bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel Robust Exponential Stability of Markovian Jumping Impulsive Delayed Neural Networks of Neutral-Type with Stochastic Perturbation
Authors: Fang Yang , Li Kelin , Yan Yunqi
Published: June 2016

The robust exponential stability problem for a class of uncertain impulsive stochastic neural networks of neutral-type with Markovian parameters and mixed time-varying delays is investigated. By constructing a proper exponential-type Lyapunov-Krasovskii functional and employing Jensen integral inequality, free-weight matrix method, some novel delay-dependent stability criteria that ensure the robust exponential stability in mean square of the trivial solution of the considered networks are established in the form of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). The proposed results do not require the derivatives of discrete and distributed time-varying delays to be 0 or smaller than 1. Moreover, the main contribution of the proposed approach compared with related methods lies in the use of three types of impulses. Finally, two numerical examples are worked out to verify the effectiveness and less conservativeness of our theoretical results over existing literature.
Sickled Erythrocytes Reversal and Membrane Stabilizing Compounds inTelfairia occidentalis
Authors: Atabo Samuel , Umar Ismaila Alhaji , James Dorcas Bolanle , Mamman Aisha Indo
Published: June 2016

Background and Purpose. Traditional management of sickle cell disease (SCD) is ubiquitous in Africa. In south-eastern Nigeria,Telfairia occidentalis (T. occidentalis)is strongly recommended for consumption by SCD patients, owing to its presumed therapeutic effect. This study investigates the antisickling and membrane regenerative potentials ofT. occidentalisin sickled erythrocytes.Experimental Approach. Sickled erythrocytes obtained from SCD patients were treated with sodium metabisulphite (2%) to induce further sickling. Heat and hypotonic-induced lyses of red blood cells’ membranes were also carried out. The RBCs were treated with varying concentration (10.0, 1.0, and 0.1 mg mL−1and 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, and 2.5 mg mL−1, resp.) ofT. occidentalisextracts as treatment regimen forin vitroantisickling and membrane stabilizing assays. Extract with peak activity was purified and reused in antisickling assay.Key Results. The antisickling activity of aqueous and methanolic extracts of leaves, seeds, and stem ofTelfairia occidentalisat 10.0, 1.0, and 0.1 mg mL−1revealed that the aqueous leaves extract (10 mg mL−1) exhibited the highest antisickling activity (64.03%) which was significantly (p<0.05) higher than that of the stem (47.30%) and seeds (37.50%). Partially purified fractions recorded improved antisickling effect (peak activity of 70%). Characterization (using GC-MS) of the most active fraction revealed some bioactive compounds. In the membrane stabilizing assay, methanolic and aqueous stem extracts ofT. occidentalisshowed the highest effect of 71.85% and 61.29%, respectively.Conclusions and Implications. The results provide scientific evidence for ethnopharmacological use ofT. occidentalisin the management of SCD.
Antibacterial and Antibiofilm Activity of Methanolic Plant Extracts against Nosocomial Microorganisms
Authors: Sánchez Eduardo , Rivas Morales Catalina , Castillo Sandra , Leos-Rivas Catalina , García-Becerra Ledy , Ortiz Martínez David Mizael
Published: June 2016

Biofilm is a complex microbial community highly resistant to antimicrobials. The formation of biofilms in biotic and abiotic surfaces is associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality in hospitalized patients. New alternatives for controlling infections have been proposed focusing on the therapeutic properties of medicinal plants and their antimicrobial effects. In the present study the antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities of 8 methanolic plant extracts were evaluated against clinical isolated microorganisms. Preliminary screening by diffusion well assay showed the antimicrobial activity of Prosopis laevigata, Opuntia ficus-indica, and Gutierrezia microcephala. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were determined ranging from 0.7 to >15 mg/mL. The specific biofilm formation index (SBF) was evaluated before and after the addition of plant extracts (MBC × 0.75). Opuntia ficus-indica caused the major reduction on SBF in dose‐dependent manner. Cytotoxic activity of plant extracts was determined using brine shrimp lethality test (Artemia salina L.). Lethal Dose concentration (LD50 values) of the plant extracts was calculated. LD50 values for P. laevigata and G. microcephala were 141.6 and 323.3 µg/mL, respectively, while O. ficus-indica showed a slight lethality with 939.2 µg/mL. Phytochemical analyses reveal the presence of flavonoids, tannins, and coumarines.
Intravenous Drug Abuse by Patients Inside the Hospital: A Cause for Sustained Bacteremia
Authors: Goel Noopur , Munshi Lubna Bashir , Thyagarajan Braghadheeswar
Published: June 2016

Patients with history of intravenous drug abuse are noted to be at risk of several infections including HIV, endocarditis, and other opportunistic infections. We report the case of a patient with sustainedBacillus cereusbacteremia despite use of multiple antibiotic regimens during his inpatient stay. Our case highlights the importance of high suspicion for active drug use inside the hospital in such patients. This is important in order to minimize unnecessary diagnostic workup and provide adequate treatment and safe hospital stay for these patients.
Serum Oxidized LDL Levels in Type 2 Diabetic Patients with Retinopathy in Mthatha Region of the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa
Authors: Ganjifrockwala Farzana , Joseph Jim , George Grace
Published: June 2016

