bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Mutant Chaperonin That Is Functional at Lower Temperatures Enables Hyperthermophilic Archaea To Grow under Cold-Stress Conditions
Authors: Gao Le , Imanaka Tadayuki , Fujiwara Shinsuke
Published: May 2015

Thermococcus kodakarensis
grows optimally at 85°C and possesses two chaperonins, cold-inducible CpkA and heat-inducible CpkB, which are involved in adaptation to low and high temperatures, respectively. The two chaperonins share a high sequence identity (77%), except in their C-terminal regions. CpkA, which contains tandem repeats of a GGM motif, shows its highest ATPase activity at 60°C to 70°C, whereas CpkB shows its highest activity at temperatures higher than 90°C. To clarify the effects of changes in ATPase activity on chaperonin function at lower temperatures, various CpkA variants were constructed by introducing single point mutations into the C-terminal region. A CpkA variant in which Glu530 was replaced with Gly (CpkA-E530G) showed increased ATPase activity, with its highest activity at 50°C. The efficacy of the CpkA variants against denatured indole-3-glycerol-phosphate synthase of
T. kodakarensis
(TrpC

Tk

), which is a CpkA target, was then examined
in vitro
. CpkA-E530G was more effective than wild-type CpkA at facilitating the refolding of chemically unfolded TrpC

Tk

at 50°C. The effect of
cpkA-E530G
on cell growth was then examined by introducing
cpkA-E530G
into the genome of
T. kodakarensis
KU216 (
pyrF
). The mutant strain, DA4 (
pyrF cpkA-E530G
), grew as well as the parental KU216 strain at 60°C. In contrast, DA4 grew more vigorously than KU216 at 50°C. These results suggested that the CpkA-E530G mutation prevented cold denaturation of proteins under cold-stress conditions, thereby enabling cells to grow in cooler environments. Thus, a single base pair substitution in a chaperonin gene allows cells to grow vigorously in a new environment.

IMPORTANCE
Thermococcus kodakarensis
possesses two group II chaperonins, cold-inducible CpkA and heat-inducible CpkB, which are involved in adaptation to low and high temperatures, respectively. CpkA might act as an “adaptive allele” to adapt to cooler environments. In this study, we compared the last 20 amino acids within the C termini of the chaperonins and found a clear correlation between the CpkA-type chaperonin gene copy number and growth temperature. Furthermore, we introduced single mutations into the CpkA C-terminal region to clarify its role in cold adaptation, and we showed that a single base substitution allowed the organism to adapt to a lower temperature. The present data suggest that hyperthermophiles have evolved by obtaining mutations in chaperonins that allow them to adapt to a colder environment.
Databases for Microbiologists
Authors: Zhulin Igor B.
Published: May 2015

Databases play an increasingly important role in biology. They archive, store, maintain, and share information on genes, genomes, expression data, protein sequences and structures, metabolites and reactions, interactions, and pathways. All these data are critically important to microbiologists. Furthermore, microbiology has its own databases that deal with model microorganisms, microbial diversity, physiology, and pathogenesis. Thousands of biological databases are currently available, and it becomes increasingly difficult to keep up with their development. The purpose of this minireview is to provide a brief survey of current databases that are of interest to microbiologists.
Cooperative Roles for Fimbria and Filamentous Hemagglutinin inBordetellaAdherence and Immune Modulation
Authors: Scheller Erich V. , Melvin Jeffrey A. , Sheets Amanda J. , Cotter Peggy A.
Published: May 2015

Bordetellafimbriae (FIM) are generally considered to function as adhesins despite a lack of experimental evidence supporting this conclusion forBordetella pertussisand evidence against a requirement for FIM in adherence ofBordetella bronchisepticato mammalian cell lines. UsingB. bronchisepticaand mice, we developed anin vivoadherence assay that revealed that FIM do function as critically important adhesins in the lower respiratory tract. In the first few days postinoculation, FIM-deficientB. bronchisepticainduced a more robust inflammatory response than wild-type bacteria did, suggesting that FIM, like filamentous hemagglutinin (FHA), allowB. bronchisepticato suppress the innate immune response to infection. Localization analyses indicated that FIM are required for efficient attachment to airway epithelium, as bacteria lacking FIM localized to alveoli. FHA-deficient bacteria, in contrast, localized to airways. Bacteria unable to produce both FIM and FHA localized to alveoli and caused increased inflammation and histopathology identical to that caused by FIM-deficient bacteria, demonstrating that lack of FIM is epistatic to lack of FHA. Coinoculation experiments provided evidence that wild-typeB. bronchisepticasuppresses inflammation locally within the respiratory tract and that both FHA and FIM are required for defense against clearance by the innate immune system. Altogether, our data suggest that FIM-mediated adherence to airway epithelium is a critical first step inBordetellainfection that allows FHA-dependent interactions to mediate tight adherence, suppression of inflammation, and resistance to inflammatory cell-mediated clearance. Our results suggest that mucosal antibodies capable of blocking FIM-mediated interactions could prevent bacterial colonization of the lower respiratory tract.

