bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isoflavones Reduce Copper with Minimal Impact on IronIn Vitro
Authors: Karlíčková Jana , Macáková Kateřina , Říha Michal , Pinheiro Liliane Maria Teixeira , Filipský Tomáš , Horňasová Veronika , Hrdina Radomír , Mladěnka Přemysl
Published: July 2015

Isoflavones are commonly consumed in many Asian countries and have potentially positive effects on human being. Only a few and rather controversial data on their interactions with copper and iron are available to date. 13 structurally related isoflavones were tested in the competitive manner for their Cu/Fe-chelating/reducing properties. Notwithstanding the 5-hydroxy-4-keto chelation site was associated with ferric, ferrous, and cupric chelation, the chelation potential of isoflavones was low and no cuprous chelation was observed. None of isoflavones was able to substantially reduce ferric ions, but the vast majority reduced cupric ions. The most important feature for cupric reduction was the presence of an unsubstituted 4′-hydroxyl; contrarily the presence of a free 5-hydroxyl decreased or abolished the reduction due to chelation of cupric ions. The results from this study may enable additional experiments which might clarify the effects of isoflavones on human being and/or mechanisms of copper absorption.
Pulmonary Sequestration: Early Diagnosis and Management
Authors: Wani Sajad A. , Mufti Gowher N. , Bhat Nisar A. , Baba Ajaz A.
Published: July 2015

Intralobar sequestration is characterized by aberrant formation of nonfunctional lung tissue that has no communication with the bronchial tree and receives systemic arterial blood supply. Failure of earlier diagnosis can lead to recurrent pneumonia, failure to thrive, multiple hospital admissions, and more morbidity. The aim of this case report is to increase the awareness about the lung sequestration, to diagnose and treat it early, so that it is resected before repeated infection, and prevent the morbidity and mortality.
Improvement of BMI after Lifestyle Intervention Is Associated with Normalisation of Elevated ELF Score and Liver Stiffness in Obese Children
Authors: Goldschmidt Imeke , Di Nanni André , Streckenbach Carolin , Schnell Kerstin , Danne Thomas , Baumann Ulrich
Published: July 2015

Background. Noninvasive tools to diagnose nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), including transient elastography (TE) and enhanced liver fibrosis panel (ELF), have only been evaluated in children with biopsy-proven NAFLD. We evaluated the prevalence of ELF and TE abnormalities in obese children without clinical liver disease and examined the effects of BMI stabilization on ELF and TE in a longitudinal approach.Methods. 39 obese children (17 m, age 12.3 (7.6–17.4) years) who participated in a 12-month lifestyle-intervention program underwent TE and ELF testing at baseline and at completion of the program. Results were compared with data from a nonobese paediatric cohort.Results. TE and ELF at baseline were significantly elevated compared to controls (TE: 5.9 (3.4–8.3) kPa versus 4.45 (2.45–8.85) kPa,P<0.01; ELF: 9.0 (7.87–9.60) versus 8.6 (7.33–11.52),P=0.033). All children with elevated TE and ELF results had normal transaminases. After the program, ELF and TE normalized. Reduction of ELF and TE was associated with a decrease in BMI centile.Conclusion. Abnormal TE and ELF results in obese children suggest presence of NAFLD even when transaminases are normal. TE and ELF might be used as monitoring tools for NAFLD. BMI stabilisation normalizes TE and ELF, underlining the impact of lifestyle intervention.
Completion of a Dislocated Metric Space
Authors: Kumari P. Sumati , Ramabhadra Sarma I. , Rao J. Madhusudana , Panthi D.
Published: July 2015

We provide a construction for the completion of a dislocated metric space (abbreviatedd-metric space); we also prove that the completion of the metric associated with ad-metric coincides with the metric associated with the completion of thed-metric.
Fructosamine and Hemoglobin A1c Correlations in HIV-Infected Adults in Routine Clinical Care: Impact of Anemia and Albumin Levels
Authors: Duran Luisa , Rodriguez Carla , Drozd Dan , Nance Robin M. , Delaney J. A. Chris , Burkholder Greer , Mugavero Michael J. , Willig James H. , Warriner Amy H. , Crane Paul K. , Atkinson Ben E. , Harrington Robert D. , Dhanireddy Shireesha , Saag Michael S. , Kitahata Mari M. , Crane Heidi M.
Published: July 2015

Fructosamine is an alternative method to hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) for determining average glycemia. However, its use has not been extensively evaluated in persons living with HIV (PLWH). We examined the relationship between HbA1c and fructosamine values, specifically focusing on anemia (which can affect HbA1c) and albumin as a marker of liver disease. We included 345 PLWH from two sites. We examined Spearman rank correlations between fructosamine and HbA1c and performed linear test for trends to compare fructosamine and HbA1c correlations by hemoglobin and albumin quartiles. We examined discrepant individuals with values elevated only on one test. We found a correlation of 0.70 between fructosamine and HbA1c levels. Trend tests for correlations between fructosamine and HbA1c were significant for both albumin (p=0.05) and hemoglobin (p=0.01) with the lowest correlations in the lowest hemoglobin quartile. We identified participants with unremarkable HbA1c values but elevated fructosamine values. These discrepant individuals had lower mean hemoglobin levels than those elevated by both tests. We demonstrated a large correlation between HbA1c and fructosamine across a range of hemoglobin and albumin levels. There were discrepant cases particularly among those with lower hemoglobin levels. Future studies are needed to clarify the use of fructosamine for diabetes management in PWLH.
Statistical Genomic Approach Identifies Association between FSHR Polymorphisms and Polycystic Ovary Morphology in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Du Tao , Duan Yu , Li Kaiwen , Zhao Xiaomiao , Ni Renmin , Li Yu , Yang Dongzi
Published: July 2015