Oxidized low‐density lipoprotein (ox‐LDL) is a powerful natural prooxidant derived from native LDL by cell‐mediated oxidation. Such oxidation occurs more easily in glycated LDL as observed in diabetes mellitus. We evaluated and compared selected biomarkers of oxidative stress and total antioxidant (TAO) levels in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients with and without retinopathy in the Mthatha region of the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The participants totaled to 140 and this number comprised 98 diabetic patients on treatment, stratified by diabetes (54) and diabetes with retinopathy (44). Forty‐two nondiabetic healthy controls made up the 140. Fasting plasma glucose (FPG), glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), lipid profile, serum ox‐LDL, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), and TAO levels were measured. A statistically significant increase in FPG, HbA1c, TBARS, and ox‐LDL and a significant decrease in TAO levels were seen in T2DM patients with retinopathy as compared to controls. A significant negative correlation was observed between TAO and ox‐LDL levels in the diabetic group. In multiple linear regression analyses, duration of diabetes, triglyceride, TAO, and LDL cholesterol were found to be significantly associated with ox‐LDL. In multiple logistic regression analyses, ox‐LDL [OR 1.02 (1.01–1.03), P = 0.005] was the only risk factor and was significantly associated with the presence of retinopathy.
Effect of Methanol on Viscosity of Aqueous Solutions of Cationic Surfactants at 298.15 to 323.15 K
Authors: Shah Sujit Kumar , Chatterjee Sujeet Kumar , Bhattarai Ajaya
Published: June 2016

Viscosity measurements have been made to the solutions of dodecyltrimethylammonium bromide (DTAB) and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) in 0.10, 0.20, 0.30, and 0.40 volume fractions of methanol in methanol-water mixed solvent media at 298.15, 308.15, 318.15, and 323.25 K. Critical micelle concentration (CMC) values have been determined. From relative viscosity for surfactant solutions, related viscosityBcoefficients are calculated and the values are interpreted in terms of solute-solvent interactions.
Low Level of Microsatellite Instability Correlates with Poor Clinical Prognosis in Stage II Colorectal Cancer Patients
Authors: Mojarad Ehsan Nazemalhosseini , Kashfi Seyed Mohammad Hossein , Mirtalebi Hanieh , Taleghani Mohammad Yaghoob , Azimzadeh Pedram , Savabkar Sanaz , Pourhoseingholi Mohammad Amin , Jalaeikhoo Hasan , Asadzadeh Aghdaei Hamid , Kuppen Peter J. K. , Zali Mohammad Reza
Published: June 2016

The influence of microsatellite instability (MSI) on the prognosis of colorectal cancer (CRC) requires more investigation. We assessed the role of MSI status in survival of individuals diagnosed with primary colorectal cancer. In this retrospective cross-sectional study the MSI status was determined in 158 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tumors and their matched normal tissues from patients who underwent curative surgery. Cox proportional hazard modeling was performed to assess the clinical prognostic significance. In this study we found that MSI-H tumors were predominantly located in the colon versus rectum (p=0.03), associated with poorer differentiation (p=0.003) and TNM stage II/III of tumors (p=0.02). In CRC patients with stage II, MSI-L cases showed significantly poorer survival compared with patients who had MSI-H or MSS tumors (p=0.04). This study indicates that MSI-L tumors correlate with poorer clinical outcome in patients with stage II tumors (p=0.04) or in tumors located in the colon (p=0.02). MSI-L characterizes a distinct subgroup of CRC patients who have a poorer outcome. This study suggests that MSI status in CRC, as a clinical prognostic marker, is dependent on other factors, such as tumor stage and location.
The Association between ESR and CRP and Systemic Hypertension in Sarcoidosis
Authors: Mirsaeidi Mehdi , Omar Hesham R. , Ebrahimi Golnaz , Campos Micheal
Published: June 2016

Introduction.The association between the level of systemic inflammation and systemic hypertension (sHTN) among subjects with sarcoidosis has not been previously explored.Methods.A retrospective study was conducted to investigate the relation between the level of systemic inflammation in sarcoidosis, measured by various serum inflammatory markers, and sHTN.Results.Among a total of 108 cases with sarcoidosis (mean age: 53.4 years, 76.9% females), 55 (50.9%) had sHTN and 53 (49.1%) were normotensive. ESR was highly associated with sHTN. The patients with sHTN had higher mean ESR levels compared with normotensives (48.8 ± 35 versus 23.2 ± 27 mm/hr, resp.;P=0.001). ROC curve analysis for ESR revealed an AUC value of 0.795 (95% CI: 0.692–0.897;P=0.0001). With regard to CRP, there was a trend towards higher mean values in sHTN group (3.4 versus 1.7 mg/L;P=0.067) and significantly higher prevalence of sHTN in the highest CRP quartile compared to the lowest one (69.6% versus 30%; OR 4.95;P=0.017). ROC curve analysis for CRP revealed an AUC value of 0.644 (95% CI: 0.518–0.769;P=0.03). On multivariate analysis, ESR and the CRP remained independent predictors for sHTN among subjects with sarcoidosis.Conclusion.Systemic inflammation is associated with the presence of sHTN in sarcoidosis.
Characterization and Experimental Investigation of NaNO3 : KNO3 as Solar Thermal Energy Storage for Potential Cooking Application
Authors: Gabisa Elias Wagari , Aman Abdulkadir
Published: June 2016

