bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ginsenoside Rg1 Ameliorates Behavioral Abnormalities and Modulates the Hippocampal Proteomic Change in Triple Transgenic Mice of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Nie Lulin , Xia Junxia , Li Honglian , Zhang Zaijun , Yang Ying , Huang Xinfeng , He Zhendan , Liu Jianjun , Yang Xifei
Published: October 2017

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is one of the most common neurodegenerative diseases, so far, there are no effective measures to prevent and cure this deadly condition. Ginsenoside Rg1 (Rg1) was shown to improve behavioral abnormalities in AD; however, the potential mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we pretreated 7‐month‐old 3xTg‐AD mice for 6 weeks with Rg1 and evaluated the effects of Rg1 on the behaviors and the protein expression of hippocampal tissues. The behavioral tests showed that Rg1 could improve the memory impairment and ameliorate the depression‐like behaviors of 3xTg‐AD mice. Proteomic results revealed a total of 28 differentially expressed hippocampal proteins between Rg1‐treated and nontreated 3xTg‐AD mice. Among these proteins, complexin‐2 (CPLX2), synapsin‐2 (SYN2), and synaptosomal‐associated protein 25 (SNP25) were significantly downregulated in the hippocampus of 3xTg‐AD mice compared with the WT mice, and the treatment of Rg1 modulated the expression of CPLX2 and SNP25 in the hippocampus of 3xTg‐AD mice. The expression of CPLX2, SYN2, and SNP25 was further validated by Western blot analysis. Taken together, we concluded that Rg1 could be a potential candidate drug to improve the behavioral deficits in AD via modulating the expression of the proteins (i.e., CPLX2, SYN2, and SNP25).
Quality of Life of People Living with HIV/AIDS in the Ho Municipality, Ghana: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Osei-Yeboah James , Owiredu William K. B. A. , Norgbe Gameli Kwame , Lokpo Sylvester Yao , Obirikorang Christian , Alote Allotey Emmanuel , Gameli Deku John , Akomanin Asiamah Emmanuel , Manaphraim Nana Yaw Barimah , Senyo Kwasi Nyamadi Prince , Yiadom Boakye Edward , Ntoni Tibemponi , Avorkliyah Roseline , Asumbasiya Aduko Romeo , Tetteh Quarshie Seyram , Jenkins Gbemu Maxwell
Published: October 2017

Quality of life (QoL) is an important component in the evaluation of the wellbeing of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHIV). This study was aimed at evaluating the QoL of PLHIV attending the antiretroviral clinics in the Ho municipality. A cross-sectional study was conducted from January 2017 to April 2017 involving 158 purposively selected HIV-positive patients who were attending the antiretroviral clinics both in the Volta Regional Hospital and Ho Municipal Hospital. An Interviewer administered standard questionnaire (WHOQOL-HIV Bref) was used to collect information on sociodemography, medical history, and the quality of life (QoL) of the respondents. Among these 158 HIV-positive respondents, 126 (79.75) and 14 (8.86) presented with excellent and good overall QoL, respectively, whilst 18 (11.39) had their life negatively affected by HIV/AIDS. Religious/personal beliefs (19.62%) were the most affected QoL component, followed by the physical (15.82%) and level of independence (15.19%) domains. Patients’ occupation, perception of health, sexual activity, and state of the disease were associated with poor overall QoL. In general, being an HIV-infected man, symptomatic patient, not being sexually active, or being ART naïve was also associated with poorer QoL in several HIV/AIDS QoL domains.
Generation and Role of Reactive Oxygen and Nitrogen Species Induced by Plasma, Lasers, Chemical Agents, and Other Systems in Dentistry
Authors: Jha Nayansi , Ryu Jae Jun , Choi Eun Ha , Kaushik Nagendra Kumar
Published: October 2017

The generation of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) has been found to occur during inflammatory procedures, during cell ischemia, and in various crucial developmental processes such as cell differentiation and along cell signaling pathways. The most common sources of intracellular RONS are the mitochondrial electron transport system, NADH oxidase, and cytochrome P450. In this review, we analyzed the extracellular and intracellular sources of reactive species, their cell signaling pathways, the mechanisms of action, and their positive and negative effects in the dental field. In dentistry, ROS can be found—in lasers, photosensitizers, bleaching agents, cold plasma, and even resin cements, all of which contribute to the generation and prevalence of ROS. Nonthermal plasma has been used as a source of ROS for biomedical applications and has the potential for use with dental stem cells as well. There are different types of dental stem cells, but their therapeutic use remains largely untapped, with the focus currently on only periodontal ligament stem cells. More research is necessary in this area, including studies about ROS mechanisms with dental cells, along with the utilization of reactive species in redox medicine. Such studies will help to provide successful treatment modalities for various diseases.
Effects of LncRNA BC168687 siRNA on Diabetic Neuropathic Pain Mediated by P2X7 Receptor on SGCs in DRG of Rats
Authors: Liu Chenglong , Tao Jia , Wu Hui , Yang Yixin , Chen Qiang , Deng Zeyu , Liu Jiandi , Xu Changshui
Published: October 2017

