligible studies published up to November 2015 were searched through MEDLINE, EMBASE, Science Citation Index Expanded database, CNKI, and WanFang database. The pooled weighted mean differences (WMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) calculated by fixed- or random-effect model were used to estimate the effects.Results. A total of 11 studies involving 965 patients were admitted in our meta-analysis. The pooled effects indicated that resistin levels were higher in CRC patients compared to healthy controls (WMD: 1.47 ng/mL; 95% CI: 0.78 to 2.16), with significant heterogeneity across the studies (I2=72%,p<0.0001). Subgroup analyses and sensitivity analyses revealed that study quality, design, sample type, and resistin assays may account for this heterogeneity. No publication bias was observed.Conclusions. Our meta-analysis suggests that increased circulating resistin levels are associated with greater risk of colorectal cancer. Given the limited number of available studies and significant heterogeneity, larger well-designed randomized studies are warranted.
Postpartum Granulomatous Hypophysitis: A Case Study, Review of the Literature, and Discussion of Pathogenesis
Authors: Joneja Upasana , Hooper D. Craig , Evans James J. , Curtis Mark T.
Published: August 2016

Hypophysitis is a rare inflammatory condition of the pituitary gland that has three main histologic subtypes: lymphocytic hypophysitis (LH), granulomatous hypophysitis (GH), and xanthomatous hypophysitis (XH). Among these, LH is the most common and is strongly associated with the postpartum state, while XH is the least common. Many hypophysitis cases have been reported in the literature but only a few cases of postpartum GH have been discussed. Here, we describe a case of GH in a 24-year-old female presenting eleven days postpartum. We also review the current literature on postpartum GH and discuss the possible alterations in the immune environment during and after pregnancy that could explain this phenomenon. With more cases of GH being reported, the commonalities of female predominance, postpartum time of presentation, and occasional spontaneous resolution between LH and GH lend support to the theory that these two diseases likely represent spectrums of a single immunologic disorder.
Pulmonary Embolism Presenting as Abdominal Pain: An Atypical Presentation of a Common Diagnosis
Authors: Rehman Hasan , John Elizabeth , Parikh Payal
Published: August 2016

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a frequent diagnosis made in the emergency department and can present in many different ways. Abdominal pain is an unusual presenting symptom for PE. It is essential to maintain a high degree of suspicion in these patients, as a delay in diagnosis can be devastating for the patient and confers a high risk of mortality if left untreated. Here, we report the case of a 53-year-old male who presented to the emergency department with worsening right upper quadrant abdominal pain with fevers. Initial imaging was benign, although lab work showed worsening leukocytosis and bilirubin. Abdominal pathology seemed most likely, but the team kept PE on the differential. Further imaging revealed acute pulmonary embolus in the segmental branch of the right lower lobe extending distally into subsegmental branches. The patient was started on anticoagulation and improved drastically. This case highlights the necessity of keeping a broad differential and maintaining a systematic approach when dealing with nonspecific complaints. Furthermore, a discussion on the pathophysiology on why PE can present atypically as abdominal pain, as well as fevers, is reviewed. Using this information can hopefully lead to a subtle diagnosis of PE in the future and lead to a life-saving diagnosis.
An Improved Artificial Colony Algorithm Model for Forecasting Chinese Electricity Consumption and Analyzing Effect Mechanism
Authors: Wang Jingmin , Zhang Jian , Nie Jing
Published: August 2016

Electricity consumption forecast is perceived to be a growing hot topic in such a situation that China’s economy has entered a period of new normal and the demand of electric power has slowed down. Therefore, exploring Chinese electricity consumption influence mechanism and forecasting electricity consumption are crucial to formulate electrical energy plan scientifically and guarantee the sustainable economic and social development. Research has identified medium and long term electricity consumption forecast as a difficult study influenced by various factors. This paper proposed an improved Artificial Bee Colony (ABC) algorithm which combined with multivariate linear regression (MLR) for exploring the influencing mechanism of various factors on Chinese electricity consumption and forecasting electricity consumption in the future. The results indicated that the improved ABC algorithm in view of the various factors is superior to traditional models just considering unilateralism in accuracy and persuasion. The overall findings cast light on this model which provides a new scientific and effective way to forecast the medium and long term electricity consumption.
Inhibition of the Biosynthesis of Prostaglandin E2 By Low-Dose Aspirin: Implications for Adenocarcinoma Metastasis
Authors: Boutaud Olivier , Sosa I. Romina , Amin Taneem , Oram Denise , Adler David , Hwang Hyun S. , Crews Brenda C. , Milne Ginger , Harris Bradford K. , Hoeksema Megan , Knollmann Bjorn C. , Lammers Philip E. , Marnett Lawrence J. , Massion Pierre P. , Oates John A.
Published: August 2016