IMPORTANCEAlthough fimbriae (FIM) have been shown to be important mediators of adherence for many bacterial pathogens, there is surprisingly little experimental evidence supporting this role forBordetellafimbria. Our results provide the first demonstration thatBordetellaFIM function as adhesinsin vivo, specifically to airway epithelium. Furthermore, our results suggest that FIM mediate initial interactions with airway epithelial cells that are followed by tight filamentous hemagglutinin (FHA)-mediated binding and that together, FIM and FHA allowBordetellato suppress inflammation, leading to prolonged colonization. Given the shortcoming of the current acellular component pertussis (aP) vaccine in preventing colonization, these findings suggest that generation of antibodies capable of blocking FIM-mediated adherence could potentially preventBordetellacolonization.
Niemann-Pick C1 Is Essential for Ebolavirus Replication and Pathogenesis
In Vivo
Authors: Herbert Andrew S. , Davidson Cristin , Kuehne Ana I. , Bakken Russell , Braigen Stephen Z. , Gunn Kathryn E. , Whelan Sean P. , Brummelkamp Thijn R. , Twenhafel Nancy A. , Chandran Kartik , Walkley Steven U. , Dye John M.
Published: May 2015

Recent work demonstrated that the Niemann-Pick C1 (NPC1) protein is an essential entry receptor for filoviruses. While previous studies focused on filovirus entry requirements of NPC1
in vitro
, its roles in filovirus replication and pathogenesis
in vivo
remain unclear. Here, we evaluated the importance of NPC1, and its partner in cholesterol transport, NPC2, by using a mouse model of Ebolavirus (EBOV) disease. We found that, whereas wild-type mice had high viral loads and succumbed to EBOV infection,

Npc1
−/−

mice were entirely free of viral replication and completely protected from EBOV disease. Interestingly,

Npc1
+/−

mice transiently developed high levels of viremia, but were nevertheless substantially protected from EBOV challenge. We also found

Npc2
−/−

mice to be fully susceptible to EBOV infection, while

Npc1
−/−

mice treated to deplete stored lysosomal cholesterol remained completely resistant to EBOV infection. These results provide mechanistic evidence that NPC1 is directly required for EBOV infection
in vivo
, with little or no role for NPC1/NPC2-dependent cholesterol transport. Finally, we assessed the
in vivo
antiviral efficacies of three compounds known to inhibit NPC1 function or NPC1-glycoprotein binding
in vitro
. Two compounds reduced viral titers
in vivo
and provided a modest, albeit not statistically significant, degree of protection. Taken together, our results show that NPC1 is critical for replication and pathogenesis in animals and is a bona fide target for development of antifilovirus therapeutics. Additionally, our findings with

Npc1
+/−

mice raise the possibility that individuals heterozygous for NPC1 may have a survival advantage in the face of EBOV infection.

IMPORTANCE
Researchers have been searching for an essential filovirus receptor for decades, and numerous candidate receptors have been proposed. However, none of the proposed candidate receptors has proven essential in all
in vitro
scenarios, nor have they proven essential when evaluated using animal models. In this report, we provide the first example of a knockout mouse that is completely refractory to EBOV infection, replication, and disease. The findings detailed here provide the first critical
in vivo
data illustrating the absolute requirement of NPC1 for filovirus infection in mice. Our work establishes NPC1 as a legitimate target for the development of anti-EBOV therapeutics. However, the limited success of available NPC1 inhibitors to protect mice from EBOV challenge highlights the need for new molecules or approaches to target NPC1
in vivo
.
Targeting skeletal muscle mitochondria to prevent type 2 diabetes in youth
Authors: Gordon Joseph W. , Dolinsky Vernon W. , Mughal Wajihah , Gordon Grant R.J. , McGavock Jonathan
Published: May 2015

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) has increased dramatically over the past two decades, not only among adults but also among adolescents. T2D is a systemic disorder affecting every organ system and is especially damaging to the cardiovascular system, predisposing individuals to severe cardiac and vascular complications. The precise mechanisms that cause T2D are an area of active research. Most current theories suggest that the process begins with peripheral insulin resistance that precedes failure of the pancreatic β-cells to secrete sufficient insulin to maintain normoglycemia. A growing body of literature has highlighted multiple aspects of mitochondrial function, including oxidative phosphorylation, lipid homeostasis, and mitochondrial quality control in the regulation of peripheral insulin sensitivity. Whether the cellular mechanisms of insulin resistance in adults are comparable to that in adolescents remains unclear. This review will summarize both clinical and basic studies that shed light on how alterations in skeletal muscle mitochondrial function contribute to whole body insulin resistance and will discuss the evidence supporting high-intensity exercise training as a therapy to circumvent skeletal muscle mitochondrial dysfunction to restore insulin sensitivity in both adults and adolescents.
Effect of minimum diameter at breast height and standing dead wood field measurements on the accuracy of ALS-based forest inventory
Authors: Keränen Juha , Peuhkurinen Jussi , Packalen Petteri , Maltamo Matti
Published: May 2015