Diabetic neuropathic pain (DNP), one of the early symptoms of diabetic neuropathy, relates to metabolic disorders induced by high blood glucose, neurotrophic vascular ischemia and hypoxia, and autoimmune factors. This study was aimed at exploring the effects of long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) BC168687 siRNA on DNP mediated by P2X7 receptor on SGCs in DRG of rats. The mechanical withdrawal threshold (MWT) and thermal withdrawal latency (TWL) of rats, the expression levels of P2X7 mRNA and protein in the DRG, and nitric oxide (NO) in the serum were, respectively, detected in our study. Our experimental results showed that the level of BC168687 mRNA in DNP group was markedly higher than that of control group; the MWT and TWL of DNP + BC168687 si group were significantly increased, and the expression levels of P2X7 in DRG and the concentrations of NO in serum of DNP + BC168687 si group were decreased compared to those of the DNP group. In conclusion, lncRNA BC168687 may participate in the pathogenesis of DNP mediated by P2X7 receptor, which will provide a novel way for the study of the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus complicated with neuropathic pain and its prevention and treatment.
An Efficient Dynamic Trust Evaluation Model for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Ye Zhengwang , Wen Tao , Liu Zhenyu , Song Xiaoying , Fu Chongguo
Published: October 2017

Trust evaluation is an effective method to detect malicious nodes and ensure security in wireless sensor networks (WSNs). In this paper, an efficient dynamic trust evaluation model (DTEM) for WSNs is proposed, which implements accurate, efficient, and dynamic trust evaluation by dynamically adjusting the weights of direct trust and indirect trust and the parameters of the update mechanism. To achieve accurate trust evaluation, the direct trust is calculated considering multitrust including communication trust, data trust, and energy trust with the punishment factor and regulating function. The indirect trust is evaluated conditionally by the trusted recommendations from a third party. Moreover, the integrated trust is measured by assigning dynamic weights for direct trust and indirect trust and combining them. Finally, we propose an update mechanism by a sliding window based on induced ordered weighted averaging operator to enhance flexibility. We can dynamically adapt the parameters and the interactive history windows number according to the actual needs of the network to realize dynamic update of direct trust value. Simulation results indicate that the proposed dynamic trust model is an efficient dynamic and attack-resistant trust evaluation model. Compared with existing approaches, the proposed dynamic trust model performs better in defending multiple malicious attacks.
Targeting of Immune Cells by Dual TLR2/7 Ligands Suppresses Features of Allergic Th2 Immune Responses in Mice
Authors: Laiño Jonathan , Wangorsch Andrea , Blanco Frank , Wolfheimer Sonja , Krause Maren , Flaczyk Adam , Möller Tobias-Maximilian , Tsai Mindy , Galli Stephen , Vieths Stefan , Toda Masako , Scheurer Stephan , Schülke Stefan
Published: October 2017

Background. TLR ligands can promote Th1-biased immune responses, mimicking potent stimuli of viruses and bacteria.Aim. To investigate the adjuvant properties of dual TLR2/7 ligands compared to those of the mixture of both single ligands.Methods. Dual TLR2/7 ligands: CL401, CL413, and CL531, including CL264 (TLR7-ligand) and Pam2CysK4(TLR2-ligand), were used. Immune-modulatory capacity of the dual ligands with the individual ligands alone or as a mixture in mouse BMmDCs, BMmDC:TC cocultures, or BMCMCs was compared and assessed in naïve mice and in a mouse model of OVA-induced intestinal allergy.Results. CL413 and CL531 induced BMmDC-derived IL-10 secretion, suppressed rOVA-induced IL-5 secretion from OVA-specific DO11.10 CD4+TCs, and induced proinflammatory cytokine secretionin vivo. In contrast, CL401 induced considerably less IL-10 secretion and led to IL-17A production in BMmDC:TC cocultures, but not BMCMC IL-6 secretion, or IL-6 or TNF-αproductionin vivo. No immune-modulating effects were observed with single ligands. All dual TLR2/7 ligands suppressed DNP-induced IgE-and-Ag-specific mast cell degranulation. Compared to vaccination with OVA, vaccination with the mixture CL531 and OVA, significantly suppressed OVA-specific IgE production in the intestinal allergy model.Conclusions. Based on beneficial immune-modulating properties, CL413 and CL531 may have utility as potential adjuvants for allergy treatment.
Roles and Mechanisms of Herbal Medicine for Diabetic Cardiomyopathy: Current Status and Perspective
Authors: Tian Jinfan , Zhao Yingke , Liu Yanfei , Liu Yue , Chen Keji , Lyu Shuzheng
Published: October 2017

Diabetic cardiomyopathy is one of the major complications among patients with diabetes mellitus. Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is featured by left ventricular hypertrophy, myocardial fibrosis, and damaged left ventricular systolic and diastolic functions. The pathophysiological mechanisms include metabolic‐altered substrate metabolism, dysfunction of microvascular, renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system (RAAS) activation, oxidative stress, cardiomyocyte apoptosis, mitochondrial dysfunction, and impaired Ca2+ handling. An array of molecules and signaling pathways such as p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK), c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK), and extracellular‐regulated protein kinases (ERK) take roles in the pathogenesis of DCM. Currently, there was no remarkable effect in the treatment of DCM with application of single Western medicine. The myocardial protection actions of herbs have been gearing much attention. We present a review of the progress research of herbal medicine as a potential therapy for diabetic cardiomyopathy and the underlying mechanisms.
Algorithm for Identification of Infinite Clusters Based on Minimal Finite Automaton
Authors: Stamatovic Biljana , Kilibarda Goran
Published: October 2017

