bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surgical Excision of Orbital Progressive Granular Cell Tumour
Authors: Germanò Demetrio , Elbadawy Hossein Mostafa , Ponzin Diego , Ferro Daniele , Priore Leonardo
Published: May 2015

Granular cell tumour (GCT) is mostly benign lesion first described by Abrikossoff and named after him. Most cases are reported in the head and neck area, where the tongue is the most common site. Here we review previous cases in the literature for GCT in the orbit and present a new case. A 49-year-old male presented with apparent exophthalmos. Examination of the patient revealed the presence of a mass in the bottom side of the orbit. A substantial progress was noted after two months from the initial examination using computed tomography (CT) scan. An orbital mass was extracted and histological analysis showed signs typical for GCT. Immunohistochemistry was positive for S-100; the biopsy showed no mitotic or necrotic areas. Proptosis was resolved after surgery and a six-year follow-up CT scan was performed. We conclude that rapid progress of the tumour does not necessarily suggest malignancy.
Estrogenic Evaluation and Organochlorine Identification in Blubber of North Sea Harbour Porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) Stranded on the North Sea Coast
Authors: Imazaki Pedro Henrique , Brose François , Jauniaux Thierry , Das Krishna , Muller Marc , Scippo Marie-Louise
Published: May 2015

Thirteen individual organochlorine compounds at 3 concentrations (80, 400, and 2000 ng/mL culture medium), as well as mixtures, were assayed for the estrogen receptor (ER) activation or inhibition, using a luciferase reporter gene assay (RGA). None of the PCB 138, 153, or 180 or their mixture induced a response in the RGA.o,p′-DDT was the most potent xenoestrogen from the DDT group, inducing a response already at 80 ng/mL. From the HCH and HCB group, onlyβ-HCH (at 400 and 2000 ng/mL) andδ-HCH (at 2000 ng/mL) displayed estrogenic activities. These 13 organochlorines were determined by GC-MS in 12 samples of North Sea harbor porpoise blubber. The PCBs were the main contaminants. Within each group, PCB 153 (6.0 × 102~4.2 × 104 μg/kg),p,p′-DDE (5.1 × 102~8.6 × 103 μg/kg), and HCB (7.6 × 101~1.5 × 103 μg/kg) were the compounds found in highest concentrations. The hormonal activity of the porpoise blubber samples was also assayed in RGA, where two samples showed estrogenic activity, seven samples showed antiestrogenic activity, and one sample showed both estrogenic and antiestrogenic activity. Our results suggest that the 13 POPs measured by GC-MS in the samples cannot explain alone the estrogenicity of the extracts.
On the Generalized Ulam-Hyers-Rassias Stability of Quadratic Mappings in Modular Spaces withoutΔ2-Conditions
Authors: Wongkum Kittipong , Chaipunya Parin , Kumam Poom
Published: May 2015

We approach the generalized Ulam-Hyers-Rassias (briefly, UHR) stability of quadratic functional equations via the extensive studies of fixed point theory. Our results are obtained in the framework of modular spaces whose modulars are lower semicontinuous (briefly, lsc) but do not satisfy any relatives ofΔ2-conditions.
Dehydration-Induced Anorexia Reduces Astrocyte Density in the Rat Corpus Callosum
Authors: Reyes-Haro Daniel , Labrada-Moncada Francisco Emmanuel , Miledi Ricardo , Martínez-Torres Ataúlfo
Published: May 2015

Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder associated with severe weight loss as a consequence of voluntary food intake avoidance. Animal models such as dehydration-induced anorexia (DIA) mimic core features of the disorder, including voluntary reduction in food intake, which compromises the supply of energy to the brain. Glial cells, the major population of nerve cells in the central nervous system, play a crucial role in supplying energy to the neurons. The corpus callosum (CC) is the largest white matter tract in mammals, and more than 99% of the cell somata correspond to glial cells in rodents. Whether glial cell density is altered in anorexia is unknown. Thus, the aim of this study was to estimate glial cell density in the three main regions of the CC (genu, body, and splenium) in a murine model of DIA. The astrocyte density was significantly reduced (~34%) for the DIA group in the body of the CC, whereas in the genu and the splenium no significant changes were observed. DIA and forced food restriction (FFR) also reduced the ratio of astrocytes to glial cells by 57.5% and 22%, respectively, in the body of CC. Thus, we conclude that DIA reduces astrocyte density only in the body of the rat CC.
The Value of Safflower Yellow Injection for the Treatment of Acute Cerebral Infarction: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Li Le-Jun , Li Yu-Mei , Qiao Ben-Yu , Jiang Shan , Li Xin , Du Hong-Ming , Han Peng-Cheng , Shi Jiong
Published: May 2015

Background. Safflower Yellow Injection has been reported as a treatment for acute cerebral infarction in recent studies in China. However, there is a lack of availability of the evidence for the efficacy and safety of Safflower Yellow Injection for the treatment of acute ischemic stroke. So we investigated the effects of Safflower Yellow Injection for the treatment of acute cerebral infarction.Method. All subjects were randomly divided into Safflower Yellow Injection group given Safflower Yellow Injection (80 mg) and control group given placebo (0 mg) injection by intravenous drop once daily for 14 days. National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS); hemorheological detection; coagulation function; and serum inflammatory markers, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1β(IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6), were used to investigate the effects before and 14 days after the treatment.Results. The scores of NIHSS were decreased on day 7 and day 14 after treatment. The hemorheological index of RBC deformation and RBC aggregation were significantly improved, prothrombin time (PT) increased, and fibrinogen (FIB) and TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 were decreased in patients treated with Safflower Yellow injection on day 14 after treatment (P<0.05).Conclusion. Data suggests that Safflower Yellow Injection therapy may be beneficial for acute cerebral infarction.
Hybrid Pixel-Based Method for Cardiac Ultrasound Fusion Based on Integration of PCA and DWT
Authors: Mazaheri Samaneh , Sulaiman Puteri Suhaiza , Wirza Rahmita , Dimon Mohd Zamrin , Khalid Fatimah , Moosavi Tayebi Rohollah
Published: May 2015