Where airborne laser scanning (ALS) measures the entire aboveground vegetation, the target of a stand-level forest inventory is usually the living tree stock above a given diameter but excluding standing dead trees. The aim here was to investigate the effects of varying field-measured minimum diameters (3–10 cm) and standing dead wood on ALS-based forest inventories. The characteristics considered in this case were volume, basal area, number of stems, mean diameter, and mean height for each species, as well as the total growing stock and the total aboveground biomass. The field data comprised measurements of all trees that were ≥3 cm at breast height (1.3 m) on 601 sample plots located in pine-dominated managed forests in eastern Finland. The results showed that the minimum diameter had a significant effect on the estimates obtained in young forests, for which the three smallest minimum diameter datasets (3, 4, and 5 cm) gave the most accurate estimates. Minimum diameter had no marked influence in the case of middle-aged or mature forests. The inclusion of standing dead trees did not have any effect on the estimates of living tree characteristics. The effect of minimum diameter is minor where large-area inventory applications are concerned; however, especially from a silvicultural point of a view, a minimum diameter of 3 cm should be employed in young forests, for which a large proportion of the tree stock usually consists of small trees, i.e., with diameters of <5 cm.
(n+1)-dimensional spherically symmetric expanding structures in R2-gravity
Authors: Ebrahimi Esmaeil
Published: May 2015

In this work, we consider higher-dimensional structures in [Formula: see text]-gravity in an expanding background. We assume a Ricci scalar constant background and use this assumption as the basic constraint to find solutions. Two classes of solutions are presented in which every one includes naked singularity and wormhole geometries. Both classes of solutions show inflationary phase of expansion favored by recent acceleration of the universe. Traversability of the wormhole solutions is discussed. The possibility of satisfying or violating the weak energy condition (WEC) for wormholes is explored. For one class of solutions, particular choices of constants result in wormholes which satisfy the WEC all over the spacetime.
Fractional Chebyshev Finite Difference Method for Solving the Fractional-Order Delay BVPs
Authors: Khader M. M.
Published: May 2015

In this paper, we implement an efficient numerical technique which we call fractional Chebyshev finite difference method (FChFDM). The fractional derivatives are presented in terms of Caputo sense. The algorithm is based on a combination of the useful properties of Chebyshev polynomials approximation and finite difference method. The proposed technique is based on using matrix operator expressions which applies to the differential terms. The operational matrix method is derived in our approach in order to approximate the fractional derivatives. This operational matrix method can be regarded as a nonuniform finite difference scheme. The error bound for the fractional derivatives is introduced. We used the introduced technique to solve numerically the fractional-order delay BVPs. The application of the proposed method to introduced problem leads to algebraic systems which can be solved by an appropriate numerical method. Several numerical examples are provided to confirm the accuracy and the effectiveness of the proposed method.
A Survey on Implicit Surface Polygonization
Authors: de Araújo B. R. , Lopes Daniel S. , Jepp Pauline , Jorge Joaquim A. , Wyvill Brian
Published: May 2015

Implicit surfaces (IS) are commonly used in image creation, modeling environments, modeling objects, and scientific data visualization. In this article, we present a survey of different techniques for fast visualization of IS. The main classes of visualization algorithms are identified along with the advantages of each in the context of the different types of IS commonly used in computer graphics. We focus closely on polygonization methods, as they are the most suited to fast visualization. Classification and comparison of existing approaches are presented using criteria extracted from current research. This enables the identification of the best strategies according to the number of specific requirements, such as speed, accuracy, quality, or stylization.
Remote Data Auditing in Cloud Computing Environments
Authors: Sookhak Mehdi , Gani Abdullah , Talebian Hamid , Akhunzada Adnan , Khan Samee U. , Buyya Rajkumar , Zomaya Albert Y.
Published: May 2015

Cloud computing has emerged as a long-dreamt vision of the utility computing paradigm that provides reliable and resilient infrastructure for users to remotely store data and use on-demand applications and services. Currently, many individuals and organizations mitigate the burden of local data storage and reduce the maintenance cost by outsourcing data to the cloud. However, the outsourced data is not always trustworthy due to the loss of physical control and possession over the data. As a result, many scholars have concentrated on relieving the security threats of the outsourced data by designing the Remote Data Auditing (RDA) technique as a new concept to enable public auditability for the stored data in the cloud. The RDA is a useful technique to check the reliability and integrity of data outsourced to a single or distributed servers. This is because all of the RDA techniques for single cloud servers are unable to support data recovery; such techniques are complemented with redundant storage mechanisms. The article also reviews techniques of remote data auditing more comprehensively in the domain of the distributed clouds in conjunction with the presentation of classifying ongoing developments within this specified area. The thematic taxonomy of the distributed storage auditing is presented based on significant parameters, such as scheme nature, security pattern, objective functions, auditing mode, update mode, cryptography model, and dynamic data structure. The more recent remote auditing approaches, which have not gained considerable attention in distributed cloud environments, are also critically analyzed and further categorized into three different classes, namely, replication based, erasure coding based, and network coding based, to present a taxonomy. This survey also aims to investigate similarities and differences of such a framework on the basis of the thematic taxonomy to diagnose significant and explore major outstanding issues.
DPP-IV inhibitor anagliptin exerts anti-inflammatory effects on macrophages, adipocytes, and mouse livers by suppressing NF-κB activation
Authors: Shinjo Takanori , Nakatsu Yusuke , Iwashita Misaki , Sano Tomomi , Sakoda Hideyuki , Ishihara Hisamitsu , Kushiyama Akifumi , Fujishiro Midori , Fukushima Toshiaki , Tsuchiya Yoshihiro , Kamata Hideaki , Nishimura Fusanori , Asano Tomoichiro
Published: May 2015

Dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) expression in visceral adipose tissue is reportedly increased in obese patients, suggesting an association of DPP-IV with inflammation. In this study, first, lipopolysaccharide (LPS)- or palmitate-induced elevations of inflammatory cytokine mRNA expressions in RAW264.7 macrophages were shown to be significantly suppressed by coincubation with a DPP-IV inhibitor, anagliptin (10 μM), despite low DPP-IV expression in the RAW264.7 cells. Regarding the molecular mechanism, LPS-induced degradation of IκBα and phosphorylations of p65, JNK, and p38, as well as NF-κB and AP-1 promoter activities, were revealed to be suppressed by incubation with anagliptin, indicating suppressive effects of anagliptin on both NF-κB and AP-1 signaling pathways. Anagliptin also acted on 3T3-L1 adipocytes, weakly suppressing the inflammatory cytokine expressions induced by LPS and TNFα. When 3T3-L1 and RAW cells were cocultured and stimulated with LPS, the effects of anagliptin on the suppression of cytokine expressions in 3T3-L1 adipocytes were more marked and became evident at the 10 μM concentration. Anti-inflammatory effects of anagliptin were also observed in vivo on the elevated hepatic and adipose expressions and serum concentrations of inflammatory cytokines in association with the suppression of hepatic NF-κB transcriptional activity in LPS-infused mice. Taking these observations together, the anti-inflammatory properties of anagliptin may be beneficial in terms of preventing exacerbation of diabetes and cardiovascular events.
Transient Left-Sided Paralysis following Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Uteropexy
Authors: Kurdija Jasmina , Jakobsson Jan G.
Published: May 2015

We describe a case report of a 47-year-old ASA 2 female patient who exhibits severe headache and hemineurology during awakening following robotic pelvic prolapse surgery. The symptoms resolved spontaneously during the first postoperative day. We could not find any explicit root cause. Robotic surgery associated adverse events are discussed.
In VitroAntibacterial, Antifungal, Antibiofilm, Antioxidant, and Anticancer Properties of Isosteviol Isolated from Endangered Medicinal PlantPittosporum tetraspermum
Authors: Abdullah Al-Dhabi Naif , Valan Arasu Mariadhas , Rejiniemon Thankappan Sarasam
Published: May 2015

This study aimed to investigate thein vitroantibacterial, antifungal, antibiofilm, antioxidant, and anticancer properties of isosteviol isolated from endangered medicinal plantPittosporum tetraspermum. Pure compound was obtained and characterized by column chromatography followed by1H NMR,13C NMR, IR, and mass spectral analysis. The antimicrobial activities of the compound were assessed by the broth microdilution method and the antioxidant properties were determined using reducing ability assay, DPPH scavenging assay, hydroxyl radical scavenging activity, and superoxide radical scavenging assay. Anticancer study was evaluated by following MTT assay. Column purification and spectrocopical analysis lead to identifying isosteviol from the crude ethyl acetate extract. The compound exhibited significant activity against bacteria such asStaphylococcus epidermidis(125 µg/mL),Staphylococcus aureus(125 µg/mL), andKlebsiella pneumoniae(62.5 µg/mL). The MIC of the compound againstCandida albicans,Aspergillus niger, andTrichophyton mentagrophyteswas 62.5, 125, and 500 µg/mL, respectively. The compound showed comparatively better antibiofilm activity againstE. coli,S. typhi, andP. aeruginosa. Furthermore, it exhibited good antioxidant properties. Anticancer properties of the compound against Vero and MCF7 cell lines were its advantage. Novel isosteviol would be useful to reduce the infectious diseases caused by pathogenic microorganisms or slow the progress of various oxidative stress-related diseases.
Inhibition of Hyperpolarization-Activated Cation Current in Medium-Sized DRG Neurons Contributed to the Antiallodynic Effect of Methylcobalamin in the Rat of a Chronic Compression of the DRG
Authors: Zhang Ming , Han Wenjuan , Zheng Jianyong , Meng Fancheng , Jiao Xiying , Hu Sanjue , Xu Hui
Published: May 2015

Recently several lines of evidence demonstrated that methylcobalamin (MeCbl) might have potential analgesic effect in experimental and clinical studies. However, it was reported that MeCbl had no effect on treating lumbar spinal stenosis induced pain. Thus, the effects of short-term and long-term administration of MeCbl were examined in the chronic compression of dorsal root ganglion (CCD) model. We found that mechanical allodynia was significantly inhibited by a continuous application of high dose and a single treatment of a super high dose of MeCbl. Little is known about mechanisms underlying the analgesia of MeCbl. We examined the effect of MeCbl on the spontaneous activity (SA), the excitability, and hyperpolarization-activated nonselective cation ion current in compressed medium-sized dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons using extracellular single fiber recordingin vivoand whole-cell patch clampin vitro. We found that MeCbl significantly inhibited the SA of A-type sensory neurons in a dose-dependent manner and inhibited the excitability of medium-sized DRG neurons. In addition, MeCbl also decreasedIhcurrent density in injured medium-sized DRG neurons. Our results proved that MeCbl might exert an analgesic effect through the inhibitionIhcurrent and then might inhibit the hyperexcitability of primary sensory neurons under neuropathic pain state.
Harnessing the Therapeutic Potential of Th17 Cells
Authors: Bystrom Jonas , Taher Taher E. , Muhyaddin M. Sherwan , Clanchy Felix I. , Mangat Pamela , Jawad Ali S. , Williams Richard O. , Mageed Rizgar A.
Published: May 2015