Background.Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the follicle stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) gene are associated with PCOS. However, their relationship to the polycystic ovary (PCO) morphology remains unknown. This study aimed to investigate whether PCOS related SNPs in the FSHR gene are associated with PCO in women with PCOS.Methods. Patients were grouped into PCO (n=384) and non-PCO (n=63) groups. Genomic genotypes were profiled using Affymetrix human genome SNP chip 6. Two polymorphisms (rs2268361 and rs2349415) of FSHR were analyzed using a statistical approach.Results. Significant differences were found in the allele distributions of the GG genotype of rs2268361 between the PCO and non-PCO groups (27.6% GG, 53.4% GA, and 19.0% AA versus 33.3% GG, 36.5% GA, and 30.2% AA), while no significant differences were found in the allele distributions of the GG genotype of rs2349415. When rs2268361 was considered, there were statistically significant differences of serum follicle stimulating hormone, estradiol, and sex hormone binding globulin between genotypes in the PCO group. In case of the rs2349415 SNP, only serum sex hormone binding globulin was statistically different between genotypes in the PCO group.Conclusions. Functional variants in FSHR gene may contribute to PCO susceptibility in women with PCOS.
Common Fixed Point Theorems for Probabilistic Nearly Densifying Mappings
Authors: Zakri Aeshah Hassan , Dalal Sumitra , Chauhan Sunny , Vujaković Jelena
Published: July 2015

The aim of this paper is to prove some coincidence and common fixed point theorems for probabilistic nearly densifying mappings in complete Menger spaces. Our results improve the results of Chamola et al. (1991), Dimri and Pant (2002), and Pant et al. (2004) and extend the results of Khan and Liu (1997) in the framework of probabilistic settings.
Thermodynamic Behaviors of a Kind of Self-Decoupling Magnetorheological Damper
Authors: Yu Guojun , Du Chengbin , Sun Tiger
Published: July 2015

A theoretical model of temperature change on a kind of self-decoupling magnetorheological (SDMR) damper was established based on conservation of energy, and the constraint equation for structural design parameters of the SDMR damper was improved to satisfy heat dissipation requirements in this work. According to the theoretical model and improved constraint equation, the main structure parameters of SDMR damper were obtained and the damper was tested. The temperature performance test results indicate that the rising temperature makes the damping force decline, and the main affection factors of temperature variation are excitation methods and input current. The results also show that the improved constraint equation and design method introduced are correct and efficient in the engineering.
Disorders of MicroRNAs in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells: As Novel Biomarkers of Ankylosing Spondylitis and Provocative Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Lv Qing , Li Qiuxia , Zhang Peizhuo , Jiang Yingjuan , Wang Xinwei , Wei Qiujing , Cao Shuangyan , Liao Zetao , Lin Zhiming , Pan Yunfeng , Huang Jianlin , Li Tianwang , Jin Ou , Wu Yuqiong , Gu Jieruo
Published: July 2015

Background. MicroRNAs can potentially regulate every aspect of cellular activity. In this study, we investigated whether AS pathogenesis involves microRNAs disorders.Result. The expression of 2 microRNAs, hsa-miR-126-3p and hsa-miR-29a, was significantly lower in active AS group before etanercept therapy than in control group. Marched fold changes of them were 3.76 and 16.22. Moreover, expressions of hsa-miR-126-3p and hsa-miR-29a were dramatically upregulated after 12-weeks etanercept treatment. Fold changes were 2.20 and 3.18. All regulations of microRNAs expression mentioned before were statistically significant (fold change >2 andP<0.05). The expression disorders of the 2 microRNAs did not statistically significantly correlated with BASDAI, CRP, and ESR.Conclusion. AS pathogenesis involved dysregulation of microRNAs. Hsa-miR-126-3p and hsa-miR-29a will probably become the potential biomarkers and provocative therapeutic targets of AS.
Task-Oriented Parameter Tuning Based on Priority Condition for Biologically Inspired Robot Application
Authors: Kwon Jaesung , Park Ill Woo , Yang Woosung
Published: July 2015

This work gives a biologically inspired control scheme for controlling a robotic system. Novel adaptive behaviors are observed from humans or animals even in unexpected disturbances or environment changes. This is why they have neural oscillator networks in the spinal cord to yield rhythmic-motor primitives robustly under a changing task. Hence, this work focuses on rhythmic arm movements that can be accomplished in terms of employing a control approach based on an artificial neural oscillator model. The main challenge is to determine various parameters for applying a neural feedback to robotic systems with performing a desired behavior and self-maintaining the entrainment effect. Hence, this work proposes a task-oriented parameter tuning algorithm based on the simulated annealing (SA). This work also illustrates how to technically implement the proposed control scheme exploiting a virtual force and neural feedback. With parameters tuned, it is verified in simulations that a 3-DOF planar robotic arm traces a given trajectory precisely, adapting to uneven external disturbances.
Control of the Gas Flow in an Industrial Directional Solidification Furnace for Production of High Purity Multicrystalline Silicon Ingots
Authors: Liu Lijun , Qi Xiaofang , Ma Wencheng , Li Zaoyang , Zhang Yunfeng
Published: July 2015