Medical image fusion is the procedure of combining several images from one or multiple imaging modalities. In spite of numerous attempts in direction of automation ventricle segmentation and tracking in echocardiography, due to low quality images with missing anatomical details or speckle noises and restricted field of view, this problem is a challenging task. This paper presents a fusion method which particularly intends to increase the segment-ability of echocardiography features such as endocardial and improving the image contrast. In addition, it tries to expand the field of view, decreasing impact of noise and artifacts and enhancing the signal to noise ratio of the echo images. The proposed algorithm weights the image information regarding an integration feature between all the overlapping images, by using a combination of principal component analysis and discrete wavelet transform. For evaluation, a comparison has been done between results of some well-known techniques and the proposed method. Also, different metrics are implemented to evaluate the performance of proposed algorithm. It has been concluded that the presented pixel-based method based on the integration of PCA and DWT has the best result for the segment-ability of cardiac ultrasound images and better performance in all metrics.
Integrated Haematological Profiles of RedoxStatus, Lipid, and Inflammatory Protein Biomarkers in Benign Obesity and Unhealthy Obesity with Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Lubrano Carla , Valacchi Giuseppe , Specchia Palma , Gnessi Lucio , Rubanenko Elizaveta P. , Shuginina Elena A. , Trukhanov Arseny I. , Korkina Liudmila G. , De Luca Chiara
Published: May 2015

The pathogenesis of obesity (OB) and metabolic syndrome (MetS) implies free radical-, oxidized lipid- (LOOH-), and inflammatory cytokine-mediated altered pathways in target organs. Key elements of the transition from benign OB to unhealthy OB+MetS remain unclear. Here, we measured a panel of redox, antioxidant, and inflammation markers in the groups of OB patients (67 with, 45 without MetS) and 90 controls. Both OB groups displayed elevated levels of adipokines and heavy oxidative stress (OS) evidenced by reduced levels of glutathione, downregulated glutathione-S-transferase, increased 4-hydroxynonenal-protein adducts, reactive oxygen species, and membrane-bound monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA). Exclusively in OB+MetS, higher-than-normal glutathione peroxidase activity, tumor necrosis factor-α, and other proinflammatory cytokines/chemokines/growth factors were observed; a combination of high adipokine plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 and MUFA was consistent with increased cardiovascular risk. The uncomplicated OB group showed features of adaptation to OS such as decreased levels of vitamin E, activated superoxide dismutase, and inhibited catalase, suggesting H2O2hyperproduction. Proinflammatory cytokine pattern was normal, except few markers like RANTES, a suitable candidate for therapeutic approaches to prevent a setting of MetS by inhibition of LOOH-primed leukocyte chemotaxis/recruitment to target tissues.
Biocomposite of Cassava Starch Reinforced with Cellulose Pulp Fibers Modified with Deposition of Silica (SiO2) Nanoparticles
Authors: Raabe Joabel , Fonseca Alessandra de Souza , Bufalino Lina , Ribeiro Caue , Martins Maria Alice , Marconcini José Manoel , Mendes Lourival M. , Tonoli Gustavo Henrique Denzin
Published: May 2015

Eucalyptus pulp cellulose fibers were modified by the sol‐gel process for SiO2 superficial deposition and used as reinforcement of thermoplastic starch (TPS). Cassava starch, glycerol, and water were added at the proportion of 60/26/14, respectively. For composites, 5% and 10% (by weight) of modified and unmodified pulp fibers were added before extrusion. The matrix and composites were submitted to thermal stability, tensile strength, moisture adsorption, and SEM analysis. Micrographs of the modified fibers revealed the presence of SiO2 nanoparticles on fiber surface. The addition of modified fibers improved tensile strength in 183% in relation to matrix, while moisture adsorption decreased 8.3%. Such improvements were even more effective with unmodified fibers addition. This result was mainly attributed to poor interaction between modified fibers and TPS matrix detected by SEM analysis.
Adaptive Autoregressive Model for Reduction of Noise in SPECT
Authors: Takalo Reijo , Hytti Heli , Ihalainen Heimo , Sohlberg Antti
Published: May 2015