We propose a finite automaton based algorithm for identification of infinite clusters in a 2D rectangular lattice with L = X × Y cells. The algorithm counts infinite clusters and finds one path per infinite cluster in a single pass of the finite automaton. The finite automaton is minimal according to the number of states among all the automata that perform such task. The correctness and efficiency of the algorithm are demonstrated on a planar percolation problem. The algorithm has a computational complexity of and could be appropriate for efficient data flow implementation.
Antiobesity and Anti‐Inflammatory Effects of Orally Administered Bonito Extracts on Mice Fed a High‐Fat Diet
Authors: Ikebe Emi , Fife-Koshinomi Nichole , Matsumoto Takashi , Yahiro Takaaki , Ikebe Taichi , Iha Hidekatsu
Published: October 2017

Background. The condensed fermentative extract of bonito (BoE), skipjack tuna (Katsuwonus pelamis), has claimed its health conditioning effects against lifestyle‐related diseases such as hypertension and type 2 diabetes. Methods. We evaluated the antiobesity and anti‐inflammatory effects of BoE on mice fed a high‐fat diet (HFD). Mice (9 weeks of age) were maintained for 11 weeks on HFD with or without BoE (50 mg or 500 mg/kg). Results. Compared with untreated mice, BoE50 or BoE500 mice achieved maximum weight reductions of 7.4% (males) and 11.4% (females), and visceral fat in male BoE500 mice was more decreased among all mice (P = 0.00459). Furthermore, an antiobesity gene uncoupling protein‐1 was significantly induced in the visceral fat tissues of male BoE500 (P = 0.0110) and female BoE50 and BoE500 mice (P = 0.0110 and P = 0.0110, resp.). Finally, we detected reduced amount of granulocyte‐colony stimulating factor (P = 0.0250) in the sera of female BoE50 and interleukin‐ (IL‐) 5 (P = 0.0120), IL‐6 (P = 0.0118), and IL‐13 (P = 0.0243) in female BoE500 mice. Conclusion. The antiobesity and anti‐inflammatory effects of BoE were demonstrated with our examination system and any toxic adverse effects were not observed in mice during the 3‐month investigation.
Tuberculosis among Jimma University Undergraduate Students: First Insight about the Burden of Tuberculosis in Ethiopia Universities—Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Wolde Deneke , Tadesse Mulualem , Abdella Kedir , Abebe Gemeda , Ali Solomon
Published: October 2017

Background. Ethiopian universities are facilities where students live in relative overcrowding condition. This might favor the chance of tuberculosis transmission among students. This study was done to determine the magnitude and associated factors of tuberculosis among Jimma University students. Methods. A cross-sectional study was done from February 2015 to July 2015. Hundred twenty-nine consented participants were interviewed using structured questionnaire. Biological specimens were collected and cultured on Mycobacterium Growth Indicator Tube. Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex verification was done by SD BIOLINE TB Ag MPT64 Rapid test. Frequency distribution, logistic regression, and independent sample t-test were used to analyze the data using SPSS Version 20. Result. Magnitude of all forms of tuberculosis among Jimma University undergraduate students was 209.1 per 100000-student population. Contact history [AOR: 4.76, 95% CI (1.31–17.31)], smoking [AOR: 6.67, 95% CI (1.51–29.44)], khat chewing [AOR: 5.56, 95% CI (1.66–18.69)], and low body mass index [AOR: 5.37, 95% CI (1.46–19.78)] were determinants of tuberculosis. Conclusion. The magnitude of tuberculosis among Jimma University undergraduate students is high. TB is associated with previous tuberculosis patient contact and behavioral factors. Hence, students with these risk factors should be given enough attention for the control of TB in Jimma University.
miR-6883 Family miRNAs Target CDK4/6 to Induce G1 Phase Cell-Cycle Arrest in Colon Cancer Cells
Authors: Lulla Amriti R. , Slifker Michael J. , Zhou Yan , Lev Avital , Einarson Margret B. , Dicker David T. , El-Deiry Wafik S.
Published: October 2017

CDK4/6 targeting is a promising therapeutic strategy under development for various tumor types. In this study, we used computational methods and The Cancer Genome Atlas dataset analysis to identify novel miRNAs that target CDK4/6 and exhibit potential for therapeutic development in colorectal cancer. The 3′UTR of CDK4/6 mRNAs are targeted by a family of miRNAs, which includes miR-6883-5p, miR-149*, miR-6785-5p, and miR-4728-5p. Ectopic expression of miR-6883-5p or miR-149* downregulated CDK4 and CDK6 levels in human colorectal cancer cells. RNA-seq analysis revealed an inverse relationship between the expression of CDK4/6 and miR-149* and intronic miRNA-6883-5p encoding the clock gene PER1 in colorectal cancer patient samples. Restoring expression of miR-6883-5p and miR-149* blocked cell growth leading to G0–G1 phase cell-cycle arrest and apoptosis in colorectal cancer cells. CDK4/6 targeting by miR-6883-5p and miR-149* could only partially explain the observed antiproliferative effects. Notably, both miRNAs synergized with the frontline colorectal cancer chemotherapy drug irinotecan. Further, they resensitized mutant p53-expressing cell lines resistant to 5-fluorouracil. Taken together, our results established the foundations of a candidate miRNA-based theranostic strategy to improve colorectal cancer management. Cancer Res; 77(24); 6902–13. ©2017 AACR.
Phase Ib Study of Immune Biomarker Modulation with Neoadjuvant Cetuximab and TLR8 Stimulation in Head and Neck Cancer to Overcome Suppressive Myeloid Signals
Authors: Shayan Gulidanna , Kansy Benjamin A. , Gibson Sandra P. , Srivastava Raghvendra M. , Bryan James Kyle , Bauman Julie E. , Ohr James , Kim Seungwon , Duvvuri Umamaheswar , Clump David A. , Heron Dwight E. , Johnson Jonas T. , Hershberg Robert M. , Ferris Robert L.
Published: October 2017

Purpose: The response rate of patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) to cetuximab therapy is only 15% to 20%, despite frequent EGFR overexpression. Because immunosuppression is common in HNSCC, we hypothesized that adding a proinflammatory TLR8 agonist to cetuximab therapy might result in enhanced T-lymphocyte stimulation and anti–EGFR-specific priming.