A crucible cover was designed as gas guidance to control the gas flow in an industrial directional solidification furnace for producing high purity multicrystalline silicon. Three cover designs were compared to investigate their effect on impurity transport in the furnace and contamination of the silicon melt. Global simulations of coupled oxygen (O) and carbon (C) transport were carried out to predict the SiO and CO gases in the furnace as well as the O and C distributions in the silicon melt. Cases with and without chemical reaction on the cover surfaces were investigated. It was found that the cover design has little effect on the O concentration in the silicon melt; however, it significantly influences CO gas transport in the furnace chamber and C contamination in the melt. For covers made of metal or with a coating on their surfaces, an optimal cover design can produce a silicon melt free of C contamination. Even for a graphite cover without a coating, the carbon concentration in the silicon melt can be reduced by one order of magnitude. The simulation results demonstrate a method to control the contamination of C impurities in an industrial directional solidification furnace by crucible cover design.
Flap Necrosis after Palatoplasty in Patients with Cleft Palate
Authors: Rossell-Perry Percy
Published: July 2015

Palatal necrosis after palatoplasty in patients with cleft palate is a rare but significant problem encountered by any cleft surgeon. Few studies have addressed this disastrous complication and the prevalence of this problem remains unknown. Failure of a palatal flap may be attributed to different factors like kinking or section of the pedicle, anatomical variations, tension, vascular thrombosis, type of cleft, used surgical technique, surgeon’s experience, infection, and malnutrition. Palatal flap necrosis can be prevented through identification of the risk factors and a careful surgical planning should be done before any palatoplasty. Management of severe fistulas observed as a consequence of palatal flap necrosis is a big challenge for any cleft surgeon. Different techniques as facial artery flaps, tongue flaps, and microvascular flaps have been described with this purpose. This review article discusses the current status of this serious complication in patients with cleft palate.
Less Than One-Third of Caretakers Sought Formal Health Care Facilities for Common Childhood Illnesses in Ethiopia: Evidence from the 2011 Ethiopian Demographic Health Survey
Authors: Gebretsadik Achamyelesh , Worku Alemayehu , Berhane Yemane
Published: July 2015

Background. Most of the childhood illnesses can be proven with effective interventions. However, countless children die needlessly in developing countries due to the failure of their guardians to seek care timely. The aim of this study was to assess health care seeking behavior of caretakers of children under the age of five years for treatment of common childhood illnesses. Methods. Further analysis of the Ethiopian 2011 demographic and health survey was done. All children under the age of five reported to have been ill from the three common childhood illnesses and their caretakers were included in the analysis. A complex sample logistic regression model was employed to determine factors associated with the health care seeking behavior of caretakers. Result. A total of 2,842 caregivers who reported that their index child had at least one of the three common childhood illnesses in the two weeks preceding the survey were captured, of which 849 (29.87%; 95% CI: 28, 32%) sought formal health care facilities. Conclusion and Recommendation. In Ethiopia health care seeking behavior of caretakers for common childhood illnesses is low. Increasing mass media exposure can possibly improve the health seeking behavior of caretakers.
The Surgical Treatment Principles of Atlantoaxial Instability Focusing on Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Shih Yu-Tung , Kao Ting-Hsien , Pan Hung-Chuan , Chen Hsien-Te , Tsou Hsi-Kai
Published: July 2015

Object.This retrospective review was conducted to determine the surgical treatment principle for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients with atlantoaxial instability (AAI).Methods.Thirteen patients with AAI, including 5 RA patients, received preoperative computed tomography- (CT-) based image-guided navigation system (IGS) in C1 lateral mass-C2 pedicle screw-rod system fixation (LC1-PC2 fixation). These 13 patients were analyzed for 52 screws inserted into C1 and C2. We defined these patients as non-RA group (8 patients, 32 screws) and RA group (5 patients, 20 screws). The neurological status for RA group was evaluated using the Ranawat classification. The causes of AAI, surgical indications, complications, surgical method revolution, and CT-based navigation application are discussed.Results.None of the 13 patients expressed neurological function deterioration. The non-RA group screw accuracy was 100%. In the RA group, 1 RA patient developed left C2 screw loosening at 1+months after operation due to screw malposition. The screw accuracy for this group was 95%.Conclusions.Higher intraoperative surgical complication rate was described in RA patients. Preoperative CT-based IGS in LC1-PC2 fixation can provide good neurological function and screw accuracy results. However, for higher screw accuracy in RA patients, intraoperative CT-based IGS application may be considered.
SAM68: Signal Transduction and RNA Metabolism in Human Cancer
Authors: Frisone Paola , Pradella Davide , Di Matteo Anna , Belloni Elisa , Ghigna Claudia , Paronetto Maria Paola
Published: July 2015