This paper presents improved autoregressive modelling (AR) to reduce noise in SPECT images. An AR filter was applied to prefilter projection images and postfilter ordered subset expectation maximisation (OSEM) reconstruction images (AR-OSEM-AR method). The performance of this method was compared with filtered back projection (FBP) preceded by Butterworth filtering (BW-FBP method) and the OSEM reconstruction method followed by Butterworth filtering (OSEM-BW method). A mathematical cylinder phantom was used for the study. It consisted of hot and cold objects. The tests were performed using three simulated SPECT datasets. Image quality was assessed by means of the percentage contrast resolution (CR%) and the full width at half maximum (FWHM) of the line spread functions of the cylinders. The BW-FBP method showed the highest CR% values and the AR-OSEM-AR method gave the lowest CR% values for cold stacks. In the analysis of hot stacks, the BW-FBP method had higher CR% values than the OSEM-BW method. The BW-FBP method exhibited the lowest FWHM values for cold stacks and the AR-OSEM-AR method for hot stacks. In conclusion, the AR-OSEM-AR method is a feasible way to remove noise from SPECT images. It has good spatial resolution for hot objects.
Interactions between Innate Immunity, Microbiota, and Probiotics
Authors: Giorgetti GianMarco , Brandimarte Giovanni , Fabiocchi Federica , Ricci Salvatore , Flamini Paolo , Sandri Giancarlo , Trotta Maria Cristina , Elisei Walter , Penna Antonio , Lecca Piera Giuseppina , Picchio Marcello , Tursi Antonio
Published: May 2015

The term “microbiota” means genetic inheritance associated with microbiota, which is about 100 times larger than the guest. The tolerance of the resident bacterial flora is an important key element of immune cell function. A key role in the interaction between the host and the microbiota is played by Paneth cell, which is able to synthesize and secrete proteins and antimicrobial peptides, such asα/βdefensins, cathelicidin, 14β-glycosidases, C-type lectins, and ribonuclease, in response to various stimuli. Recent studies found probiotics able to preserve intestinal homeostasis by downmodulating the immune response and inducing the development of T regulatory cells. Specific probiotic strain, as well as probiotic-driven metabolic products called “postbiotics,” has been recently recognized and it is able to influence innate immunity. New therapeutic approaches based on probiotics are now available, and further treatments based on postbiotics will come in the future.
Huangzhi Oral Liquid Prevents Arrhythmias by Upregulating Caspase-3 and Apoptosis Network Proteins in Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Rats
Authors: Ran Xu , Diao Jian Xin , Sun Xue Gang , Wang Ming , An Hui , Huang Guo Qiang , Zhao Xiao Shan , Ma Wen Xiao , Zhou Feng Hua , Yang Yun Gao , Miao Can Ming
Published: May 2015

To study the effect of Huangzhi oral liquid (HZOL) on I/R after 2 h and 4 h and determine its regulatory function on caspase-3 and protein networks. 70 SD male rats were randomly divided into seven groups and established myocardial I/R injury model by ligating the left anterior descending coronary artery. Myocardial infarction model was defined by TTC staining and color of the heart. The levels of CK-MB, CTnI, C-RPL, SOD, and MDA were tested at 2 h and 4 h after reperfusion. HE staining and ultramicrostructural were used to observe the pathological changes. The apoptotic index (AI) of cardiomyocyte was marked by TUNEL. The expression levels of caspase-3, p53, fas, Bcl-2, and Bax were tested by immunohistochemistry and western blot. HZOL corrected arrhythmia, improved the pathologic abnormalities, decreased CK-MB, CTnI, C-RPL, MDA, AI, caspase-3, p53, fas, and Bax, and increased SOD ans Bcl-2 with different times of myocardial reperfusion; this result was similar to the ISMOC (P>0.05). HZOL could inhibit arrhythmia at 2 and 4 h after I/R and ameliorate cardiac function, which was more significant at 4 h after reperfusion. This result may be related to decreased expression of caspase-3, p53, and fas and increased Bcl-2/Bax ratio.
Individual CLA Isomers, c9t11 and t10c12, Prevent Excess Liver Glycogen Storage and Inhibit Lipogenic Genes Expression Induced by High-Fructose Diet in Rats
Authors: Maslak Edyta , Buczek Elzbieta , Szumny Antoni , Szczepnski Wojciech , Franczyk-Zarow Magdalena , Kopec Aneta , Chlopicki Stefan , Leszczynska Teresa , Kostogrys Renata B.
Published: May 2015

This study assessed the effects of individual conjugated linoleic acid isomers, c9t11-CLA and t10c12-CLA, on nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and systemic endothelial dysfunction in rats fed for four weeks with control or high-fructose diet. The high-fructose diet hampered body weight gain (without influencing food intake), increased liver weight and glycogen storage in hepatocytes, upregulated expression of fatty acid synthase (FAS) and stearoyl-CoA desaturase-1 (SCD-1), and increased saturated fatty acid (SFA) content in the liver. Both CLA isomers prevented excessive accumulation of glycogen in the liver. Specifically, t10c12-CLA decreased concentration of serum triacylglycerols and LDL + VLDL cholesterol, increased HDL cholesterol, and affected liver lipid content and fatty acid composition by downregulation of liver SCD-1 and FAS expression. In turn, the c9t11-CLA decreased LDL+VLDL cholesterol in the control group and downregulated liver expression of FAS without significant effects on liver weight, lipid content, and fatty acid composition. In summary, feeding rats with a high-fructose diet resulted in increased liver glycogen storage, indicating the induction of gluconeogenesis despite simultaneous upregulation of genes involved inde novolipogenesis. Although both CLA isomers (c9t11 and t10c12) display hepatoprotective activity, the hypolipemic action of the t10c12-CLA isomer proved to be more pronounced than that of c9t11-CLA.
Adaptive Neural-Sliding Mode Control of Active Suspension System for Camera Stabilization
Authors: Zhao Feng , Dong Mingming , Qin Yechen , Gu Liang , Guan Jifu
Published: May 2015