Experimental Design: Fourteen patients with previously untreated HNSCC were enrolled in this neoadjuvant trial and treated preoperatively with 3 to 4 weekly doses of motolimod (2.5 mg/m2) and cetuximab. Correlative tumor and peripheral blood specimens were obtained at baseline and at the time of surgical resection and analyzed for immune biomarker changes. Preclinical in vitro studies were also performed to assess the effect of cetuximab plus motolimod on myeloid cells.

Results: TLR8 stimulation skewed monocytes toward an M1 phenotype and reversed myeloid-derived suppressor cell (MDSC) suppression of T-cell proliferation in vitro. These data were validated in a prospective phase Ib neoadjuvant trial, in which fewer MDSC and increased M1 monocyte infiltration were found in tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes. Motolimod plus cetuximab also decreased induction of Treg and reduced markers of suppression, including CTLA-4, CD73, and membrane-bound TGFβ. Significantly increased circulating EGFR-specific T cells were observed, concomitant with enhanced CD8+ T-cell infiltration into tumors. These T cells manifested increased T-cell receptor (TCR) clonality, upregulation of the costimulatory receptor CD27, and downregulation of inhibitory receptor TIGIT.

Conclusions: Enhanced inflammatory stimulation in the tumor microenvironment using a TLR agonist overcomes suppressive myeloid and regulatory cells, enhancing the cellular antitumor immune response by therapeutic mAb in HNSCC. Clin Cancer Res; 24(1); 62–72. ©2017 AACR.
Urgent-Start Peritoneal Dialysis: The First Year of Brazilian Experience
Authors: Bitencourt Dias Dayana , Mendes Marcela Lara , Burgugi Banin Vanessa , Barretti Pasqual , Ponce Daniela
Published: October 2017

Background: This study aimed to evaluate mechanical and infectious complications associated with urgent-start peritoneal dialysis (PD) and patients and technique survival in the first 180 days. Methods: It was a prospective study that evaluated chronic patients who started unplanned PD using high-volume PD (HVPD) right after (<72 h) PD catheter placement. After hospital discharge, patients were treated with intermittent PD on alternate days in a dialysis unit until family training was provided. Results: Fifty-one patients fulfilling the following criteria were included: age was 62.1 ± 15 years, with diabetes as the main etiology of end-stage renal disease (39%), and uremia as the main dialysis indication (76%). Metabolic and fluid controls were achieved after 3 sessions of HVPD, and patients remained in intermittent PD for 23.2 ± 7.2 days. Mechanical complications occurred in 25.7% and peritonitis rate was 0.5 episode/patient-year. In the first 6 months, technique and patients survival rates were 86 and 82.4% respectively. Conclusion: The PD modality was a feasible and safe alternative to hemodialysis in the urgent-start dialysis.
Dose-Dependent Effects of Binge-Like Methamphetamine Dosing on Dopamine and Neurotrophin Levels in Rat Brain
Authors: Moreira da Silva Santos Andreia , Kelly John P. , Doyle Karen M.
Published: October 2017

This study investigated the acute effect of a dose range of low-to-moderate binge-like methamphetamine treatments on the regional expression of neurotrophin proteins in the brain and serum 2 h after the last dose, in addition to assessing the behavioural effects and dopamine neurotransmitter changes produced. Male Sprague-Dawley rats received 4 subcutaneous doses of methamphetamine (0.5, 1, 2, and 4 mg/kg, or saline as a control) 2 h apart. Methamphetamine had a dose-dependent stimulatory effect on locomotor activity over the 8 h of observation. A significant increase in dopamine concentration was observed in the frontal cortex with the highest dose of methamphetamine (2 h after the last dose). This effect was dose- and region-specific, as no significant increase was observed with lower doses, nor was a significant change observed in any other brain region tested. A similar dose- and region-specific increase in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) was observed in the frontal cortex with the highest-dose regimen. No significant change occurred with lower doses of methamphetamine, or in any other brain region tested. A reduction in BDNF levels in the serum was also observed with the highest concentration, but not with lower doses. Collectively, this data highlights the importance of the frontal cortex in methamphetamine-induced effects, and also the similar dose-response effect of methamphetamine on dopamine and BDNF expression.
Bevacizumab in Combination with Platinum-Based Chemotherapy in Patients with Advanced Non-Squamous Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer with or without Brain Metastases: A French Cohort Study (EOLE)
Authors: Bennouna Jaafar , Falchero Lionel , Schott Roland , Bonnetain Franck , Coudert Mathieu , Ben Hadj Yahia Béchir , Chouaid Christos
Published: October 2017