Th17 cells provide protective immunity to infections by fungi and extracellular bacteria as well as cancer but are also involved in chronic inflammation. The cells were first identified by their ability to produce interleukin 17A (IL‐17A) and, subsequently, associated with chronic inflammation and autoimmunity. Th17 cells have some gene profile similarity with stem cells and can remain dormant in mucosal tissues for long periods. Indeed, recent studies suggest that functionally distinct subsets of pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory Th17 cells can interchange phenotype and functions. For development, Th17 cells require activation of the transcription factors STAT3 and RORγt while RUNX1, c‐Maf, and Aiolos are involved in changes of phenotype/functions. Attempts to harness Th17 cells against pathogens and cancer using vaccination strategies are being explored. The cells gain protective abilities when induced to produce interferon γ (IFNγ). In addition, treatment with antibodies to IL‐17 is effective in treating patients with psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and refectory rheumatoid arthritis. Moreover, since RORγt is a nuclear receptor, it is likely to be a potential future drug target for modulating Th17 functions. This review explores pathways through which Th17 subsets are induced, the molecular basis of their plasticity, and potential therapeutic strategies for their modulation in diseases.
Combined Effect of a Locking Plate and Teriparatide for Incomplete Atypical Femoral Fracture: Two Case Reports of Curved Femurs
Authors: Tsuchie Hiroyuki , Miyakoshi Naohisa , Nishi Tomio , Abe Hidekazu , Segawa Toyohito , Shimada Yoichi
Published: May 2015

In surgical treatment for atypical femoral fractures (AFFs), reconstruction nail fixation is recommended for both complete and incomplete fractures. Although it has been reported that AFF is affected by many factors, The ASBMR Task Force 2013 Revised Case Definition of AFFs states that a curved femur is often seen in Asian patients. It is sometimes difficult to insert a nail into a femur in incomplete AFF patients with severely curved femurs. We report two incomplete bisphosphonate-related AFF patients with marked femoral curvatures treated by locking plates and teriparatide, showing early bone unions and favorable long-term outcomes.
New Algorithm Based on Sign Decomposition to Verify the Robust Stability Property for a Class of Linear Time-Delay Systems
Authors: Díaz-Rodríguez Iván D. , Romero Gerardo , Elizondo Cesar
Published: May 2015

The main focus of this paper is to analyze the robust stability property for a class of time-delay systems when parametric polynomic uncertainty is considered. The analysis is made by replacing the time-delay part with an auxiliary equation and then using the sign definite decomposition to deal with the polynomic parametric uncertainty. Also, it is shown that it is possible to verify the robust stability property by first obtaining the Hurwitz matrix from the characteristic equation for this class of systems and then checking the leading principal minors positivity using the sign definite decomposition. Finally, an algorithm codified in MATLAB is used to evaluate and graphically show the robust stability property. This is shown by a series of points that were calculated using the sign definite decomposition.
A Robust AdaBoost.RT Based Ensemble Extreme Learning Machine
Authors: Zhang Pengbo , Yang Zhixin
Published: May 2015

Extreme learning machine (ELM) has been well recognized as an effective learning algorithm with extremely fast learning speed and high generalization performance. However, to deal with the regression applications involving big data, the stability and accuracy of ELM shall be further enhanced. In this paper, a new hybrid machine learning method called robust AdaBoost.RT based ensemble ELM (RAE-ELM) for regression problems is proposed, which combined ELM with the novel robust AdaBoost.RT algorithm to achieve better approximation accuracy than using only single ELM network. The robust threshold for each weak learner will be adaptive according to the weak learner’s performance on the corresponding problem dataset. Therefore, RAE-ELM could output the final hypotheses in optimally weighted ensemble of weak learners. On the other hand, ELM is a quick learner with high regression performance, which makes it a good candidate of “weak” learners. We prove that the empirical error of the RAE-ELM is within a significantly superior bound. The experimental verification has shown that the proposed RAE-ELM outperforms other state-of-the-art algorithms on many real-world regression problems.
Capillary Electrophoresis Single-Strand Conformational Polymorphisms as a Method to Differentiate Algal Species
Authors: Jernigan Alice , Hestekin Christa
Published: May 2015

Capillary electrophoresis single-strand conformational polymorphism (CE-SSCP) was explored as a fast and inexpensive method to differentiate both prokaryotic (blue-green) and eukaryotic (green and brown) algae. A selection of two blue-green algae (Nostoc muscorumandAnabaena inaequalis), five green algae (Chlorella vulgaris, Oedogonium foveolatum, Mougeotiasp.,Scenedesmus quadricauda, andUlothrix fimbriata), and one brown algae (Ectocarpussp.) were examined and CE-SSCP electropherogram “fingerprints” were compared to each other for two variable regions of either the 16S or 18S rDNA gene. The electropherogram patterns were remarkably stable and consistent for each particular species. The patterns were unique to each species, although some common features were observed between the different types of algae. CE-SSCP could be a useful method for monitoring changes in an algae species over time as potential shifts in species occurred.
Pulmonary Hemorrhage Secondary to Disseminated Strongyloidiasis in a Patient with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Plata-Menchaca Erika P. , de Leon V. M. De la Puente-Diaz , Peña-Romero Adriana G. , Rivero-Sigarroa Eduardo
Published: May 2015