The camera always suffers from image instability on the moving vehicle due to the unintentional vibrations caused by road roughness. This paper presents a novel adaptive neural network based on sliding mode control strategy to stabilize the image captured area of the camera. The purpose is to suppress vertical displacement of sprung mass with the application of active suspension system. Since the active suspension system has nonlinear and time varying characteristics, adaptive neural network (ANN) is proposed to make the controller robustness against systematic uncertainties, which release the model-based requirement of the sliding model control, and the weighting matrix is adjusted online according to Lyapunov function. The control system consists of two loops. The outer loop is a position controller designed with sliding mode strategy, while the PID controller in the inner loop is to track the desired force. The closed loop stability and asymptotic convergence performance can be guaranteed on the basis of the Lyapunov stability theory. Finally, the simulation results show that the employed controller effectively suppresses the vibration of the camera and enhances the stabilization of the entire camera, where different excitations are considered to validate the system performance.
Interference with the Autophagic Process as a Viral Strategy to Escape from the Immune Control: Lesson from Gamma Herpesviruses
Authors: Santarelli Roberta , Granato Marisa , Faggioni Alberto , Cirone Mara
Published: May 2015

We summarized the most recent findings on the role of autophagy in antiviral immune response. We described how viruses have developed strategies to subvert the autophagic process. A particular attention has been given to Epstein-Barr and Kaposi’s sarcoma associated Herpesvirus, viruses studied for many years in our laboratory. These two viruses belong toγ-Herpesvirus subfamily and are associated with several human cancers. Besides the effects on the immune response, we have described how autophagy subversion by viruses may also concur to the enhancement of their replication and to viral tumorigenesis.
Hepatocellular Carcinoma Growth Is Inhibited byEuphorbia helioscopiaL. Extract in Nude Mice Xenografts
Authors: Cheng Junsheng , Han Wei , Wang Zheyuan , Shao Yuan , Wang Yingzhen , Zhang Yawu , Li Zhongxin , Xu Xiaodong , Zhang Youcheng
Published: May 2015

Euphorbia helioscopiaL. is a traditional Chinese medicine; recently research found that its ethyl acetate extract (EAE) plays an important role on tumor cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, and metastasisin vitro. But the effect of EAE for tumor cellsin vivohas not been reported. To explore the inhibitory effect of EAE and molecular mechanism on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) SMMC-7721 cellsin vivo, we utilized the nude mouse xenograft model of HCC. Treated with EAE (50, 100, and 200 μg/mL), the volume of xenograft was measured during the entire process of EAE treatment. In EAE treatment group, the volume of xenograft was significantly reduced compared with the control group (P<0.05) and the protein expressions of CyclinD1, bcl-2, and MMP-9 were reduced, while those of bax, caspase-3, and nm23-H1 were increased. A significant change trend with increasing EAE concentrations has presented, compared with controls. Moreover, the ultrastructural morphology of xenografts showed significant changes, including nuclear pyknosis and chromatin condensation, We found that EAE could effectively inhibit tumor growth, induce apoptosis, and inhibit tumor invasion and metastasisin vivo; it is suggested that EAE is a potential candidate for as a new anticancer agent.
Phase-Sensitive Optical Time Domain Reflectometer with Dual-Wavelength Probe Pulse
Authors: Shi Yi , Feng Hao , Zeng Zhoumo
Published: May 2015

A dual-wavelength pulse strategy is proposed to reduce the fading phenomenon in a phase-sensitive optical time domain reflectometer ( ϕ-OTDR). The theoretical basis behind this dual-wavelength pulse strategy is presented and an experimental setup is described to help validate the proposed strategy. Through the experimental tests, a 37.79% improvement in detection for available points along the fiber is achieved when 1550.000 nm and 1550.138 nm wavelength signals are applied. The different wavelength tests show that at least a 0.012 nm or 1.498 GHz difference should be applied in a dual-wavelength pulse and an average 30% detecting improvement can be achieved when one wavelength changes from 1549.950 nm to 1550.100 nm. In addition, the dual-wavelength strategy makes the system response more stable and consistent along the sensing optical fiber.
Helicobacteraceae in Bulk Tank Milk of Dairy Herds from Northern Italy
Authors: Bianchini Valentina , Recordati Camilla , Borella Laura , Gualdi Valentina , Scanziani Eugenio , Selvatico Elisa , Luini Mario
Published: May 2015

Helicobacter pyloriis responsible for gastritis and gastric adenocarcinoma in humans, but the routes of transmission of this bacterium have not been clearly defined. Few studies led to supposing thatH. pyloricould be transmitted through raw milk, and no one investigated the presence of other Helicobacteraceae in milk. In the current work, the presence of Helicobacteraceae was investigated in the bulk tank milk of dairy cattle herds located in northern Italy both by direct plating ontoH. pyloriselective medium and by screening PCR for Helicobacteraceae, followed by specific PCRs forH. pylori,Wolinellaspp., and “Candidatus Helicobacter bovis.” Three out of 163 bulk milk samples tested positive for Helicobacteraceae, but not for the subsequent PCRs.H. pyloriwas not isolated in any case. However, given similar growth conditions,Arcobacter butzleri,A. cryaerophilus, andA. skirrowiiwere recovered. In conclusion, the prevalence of Helicobacteraceae in raw milk was negligible (1.8%), andH. pyloriwas not identified in any of the positive samples, suggesting that, at least in the farming conditions of the investigated area, bovine milk does not represent a potential source of infection.
Synthesis of Conductive PPy/SiO2 Aerogels Nanocomposites by In Situ Polymerization of Pyrrole
Authors: Muller Daliana , Pinheiro Geneviève K. , Bendo Tatiana , Gutiérrez Aguayo Alberto J. , Barra Guilherme M. O. , Rambo Carlos R.
Published: May 2015