Alterations in expression and/or activity of splicing factors as well as mutations incis-acting splicing regulatory sequences contribute to cancer phenotypes. Genome-wide studies have revealed more than 15,000 tumor-associated splice variants derived from genes involved in almost every aspect of cancer cell biology, including proliferation, differentiation, cell cycle control, metabolism, apoptosis, motility, invasion, and angiogenesis. In the past decades, several RNA binding proteins (RBPs) have been implicated in tumorigenesis. SAM68 (SRC associated in mitosis of 68 kDa) belongs to the STAR (signal transduction and activation of RNA metabolism) family of RBPs. SAM68 is involved in several steps of mRNA metabolism, from transcription to alternative splicing and then to nuclear export. Moreover, SAM68 participates in signaling pathways associated with cell response to stimuli, cell cycle transitions, and viral infections. Recent evidence has linked this RBP to the onset and progression of different tumors, highlighting misregulation of SAM68-regulated splicing events as a key step in neoplastic transformation and tumor progression. Here we review recent studies on the role of SAM68 in splicing regulation and we discuss its contribution to aberrant pre-mRNA processing in cancer.
Splicing Regulation: A Molecular Device to Enhance Cancer Cell Adaptation
Authors: Pagliarini Vittoria , Naro Chiara , Sette Claudio
Published: July 2015

Alternative splicing (AS) represents a major resource for eukaryotic cells to expand the coding potential of their genomes and to finely regulate gene expression in response to both intra- and extracellular cues. Cancer cells exploit the flexible nature of the mechanisms controlling AS in order to increase the functional diversity of their proteome. By altering the balance of splice isoforms encoded by human genes or by promoting the expression of aberrant oncogenic splice variants, cancer cells enhance their ability to adapt to the adverse growth conditions of the tumoral microenvironment. Herein, we will review the most relevant cancer-related splicing events and the underlying regulatory mechanisms allowing tumour cells to rapidly adapt to the harsh conditions they may face during the occurrence and development of cancer.
Monitoring of Damage in Sunflower and Maize Parcels Using Radar and Optical Time Series Data
Authors: Surek György , Nádor Gizella
Published: July 2015

The objective of this paper is to monitor the temporal behaviour of geometrical structural change of cropland affected by four different types of damage: weed infection, Western Corn Rootworm (WCR), storm damage, and drought by time series of different type of optical and quad-pol RADARSAT2 data. Based on our results it is established that ragweed infection in sunflower can be well identified by evaluation of radar (mid-June) and optical (mid-August) satellite images. Effect of drought in sunflower is well recognizable by spectral indices derived from optical as well as “I”-component of Shannon entropy (SEI) from radar satellite images acquired during the first decade of July. Evaluation of radar and optical satellite images acquired between the last decade of July and mid-August proven to be the most efficient for detecting damages in maize fields caused by either by WCR or storm. Components of Shannon entropy are proven to have significant role in identification. Our project demonstrates the potential in integrated usage of polarimetric radar and optical satellite images for monitoring several types of agricultural damage.
Prevalence and Genotyping ofCryptosporidiumInfection in Pet Parrots in North China
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Xuan , Zhang Nian-Zhang , Zhao Guang-Hui , Zhao Quan , Zhu Xing-Quan
Published: July 2015

Cryptosporidiosis is a worldwide zoonosis caused byCryptosporidiumspp., sometimes leading to severe diarrhea in humans and animals. In the present study, 311 parrots, belonging to four species, namely, Budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulatus), Lovebirds (Agapornissp.), Alexandrine parakeets (Psittacula eupatria), and Cockatiel (Nymphicus hollandicus), from Beijing and Weifang cities, were examined forCryptosporidiumspp. infection. Blood samples of each bird were examined using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and fecal samples were examined by Sheather’s sugar flotation technique. Prevalence ofCryptosporidiuminfection were 3.22% (10/311) and 0.64% (2/311) by ELISA and Sheather’s sugar flotation technique, respectively. Seroprevalence ofCryptosporidiuminfection in different breeds varied from 0 to 15.39%. Sequencing analysis showed that both positive samples from fecal samples belonged toCryptosporidiumavian genotype V. This is the first report ofCryptosporidiumavian genotype V in Budgerigars. The results of the present study provided foundation-data for prevention and control of cryptosporidiosis in pet birds in China.
Social Media Use for Public Health Campaigning in a Low Resource Setting: The Case of Waterpipe Tobacco Smoking
Authors: Jawad Mohammed , Abass Jooman , Hariri Ahmad , Akl Elie A.
Published: July 2015

Introduction. Waterpipe tobacco smoking prevalence is increasing worldwide despite its documented health effects. A general belief that it is less harmful than cigarettes may be fuelled by the lack of media campaigns highlighting its health effects. We aimed to create and assess the impact of a social media campaign about dangers of waterpipe smoking.Methods. The “ShishAware” campaign included three social media (Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube) and a website. Nine months after launch we collected data to assess use of, and reaction to, our media accounts.Results. Requiring limited maintenance resources, Facebook attracted campaign supporters but YouTube attracted opposers. Twitter enabled the most organisation-based contact but Facebook was the most interactive medium. Facebook users were more likely to “like” weekday than weekend statuses and more likely to comment on “shisha fact” than “current affairs” statuses. Follower subscription increased as our posting rate increased. Our YouTube video gained 19,428 views (from all world continents) and 218 comments (86% from pro-waterpipe smokers).Conclusions. Social media campaigns can be created and maintained relatively easily. They are innovative and have the potential for wide and rapid diffusion, especially towards target audiences. There is a need for more rigorous evaluation of their effects, particularly among the youth.
Low-Rank and Sparse Matrix Decomposition for Genetic Interaction Data
Authors: Wang Yishu , Yang Dejie , Deng Minghua
Published: July 2015