Household cooking is a major energy intensive activity in most of the Ethiopian households. Replacing the existing inefficient cooking stoves and the polluting energy source with a renewable source of energy plays a paramount role in conserving the environment and reducing the indoor pollution. In this study an energy storage phase change material is proposed to store solar thermal energy for a potential household cooking application. The selected phase change material has a melting point range which is well fitted to the operating range of temperatures for most of the household cooking activities. The solar energy source is simulated with electrical heating for experimental investigation of the thermal characteristics. Also it is intended to study the thermal characteristics of the mixture using deferential scanning calorimeter to identify at which mass ratio the mixture shows better thermal characteristics. From the laboratory analysis it is found that the 60% NaNO3 and 40% KNO3 by mass have shown promising thermal characteristics. For applying the selected salt mixture for cooking application, an experiment was conducted on two Ethiopian local meals, shiro wet and potato meal, to know how much energy is required to cook them and what amount of the PCM is required to store the required energy. The result reveals that 2.38 kWh energy is required for cooking the two meals for five family members for lunch and dinner. To store the energy required 4 kg of the PCM was required. Experiments were conducted to see the charging and discharging time of 60% NaNO3 and 40% KNO3 by mass. From the experimental result for 1.4 kg of the PCM, charging time of 50 minutes up to 300°C and a discharging time of 4.5 hours (from 300°C to 100°C) are required.
Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion at L5-S1 through a Unilateral Approach: Technical Feasibility and Outcomes
Authors: Choi Won-Suh , Kim Jin-Sung , Ryu Kyeong-Sik , Hur Jung-Woo , Seong Ji-Hoon
Published: June 2016

Background. Minimally invasive spinal transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS-TLIF) at L5-S1 is technically more demanding than it is at other levels because of the anatomical and biomechanical traits.Objective. To determine the clinical and radiological outcomes of MIS-TLIF for treatment of single-level spinal stenosis low-grade isthmic or degenerative spondylolisthesis at L5-S1.Methods. Radiological data and electronic medical records of patients who underwent MIS-TLIF between May 2012 and December 2014 were reviewed. Fusion rate, cage position, disc height (DH), disc angle (DA), disc slope angle, segmental lordotic angle (SLA), lumbar lordotic angle (LLA), and pelvic parameters were assessed. For functional assessment, the visual analogue scale (VAS), Oswestry disability index (ODI), and patient satisfaction rate (PSR) were utilized.Results. A total of 21 levels in 21 patients were studied. DH, DA, SLA, and LLA had increased from their preoperative measures at the final follow-up. Fusion rate was 86.7% (18/21) at 12 months’ follow-up. The most common cage position was anteromedial (15/21). The mean VAS scores for back and leg pain mean ODI scores improved significantly at the final follow-up. PSR was 88%. Cage subsidence was observed in 33.3% (7/21).Conclusions. The clinical and radiologic outcomes after MIS-TLIF at L5-S1 in patients with spinal stenosis or spondylolisthesis are generally favorable.
Relation between Resting State Front-Parietal EEG Coherence and Executive Function in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Teramoto Hiroko , Morita Akihiko , Ninomiya Satoko , Akimoto Takayoshi , Shiota Hiroshi , Kamei Satoshi
Published: June 2016

Objective. To assess the relation between executive dysfunction (ED) in Parkinson’s disease (PD) and resting state functional connectivity evaluated using electroencephalography (EEG) coherence.Methods. Sixty-eight nondemented sporadic PD patients were assessed using the Behavioural Assessment of the Dysexecutive Syndrome (BADS) to evaluate executive function. EEG coherence in the left frontoparietal electrode pair (F3-P3) and the right frontoparietal electrode pair (F4-P4) was analyzed in the alpha and theta range. The BADS scores were compared across the coherence groups, and the multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the contribution of confounders.Results. The standardized BADS score was significantly lower in the low F3-P3 coherence group in the alpha range (Mann-WhitneyUtest,p=0.032), though there was no difference between F4-P4 coherence group in the alpha range, F3-P3, and F4-P4 coherence groups in the theta range and the standardized BADS score. The multiple logistic regression analysis revealed the significant relation between the F3-P3 coherence group in alpha range and age-controlled standardized BADS score (p=0.039, 95% CI = 1.002–1.062).Conclusion. The decrease in resting state functional connectivity between the frontal and parietal cortices especially in the left side is related to ED in PD.
Design of Optimal Output Regulators for Dual-Rate Linear Discrete-Time Systems Based on the Lifting Technique
Authors: Guo Yujian , Liao Fucheng
Published: June 2016

A design strategy of optimal output regulators for dual-rate discrete-time systems, whose output sampling period is an integer multiple of the input updating period, is proposed. At first, by using the discrete lifting technique, the dual-rate discrete-time system is converted to a single-rate augmented system in form and the lifted state-space model is constructed. Correspondingly, the performance index of the original system is modified to the performance index of the single-rate augmented system. And the original problem is transformed into an output regulation problem for the augmented system. Then, according to the optimal regulator theory, an optimal output regulator for the dual-rate discrete-time system is derived. In the meantime, the existence conditions of the optimal output regulator are discussed. Finally, a numerical example is included to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Radiological Evaluation of Penetration of the Irrigant according to Three Endodontic Irrigation Techniques
Authors: Dhaimy Said , Imdary Sara , Dhoum Sara , Benkiran Imane , El Ouazzani Amal
Published: June 2016