Electrical conductive nanocomposite aerogels were synthesized through in situ oxidative polymerization of pyrrole (Py) using ammonium persulfate (APS) as an oxidizing agent in SiO2 gels. The effect of Py concentration on the electrical conductivity and physical and morphological properties of aerogels SiO2/PPy was evaluated. B.E.T. analysis indicated that the surface area of the composite SiO2/PPy decreases with increasing concentration of Py. CHN analysis showed an increase in the amount of PPy, from 13 wt.% to 23 wt.%, with increasing concentration of pyrrole synthesis. FTIR‐ATR analysis of the composites revealed bands in the region of 1500–1400 cm−1, indicating the presence of the conductive polymer in the silica aerogel as well as the characteristic bands of Si‐O‐Si and Si‐OH covalent bonds. TEM micrographs revealed the presence of particles of PPy with the increased size of the nanoparticles. The composites were successfully applied as passive components, in RC circuits, for low‐pass frequency filters. The filters exhibited a cutoff frequency at approximately 435 Hz. The aerogels obtained in this work exhibited suitable electrical conductivity for use in various other applications in electronics.
An Atomic Study of Substructures Formed by Shear Transformation in Castγ-TiAl
Authors: Zhang Hanlei , Kou Hongchao , Li Xiaolei , Tang Bin , Li Jinshan
Published: May 2015

Substructures and microsegregation ofγ/γlaths are analyzed with HRTEM and HAADF-STEM. Results show that the substructures are generated during evolution of shear transformation on the(111-)plane ofγlath. At the beginning, shear transformation evolves in a singleγlath, and a superstructure intrinsic stacking fault (SISF) forms in theγlath. After the formation of the SISF, the shear transformation may evolve in two different ways. If the shear transformation evolves into neighboringγlaths, the SISF also penetrates into neighboringγlaths and a ribbon of SISFs forms. If shear transformation continues to evolve in the original lath, complex substructures begin to form in the original. If shear transformation in the original lath is homogeneous and complete, secondary twin forms which may further grow into twin intersection. Incomplete shear transformation could not form secondary twins but generates a high concentration of planar faults on the(111-)plane. These planar faults may further penetrate theγ/γlath interface, grow into adjacent laths, and form a ribbon of planar faults.
Transgenic Strategies to Study Podocyte Loss and Regeneration
Authors: Lombardi Duccio , Lasagni Laura
Published: May 2015

Podocyte death and regeneration are major topics in kidney research but remain controversial. Data obtained in humans demonstrate the existence of cells sited along Bowman’s capsule that behave as podocyte progenitorsin vitroand inin vivomouse models of podocyte injury xenotrasplanted with this human-derived population. However, this podocyte reservoir still remains elusive in murine models, where it could be more easily studied. Transgenic models can be a powerful tool to identify this population and to better understand its dynamics and hierarchies in both physiological and pathological conditions. Indeed, exploiting transgenic approaches allows detecting, at the single cell level, movements, cell death, and replacement. Moreover, through lineage tracing it is now possible to identify specific population increase and to point out clonal expansions during or after the regenerative processes. However, applying transgenic strategies to study glomerular regeneration requires the search of markers to unequivocally identify this progenitor population. Achieving this aim would lead to a deep comprehension of the biological processes that underlie glomerular regeneration and clarify how different cell pools interface during this phase. Here we discuss strategies that have been used and new approaches in transgenic models finalized to study podocyte loss and subsequent replacement.
Segmentation and Tracking of Lymphocytes Based on Modified Active Contour Models in Phase Contrast Microscopy Images
Authors: Huang Yali , Liu Zhiwen
Published: May 2015

The paper proposes an improved active contour model for segmenting and tracking accurate boundaries of the single lymphocyte in phase-contrast microscopic images. Active contour models have been widely used in object segmentation and tracking. However, current external-force-inspired methods are weak at handling low-contrast edges and suffer from initialization sensitivity. In order to segment low-contrast boundaries, we combine the region information of the object, extracted by morphology gray-scale reconstruction, and the edge information, extracted by the Laplacian of Gaussian filter, to obtain an improved feature map to compute the external force field for the evolution of active contours. To alleviate initial location sensitivity, we set the initial contour close to the real boundaries by performing morphological image processing. The proposed method was tested on live lymphocyte images acquired through the phase-contrast microscope from the blood samples of mice, and comparative experimental results showed the advantages of the proposed method in terms of the accuracy and the speed. Tracking experiments showed that the proposed method can accurately segment and track lymphocyte boundaries in microscopic images over time even in the presence of low-contrast edges, which will provide a good prerequisite for the quantitative analysis of lymphocyte morphology and motility.
The Role of Posttranslational Protein Modifications in Rheumatological Diseases: Focus on Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Mastrangelo Andrea , Colasanti Tania , Barbati Cristiana , Pecani Arbi , Sabatinelli Danilo , Pendolino Monica , Truglia Simona , Massaro Laura , Mancini Riccardo , Miranda Francesca , Spinelli Francesca Romana , Conti Fabrizio , Alessandri Cristiano
Published: May 2015