Meta-analyses have demonstrated that low-dose aspirin reduces the risk of developing adenocarcinoma metastasis, and when colon cancer is detected during aspirin treatment, there is a remarkable 83% reduction in risk of metastasis. As platelets participate in the metastatic process, the antiplatelet action of low-dose aspirin likely contributes to its antimetastatic effect. Cycloxooxygenase-2 (COX-2)–derived prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) also contributes to metastasis, and we addressed the hypothesis that low-dose aspirin also inhibits PGE2 biosynthesis. We show that low-dose aspirin inhibits systemic PGE2 biosynthesis by 45% in healthy volunteers (P < 0.0001). Aspirin is found to be more potent in colon adenocarcinoma cells than in the platelet, and in lung adenocarcinoma cells, its inhibition is equivalent to that in the platelet. Inhibition of COX by aspirin in colon cancer cells is in the context of the metastasis of colon cancer primarily to the liver, the organ exposed to the same high concentrations of aspirin as the platelet. We find that the interaction of activated platelets with lung adenocarcinoma cells upregulates COX-2 expression and PGE2 biosynthesis, and inhibition of platelet COX-1 by aspirin inhibits PGE2 production by the platelet–tumor cell aggregates. In conclusion, low-dose aspirin has a significant effect on extraplatelet cyclooxygenase and potently inhibits COX-2 in lung and colon adenocarcinoma cells. This supports a hypothesis that the remarkable prevention of metastasis from adenocarcinomas, and particularly from colon adenocarcinomas, by low-dose aspirin results from its effect on platelet COX-1 combined with inhibition of PGE2 biosynthesis in metastasizing tumor cells. Cancer Prev Res; 9(11); 855–65. ©2016 AACR.
Adult Neurogenesis in the Songbird: Region-Specific Contributions of New Neurons to Behavioral Plasticity and Stability
Authors: Pytte Carolyn L.
Published: August 2016

Our understanding of the role of new neurons in learning and encoding new information has been largely based on studies of new neurons in the mammalian dentate gyrus and olfactory bulb - brain regions that may be specialized for learning. Thus the role of new neurons in regions that serve other functions has yet to be fully explored. The song system provides a model for studying new neuron function in brain regions that contribute differently to song learning, song auditory discrimination, and song motor production. These regions subserve learning as well as long-term storage of previously learned information. This review examines the differences between learning-based and activity-based retention of new neurons and explores the potential contributions of new neurons to behavioral stability in the song motor production pathway.
Lymph Node Fine-Needle Cytology: Beyond Flow Cytometry
Authors: Peluso Anna Lucia , Ieni Antonio , Mignogna Chiara , Zeppa Pio
Published: August 2016

Lymph node (LN) fine-needle cytology (FNC) coupled with flow cytometry immunophenotyping provides relevant information for the diagnosis of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). Numerous studies have shown FNC samples to be suitable for different molecular procedures; in this review, some of the molecular procedures most commonly employed for NHL are briefly described and evaluated in this perspective. Fluorescence in situ hybridization and chromogenic in situ hybridization are briefly described. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based assays are used to identify and quantify mutations and translocations, namely immunoglobulin (IGH) and T-cell receptor rearrangements by clonality testing and IGVH somatic hypermutations either by Sanger sequencing, single-strand conformational polymorphisms or RT-PCR strategies. High-throughput technologies (HTT) encompass numerous and different diagnostic tools that share the capacity of multiple molecular investigation and sample processing in a fast and reproducible manner. HTT includes gene expression profiling, comparative genomic hybridization, single-nucleotide polymorphism arrays and next-generation sequencing technologies. A brief description of these tools and their potential application to LN FNC is reported. The challenge for FNC will be to achieve new knowledge and apply new technologies to FNC, exploiting its own basic qualities.
Increased Plasma Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 Levels Contribute to Intracerebral Hemorrhage during Thrombolysis after Concomitant Stroke and Influenza Infection
Authors: Muhammad Sajjad , Planz Oliver , Schwaninger Markus
Published: August 2016