Introduction. This experimental study is to compare radiographs based on the penetration depth of the irrigant following three final irrigation techniques.Material and Method. A sample of sixty teeth with single roots were prepared with stainless steel K files followed by mechanized Ni-Ti files iRace® under irrigation with 2.5% sodium hypochlorite. Radiopaque solution was utilized to measure the penetration depth of the irrigant. Three irrigation techniques were performed during this study: (i) passive irrigation, (ii) manually activated irrigation, and (iii) passive irrigation with an endodontic needle CANAL CLEAN®. Radiographs were performed to measure the length of irrigant penetration in each technique.Results. In comparison, passive irrigation with a conventional syringe showed infiltration of the irrigant by an average of0.682±0.105, whereas the manually activated irrigation technique indicated an average of0.876±0.066infiltration. Irrigation with an endodontic syringe showed an average infiltration of0.910±0.043. The results revealed highly significant difference between the three irrigation techniques (α=5%).Conclusion. Adding manual activation to the irrigant improved the result by 20%. This study indicates that passive irrigation with an endodontic needle has proved to be the most effective irrigation technique of the canal system.
Pelvic Myxoid Leiomyoma Mass between Vagina and Rectum
Authors: AlShalabi Omar , Alahmar Fadi Obaied , Aljasem Hazem , Alsaid Bayan , AlShalabi Abdulghani
Published: June 2016

Leiomyomas are the most common pelvic tumors in women. About 20–30% of women older than 35 are affected. Rare conditions of leiomyomas have extrauterine locations. Myxoid degeneration is a rare type of leiomyoma degeneration. We report a case of solid-cystic myxoid leiomyoma in a 53-year-old woman complained of constipation, urinary hesitation, and malodorous vaginal discharge with palpable17×12 cm mass between vagina and rectum. Regarding the inferior location of the mass, a perineal approach was used to enucleate it. This rare location has not been mentioned before. The woman was finally diagnosed by pathologists which was myxoid leiomyoma.
Optimization of Process Parameters forε-Polylysine Production by Response Surface Methods
Authors: Zhu Maxiaoqi , Zhang Zhicai , Liu Yiqiuyi , Wang Feng , Xia Lili , Xia Jianwei , Guo Hongming
Published: June 2016

ε-Polylysine (ε-PL) is a highly safe natural food preservative with a broad antimicrobial spectrum, excellent corrosion resistances, and great commercial potentials. In the present work, we evaluated theε-PL adsorption performances of HZB-3B and D155 resins and optimized the adsorption and desorption conditions by single-factor test, response surface method, and orthogonal design. The complexes of resin andε-PL were characterized by SEM and FITR. The results indicated that D155 resin had the bestε-PL adsorption performance and was selected for the separation and purification ofε-PL. The conditions for the static adsorption ofε-PL on D155 resin were optimized as follows:ε-PL solution 40 g/L, pH 8.5, resins 15 g/L, and absorption time 14 h. The adsorption efficiency ofε-PL under the optimal conditions was 96.84%. Theε-PL adsorbed on the D155 resin was easily desorbed with 0.4 mol/L HCl at 30°C in 10 h. The highest desorption efficiency was 97.57% and the overall recovery ofε-PL was 94.49% under the optimal conditions. The excellentε-PL adsorption and desorption properties of D155 resin including high selectivity and adsorption capacity, easy desorption, and high stability make it a good candidate for the isolation ofε-PL from fermentation broths.
Application of Hydrophilic Interaction Liquid Chromatography for the Quantification of Flavonoids inGenista tinctoriaExtract
Authors: Sentkowska Aleksandra , Biesaga Magdalena , Pyrzynska Krystyna
Published: June 2016

Hydrophilic interaction chromatography (HILIC) was employed to investigate chromatographic behavior of selected flavonoids from their different subgroups differing in polarity. Chromatographic measurements were performed on two different HILIC columns: unmodified silica (Atlantis-HILIC) and zwitterionic sulfoalkylbetaine (SeQuant ZIC-HILIC). Separation parameters such as content and type of organic modifier were studied. On ZIC column retention factors were observed to be inversely proportional to the buffer content in the mobile phase, which is the typical partitioning mechanism. In the case of bare silica column more or less apparent dual retention mechanism was observed, depending on the water component content in the mobile phase. ZIC-HILIC showed better selectivity (in comparison to silica column) with the detection limit of 0.01 mg/L (only for rutin was 0.05 mg/L). Finally, this chromatographic procedure was validated and applied for the determination of some flavonoids inGenista tinctoriaL. extract.
From Traditional Usage to Pharmacological Evidence: A Systematic Mini‐Review of Spina Gleditsiae
Authors: Gao Jiayu , Yang Xiao , Yin Weiping
Published: June 2016

Spina Gleditsiae is an important herb with various medicinal properties in traditional and folk medicinal systems of East Asian countries. In China through the centuries, it has been traditionally used as a source of drugs for anticancer, detoxication, detumescence, apocenosis, and antiparasites effects. Recently, an increasing number of studies have been reported regarding its chemical constituents and pharmacological activities. To further evidence the traditional use, phytochemicals, and pharmacological mechanisms of this herb, a systematic literature review was performed herein for Spina Gleditsiae. The review approach consisted of searching several web‐based scientific databases including PubMed, Web of Science, and Elsevier using the keywords “Spina Gleditsiae”, “Zao Jiao Ci”, and “Gleditsia sinensis”. Based on the proposed criteria, 17 articles were evaluated in detail. According to the reviewed data, it is quite evident that Spina Gleditsiae contains a number of bioactive phytochemical components, which account for variety medicinal values including anticancer, anti‐inflammatory, antiatherogenic, antimicrobial, antiallergic, and antivirus activities. The phytochemical and pharmacological studies reviewed herein strongly underpin a fundamental understanding of herbal Spina Gleditsiae and support its ongoing clinical uses in China. The further phytochemical evaluation, safety verification, and clinical trials are expected to progress Spina Gleditsiae‐based development to finally transform the traditional TCM herb Spina Gleditsiae to the valuable authorized drug.
Interaction-Aware Video Community-Based Content Delivery in Wireless Mobile Networks
Authors: Zhong Lujie , Jia Shijie , Ma Youzhong , Zhang Yongxin
Published: June 2016