Background. Epistatic miniarray profile (EMAP) studies have enabled the mapping of large-scale genetic interaction networks and generated large amounts of data in model organisms. One approach to analyze EMAP data is to identify gene modules with densely interacting genes. In addition, genetic interaction score (Sscore) reflects the degree of synergizing or mitigating effect of two mutants, which is also informative. Statistical approaches that exploit both modularity and the pairwise interactions may provide more insight into the underlying biology. However, the high missing rate in EMAP data hinders the development of such approaches. To address the above problem, we adopted the matrix decomposition methodology “low-rank and sparse decomposition” (LRSDec) to decompose EMAP data matrix into low-rank part and sparse part.Results. LRSDec has been demonstrated as an effective technique for analyzing EMAP data. We applied a synthetic dataset and an EMAP dataset studying RNA-related processes inSaccharomyces cerevisiae. Global views of the genetic cross talk between different RNA-related protein complexes and processes have been structured, and novel functions of genes have been predicted.
An Improved Micropropagation Protocol byEx VitroRooting ofPassiflora edulisSims. f.flavicarpaDeg. through Nodal Segment Culture
Authors: Shekhawat Mahipal S. , Manokari M. , Ravindran C. P.
Published: July 2015

A procedure for rapid clonal propagation ofPassiflora edulisSims. f.flavicarpaDeg. (Passifloraceae) has been developed in this study. Nodal explants were sterilized with 0.1% HgCl2and inoculated on Murashige and Skoog (MS) basal medium. The addition of 2.0 mgL−16-benzylaminopurine (BAP) to MS medium caused an extensive proliferation of multiple shoots (8.21±1.13) primordial from the nodal meristems. Subculturing of these multiple shoots on the MS medium augmented with 1.0 mgL−1of each BAP and Kinetin (Kin) was successful for the multiplication of the shootsin vitrowith maximum numbers of shoots (25.73±0.06) within four weeks of incubation. Shoots were rooted best (7.13±0.56roots/shoots) on half strength MS medium supplemented with 2.0 mgL−1indole-3 butyric acid (IBA). Allin vitroregenerated shoots were rooted byex vitromethod, and this has achieved 6-7 roots per shoot by pulsing of cut ends of the shoots using 200 as well as 300 mgL−1IBA. The plantlets were hardened in the greenhouse for 4-5 weeks. The hardened plantlets were shifted to manure containing nursery polybags after five weeks and then transferred to a sand bed for another four weeks for acclimatization before field planting with 88% survival rate.
Clinical Features in Juvenile-Onset Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients Carrying Different B27 Subtypes
Authors: Mou Yikun , Zhang Pingping , Li Qiuxia , Lin Zhiming , Liao Zetao , Wei Qiujing , Gu Jieruo
Published: July 2015

Background. Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a common rheumatic disease and is characterized by inflammation of the axial skeleton. HLA-B27 is strongly associated with AS. Juvenile-onset AS (JAS) with disease onset before 16 years of age differs from adult-onset AS (AAS) in many respects.Objective. To compare the clinical features in JAS with different B27 subtypes and analyze the differences between JAS and AAS.Methods. 145 JAS and 360 AAS patients were included. The demographic data, clinical manifestations, laboratory markers, Bath AS indices, and B27 subtypes were recorded.Results. Peripheral arthritis, enthesitis, BASDAI, ESR, and CRP were significantly higher in JAS patients with HLA-B*2704 than those with B27-negative. Enthesitis and ESR were significantly higher in patients with HLA-B*2705 than those with B27-negative. The onset age of HLA-B*2715 group was much earlier than the other groups. The peripheral arthritis, enthesitis, and hip joint involvement in JAS with HLA-B*2704 were significantly higher than those in AAS with HLA-B*2704.Conclusion. JAS with different B27 subtypes had similar features in most of manifestations; JAS and AAS patients with the same subtype could have distinctive courses. Early diagnosis, hip detection, and control of systemic active inflammation in JAS patients will be helpful for improving the prognosis.
In Situ and Home Care Nasopharyngeal Intubation Improves Respiratory Condition and Prevents Surgical Procedures in Early Infancy of Severe Cases of Robin Sequence
Authors: Drago Marquezini Salmen Isabel Cristina , Lazarini Marques Ilza
Published: July 2015

Aim. To evaluate the clinical outcome of infants with Robin Sequence (RS) and severe respiratory obstruction managed with nasopharyngeal intubation (NPI).Methods. This prospective study was conducted with 107 infants with RS admitted to the Hospital for Craniofacial Anomalies of the University of São Paulo (HRAC-USP), from July 2003 to June 2010, diagnosed with severe RS and treated with NPI. The infants were followed up for the first year of life. Clinical findings, morbidity, and mortality were recorded.Results. Of the 223 infants with RS admitted to the hospital in the period studied, 149 were diagnosed with severe respiratory distress and 107 (71.81%) matched all the inclusion criteria. Of those, 78 (73%) presented Isolated Robin Sequence and 29 (27%) presented other syndromes or anomalies associated with RS. NPI treatment lasted an average of 57 days and the mean hospitalization time was 18 days. Although all infants presented feeding difficulties, 85% were fed orally and only 15% underwent gastrostomy. Morbidity was 14% and no deaths occurred.Conclusions. The children treated with the RS treatment protocol adopted at the HRAC-USP had improved respiratory and feeding difficulties, required a shorter hospitalization time, and presented low morbidity and mortality during the first year of life. The general outcome prevented surgical procedures in early infancy.
Origin of Circulating Free DNA in Sepsis: Analysis of the CLP Mouse Model
Authors: Hamaguchi Shigeto , Akeda Yukihiro , Yamamoto Norihisa , Seki Masafumi , Yamamoto Kouji , Oishi Kazunori , Tomono Kazunori
Published: July 2015