Introduction. Pulmonary hemorrhage secondary to disseminated strongyloidiasis is an unusual, well-recognized entity in immunocompromised patients with autoimmune disease, which is associated with the hyperinfection syndrome, sepsis, and a high mortality rate.Case Presentation. We present a case of a 44-year-old Mexican woman with systemic lupus erythematosus and acute bacterial meningitis who developed pulmonary hemorrhage with acute respiratory failure requiring mechanical ventilation, treated with broad spectrum systemic antibiotics and high dose methylprednisolone, who subsequently developed a characteristic purpuric skin eruption and septic shock and died two days later of refractory hypoxemia caused by massive pulmonary bleeding. The postmortem examination reports filariform larvae ofS. stercolarisin lung, skin, and other organs.Conclusion. This case highlights the importance of considering disseminated strongyloidiasis in the differential diagnosis of diffuse alveolar hemorrhage in systemic lupus erythematosus, and screening forS. stercolarisinfection before initiation of immunosuppressive therapy should be considered, especially in endemic areas. Disseminated strongyloidiasis has a high mortality rate, explained in part by absence of clinical suspicion.
In VitroProperties of Potential Probiotic Indigenous Lactic Acid Bacteria Originating from Traditional Pickles
Authors: Tokatlı Mehmet , Gülgör Gökşen , Bağder Elmacı Simel , Arslankoz İşleyen Nurdan , Özçelik Filiz
Published: May 2015

The suitable properties of potential probiotic lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains (preselected among 153 strains on the basis of their potential technological properties) isolated from traditional Çubuk pickles were examinedin vitro. For this purpose, these strains (21Lactobacillus plantarum, 11Pediococcus ethanolidurans,and 7Lactobacillus brevis) were tested for the ability to survive at pH 2.5, resistance to bile salts, viability in the presence of pepsin-pancreatin, ability to deconjugate bile salts, cholesterol assimilation, and surface hydrophobicity properties. Most of the properties tested could be assumed to be strain-dependent. However,L. plantarumandL. brevisspecies were found to possess desirable probiotic properties to a greater extent compared toP. ethanolidurans. In contrast toP. ethanoliduransstrains, the testedL. plantarumandL. brevisstrains exhibited bile salt tolerance, albeit to different extent. All tested strains showed less resistance to intestinal conditions than gastric juice environment. Based on the survival under gastrointestinal conditions, 22 of the 39 strains were selected for further characterization. The eight strains having the highest cholesterol assimilation and surface hydrophobicity ratios could be taken as promising probiotic candidates for furtherin vivostudies, because of the strongest variations found among the tested strains with regard to these properties.
Anomaly Detection via Midlevel Visual Attributes
Authors: Xiao Tan , Zhang Chao , Zha Hongbin
Published: May 2015

Automatically discovering anomalous events and objects from surveillance videos plays an important role in real-world application and has attracted considerable attention in computer vision community. However it is still a challenging issue. In this paper, a novel approach for automatic anomaly detection is proposed. Our approach is highly efficient; thus it can perform real-time detection. Furthermore, it can also handle multiscale detection and can cope with spatial and temporal anomalies. Specifically, local features capturing both appearance and motion characteristics of videos are extracted from spatiotemporal video volume (STV). To bridge the large semantic gap between low-level visual feature and high-level event, we use the middle-level visual attributes as the intermediary. And these three-level framework is modeled as an extreme learning machine (ELM). We propose to use the spatiotemporal pyramid (STP) to capture the spatial and temporal continuity of an anomalous even, enabling our approach to cope with multiscale and complicated events. Furthermore, we propose a method to efficiently update the ELM; thus our approach is self-adaptive to background change which often occurs in real-world application. Experiments on several datasets are carried out and the superior performance of our approach compared to the state-of-the-art approaches verifies its effectiveness.
k-Smooth Points in Some Banach Spaces
Authors: Saleh Hamarsheh A.
Published: May 2015

We characterize thek-smooth points in some Banach spaces. We will deal with injective tensor product, the Bochner spaceL∞(μ,X)of (equivalence classes of)μ-essentially bounded measurableX-valued functions, and direct sums of Banach spaces.
Satellite Cells CD44 Positive Drive Muscle Regeneration in Osteoarthritis Patients
Authors: Scimeca Manuel , Bonanno Elena , Piccirilli Eleonora , Baldi Jacopo , Mauriello Alessandro , Orlandi Augusto , Tancredi Virginia , Gasbarra Elena , Tarantino Umberto
Published: May 2015

Age-related bone diseases, such as osteoarthritis and osteoporosis, are strongly associated with sarcopenia and muscle fiber atrophy. In this study, we analyzed muscle biopsies in order to demonstrate that, in osteoarthritis patients, both osteophytes formation and regenerative properties of muscle stem cells are related to the same factors. In particular, thanks to immunohistochemistry, transmission electron microscopy, and immunogold labeling we investigated the role of BMP-2 in muscle stem cells activity. In patients with osteoarthritis both immunohistochemistry and transmission electron microscopy allowed us to note a higher number of CD44 positive satellite muscle cells forming syncytium. Moreover, the perinuclear and cytoplasmic expression of BMP-2 assessed byin situmolecular characterization of satellite cells syncytia suggest a very strict correlation between BMP-2 expression and muscle regeneration capability. Summing up, the higher BMP-2 expression in osteoarthritic patients could explain the increased bone mineral density as well as decreased muscle atrophy in osteoarthrosic patients. In conclusion, our results suggest that the control of physiological BMP-2 balance between bone and muscle tissues may be considered as a potential pharmacological target in bone-muscle related pathology.
Two-Dimensional Extreme Learning Machine
Authors: Jia Bo , Li Dong , Pan Zhisong , Hu Guyu
Published: May 2015