The increase in the demand of content quality and the number of mobile users brings new challenges for the multimedia streaming services in wireless mobile networks. The virtual community technologies are promising by grouping the users with common characteristics to get the gains in the performance of resource lookup and system scalability. In this paper, we propose a novel interaction-aware video community-based content delivery (IVCCD) in wireless mobile networks. IVCCD collects and analyzes the interaction information between users to construct user interaction model and further capture the common characteristics in the request and delivery of video content. IVCCD employs a partition-based community discovery scheme to group the mobile users in terms of the common characteristics and uses a community member management mechanism and a resource sharing scheme to achieve low-cost community maintenance and high searching performance. Extensive tests show how IVCCD achieves much better performance results in comparison with other state-of-the-art solutions.
Comparative Effects of Human Neural Stem Cells and Oligodendrocyte Progenitor Cells on the Neurobehavioral Disorders of Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis Mice
Authors: Bae Dae-Kwon , Park Dongsun , Lee Sun Hee , Yang Goeun , Kyung Jangbeen , Kim Dajeong , Shin Kyungha , Choi Ehn-Kyoung , Kim Gonhyung , Hong Jin Tae , Kim Seung U. , Kim Yun-Bae
Published: June 2016

Since multiple sclerosis (MS) is featured with widespread demyelination caused by autoimmune response, we investigated the recovery effects of F3.olig2 progenitors, established by transducing human neural stem cells (F3 NSCs) with Olig2 transcription factor, in myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein‐ (MOG‐) induced experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model mice. Six days after EAE induction, F3 or F3.olig2 cells (1 × 106/mouse) were intravenously transplanted. MOG‐injected mice displayed severe neurobehavioral deficits which were remarkably attenuated and restored by cell transplantation, in which F3.olig2 cells were superior to its parental F3 cells. Transplanted cells migrated to the injured spinal cord, matured to oligodendrocytes, and produced myelin basic proteins (MBP). The F3.olig2 cells expressed growth and neurotrophic factors including brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), nerve growth factor (NGF), ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF), and leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF). In addition, the transplanted cells markedly attenuated inflammatory cell infiltration, reduced cytokine levels in the spinal cord and lymph nodes, and protected host myelins. The results indicate that F3.olig2 cells restore neurobehavioral symptoms of EAE mice by regulating autoimmune inflammatory responses as well as by stimulating remyelination and that F3.olig2 progenitors could be a candidate for the cell therapy of demyelinating diseases including MS.
Aplasia Cutis Congenita of the Scalp with a Familial Pattern
Authors: AlShehri Waleed , AlFadil Sara , AlOthri Alhanouf , Alabdulkarim Abdulaziz O. , Wani Shabeer A. , Rabah Sari M.
Published: June 2016

Aplasia Cutis Congenita (ACC) is a condition characterized by congenital absence of skin, usually on the scalp. ACC can occur as an isolated condition or in the presence of other congenital anomalies. Here we describe a case of a 16-day-old baby girl with an isolated ACC of the scalp. Her elder two siblings have been diagnosed with ACC with concomitant cardiac or limb anomalies. The patient was managed conservatively until the defect has formed scar tissue 6 months later.
Identification of Plants That Inhibit Lipid Droplet Formation in Liver Cells: Rubus suavissimus Leaf Extract Protects Mice from High‐Fat Diet‐Induced Fatty Liver by Directly Affecting Liver Cells
Authors: Takahashi Tomohiro , Sugawara Wataru , Takiguchi Yuya , Takizawa Kento , Nakabayashi Ami , Nakamura Mitsuo , Nagano-Ito Michiyo , Ichikawa Shinichi
Published: June 2016

Fatty liver disease is a condition in which abnormally large numbers of lipid droplets accumulate in liver cells. Fatty liver disease induces inflammation under conditions of oxidative stress and may result in cancer. To identify plants that protect against fatty liver disease, we examined the inhibitory effects of plant extracts on lipid droplet formation in mouse hepatoma cells. A screen of 98 water extracts of plants revealed 4 extracts with inhibitory effects. One of these extracts, Rubus suavissimus S. Lee (Tien‐cha or Chinese sweet tea) leaf extract, which showed strong inhibitory effects, was tested in a mouse fatty liver model. In these mouse experiments, intake of the plant extract significantly protected mice against fatty liver disease without affecting body weight gain. Our results suggest that RSE directly affects liver cells and protects them from fatty liver disease.
Management of a Low-Energy Penetrating Brain Injury Caused by a Nail
Authors: Ferraz V. R. , Aguiar G. B. , Vitorino-Araujo J. L. , Badke G. L. , Veiga J. C. E.
Published: June 2016