The definition of posttranslational modification (PTM) encompasses a wide group of chemical reactions that allow modification and modulation of protein functions. The regulation of PTMs is crucial for the activity and survival of the cells. Dysregulation of PTMs has been observed in several pathological conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA). RA is a systemic autoimmune disease primarily targeting the joints. The three PTMs mainly involved in this disease are glycosylation, citrullination, and carbamylation. Glycosylation is essential for antigen processing and presentation and can modulate immunoglobulin activity. Citrullination of self-antigens is strongly associated with RA, as demonstrated by the presence of antibodies directed to anti-citrullinated proteins in patients’ sera. Carbamylation and its dysregulation have been recently associated with RA. Aim of this review is to illustrate the most significant alterations of these PTMs in RA and to evaluate their possible involvement in the pathogenesis of the disease.
Heteronemin, a Spongean Sesterterpene, Induces Cell Apoptosis and Autophagy in Human Renal Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Wu Szu-Ying , Sung Ping-Jyun , Chang Ya-Ling , Pan Shiow-Lin , Teng Che-Ming
Published: May 2015

Heteronemin is a bioactive marine sesterterpene isolated from the spongeHyrtiossp. Previous reports have shown that heteronemin possesses anticancer activity. Here, heteronemin displayed cytotoxic effects against three human cancer cell lines (A549, ACHN, and A498) and exhibited potent activity in A498 human renal carcinoma cells, with an IC50value of 1.57 μM by MTT assay and a GI50value of 0.77 μM by SRB assay. Heteronemin initiates apoptotic cell death by downregulating Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL and upregulating Bax, leading to the disruption of the mitochondrial membrane potential and the release of cytochromecfrom the mitochondria. These effects were associated with the activation of caspase-3/caspase-8/caspase-9, followed by PARP cleavage. Furthermore, heteronemin inhibited the phosphorylation of AKT signaling pathway and ERK and activated p38 and JNK. The specific inhibition of the p38 pathway by SB203580 or p38 siRNA treatment reversed the heteronemin-induced cytotoxicity and apoptotic signaling. Heteronemin also induced autophagy in A498 cells, and treatment with chloroquine (autophagy inhibitor) or SP600125 (JNK inhibitor) inhibited autophagy and increased heteronemin-induced cytotoxicity and apoptotic signaling. Taken together, this study proposes a novel treatment paradigm in which the combination of heteronemin and autophagy inhibitors leads to enhanced RCC cell apoptosis.
A Unified Framework for Brain Segmentation in MR Images
Authors: Yazdani S. , Yusof R. , Karimian A. , Riazi A. H. , Bennamoun M.
Published: May 2015

Brain MRI segmentation is an important issue for discovering the brain structure and diagnosis of subtle anatomical changes in different brain diseases. However, due to several artifacts brain tissue segmentation remains a challenging task. The aim of this paper is to improve the automatic segmentation of brain into gray matter, white matter, and cerebrospinal fluid in magnetic resonance images (MRI). We proposed an automatic hybrid image segmentation method that integrates the modified statistical expectation-maximization (EM) method and the spatial information combined with support vector machine (SVM). The combined method has more accurate results than what can be achieved with its individual techniques that is demonstrated through experiments on both real data and simulated images. Experiments are carried out on both synthetic and real MRI. The results of proposed technique are evaluated against manual segmentation results and other methods based on real T1-weighted scans from Internet Brain Segmentation Repository (IBSR) and simulated images from BrainWeb. The Kappa index is calculated to assess the performance of the proposed framework relative to the ground truth and expert segmentations. The results demonstrate that the proposed combined method has satisfactory results on both simulated MRI and real brain datasets.
Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Relationship with Metabolic Syndrome in Class III Obesity Individuals
Authors: Cordeiro A. , Pereira S. E. , Saboya C. J. , Ramalho A.
Published: May 2015

Introduction. Obesity is represented mainly by abdominal obesity and insulin resistance (IR), both present in most individuals diagnosed with metabolic syndrome (MS). IR is the key risk factor in the pathogenesis of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).Objective. To relate NAFLD to MS in class III obese individuals.Methodology. A descriptive cross-sectional study with class III obese individuals, aged ≥ 20–60 years. Blood pressure measurement, weight, height, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC) and blood glucose, insulin, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), and triglycerides data were obtained. HOMA-IR (homeostatic model assessment insulin resistance) calculation was carried out with a cutoff value of 2.71 for IR evaluation. The diagnosis of NAFLD was performed by liver biopsy and the diagnosis of MS was performed in accordance with the National Cholesterol Education Program/Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEPATP III).Results. Of the 50 individuals evaluated, 86% were women and BMI means were 45.4 ± 3.6 Kg/m2. The overall individuals had NAFLD, 70% steatosis, and 30% steatohepatitis. The diagnosis of MS occurred in 56% but showed no significant association with NAFLD (P=0.254). Triglycerides (178 ± 65.5 mg/dL) and insulin (28.2 ± 22.6 mcU/mL) mean values were significantly higher in steatohepatitis (P=0.002andP=0.042, resp.) compared to individuals with steatosis. IR was confirmed in 76% and showed a relationship with NAFLD severity.Conclusion. NAFLD was not related to MS; however, MS components, evaluated in isolation, as well as IR, were related to the presence and severity of NAFLD.
Effectiveness of Acupuncture for Primary Ovarian Insufficiency: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Jo Junyoung , Lee Yoon Jae , Lee Hyangsook
Published: May 2015