Extreme learning machine (ELM) has achieved wide attention due to faster learning speed compared with conventional neural network models like support vector machine (SVM) and back-propagation (BP) networks. However, like many other methods, ELM is originally proposed to handle vector pattern while nonvector patterns in real applications need to be explored, such as image data. We propose the two-dimensional extreme learning machine (2DELM) based on the very natural idea to deal with matrix data directly. Unlike original ELM which handles vectors, 2DELM take the matrices as input features without vectorization. Empirical studies on several real image datasets show the efficiency and effectiveness of the algorithm.
Particle Swarm Optimization Based Selective Ensemble of Online Sequential Extreme Learning Machine
Authors: Liu Yang , He Bo , Dong Diya , Shen Yue , Yan Tianhong , Nian Rui , Lendasse Amaury
Published: May 2015

A novel particle swarm optimization based selective ensemble (PSOSEN) of online sequential extreme learning machine (OS-ELM) is proposed. It is based on the original OS-ELM with an adaptive selective ensemble framework. Two novel insights are proposed in this paper. First, a novel selective ensemble algorithm referred to as particle swarm optimization selective ensemble is proposed, noting that PSOSEN is a general selective ensemble method which is applicable to any learning algorithms, including batch learning and online learning. Second, an adaptive selective ensemble framework for online learning is designed to balance the accuracy and speed of the algorithm. Experiments for both regression and classification problems with UCI data sets are carried out. Comparisons between OS-ELM, simple ensemble OS-ELM (EOS-ELM), genetic algorithm based selective ensemble (GASEN) of OS-ELM, and the proposed particle swarm optimization based selective ensemble of OS-ELM empirically show that the proposed algorithm achieves good generalization performance and fast learning speed.
Protective Effects of BDNF against C‐Reactive Protein‐Induced Inflammation in Women
Authors: Noren Hooten Nicole , Ejiogu Ngozi , Zonderman Alan B. , Evans Michele K.
Published: May 2015

Background. Since high sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hsCRP) is predictive of cardiovascular events, it is important to examine the relationship between hsCRP and other inflammatory and oxidative stress markers linked to cardiovascular disease (CVD) etiology. Previously, we reported that hsCRP induces the oxidative stress adduct 8‐oxo‐7,8‐dihydro‐2′deoxyguanosine (8‐oxodG) and that these markers are significantly associated in women. Recent data indicates that brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) may have a role in CVD. Methods and Results. We examined BDNF levels in 3 groups of women that were age‐ and race‐matched with low (<3 mg/L), mid (>3–20 mg/L), and high (>20 mg/L) hsCRP (n = 39 per group) and found a significant association between hsCRP, BDNF, and 8‐oxodG. In African American females with high hsCRP, increases in BDNF were associated with decreased serum 8‐oxodG. This was not the case in white women where high hsCRP was associated with high levels of BDNF and high levels of 8‐oxodG. BDNF treatment of cells reduced CRP levels and inhibited CRP‐induced DNA damage. Conclusion. We discovered an important relationship between hsCRP, 8‐oxodG, and BDNF in women at hsCRP levels >3 mg/L. These data suggest that BDNF may have a protective role in counteracting the inflammatory effects of hsCRP.
Adrenal Schwannomas: Rare Tumor of the Retroperitoneum
Authors: Grasso Emanuele , Simone Michele
Published: May 2015

Schwannoma is a benign neurogenic tumor originating from Schwann cells. These produce the myelin sheath that covers peripheral nerves that are often affected. This latter localization is extremely rare, and only a few case reports can be found in the medical literature. Studies have shown that approximately 0.5% to 5% of schwannomas are retroperitoneal, constituting 0.2% of adrenal incidental tumors. These usually present as incidental findings, nonsecreting adrenal masses in asymptomatic patients. Diagnosis of a schwannoma is based on detection of spindle cells with Antoni A and Antoni B regions in histological sections and positive staining for S-100 protein by immunohistochemical analysis. We report a case of an incidentally identified during an abdominal ultrasound examination with schwannoma localized in the left adrenal gland.
Adaptive Fuzzy Sliding Mode Control for the Probe Soft Landing on the Asteroids with Weak Gravitational Field
Authors: Li Yuanchun , Wang He , Zhao Bo , Liu Keping
Published: May 2015

For the trajectory control of the probe soft landing on the asteroids with weak gravitational field, this paper presents a combined integral sliding mode control with an adaptive fuzzy logic system, named adaptive fuzzy sliding mode control (AFSMC) scheme. Considering the uncertainty of the orbit dynamics model in the small body fixed coordinate system, and the polyhedron modeling uncertainty in the gravitational potential, a fuzzy logic system is adopted to approximate the upper bound of the uncertainties. In addition, a robust control item is introduced to compensate for the approximation error of fuzzy logic system. The designed adaptive law and robust item make the closed-loop control stable and the tracking errors are convergent to zero. The controller not only guarantees the rapidity and accuracy of the desired trajectory tracking, but also enhances the robustness of the control system, improving the dynamic tracking performance for the probe soft landing on asteroids. Finally, the contrastive simulation results are presented to show the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed control scheme.
A Multicenter, Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Duliang Soft Capsule in Patients with Chronic Daily Headache
Authors: Yu Shengyuan , Hu Yueqing , Wan Qi , Zhou Jiying , Liu Xinfeng , Qiao Xiangyang , Yang Xiaosu , Feng Jiachun , Chen Kangning , Pan Xiaoping , Yang Qingwu , Dou Linsen , Liu Ming , Chen Yangmei , Yu Tingmin , Yu Juming , Li Zhiwei , Bai Xue , Duan Jingfeng
Published: May 2015