Background: Thrombolysis is the only approved therapy for acute stroke. However, life-threatening complications such as intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) can develop after intravenous administration of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA). Both infection and thrombolysis during cerebral ischemia disrupt the blood-brain barrier (BBB). tPA can induce matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), which is known to be involved in BBB disruption. However, it has still not been investigated whether preexisting influenza virus infection during thrombolysis after acute stroke affects systemic levels of MMP-9 and its inhibitor TIMP-1 and whether increased systemic MMP-9 levels affect ICH. This study aimed to investigate the influence of influenza virus infection on plasma levels of MMP-9 and TIMP-1 after thrombolysis in acute stroke, and to determine whether the infection correlates with intracerebral bleeding. Methods: C57BL/6 mice were infected by administering 1 × 105 plaque-forming units of human influenza (H1N1) virus intranasally. After 3 days of infection the middle cerebral artery was occluded for 45 min and then reperfused. Intravenous tPA (10 mg/kg) treatment was started 10 min after stroke onset. Twenty-four hours after stroke onset, mice were deeply anesthetized with ketamine, venous blood was drawn from the caval vein and centrifuged at 2,000 rpm, and the supernatant was collected and frozen at -80°C. Plasma levels of MMP-9 and TIMP-1 were quantified by using ELISA. Results: After stroke, plasma MMP-9 was significantly increased in mice with a concomitant influenza infection that were treated with tPA (9.99 ± 0.62 ng/ml, n = 7) as compared to noninfected control mice that were treated with tPA (4.74 ± 0.48 ng/ml, n = 8). Moreover, plasma levels of TIMP-1, an inhibitor of MMP-9, were also significantly increased in mice treated with tPA after concomitant infection and stroke (42.17 ± 7.02 ng/ml, n = 7) as compared to noninfected control mice that were treated with tPA after stroke (20.22 ± 2.12 ng/ml, n = 8). MMP-9 values significantly correlated with intracerebral hemoglobin levels in animals treated with tPA after stroke (p = 0.028, r = 0.76, n = 8) and after concomitant stroke and infection (p = 0.039, r = 0.78, n = 7). Conclusion: Preexisting influenza A virus infection led to increased plasma MMP-9 and TIMP-1 levels in mice undergoing thrombolysis after induced stroke. MMP-9 levels closely correlated with intracerebral bleeding after thrombolysis during concomitant infection and stroke. Thus, our data indicate that thrombolysis may be dangerous during influenza infection. MMP-9 inhibitors might be considered to reduce the side effects of thrombolysis during concomitant infection and stroke.
High-Mobility Group Box-1 Protein Mediates the Regulation of Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription-3 in the Diabetic Retina and in Human Retinal Müller Cells
Authors: Mohammad Ghulam , Jomar Deema , Siddiquei Mohammad Mairaj , Alam Kaiser , Abu El-Asrar Ahmed M.
Published: August 2016

Purpose: The expression of high-mobility group box-1 (HMGB1) and signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 (STAT-3) is upregulated in the diabetic retina. We hypothesized that the activation of STAT-3 is under the control of HMGB1. Methods: Retinas from 1-month-old diabetic rats and from normal rats intravitreally injected with HMGB1 and human retinal Müller glial cells (MIO-M1) stimulated with HMGB1 or high glucose were studied by Western blot analysis and immunofluorescence. We also studied the effect of the HMGB1 inhibitor glycyrrhizin (GA) on high-glucose-induced pSTAT-3 nuclear translocation and upregulation in Müller cells and on pSTAT-3 expression in the retinas of diabetic rats (n = 7-10 in each group). In addition, we studied the effect of STAT-3 inhibitor on the HMGB1-induced induction of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) by Müller cells and human retinal microvascular endothelial cell (HRMEC) migration. Results: Treatment of retinal Müller cells with recombinant HMGB1 induced nuclear translocation of pSTAT-3 but did not alter pSTAT-3 expression. High glucose induced a significant upregulation of HMGB1 and pSTAT-3 upregulation and nuclear translocation in retinal Müller cells. GA co-treatment normalized the high-glucose-induced upregulation of HMGB1 and pSTAT-3 upregulation and nuclear translocation in Müller cells. Intravitreal administration of HMGB1 in normal and diabetic rats upregulated pSTAT-3 expression in the retina. GA attenuated the diabetes-induced upregulation of pSTAT-3 in the retina. The STAT-3 inhibitor attenuated HMGB1-induced VEGF upregulation by Müller cells and HRMEC migration. Conclusions: The results suggest a role for HMGB1 in the modulation of STAT-3 expression in the diabetic retina.
Mídia, telejornalismo e educação
Authors: Becker Beatriz
Published: August 2016

Convergence causes reconfigurations in the production and consumption of information. Audiences tend to become increasingly participative, but the media still establishes the public agenda. The diffusion of knowledge in distinct devices and languages is a complex challenge to the educational system. Critical and creative interpretations of the media messages contribute to the expansion of knowledge concerning our social reality. This article proposes a reflection on the relevance of the incorporation of the theoretical and methodological dimensions of media literacy and televisual analysis in journalism education and school training for allowing understand the meaning of the audiovisual codes in the making and in the ressignification of media discourses