Objective. This systematic review aimed to assess current evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the effects of acupuncture for patients with primary ovarian insufficiency (POI).Methods. We searched twelve databases to identify relevant studies published before July 2014. The outcomes were serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels and resumption of menstruation. Two reviewers independently assessed the risk of bias using the Cochrane’s tool, extracted the results, and evaluated the overall level of the evidence using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) criteria.Results. Eight RCTs were selected. Acupuncture significantly lowered serum FSH levels and more women receiving acupuncture reported resumption of menses. However, the results should be interpreted with caution due to a small number of participants, high risk of bias for blinding, and likely publication bias. The level of evidence for FSH level and resumption of menses were assessed as “low” using GRADE.Conclusion. The current evidence on acupuncture for POI is insufficient to draw a firm conclusion due to scarcity of studies with a low risk of bias and likely publication bias. Further rigorously designed and conducted studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness and safety of acupuncture in patients with POI.
Rahnella aquatilisSepsis in a Premature Newborn
Authors: Kuzdan Canan , Soysal Ahmet , Özdemir Hülya , Coşkun Şenay , Akman İpek , Bilgen Hülya , Özek Eren , Bakır Mustafa
Published: May 2015

Rahnella aquatilisis an infrequently isolated Gram-negative rod within the Enterobacteriaceae family. The organism’s natural habitat is water. The organism is rarely isolated from clinical specimens and it seldom causes infection in immunocompetent individuals. Here we present a one-month-old boy who was born prematurely at 27th week of gestation by cesarean section with a birth weight of 730 g. He developed sepsis caused byRahnella aquatilisduring the treatment for ventilator associated pneumonia due toStenotrophomonas maltophiliawith ciprofloxacin. He was successfully treated with a combination of amikacin plus meropenem. AlthoughR. aquatilisis one of thesaprophyticusorganisms, it may cause life-threatening infection in newborn.
Tuning the Refractive Index and Optical Band Gap of Silk Fibroin Films by Electron Irradiation
Authors: Asha S. , Sangappa Y. , Ganesh Sanjeev
Published: May 2015

TheBombyx morisilk fibroin (SF) films were prepared by solution casting method and effects of electron beam on the optical properties and optical constants of the films have been studied by using UV-Visible spectrophotometer. Optical properties like optical band gapEg, refractive indexn, extinction coefficientk, optical conductivityσopt, and dielectric constantsε∗of virgin and electron irradiated films were determined by using UV-Visible absorption and transmission spectra. It was found that the reduction in optical band gap and increase in refractive index with increasing radiation dosage was observed. It is also observed from results that there is increase in dielectric constants with increasing photon energy. The observed optical changes have been tried to be correlated with the structural changes, revealed through FT-IR spectroscopy. The present study is quite important for tailoring the optical responses of SF films as per specific requirements.
Existence of Positive Solutions for a Fourth-Orderm-Point Boundary Value Problem
Authors: Yang Liu , Shen Chunfang
Published: May 2015

By using Krasnosel’skii’s fixed point theorem and the fixed point index theorem in the special function space, we obtain some sufficient conditions for the existence of positive solutions of fourth-order boundary value problem with multipoint boundary conditions. Applications of our results to some special problems are also discussed.
Gene Delivery into Plant Cells for Recombinant Protein Production
Authors: Chen Qiang , Lai Huafang
Published: May 2015

Recombinant proteins are primarily produced from cultures of mammalian, insect, and bacteria cells. In recent years, the development of deconstructed virus-based vectors has allowed plants to become a viable platform for recombinant protein production, with advantages in versatility, speed, cost, scalability, and safety over the current production paradigms. In this paper, we review the recent progress in the methodology of agroinfiltration, a solution to overcome the challenge of transgene delivery into plant cells for large-scale manufacturing of recombinant proteins. General gene delivery methodologies in plants are first summarized, followed by extensive discussion on the application and scalability of each agroinfiltration method. New development of a spray-based agroinfiltration and its application on field-grown plants is highlighted. The discussion of agroinfiltration vectors focuses on their applications for producing complex and heteromultimeric proteins and is updated with the development of bridge vectors. Progress on agroinfiltration inNicotianaand non-Nicotianaplant hosts is subsequently showcased in context of their applications for producing high-value human biologics and low-cost and high-volume industrial enzymes. These new advancements in agroinfiltration greatly enhance the robustness and scalability of transgene delivery in plants, facilitating the adoption of plant transient expression systems for manufacturing recombinant proteins with a broad range of applications.
On Colour, Category Effects, and Alzheimer’s Disease: A Critical Review of Studies and Further Longitudinal Evidence
Authors: Moreno-Martínez F. Javier , Rodríguez-Rojo Inmaculada C.
Published: May 2015

The role of colour in object recognition is controversial; in this study, a critical review of previous studies, as well as a longitudinal study, was conducted. We examined whether colour benefits the ability of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients and normal controls (NC) when naming items differing in colour diagnosticity: living things (LT) versus nonliving things (NLT). Eleven AD patients were evaluated twice with a temporal interval of 3 years; 26 NC were tested once. The participants performed a naming task (colour and greyscale photographs); the impact of nuisance variables (NVs) and potential ceiling effects were also controlled. Our results showed that (i) colour slightly favoured processing of items with higher colour diagnosticity (i.e., LT) in both groups; (ii) AD patients used colour information similarly to NC, retaining this ability over time; (iii) NVs played a significant role as naming predictors in all the participants, relegating domain to a minor plane; and (iv) category effects (better processing of NLT) were present in both groups. Finally, although patients underwent semantic longitudinal impairment, this was independent of colour deterioration. This finding provides better support to the view that colour is effective at the visual rather than at the semantic level of object processing.
Histidine Decarboxylase Deficiency Prevents Autoimmune Diabetes in NOD Mice
Authors: Alkan Manal , Machavoine François , Rignault Rachel , Dam Julie , Dy Michel , Thieblemont Nathalie
Published: May 2015