Low-energy penetrating nail injury to the brain is an extremely rare neurosurgical emergency. The most common cause of nail gun injury is work related accidents; other causes result from accidental firing of a nail gun, suicide attempts by firing nail guns into the brain, and bomb blasts containing pieces of nails. Neurosurgical treatment performed by craniotomy still seems to be the safest one; there are reports of complications such as subdural hematoma and intraparenchymal hemorrhages following the blind removal of foreign bodies leading to suggestions that all penetrating foreign bodies should be removed under direct vision. We report a rarely described neurosurgical approach for removal of a penetrating nail from the brain and skull without evidence of associated hematoma and other brain lesions.
An OpenMP Programming Environment on Mobile Devices
Authors: Liang Tyng-Yeu , Li Hung-Fu , Chen Yu-Chih
Published: June 2016

Recently, the computational speed and battery capability of mobile devices were greatly promoted. With an enormous number of APPs, users can do many things in mobile devices as well as in computers. Consequently, more and more scientific researchers are encouraged to move their working environment from computers to mobile devices for increasing their work efficiency because they can analyze data and make decisions on their mobile devices anytime and anywhere. Accordingly, we propose a mobile OpenMP programming environment called MOMP in this paper. Using this APP, users can directly write, compile, and execute OpenMP programs on their Android-based mobile devices to exploit embedded CPU and GPU for resolving their problems without network connection. Because of source compatibility, MOMP makes users easily port their OpenMP programs from computers to mobile devices without any modification. Moreover, MOMP provides users with an easy interface to choose CPU or GPU for executing different parallel regions in the same program based on the properties of parallel regions. Therefore, MOMP can effectively reduce the programming complexity of heterogeneous computing in mobile devices and exploit the computational power of mobile devices for the performance of user applications.
Visualization of IOL Material-Induced Changes in Retinal Color Stimulus
Authors: Reiss Stephan , Sperlich Karsten , Kunert Martin , Guthoff Rudolf F. , Stolz Heinrich , Jünemann Anselm , Stachs Oliver
Published: June 2016

Purpose. Different IOL materials, particularly blue-light filtering materials, have different spectral transmittance characteristics. The color stimuli, which influence retinal receptors objectively, have consequently implications for color perception. We report on the quantitative determination of IOL-specific transmittance characteristics and present a method visualizing the resultant changes in color stimulus.Methods. A setup was realized to quantify IOL-absorption in a range of 390–780 nm. To visualize the influence of the different spectral transmittance characteristics an algorithm was developed, which converts RGB-pixel values of images into spectra, which performs the corresponding transmittance correction, reconverts to RGB, and reconstructs the image. IOLs of hydrophobic acrylate and hydrophilic acrylate with a hydrophobic surface in each case with/without blue-light filter were examined.Results. Assessment of the reference images verifies the suitability of the pipeline. Evaluation of the transmittance spectra reveals differences of material- and manufacturer-specifics, which are capable of inducing considerable changes in color perception, particularly in the blue color range and mixed colors involving blue.Conclusions. The developed technique provides an approach for determining IOL-specific transmittance behavior and subsequently its influence on the retinal color stimulus. Problems of altered color perception are occasionally reported after cataract surgery and these become obvious with the visualization procedure developed here.
Intrabiliary Hepatic Metastasis of Colorectal Carcinoma Mimicking Primary Cholangiocarcinoma: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Dong Yimin , Patel Hitendra , Patel Charmi
Published: June 2016

Intrabiliary metastasis from colorectal carcinoma (CRC) growing within or invading bile ducts is not a very common pattern. However, accurate diagnosis of metastatic lesions is very important for selection of adjuvant therapy and prognosis. We report a case of 71-year-old male who developed painless jaundice due to hepatobiliary obstruction. MRI demonstrated 1.4 cm intraductal mass at hepatic hilum with severe intrahepatic ductal dilation, consistent with cholangiocarcinoma. ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography) showed intraductal segmental biliary stricture. Biopsy from the lesion showed adenocarcinoma favoring primary cholangiocarcinoma due to the papillary morphology and location of the mass. His past history was significant for rectosigmoid carcinoma (pT1N0) ten years ago and liver resection for metastatic CRC four years ago. He subsequently underwent central hepatectomy with resection of common bile duct. Grossly, there was a 1.2 cm intraductal mass at the bifurcation of bile ducts with multiple nodules in liver parenchyma. Microscopic examination revealed intraductal carcinoma with papillary architecture colonizing bile duct epithelium with resultant dilation and tortuosity. Occasional liver parenchymal nodules show classical metastatic pattern resembling CRC. Because of two distinct morphologic patterns and patient’s past history, immunostains were performed. CK7 stained uninvolved bile duct epithelium with no staining in intrabiliary metastatic growth. CK20 and CDX2 were positive, thus confirming intrabiliary growth as metastatic growth from CRC. In summary, findings from our case indicate that intrabiliary growth of metastatic CRC can easily be overlooked with major duct involvement. Pathologic evaluation with use of immunohistochemical stains is very important to achieve correct diagnosis.
Modeling Crack Propagation in Polycrystalline Microstructure Using Variational Multiscale Method
Authors: Sun S. , Sundararaghavan V.
Published: June 2016