Objectives: The aim of this study was to describe the characteristics of patients receiving bevacizumab plus first-line metastatic chemotherapy for non-squamous advanced non-small cell lung cancer (aNSCLC), with or without brain metastases, in routine clinical practice. Other objectives were to describe treatment efficacy, modalities of use, and safety. Methods: For this non-interventional, prospective, national, multicentre study, data were collected every 3 months over 18 months. Results: Of the 407 patients analysed, 84 (21%) with brain metastases at bevacizumab initiation had poorer general health than patients with no brain metastases (Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group [ECOG] performance status score = 2: 16 vs. 11%). All but 2 patients received bevacizumab (7.5 or 15 mg/kg/3 weeks in 99% of patients) in combination with doublet chemotherapy. Median progression-free survival and overall survival did not differ significantly between patients with or without brain metastases (6.5 months, 95% CI 5.7-8.1 vs. 6.9 months, 95% CI 5.9-7.6, p = 0.57; 14.5 months, 95% CI 10.0 vs. 12.5 months, 95% CI 10.1-14.7, p = 0.33). In 30 and 32% of the patients, respectively, at least one serious adverse event was reported, with a causal relationship to bevacizumab in 20 and 21% of the patients. Conclusion: This study confirmed in a real-life setting the safety profile and survival benefits of first-line chemotherapy with bevacizumab in aNSCLC patients with brain metastases.
Midsagittal Brain Variation among Non-Human Primates: Insights into Evolutionary Expansion of the Human Precuneus
Authors: Pereira-Pedro Ana Sofia , Rilling James K. , Chen Xu , Preuss Todd M. , Bruner Emiliano
Published: October 2017

The precuneus is a major element of the superior parietal lobule, positioned on the medial side of the hemisphere and reaching the dorsal surface of the brain. It is a crucial functional region for visuospatial integration, visual imagery, and body coordination. Previously, we argued that the precuneus expanded in recent human evolution, based on a combination of paleontological, comparative, and intraspecific evidence from fossil and modern human endocasts as well as from human and chimpanzee brains. The longitudinal proportions of this region are a major source of anatomical variation among adult humans and, being much larger in Homo sapiens, is the main characteristic differentiating human midsagittal brain morphology from that of our closest living primate relative, the chimpanzee. In the current shape analysis, we examine precuneus variation in non-human primates through landmark-based models, to evaluate the general pattern of variability in non-human primates, and to test whether precuneus proportions are influenced by allometric effects of brain size. Results show that precuneus proportions do not covary with brain size, and that the main difference between monkeys and apes involves a vertical expansion of the frontal and occipital regions in apes. Such differences might reflect differences in brain proportions or differences in cranial architecture. In this sample, precuneus variation is apparently not influenced by phylogenetic or allometric factors, but does vary consistently within species, at least in chimpanzees and macaques. This result further supports the hypothesis that precuneus expansion in modern humans is not merely a consequence of increasing brain size or of allometric scaling, but rather represents a species-specific morphological change in our lineage.
Characterization of a Major Allergen from Mongolian Oak, Quercus mongolica, a Dominant Species of Oak in Korea
Authors: Lee June Yong , Yang Misuk , Jeong Kyoung Yong , Sim Da Woon , Park Jin Hee , Park Kyung Hee , Lee Jae-Hyun , Park Jung-Won
Published: October 2017

Background: Oaks are the most common trees in Korean forests, and Mongolian oak, Quercus mongolica, is the dominant species. However, no allergen has been characterized from Mongolian oak. In this study, we tried to characterize a major allergen from Mongolian oak. Methods: A molecule homologous to pathogenesis-related 10 (PR-10)-like protein, Que m 1, was cloned by RT-PCR. Its recombinant protein, along with Que a 1, an allergen from white oak (Q. alba), was produced. The allergenicity and diagnostic value of recombinant Que m 1, Que a 1, and Bet v 1 proteins were compared by ELISA using sera from oak-sensitized subjects. A basophil activation test was also performed using CD63 expression as an activation marker. Results: Que m 1 sequence shares 57.5-96.2% amino acid sequence identity with PR-10-like allergens from various plants. Specific IgE to recombinant Que m 1, Que a 1, and Bet v 1 were detected in 92.0, 74.0, and 38.0% of 50 serum samples from Korean tree pollinosis patients. Recombinant Que m 1 was able to inhibit IgE reactivity to Que a 1 and Bet v 1, indicating its strong cross-reactivity. The activation patterns of basophils from 5 patients were similar in terms of the CD63 expression and protein concentration of challenged Bet v 1 and Que m 1. Conclusions: A major allergen, Que m 1, was cloned, and its recombinant protein was produced from Mongolian oak, a dominant species in Korea. Recombinant Que m 1 is potentially useful for the diagnosis and treatment of tree pollinosis in Korea.
Case Report: Migrainous Infarct without Aura
Authors: Gupta Kamesh , Rohatgi Anurag  , Handa Shivani
Published: October 2017

Background: Stroke in a migraine with aura has been documented in several cases, even deserving the merit of a classification as complicated migraine. Herein, we present a rare case of migrainous infarct without aura. The diagnosis was challenging due to lack of risk factors. The patient was unique in not having any other comorbidities. Case Presentation: The case is of a 21-year-old female presenting with right-sided hemiplegia and facial drooping. She had had an index presentation of throbbing headaches for the past 2 years, typical of a migraine but not preceded by any aura symptoms. However, in the current episode, the pain became excessively severe and accompanied by right-sided hemiplegia and facial drooping. A full investigation workup using MRI revealed evidence of infarct in the left temporoparietal and basal ganglion region. Conclusion: Our case highlights the need to evaluate silent ischemic stroke in case of prolonged headache with a history of migraine as well as the need for precaution to avoid the use of triptans or opioids in such a case. It also highlights the conditions that need to be excluded before labeling it as a migrainous infarct.
Are We Ready to Use ESR1 Mutations in Clinical Practice
Authors: Jeselsohn Rinath
Published: October 2017