Recently, it has been reported that circulating free DNA (cf‐DNA) in the blood is increased in various infectious diseases, including sepsis. Moreover, a relationship between cf‐DNA and neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) has been suggested. However, it is still unclear what the source and physiological role of cf‐DNA in sepsis are. In this study, we examined the source of cf‐DNA by detecting citrullinated histone H3, a characteristic feature of NET formation, in cecal ligation and puncture‐ (CLP‐)operated mice. In addition, neutrophil depletion using anti‐Ly6G antibodies was performed to assess the association between neutrophils and cf‐DNA. Increased cf‐DNA levels were observed only in CLP mice and not in the control groups; the qPCR findings revealed that the cf‐DNA was mainly host‐derived, even in bacteremic conditions. Citrullinated histone H3 was not increased in the neutrophils upon CLP, and the depletion of neutrophils showed limited effects on decreasing the amount of cf‐DNA. Taken together, these results suggested that elevated cf‐DNA levels during early‐phase sepsis may represent a candidate biomarker for the severity of sepsis and that, contrary to previous findings, cf‐DNA is not derived from neutrophils or NETs.
Elevated Serum Levels of Soluble CD30 in Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients and Its Association with Disease Severity-Related Parameters
Authors: Gao Rongfen , Sun Wei , Chen Yu , Su Yuying , Wang Chenqiong , Dong Lingli
Published: July 2015

Soluble CD30 (sCD30), a transmembrane glycoprotein that belongs to the tumor necrosis factor receptor (TNFR) superfamily, has been shown to be associated with various pathological conditions. This study was designed to measure the levels of serum sCD30 in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and to evaluate the relationships between serum sCD30 levels and other disease severity-related indexes, including bath ankylosing spondylitis disease activity index (BASDAI), ankylosing spondylitis disease activity score (ASDAS), and bath ankylosing spondylitis functional index (BASFI). Our results demonstrated significantly elevated sCD30 levels in AS patients compared to healthy controls (HCs) with mean values of32.0±12.2and24.9±8.0 ng/mL, respectively(P**=0.007), suggesting a potential role of sCD30 in the pathogenesis of AS. However, no significant correlations of sCD30 with BASDAI, ASDAS, or BASFI were detected in our study(P>0.05). Therefore, sCD30 cannot be used as a reliable marker for reflecting disease activity and functional ability of AS patients.
Adult Mesenchymal Stem Cells: When, Where, and How
Authors: Caplan Arnold I.
Published: July 2015

Adult mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have profound medicinal effects at body sites of tissue injury, disease, or inflammation as either endogenously or exogenously supplied. The medicinal effects are either immunomodulatory or trophic or both. When to deliver these mediators of regeneration, where, and by what delivery apparatus or mechanism will directly determine their medical efficacy. The MSCs help manage the innate regenerative capacity of almost every body tissue and the MSCs have only recently been fully appreciated. Perhaps the most skilled physician-manager of the body’s innate regenerative capacity is in orthopedics where the vigorous regeneration and repair capacity of bone through local MSCs-titers is expertly managed by the orthopaedic physician. The challenge is to extend MSCs expertise to address other tissue dysfunctions and diseases. The medicine of tomorrow will encompass optimizing the tissues’ intrinsic regenerative potential through management of local MSCs.
Comparisons of Circular Transmit and Linear Receive Compact Polarimetric SAR Features for Oil Slicks Discrimination
Authors: Li Yu , Lin Hui , Zhang Yuanzhi , Chen Jie
Published: July 2015

Compact polarimetric (CP) synthetic aperture radar (SAR) has proven its potential in distinguishing oil slicks and look-alikes. Polarimetric information can be retrieved directly from scattering vector or from reconstructed pseudo-Quad-Pol covariance matrix of CP SAR data. In this paper, we analysed features from Circular Transmit and Linear Receive (CTLR) CP SAR data that are derived by taking both of these two methods.K-means clustering followed by accuracy assessment was also implemented for performance evaluation. Through experiments that were conducted based on L-band UAVSAR fully polarimetric data, it was found that optimum extraction methods varied for different features. The histogram analysis and segmentation results also demonstrated the comparable performance of CP SAR features in distinguishing different damping properties within oil slicks. This study proposed a framework of statistically analyzing polarimetric SAR (Pol-SAR) features and provided guidelines for determining optimum feature extraction methods from CP SAR data and for marine oil-spills detection and classification.
Modulation of Hyaluronan Synthesis by the Interaction between Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Osteoarthritic Chondrocytes
Authors: Antonioli Eliane , Piccinato Carla A. , Nader Helena B. , Cohen Moisés , Goldberg Anna Carla , Ferretti Mario
Published: July 2015

Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) are considered a good source for cellular therapy in cartilage repair. But, their potential to repair the extracellular matrix, in an osteoarthritic environment, is still controversial. In osteoarthritis (OA), anti-inflammatory action and extracellular matrix production are important steps for cartilage healing. This study examined the interaction of BM-MSC and OA-chondrocyte on the production of hyaluronan and inflammatory cytokines in a Transwell system. We compared cocultured BM-MSCs and OA-chondrocytes with the individually cultured controls (monocultures). There was a decrease in BM-MSCs cell count in coculture with OA-chondrocytes when compared to BM-MSCs alone. In monoculture, BM-MSCs produced higher amounts of hyaluronan than OA-chondrocytes and coculture of BM-MSCs with OA-chondrocytes increased hyaluronan production per cell. Hyaluronan synthase-1 mRNA expression was upregulated in BM-MSCs after coculture with OA-chondrocytes, whereas hyaluronidase-1 was downregulated. After coculture, lower IL-6 levels were detected in BM-MSCs compared with OA-chondrocytes. These results indicate that, in response to coculture with OA-chondrocytes, BM-MSCs change their behavior by increasing production of hyaluronan and decreasing inflammatory cytokines. Our results indicate that BM-MSCsper secould be a potential tool for OA regenerative therapy, exerting short-term effects on the local microenvironment even when cell:cell contact is not occurring.
Review of Rateless-Network-Coding-Based Packet Protection in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Abdullah A. S. , Abbasi M. J. , Fisal N.
Published: July 2015

In recent times, there have been many developments in wireless sensor network (WSN) technologies using coding theory. Fast and efficient protection schemes for data transfer over the WSN are some of the issues in coding theory. This paper reviews the issues related to the application of the joint rateless-network coding (RNC) within the WSN in the context of packet protection. The RNC is a method in which any node in the network is allowed to encode and decode the transmitted data in order to construct a robust network, improve network throughput, and decrease delays. To the best of our knowledge, there has been no comprehensive discussion about RNC. To begin with, this paper briefly describes the concept of packet protection using network coding and rateless codes. We therefore discuss the applications of RNC for improving the capability of packet protection. Several works related to this issue are discussed. Finally, the paper concludes that the RNC-based packet protection scheme is able to improve the packet reception rate and suggests future studies to enhance the capability of RNC protection.
Acute Toxicity and Dermal and Eye Irritation of the Aqueous and Hydroalcoholic Extracts of the Seeds of “Zapote” Pouteria mammosa (L.) Cronquist
Authors: Dutok Carlos M. S. , Berenguer-Rivas Clara Azalea , Rodríguez-Leblanch Elizabeth , Pérez-Jackson Liliana , Chil-Nuñez Idelsy , Escalona-Arranz Julio César , Reyes-Tur Bernardo , Queiroz Margareth M. C.
Published: July 2015

The common use of Pouteria mammosa (L.) Cronquist, “Mamey or Zapote,” in food and ethnobotanic medicine shows its low or absent toxicity as fruit extracts prepared from seeds. However, it is essential to conduct security trials to scientifically support their use in drug therapy. This study evaluated the aqueous and hydroalcoholic extract (25%) Acute Oral Toxicity, obtained from the seeds of P. mammosa, in Sprague Dawley rats and dermal and eye irritability in New Zealand rabbits. The 404 and 405 acute dermal and eye irritation/corrosion guidelines were used, as well as the 423 Acute Oral Toxicity guideline, Acute Toxic Class Method of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). The aqueous extract was located in the following category: not classified as toxic (CTA 5), while hydroalcoholic extract at 25% was classified as dangerous (CTA 4). Both extracts can be used without side reaction that irritates the skin which permitted classification as potentially not irritant. P. mammosa in the two extracts caused mild and reversible eye irritation, and it was classified as slightly irritating.
Talcoma: A Diagnostic Challenge in Differential Diagnosis of Pleural Masses
Authors: Ocak Iclal , Dewan Rohit
Published: July 2015

Talcoma is a pleural mass which may develop as a rare complication following talc pleurodesis. Talc pleurodesis is performed to obliterate the pleural space to prevent recurrent pleural effusions or persistent pneumothoraces. The present report describes a case of a patient who developed enlarging pleural mass (talcoma) following talc pleurodesis.
Second-Hand Smoking among Intermediate and Secondary School Students in Madinah, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Zalabani Abdulmohsen H. , Amer Soliman M. , Kasim Khaled A. , Alqabshawi Reem I. , Abdallah Ayat R.
Published: July 2015

Background and objectives. Second-hand smoke (SHS) is an important public health problem worldwide. The study aimed to estimate the prevalence of SHS exposure and its associated risk factors among intermediate and secondary school students.Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2013 among 3400 students from 34 intermediate and secondary schools in Madinah City, Saudi Arabia. Data about sociodemographic and smoking-related factors and SHS exposure were collected using a self-administered questionnaire.Results. Of the 3210 students analyzed, the prevalence of SHS exposure was 32.7% 49.3%, and 25% inside, outside, and both inside and outside the home, respectively. The highest risk of SHS exposure was associated with the adolescent’s smoking status, parental smoking, close friends smoking, and family structure. The risk was markedly increased in association with parental smoking for exposure inside the home (OR = 6.49; 95% CI = 5.44–7.73) and with close friends smoking for exposure outside the home (OR = 4.16; 95% CI = 3.54–4.77). The risk of SHS, however, was lower among adolescents having knowledge about smoking and highly educated parents.Conclusion. The study revealed a considerably high prevalence of SHS both inside and outside the home among adolescents. Knowledge and beliefs about SHS exposure are the main preventable approach.
Emerging Roles of MicroRNAs in EGFR-Targeted Therapies for Lung Cancer
Authors: Han Fei , He Jinxi , Li Feng , Yang Jiali , Wei Jun , Cho William C. , Liu Xiaoming
Published: July 2015

Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide. Several molecular pathways underlying mechanisms of this disease have been partly elucidated, among which the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) pathway is one of the well-known signaling cascades that plays a critical role in tumorigenesis. Dysregulation of the EGFR signaling is frequently found in lung cancer. The strategies to effectively inhibit EGFR signaling pathway have been mounted for developing anticancer therapeutic agents. However, most anti-EGFR-targeted agents fail to repress cancer progression because of developing drug-resistance. Therefore, studies of the mechanisms underpinning the resistance toward anti-EGFR agents may provide important findings for lung cancer treatment using anti-EGFR therapies. Recently, increasing numbers of miRNAs are correlated with the drug resistance of lung cancer cells to anti-EGFR agents, indicating that miRNAs may serve as novel targets and/or promising predictive biomarkers for anti-EGFR therapy. In this paper, we summarize the emerging role of miRNAs as regulators to modulate the EGFR signaling and the resistance of lung cancer cells to anti-EGFR therapy. We also highlight the evidence supporting the use of miRNAs as biomarkers for response to anti-EGFR agents and as novel therapeutic targets to circumvent the resistance of lung cancer cells to EGFR inhibitors.
Design of a Real-Time Adaptively Tuned Dynamic Vibration Absorber with a Variable Stiffness Property Using Magnetorheological Elastomer
Authors: Komatsuzaki Toshihiko , Iwata Yoshio
Published: July 2015

An elastomer composite with controllable stiffness, known as a magnetorheological elastomer (MRE), is used in a dynamic vibration absorber whose natural frequency is tuned adaptively to the disturbance frequency through the application of an external magnetic field. The field-dependent property test of the fabricated MRE sample shows that the stiffness changes by more than six times compared to the baseline property value at a 40% iron powder volume concentration. The MRE is then used to fabricate a frequency-tunable dynamic absorber for mitigating transient vibrations of a one-degree-of-freedom system. Investigations show that the proposed absorber outperforms a conventional passive-type absorber throughout the tunable frequency range.
Weaker Self-Esteem in Adolescence Predicts Smoking
Authors: Saari Antti J. , Kentala Jukka , Mattila Kari J.
Published: July 2015

Background. To study whether weaker self-esteem in adolescence is connected with smoking behavior in adulthood.Methods. An age cohort born in 1979 responded to the Lawrence Self-Esteem Questionnaire (LAWSEQ) at the age of 16n=1,072. Respondents’ smoking behavior was monitored annually during adolescence and 75.3%n=813of them remained nonsmokers during adolescence. A follow-up questionnaire eliciting smoking behavior was sent to the adolescent nonsmokers at the age of 29 years. Response rate at follow-up was 46.2%n=376.Results. Weaker self-esteem (LAWSEQ score ≥ 3) during the adolescence was not significantly associated with smoking in adulthood. However, those respondents who had weaker self-esteem in adolescence had increased risk of having been smoking regularly (adjusted OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.1–3.0) although not all of them were smokers at the time of the follow-up.Conclusions. Those with weaker self-esteem in adolescence are more likely to smoke regularly in adulthood.
Spatial Registration for a Three-Arm Robot Assisted Mandible Reconstruction Surgery
Authors: Wang Yonggui , Duan Xingguang
Published: July 2015

The three-arm surgical robot system assisted mandible reconstruction surgery (TMR-MRS) is developed to repair the mandible defects caused by congenital defect, trauma, or acquired disease. The surgical robot system is divided into four parts, including 3D reconstructed image subsystem, robotic subsystem, optical measurement subsystem, and patient subsystem. The spatial registration based on quaternion is proposed to obtain the transformation relationship between four surgical subsystems. A method of hand-eye coordination is presented to control the end-effector of the robot arm to target position according to surgical planning. A least square error criterion is developed to optimize and compensate the hand-eye coordination method. In addition, the position of fibular implant in the robot space is calculated when it is grasped by end-effector of robot middle arm. Finally, the positioning accuracy tests and skull model experiments were conducted to evaluate the function of the surgical robot system. The results validate its feasibility and are consistent with the preoperative surgical planning.
Representation of 3D Environment Map Using B-Spline Surface with Two Mutually Perpendicular LRFs
Authors: Yan Rui-Jun , Wu Jing , Lee Ji Yeong , Han Chang-Soo
Published: July 2015

This paper proposes a map representation method of three-dimensional (3D) environment by using B-spline surfaces, which are first used to describe large environment in 3D map construction research. Initially, a 3D point cloud map is constructed based on extracted line segments with two mutually perpendicular 2D laser range finders (LRFs). Then two types of accumulated data sets are separated from the point cloud map according to different types of robot movements, continuous translation and continuous rotation. To express the environment more accurately, B-spline surface with covariance matrix is proposed to be extracted from each data set. Due to the random movements, there must be overlap between extracted B-spline surfaces. However, merging of two overlapping B-spline surfaces with different distribution directions of their control points is a complex problem, which is not well addressed by far. In our proposed method, each surface is divided into overlap and nonoverlap. Then generated sample points with propagated uncertainties from one overlap and their projection points located on the other overlap are merged using the product of Gaussian probability density functions. Based on this merged data set, a new surface is extracted to represent the environment instead of the two overlaps. Finally, proposed methods are validated by using the experimental result of an accurate representation of an indoor environment with B-spline surfaces.