Crack propagation in a polycrystalline microstructure is analyzed using a novel multiscale model. The model includes an explicit microstructural representation at critical regions (stress concentrators such as notches and cracks) and a reduced order model that statistically captures the microstructure at regions far away from stress concentrations. Crack propagation is modeled in these critical regions using the variational multiscale method. In this approach, a discontinuous displacement field is added to elements that exceed the critical values of normal or tangential tractions during loading. Compared to traditional cohesive zone modeling approaches, the method does not require the use of any special interface elements in the microstructure and thus can model arbitrary crack paths. The capability of the method in predicting both intergranular and transgranular failure modes in an elastoplastic polycrystal is demonstrated under tensile and three-point bending loads.
Transcription Factor EB Is Selectively Reduced in the Nuclear Fractions of Alzheimer’s and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Brains
Authors: Wang Hongjie , Wang Ruizhi , Xu Shaohua , Lakshmana Madepalli K.
Published: June 2016

Multiple studies suggest that autophagy is strongly dysregulated in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), as evidenced by accumulation of numerous autophagosomes, lysosomes with discontinuous membranes, and aggregated proteins in the patients’ brains. Transcription factor EB (TFEB) was recently discovered to be a master regulator of lysosome biogenesis and autophagy. To examine whether aberrant autophagy in AD and ALS is due to alterations in TFEB expression, we systematically quantified the levels of TFEB in these brains by immunoblotting. Interestingly, cytoplasmic fractions of AD brains showed increased levels of normalized (to tubulin) TFEB only at Braak stage IV (61%, p<0.01). Most importantly, normalized (to lamin) TFEB levels in the nuclear fractions were consistently reduced starting from Braak stage IV (52%, p<0.01), stage V (67%, p<0.01), and stage VI (85%, p<0.01) when compared to normal control (NC) brains. In the ALS brains also, nuclear TFEB levels were reduced by 62% (p<0.001). These data suggest that nuclear TFEB is selectively lost in ALS as well as AD brains, in which TFEB reduction was Braak-stage-dependent. Taken together, the observed reductions in TFEB protein levels may be responsible for the widely reported autophagy defects in these disorders.
Effects of a Multispecies Probiotic Mixture on Glycemic Control and Inflammatory Status in Women with Gestational Diabetes: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Jafarnejad Sadegh , Saremi Sadaf , Jafarnejad Farzan , Arab Arman
Published: June 2016

Objective. This trial aims to examine the effects of a Probiotic Mixture (VSL#3) on glycemic status and inflammatory markers, in women with GDM.Materials and Methods.Over a period of 8 weeks, 82 women with gestational diabetes were randomly assigned to either an intervention group (n=41) which were given VSL#3 capsule or to a control group which were given placebo capsule (n=41). Fasting plasma glucose, homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance, glycosylated hemoglobin, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, Interferon gamma, and interleukin-10 were measured before and after the intervention.Results.After 8 wk of supplementation FPG, HbA1c, HOMA-IR, and insulin levels remained unchanged in the probiotic and placebo groups. The comparison between the two groups showed no significant differences with FPG and HbA1c, but there were significant differences in insulin levels and HOMA-IR (16.6±5.9;3.7±1.5, resp.). Unlike the levels of IFN-g (19.21±16.6), there was a significant decrease in levels of IL-6 (3.81±0.7), TNF-α(3.10±1.1), and hs-CRP (4927.4±924.6). No significant increase was observed in IL-10 (3.11±5.7) in the intervention group as compared with the control group.Conclusions.In women with GDM, supplementation with probiotics (VSL#3) may help to modulate some inflammatory markers and may have benefits on glycemic control.
High Expression of PTGR1 Promotes NSCLC Cell Growth via Positive Regulation of Cyclin-Dependent Protein Kinase Complex
Authors: Huang Xianping , Zhou Weihe , Zhang Yuefeng , Liu Yong
Published: June 2016

Lung cancer has been the most common cancer and the main cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide for several decades. PTGR1 (prostaglandin reductase 1), as a bifunctional enzyme, has been involved in the occurrence and progression of cancer. However, its impact on human lung cancer is rarely reported. In this study, we found that PTGR1 was overexpressed in lung cancer based on the analyses of Oncomine. Moreover, lentivirus-mediated shRNA knockdown of PTGR1 reduced cell viability in human lung carcinoma cells 95D and A549 by MTT and colony formation assay. PTGR1 depletion led to G2/M phase cell cycle arrest and increased the proportion of apoptotic cells in 95D cells by flow cytometry. Furthermore, silencing PTGR1 in 95D cells resulted in decreased levels of cyclin-dependent protein kinase complex (CDK1, CDK2, cyclin A2, and cyclin B1) by western blotting and then PTGR1 is positively correlated with cyclin-dependent protein by using the data mining of the Oncomine database. Therefore, our findings suggest that PTGR1 may play a role in lung carcinogenesis through regulating cell proliferation and is a potential new therapeutic strategy for lung cancer.
A Physician’s Nightmare: Fever of Unknown Origin
Authors: Din Sana , Anwer Farrukh , Beg Mirza
Published: June 2016

Fever of unknown origin (FUO) remains to be a challenge despite advancement in diagnostic technologies and procedures. FUO is considered when fever presents intermittently without an explanation. It has been linked to various etiologies, which makes it difficult to diagnose. We present the case of 18-month-old female with recurrent fever, splenomegaly, abdominal pain, and constipation. The workup for her symptoms revealed wandering spleen. Wandering spleen is a result from excessive laxity or absence of splenic ligaments. The patient underwent splenectomy and was advised to continue on Senna, Miralax, and high fiber diet. Her mother reported that the fever is no longer present and there is marked improvement in her constipation and abdominal pain after splenectomy.
Evaluation of Potential Clinical Surrogate Markers of a Trauma Induced Alteration of Clotting Factor Activities
Authors: Burggraf Manuel , Payas Arzu , Schoeneberg Carsten , Wegner Alexander , Kauther Max Daniel , Lendemans Sven
Published: June 2016