The recurrent ligand-binding domain ESR1 mutations are an important mechanism of endocrine resistance in estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) metastatic breast cancer. These mutations evolve under the selective pressure of endocrine treatments and are rarely found in treatment-naïve ER+ breast cancers. Preclinical studies showed that these mutations lead to ligand-independent activity facilitating resistance to aromatase inhibitors and relative resistance to tamoxifen and fulvestrant. Retrospective analyses of ESR1 mutations in baseline plasma circulating tumor DNA from clinical trials suggest that these mutations are prognostic of poor overall survival and predictive of resistance to aromatase inhibitors in metastatic disease. Larger datasets and prospective studies to confirm these results are lacking. In addition, response to other standard treatments for metastatic breast cancer in the presence of the ESR1 mutations is unknown, and studies to determine the optimal treatment combinations for patients with ESR1 mutations are also needed.
Risk Factors for Uroseptic Shock in Patients with Urolithiasis-Related Acute Pyelonephritis
Authors: Kakinoki Hiroaki , Tobu Shohei , Kakinoki Yuka , Udo Kazuma , Uozumi Jiro , Noguchi Mitsuru
Published: October 2017

Objectives: To analyze the risk factors of uroseptic shock induced by calculous acute pyelonephritis (APN). Methods: This study included 69 patients (41 were women and 28 were men) who were admitted to our hospital for APN treatment associated with urolithiasis during the period from January 2005 to December 2012. We reviewed the electronic medical records of these patients to analyze risk factors contributing to the development of uroseptic shock from APN in patients with urolithiasis. Results: Urinary drainage with ureteral stent or nephrostomy was carried out in 62 cases. Septic shock requiring vasopressor infusion against circulatory collapse was observed in 25 patients, these patients showed significantly lower serum albumin levels and higher C-reactive protein (CRP) compared to patients who did not exhibit septic shock. Multivariate analysis revealed that serum albumin level and CRP were the significant risk factors for the development of uroseptic shock from calculous APN. Conclusions: Serum albumin level was the significant risk factor for the development of uroseptic shock from calculous APN. Emergency drainage to decompress the obstructed urinary tract is mandatory as an initial urological intervention for the patients with lower serum albumin level.
Checkpoint Inhibition in Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma
Authors: Heß Georg
Published: October 2017

As patients continue to die from malignant lymphoma, novel treatment options continue to be warranted. To successfully grow and spread, tumor cells need to escape the immune system; therefore, the augmentation or restoration of immune effectors against the malignant cell could be of great value, as shown, e.g., for allogeneic transplantation. A deepened understanding of the regulation of activation and inhibition of the T cell-based effector mechanisms has led to the development of drugs that are able to modify specific checkpoints of this system and thereby raise an immune response against tumor cells. With dramatic responses observed in Hodgkin's disease (HD), interest has risen to explore these drugs in non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). Available data underline the potential of checkpoint inhibitors in a variety of lymphoma entities, such as primary mediastinal B cell lymphoma (PMBCL) or central nervous system (CNS) lymphoma, and there is hope that a significant proportion of patients will finally benefit. However, intensive efforts are needed to develop optimal screening tools, combinations, and sequences to explore the full potential of these new classes of therapeutic agents.
Maximum Radiated Emissions of Printed Circuit Board Using Analytical Methods
Authors: Jenu Mohd Zarar Mohd , Sayegh Ahmed M. , Sapuan Syarfa Zahirah
Published: October 2017

The rapid progress of technology has imposed significant challenges on Printed Circuit Boards (PCB) designers. Once of those challenges is to satisfy the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) compliance requirements. For that reason, EMC compliance must be considered earlier at the design stage for time and cost savings. Conventionally, full wave simulation is employed to check whether the designed PCB meets EMC standards or not. However, this method is not a suitable option since it requires intensive computational time and thus increasing the unit cost. This paper describes novel analytical models for estimating the radiated emissions (RE) of PCB. These models can be used to help the circuit designer to modify their circuit based on the maximum allowable RE comparing to the relevant EMC-RE standard limit. Although there are many RE sources on PCB, this paper focuses on the significant source of RE on PCB; namely PCB-traces. The trace geometry, termination impedance, dielectric type, etc. can be specified based on the maximum allowable emissions. The proposed models were verified by comparing the results of the proposed models with both simulation and experimental results. Good agreements were obtained between the analytically computed results and simulation/measurement results with accuracy of ±3dB.
MODELING OF TREE GROWTH AFTER FOREST FIRE IN MOUNT CIREMAI NATIONAL PARK, INDONESIA
Authors: Rozak Andes Hamuraby , Setiadi Tedi
Published: October 2017

Forest fire is a massive threat towards tropical forest causing various negative impacts to nature and human being.Â  Forest fire often leads to alteration of forest structure and its functions.Â  This study of tree growth after forest fire was conducted using a model simulation.Â  The model was performed at the individual level of plant community and built to analyze the potential of tree growth and its scenario for post-fire recovery.Â  Five important tree species from montane forest of Mount Ciremai were chosen to build the model based on four main parameters i.e. plant growth rate, diameter at breast height (DBH), tree-to-grass competition and tree-to-tree competition.Â  The scenario of post-fire recovery was performed by replanting similar species with 5 cm DBH seedling.Â  Prediction from our model showed that most of the chosen species would recover to its pre-fire condition after 37 - 50 years.Â  Considering the limitation of competition after re-planting, it was suggested to minimize tree to tree competition and applied silvicultural treatments to maximize tree growth and tree community recovery.
INVASION OF Acacia decurrens WILLD. AFTER ERUPTION OF MOUNT MERAPI, INDONESIA
Authors: Sunardi Sunardi , Sulistijorini Sulistijorini , Setyawati Titiek
Published: October 2017