Recent evidence has highlighted the role of histamine in inflammation. Since this monoamine has also been strongly implicated in the pathogenesis of type-1 diabetes, we assessed its effect in the nonobese diabetic (NOD) mouse model. To this end, we used mice (inactivated) knocked out for the gene encoding histidine decarboxylase, the unique histamine-forming enzyme, backcrossed on a NOD genetic background. We found that the lack of endogenous histamine in NOD HDC−/−mice decreased the incidence of diabetes in relation to their wild-type counterpart. Whereas the proportion of regulatory T and myeloid-derived suppressive cells was similar in both strains, histamine deficiency was associated with increased levels of immature macrophages, as compared with wild-type NOD mice. Concerning the cytokine pattern, we found a decrease in circulating IL-12 and IFN-γin HDC−/−mice, while IL-6 or leptin remained unchanged, suggesting that histamine primarily modulates the inflammatory environment. Paradoxically, exogenous histamine given to NOD HDC−/−mice provided also protection against T1D. Our study supports the notion that histamine is involved in the pathogenesis of diabetes, thus providing additional evidence for its role in the regulation of the immune response.
Genetic Diversity of the Ring-Tailed Lemur (Lemur catta) in South-Central Madagascar
Authors: Clarke Tara A. , Gray Olivia , Gould Lisa , Burrell Andrew S.
Published: May 2015

Madagascar's lemurs, now deemed the most endangered group of mammals, represent the highest primate conservation priority in the world. Due to anthropogenic disturbances, an estimated 10% of Malagasy forest cover remains. The endangered Lemur catta is endemic to the southern regions of Madagascar and now occupies primarily fragmented forest habitats. We examined the influence of habitat fragmentation and isolation on the genetic diversity of L. catta across 3 different forest fragments in south-central Madagascar. Our analysis revealed moderate levels of genetic diversity. Genetic differentiation among the sites ranged from 0.05 to 0.11. These data suggest that the L. catta populations within south-central Madagascar have not yet lost significant genetic variation. However, due to ongoing anthropogenic threats faced by ring-tailed lemurs, continued conservation and research initiatives are imperative for long-term viability of the species.
Successful Use of High-Frequency Spinal Cord Stimulation Following Traditional Treatment Failure
Authors: Smith Heather , Youn Youngwon , Pilitsis Julie G.
Published: May 2015

Introduction: High-frequency spinal cord stimulation (HFSCS) offers an alternative treatment for chronic refractory pain syndromes nonresponsive to traditional spinal cord stimulation (SCS). Following the conflicting findings of preliminary HFSCS clinical studies performed at 5-10 kHz, this study is the first to report successful clinical usage of 1-kHz frequency SCS with a standard generator. Patients: We used HFSCS in 2 patients who had inadequate relief with traditional SCS. Patient 1 was initially programmed at 40 Hz and a pulse width of 330 μs with bipolar stimulation. After multiple setting adjustments with inadequate pain relief, the patient was reprogrammed to HFSCS at settings of 1.15 kHz, 120 μs, and 5 V. Patient 2 was initially programmed at a frequency of 1.2 kHz and a pulse width of 120 μs, which she favored over the standard setting of 40 Hz and 390 μs pulse width. HFSCS provided optimal pain alleviation and increased quality of life for both patients. Conclusions: HFSCS at the frequency of 1 kHz offers a new tool for treatment of chronic pain in patients with traditional stimulation settings. Furthermore, most standard SCS batteries are capable of delivering stimulation in this frequency range.
Deep Brain Stimulation Significantly Decreases Disability from Low Back Pain in Patients with Advanced Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Smith Heather , Gee Lucy , Kumar Vignessh , Ramirez-Zamora Adolfo , Durphy Jennifer , Hanspal Era , Barba Anne , Molho Eric , Shin Damian , Pilitsis Julie G.
Published: May 2015

Background: Up to 60% of Parkinson's disease (PD) patients suffer from low back pain (LBP) during the course of their disease. How LBP affects daily functional status and how to manage this aspect of PD has not been adequately explored. Methods: We examined 16 patients undergoing bilateral subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation (STN DBS) who met the inclusion criteria for moderate disability from LBP, as classified by the Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Index (OLBPD). Results: Thirteen of 16 patients had attempted additional treatments for LBP, including medical management, massage, chiropractic, epidural steroid injections and/or surgery, with minimal relief. Following DBS, there was a significant improvement in the OLBPD at both the 6-month and 1-year time points (p < 0.02, p < 0.005, respectively). A mean improvement of 31.7% on the OLBPD score was noted. The Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) similarly decreased significantly at 1 year (p = 0.015). There was no correlation between the OLBPD score and other measures, including the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS), age and other nonmotor symptoms. Conclusion: Given the prevalent yet undertreated disability associated with LBP in PD, these results are novel in that they show that STN DBS has a significant positive effect on disability associated with LBP.