Objective. To investigate the efficacy and safety of traditional Chinese medicine Duliang soft capsule (DSC) in prophylactic treatment for patients with chronic daily headache (CDH). Methods. A multicenter, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical study was conducted at 18 Chinese clinical centers. The participants received either DSC or placebo for 4 weeks. The primary efficacy measure was headache-free rate (HFR) in a 4-week period between the pretreatment and posttreatment stages. The secondary efficacy measures were the decrease of headache days, the duration of headache attacks, the frequency of analgesic usage, quality of life, disability, and the headache severity (VAS scores). The accompanying symptoms and adverse events were also assessed. Results. Of 584 CDH patients assessed, 468 eligible patients were randomized. 338 patients received DSC, while 111 patients were assigned in the placebo group. Following treatment, there was a 16.56% difference in HFR favoring DSC over placebo (P<0.01). Significant differences were also observed between DSC and placebo groups in the secondary measures. However, no statistical difference was found between the two groups in the associated symptoms. No severe adverse effects were observed in the study. Conclusions. DSC might be an effective and well-tolerated option for the prophylactic treatment of patients with CDH.
Influence of Ammonium Zirconium Carbonate on Properties of Poly(vinyl alcohol)/Xylan Composite Films
Authors: Chen Xiao-feng , Ren Jun-li , Meng Ling
Published: May 2015

A series of composite films were prepared using poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and xylan as degradable raw materials under the addition of glycerol and ammonium zirconium carbonate (AZC). The influences of AZC on the mechanical properties, water‐resisting properties, thermal stability, solubility (S), and water vapor permeability of PVA/xylan composite films were comparatively discussed. The results showed that AZC had a positive impact on improving the water resistance and mechanical properties of composite films especially for elongation at break (EAB). With increasing the AZC amounts from 0% to 15%, EAB increased rapidly from 18.5% to 218.0%, and the S values decrease from 11.64% to 8.64%. When the AZC amount reached 15%, the tensile strength still performed well (22.10 MPa). The great compatibility of components in composite films was also observed. Moreover, the addition of AZC had great influences on the thermal stability of composite films and the degradation in soil.
Comparison of Patient-Reported Outcome from Neck-Preserving, Short-Stem Arthroplasty and Resurfacing Arthroplasty in Younger Osteoarthritis Patients
Authors: Dettmer Marius , Pourmoghaddam Amir , Kreuzer Stefan W.
Published: May 2015

Hip resurfacing has been considered a good treatment option for younger, active osteoarthritis patients. However, there are several identified issues concerning risk for neck fractures and issues related to current metal-on-metal implant designs. Neck-preserving short-stem implants have been discussed as a potential alternative, but it is yet unclear which method is better suited for younger adults. We compared hip disability and osteoarthritis outcome scores (HOOS) from a young group of patients (n=52, age 48.9 ± 6.1 years) who had received hip resurfacing (HR) with a cohort of patients (n=73, age 48.2 ± 6.6 years) who had received neck-preserving, short-stem implant total hip arthroplasty (THA). Additionally, durations for both types of surgery were compared. HOOS improved significantly preoperatively to last followup (>1 year) in both groups (p<0.0001,η2=0.69); there were no group effects or interactions. Surgery duration was significantly longer for resurfacing (104.4 min ± 17.8) than MiniHip surgery (62.5 min ± 14.8),U=85.0,p<0.0001,η2=0.56. The neck-preserving short-stem approach may be preferable to resurfacing due to the less challenging surgery, similar outcome, and controversy regarding resurfacing implant designs.
The Sea Lamprey as an Etiological Model for Biliary Atresia
Authors: Chung-Davidson Yu-Wen , Yeh Chu-Yin , Li Weiming
Published: May 2015

Biliary atresia (BA) is a progressive, inflammatory, and fibrosclerosing cholangiopathy in infants that results in obstruction of both extrahepatic and intrahepatic bile ducts. It is the most common cause for pediatric liver transplantation. In contrast, the sea lamprey undergoes developmental BA with transient cholestasis and fibrosis during metamorphosis, but emerges as a fecund adult with steatohepatitis and fibrosis in the liver. In this paper, we present new histological evidence and compare the sea lamprey to existing animal models to highlight the advantages and possible limitations of using the sea lamprey to study the etiology and compensatory mechanisms of BA and other liver diseases. Understanding the signaling factors and genetic networks underlying lamprey BA can provide insights into BA etiology and possible targets to prevent biliary degeneration and to clear fibrosis. In addition, information from lamprey BA can be used to develop adjunct treatments for patients awaiting or receiving surgical treatments. Furthermore, the cholestatic adult lamprey has unique adaptive mechanisms that can be used to explore potential treatments for cholestasis and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).