Eruption of Mount Merapi in 2010 caused a dense cover of Acacia decurrens Willd., which is an Invasive Alien Plant Species (IAPS). The dense cover happened in all areas of Mount Merapi National Park (MMNP) in Java, Indonesia. This study was aimed to describe the relationship between major natural disturbance from volcanic eruption in triggering the invasion of A.decurrens in Mount Merapi National Park. Vegetation data were collected using line transect in two different sites. The first site was Cangkringan which was affected by pyroclastic flow and the second site was Selo which was not affected by pyroclastic flow. Distribution patterns and association of A.decurrens with other species in each location was analyzed using ordination analysis of the Non-Metric Multidimensional Scaling (NMDS). Microclimate such as temperature, humidity, light density and soil humidity was recorded in each location. Correlation between species abundance and microclimate data was assessed using Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA). The results showed that the population of A. decurrens was more dominant in Cangkringan than in Selo site. Cangkringan site was impacted with pyroclastic flow during Mount Merapi eruption in 2010, while Selo site was not affected. In Cangkringan,Â A.decurrens was distributed in clump, while in Selo the plant was randomly distributed. Ordination analysis using NMDS showed that there was positive association between A.decurrens and herbaceous plant.Â Negative association was observed between A.decurrens and other tree species. CCA analysis showed that temperature and light density was positively correlated with A. decurrens abundance. This study showed that the IAPS invasion in MMNP was correlated with the eruption of Mount Merapi.
PREDICTING THE IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON THE DISTRIBUTION OF Flindersia pimenteliana F. Muell. IN INDONESIAN PAPUA AND PAPUA NEW GUINEA
Authors: Robiansyah Iyan
Published: October 2017

Population of Flindersia pimenteliana (Maple Silkwood) in Indonesian Papua and Papua New Guinea is severely fragmented and experiencing a continuing decline due to habitat destruction and illegal logging. This species is very susceptible to environmental changes and at greater risk of extinction due to its small and fragmented geographic ranges and low abundance. Using maximum entropy (MaxEnt) method, the present study predicted the impact of climate change on the distribution of the species across its native distribution area. Elevation and 19 bioclimatic variables commonly used in species distribution modeling were used as predictors. Â The prediction model of the current potential distribution identified a total area of 156,214 km2 in Indonesian Papua and Papua New Guinea (18% of total land area) as suitable habitat for F. pimenteliana. Elevation and precipitation of the wettest, coldest and warmest quarters contributed most to the model. Based on the average of HadGEM2-ES and MIROC-ESM models, potential distribution projections under RCP8.5 scenario suggested a habitat gain of 16% for 2050 and 8% for 2070 in the species distribution. Whereas under RCP4.5, an average habitat gain of 7% was predicted for both 2050 and 2070. The newly suitable habitats were predicted to be found mainly in Southern and Western Highland of Papua New Guinea. Protection of these areas from habitat destruction and land use change is needed to assist F. pimenteliana find the most suitable climate for its survival.
Eimeria SPECIES COMPOSITION AND FACTORS INFLUENCING OOCYSTS SHEDDING IN DAIRY FARM, BANDUNG, INDONESIA
Authors: Sufi Isrok Malikus , Cahyaningsih Umi , Sudarnika Etih
Published: October 2017

Coccidiosis is one of the most widely distributed parasitic diseases of cattle throughout the world. Coccidiosis infection in ruminants was caused by Eimeria spp. Â The objective of this study was to determine Eimeria species composition and various factors influencing Eimeria oocysts shedding in dairy farm.Â  This study was conducted with a cross-sectional study design in dairy farm in South Bandung District from July 2014 to January 2015. Samples were obtained from 400 dairy cattle (196 cattle at age < 6 months, 37 cattle at age 6 - 12 months and 167 cattle at age > 12 months). Fecal samples were collected, examined and counted for Eimeria species composition and numbers of oocysts per gram of feces (OPG) using McMaster technique. A questionnaire was completed for individual dairy cattle farmer to record information about cattleâ€™s health and husbandry. The effect of cattleâ€™s sex, age and type of pen flooring to OPG values were analyzed using Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis tests. The Kruskal-Wallis test was performed followed by Dunn test as a multiple comparison test. Ten species of Eimeria were identified in all infected cattle. Among the Eimeria identified species, Eimeria bovis was found to have the highest prevalence (42.5%), followed subsequently by Eimeria wyomingensis (39.1%), Eimeria bukidnonensis (32.4%), Eimeria pellita (26.3%), Eimeria auburnensis (19.6%), Eimeria zuernii (17.3%), Eimeria cylindrica (3.9%), Eimeria canadensis (3.9%), Eimeria brasiliensis (3.4%) and Eimeria alabamensis (1.1%). The numbers of oocysts shed was correlated significantly (p < 0.05) with cattleâ€™s sex and age as well type of pen flooring which influenced the infection pressure. Younger calves aged less than 6 months shed the highest amount of Eimeria oocysts than older cattle. Many factors may cause the increasing number of OPG in fecal samples. Therefore, it is important to keep good sanitation and control of Eimeria among dairy cattle in the KPBS Pangalengan dairy farm.
PAYMENT FOR ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES APPROACH TO REDUCE FLOOD IN CILIWUNG WATERSHED
Authors: Saridewi Tri Ratna , Hadi Setia , Fauzi Akhmad , Rusastra I Wayan
Published: October 2017