Objective.The aim of this study was to identify routinely available clinical surrogate markers for potential clotting factor alterations following multiple trauma.Methods.In 68 patients admitted directly from the scene of the accident, all soluble clotting factors were analyzed and clinical data was collected prospectively. Ten healthy subjects served as control group.Results.Patients showed reduced activities of clotting factors II, V, VII, and X and calcium levels (allP<0.0001to 0.01). Levels of hemoglobin and base deficit correlated moderately to highly with the activities of a number of clotting factors. Nonsurvivors and patients who needed preclinical intubation or hemostatic therapy showed significantly reduced factor activities at admission. In contrast, factor VIII activity was markedly elevated after injury in general (P<0.0001), but reduced in nonsurvivors (P<0.05).Conclusions.Multiple trauma causes an early reduction of the activities of nearly all soluble clotting factors in general. Initial hemoglobin and, with certain qualifications, base deficit levels demonstrated a potential value in detecting those underlying clotting factor deficiencies. Nevertheless, their role as triggers of a hemostatic therapy as well as the observed response of factor VIII to multiple trauma and also its potential prognostic value needs further evaluation.
Recurrent Interstitial Pneumonitis in a Patient with Entero-Behçet’s Disease Initially Treated with Mesalazine
Authors: Nakamura Akihiro , Miyamura Tomoya , Wu Brian , Suematsu Eiichi
Published: June 2016

A 65-year-old man with entero-Behçet’s disease (BD) being treated with mesalazine was presented to our hospital complaining of dyspnea. Computed tomography (CT) of the chest showed ground-glass opacities and he was initially diagnosed with mesalazine-induced interstitial pneumonitis (IP). Besides the discontinuation of mesalazine, a high dose of oral prednisolone was administered and the patient seemed to recover. However, four months later, dyspnea recurred and repeated CT revealed more extensive pulmonary infiltration despite steroid therapy. After the exclusion of infections, we suspected either a recurrence of mesalazine-induced IP or BD-related IP as a clinical manifestation of BD. The patient was treated with intravenous methylprednisolone and cyclophosphamide, followed by orally administered azathioprine, based on the assumption of underlying vasculitis. Thereafter, his condition improved. BD-related IP is an extremely rare condition with limited reports in the literature. Mesalazine-induced IP is also uncommon but the prognosis is generally good after discontinuation of mesalazine with or without steroid therapy. We discuss an extremely rare case, especially focusing on BD-related IP and mesalazine-induced IP as a potential cause of recurrent IP in a patient with entero-BD.
Radioprotective Effect of Grape Seed Proanthocyanidins In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Huang Yijuan , Zhao Hainan , Cao Kun , Sun Ding , Yang Yanyong , Liu Cong , Cui Jianguo , Cheng Ying , Li Bailong , Cai Jianming , Gao Fu
Published: June 2016

We have demonstrated that grape seed proanthocyanidins (GSPs) could effectively scavenge hydroxyl radical (•OH) in a dose‐dependent manner. Since most of the ionizing radiation‐ (IR‐) induced injuries were caused by •OH, this study was to investigate whether GSPs would mitigate IR‐induced injuries in vitro and in vivo. We demonstrated that GSPs could significantly reduce IR‐induced DNA strand breaks (DSBs) and apoptosis of human lymphocyte AHH‐1 cells. This study also showed that GSPs could protect white blood cells (WBC) from IR‐induced injuries, speed up the weight of mice back, and decrease plasma malondialdehyde (MDA), thus improving the survival rates of mice after ionizing radiation. It is suggested that GSPs have a potential as an effective and safe radioprotective agent.
Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Recovered from Healthcare- and Community-Associated Infections in Egypt
Authors: Abdel-Maksoud Mohamed , El-Shokry Mona , Ismail Ghada , Hafez Soad , El-Kholy Amani , Attia Ehab , Talaat Maha
Published: June 2016

Background. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has created significant epidemiological, infection-control, and therapeutic management challenges during the past three decades. Aim. To analyze the pattern of resistance of healthcare- and community-associated MRSA in Egypt and the trend of resistance of HA-MRSA over time (2005–2013). Methods. MRSA isolates were recovered from healthcare-associated (HA) and community-associated (CA) Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) infections. They were tested against 11 antimicrobial discs and the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of vancomycin was determined. Inducible clindamycin resistance (iMLSB) was also screened using D-test. Findings. Of 631 S. aureus, MRSA was identified in 343 (76.6%) and 21 (11.5%) of HA and CA S. aureus isolates, respectively. The proportion of HA-MRSA increased significantly from 48.6% in 2005 to 86.8% in 2013 (p value < 0.001). Multidrug resistance (MDR) was observed in 85.8% of HA-MRSA and 48.6% of CA-MRSA. Vancomycin intermediate resistant S. aureus (VISA) was detected in 1.2% of HA-MRSA and none was detected in CA-MRSA. Among HA-MRSA strains, 5.3% showed iMLSB compared to 9.5% among CA-MRSA. Conclusion. The upsurge of the prevalence rates of HA-MRSA over time is alarming and urges for an effective infection control strategy and continuous monitoring of antimicrobial use.