Spatial planning has already been stipulated in Ciliwung Watershed, but its implementation is often not in line with the rapid development activities.Â  To fulfill space demand, agricultural and forest areas are converted into open or built-up areas because the economic appreciation of forest and agricultural land is lower than that of open or built-up areas. Payment for Environmental Services (PES) is a tool designed to overcome environment mismanagement, which is beneficial for the lives of rural communities. Â PES should be considered in the formulation of spatial planning. This study was aimed to develop optimum land use pattern in reducing flood in Ciliwung Watershed, using PES approach. This study used a dynamic system approach, consisting of submodels for land use pattern change, runoff, value of farmland, upstream subsidy policy, population dynamics and environmental services.Â  The results showed that the PES policy should be able to maintain the existence of paddy fields and dryland farming areas and to reduce runoff if it is implemented in the form of a guaranteed access to the market, and held in conjunction with efforts to prevent land conversion and to implement reforestation policies.Â  The optimum land use pattern under this condition shall be reached in 2023, which consisted of 0.82% water bodies, 10.74% forest areas, 70.34 % built-up areas, 8.16% dryland farming areas, 4.97% grassland areas, 2.39% paddy fields areas and 2.58% open areas. This land use pattern can reduce runoff in Ciliwung River from 972.04 to 850 cm, and this level is considered to be flood-free.Â  Communities living in the upstream areas are the most effective managers of the watershed.
DNA BARCODE CHARACTERIZATION OF MISTLETOE INFESTATION IN TEAK CLONAL SEED ORCHARD (CSO) IN PADANGAN, EAST JAVA PROVINCE, INDONESIA
Authors: Muttaqin Zainal , Budi Sri Wilarso , Wasis Basuki , Corryanti Corryanti , Siregar Iskandar Zulkarnaen
Published: October 2017

For effective teak plantation management, early detection system in controlling teak mistletoe requires various basic information, including degree of infestation and accuracy of the species names. Mistletoe infestations in teak and mistletoe species name have been reported, but there are still problems in identifying the correct species or subspecies due to morphological similarity.Â  The objective of this study was to clarify the species identity of hemi-parasitic mistletoe plants, which were found in teak Clonal Seed Orchard (CSO) in Padangan, East Java Province, Indonesia using DNA barcodes. Species identification of teak mistletoe based on leaf morphological characteristics and universal DNA barcode regions (i.e. matK and rbcL) were carried out. The results showed that the Canonical Discriminant Analysis (CDA) could differentiate Dendrophthoe pentandra and Macrosolen tetragonus based on leaf morphological characteristics. Variables having high correlation to distinguish both species were length of petiole, Â width of the widest leaf, number of secondary leaf veins, leaf base shape, aspect ratio, form factor and perimeter ratio of diameter.Â  The results ofÂ  DNA barcoding showed that the two DNA barcode regions presented good Â amplification and sequence results. Both DNA barcode regions successfully differentiated two species i.e. D. pentandra andÂ M. tetragonus which belong to Loranthaceae family and have similar leaf morphological characteristics. Those regions were also able to identify Viscum articulatum and other species belonging to Santalaceae family. These results suggested that the two DNA regions could become recommended universal DNA barcode for identifying teak mistletoe.
РОЛЬ ЦИКЛОВОЇ МЕТОДИЧНОЇ КОМІСІЇ З ХІРУРГІЧНИХ ДИСЦИПЛІН В ОРГАНІЗАЦІЇ НАВЧАЛЬНОГО ПРОЦЕСУ ВИЩИХ НАВЧАЛЬНИХ ЗАКЛАДІВ
Authors: Shulhai A. H. , Shidlovskyi V. O. , Ivashchuk L. Yu.
Published: October 2017

Мета роботи – проаналізувати і оцінити роботу циклової методичної комісії із хірургічних дисциплін в організації навчального процесу вищих навчальних закладів.Основна частина. Проведений аналіз  18-річної роботи циклової методичної комісії з хірургічних дисциплін ДВНЗ “Тернопільський державний медичний університет імені І. Я. Горбачевського МОЗ України ».Результати та обговорення. Діяльність методичної комісії із хірургічних дисциплін спрямована на удосконалення організаційного та методичного забезпечення навчально-виховного процесу.  Вона надавала рекомендації стосовно вдосконалення навчальних планів підготовки спеціалістів за відповідними напрямками та структурування змісту навчальних програм. Планування роботи методичної комісії здійснюється щорічно на основі  рішень  і рекомендацій  ректорату, вченої ради університету, деканатів. План роботи складався на кожний навчальний рік у червні місяці. Після обговорення та схвалення методичною комісією план роботи затверджувався ректором. Засідання методичної комісії проводилися один раз на два місяці. При необхідності, скликались оперативні позачергові засідання. У разі необхідності на засідання методичної комісії запрошувались представники відповідних структурних підрозділів університету та окремі викладачі, які мають відношення до питань, що розглядались на методичній комісії. Рішення методичної комісії приймались відкритим голосуванням і  вважались прийнятими тоді, коли за нього проголосувало більше половини присутніх на засіданні, доводились до відома працівників хірургічних кафедр університету впродовж 3-х днів. Однією з особливостей роботи комісії є реалізація навчально-виховних цілей. Зміст цієї роботи полягав у вдосконаленні методичної майстерності  викладачів, зміні авторитарно-дисциплінарної моделі навчання на особистісно-орієнтовану.Висновок. Циклова методична комісія  з хірургічних дисциплін повинна бути однією з ланок цілісної системи організації навчального процесу в медичному вищому навчальному закладі.