bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Experimental Research on the Vibration of Surface-Textured Journal Bearings
Authors: Dong Jian , Wang Xiaojing , Zhang Jin , Xiang Xiaoqing , Nie Zhou , Shen Jiexi
Published: May 2017

Growing attention has been paid to surface texture owing to its significance in bearing lubrication, load capacity, and wear resistance. In this paper, research emphasis is placed on the influence of texture distributions on bearing vibration and rotor stability. With microfabrication techniques, three kinds of textures configurations (0–90° partial distribution, 0–160° partial distribution, and 0–160° full distribution) are designed and applied on the lower pad surface. The experiment of journal bearings is carried out. The experiment results show that there is a significant decrease in acceleration amplitude of the textured bearings compared to nontextured bearings. Furthermore, the 0–160° partially distributed journal bearings have better vibration damping effect than another two kinds of textures, which can be verified by the shaft center orbits, Fourier spectrums, and waterfall plots.
Small Dense Low‐Density Lipoprotein as Biomarker for Atherosclerotic Diseases
Authors: Ivanova Ekaterina A. , Myasoedova Veronika A. , Melnichenko Alexandra A. , Grechko Andrey V. , Orekhov Alexander N.
Published: May 2017

Low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) plays a key role in the development and progression of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. LDL consists of several subclasses of particles with different sizes and densities, including large buoyant (lb) and intermediate and small dense (sd) LDLs. It has been well documented that sdLDL has a greater atherogenic potential than that of other LDL subfractions and that sdLDL cholesterol (sdLDL‐C) proportion is a better marker for prediction of cardiovascular disease than that of total LDL‐C. Circulating sdLDL readily undergoes multiple atherogenic modifications in blood plasma, such as desialylation, glycation, and oxidation, that further increase its atherogenicity. Modified sdLDL is a potent inductor of inflammatory processes associated with cardiovascular disease. Several laboratory methods have been developed for separation of LDL subclasses, and the results obtained by different methods can not be directly compared in most cases. Recently, the development of homogeneous assays facilitated the LDL subfraction analysis making possible large clinical studies evaluating the significance of sdLDL in the development of cardiovascular disease. Further studies are needed to establish guidelines for sdLDL evaluation and correction in clinical practice.
Effects of Wenxin Keli on Cardiac Hypertrophy and Arrhythmia via Regulation of the Calcium/Calmodulin Dependent Kinase II Signaling Pathway
Authors: Yang Xinyu , Chen Yu , Li Yanda , Ren Xiaomeng , Xing Yanwei , Shang Hongcai
Published: May 2017

We investigated the effects of Wenxin Keli (WXKL) on the Calcium/Calmodulin dependent kinase II (CaMK II) signal transduction pathway with transverse aortic constriction (TAC) rats. Echocardiographic measurements were obtained 3 and 9 weeks after the surgery. Meanwhile, the action potentials (APDs) were recorded using the whole-cell patch clamp technique, and western blotting was used to assess components of the CaMK II signal transduction pathway. At both 3 and 9 weeks after treatment, the fractional shortening (FS%) increased in the WXKL group compared with the TAC group. The APD90of the TAC group was longer than that of the Sham group and was markedly shortened by WXKL treatment. Western blotting results showed that the protein expressions of CaMK II, phospholamban (PLB), and ryanodine receptor 2 (RYR2) were not statistically significant among the different groups at both treatment time points. However, WXKL treatment decreased the protein level and phosphorylation of CaMK II (Thr-286) and increased the protein level and phosphorylation of PLB (Thr-17) and the phosphorylation of RYR2 (Ser-2814). WXKL also decreased the accumulation of type III collagen fibers. In conclusion, WXKL may improve cardiac function and inhibit the arrhythmia by regulating the CaMK II signal transduction pathway.
The Stimulated Glycolytic Pathway Is Able to Maintain ATP Levels and Kinetic Patterns of Bovine Epididymal Sperm Subjected to Mitochondrial Uncoupling
Authors: Losano João D. A. , Padín Juan Fernando , Méndez-López Iago , Angrimani Daniel S. R. , García Antonio G. , Barnabe Valquiria H. , Nichi Marcilio
Published: May 2017

Studies have reported the importance of mitochondria in sperm functionality. However, for some species, the glycolytic pathway appears to be as important as oxidative phosphorylation in ATP synthesis and sperm kinetics. These mechanisms have not been fully elucidated for bovine spermatozoa. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the role of mitochondria and the glycolytic pathway in ATP synthesis, sperm movement patterns, and oxidative homeostasis of epididymal spermatozoa in bovine specimens. We observed that mitochondrial uncoupling with protonophores significantly reduced ATP levels. However, these levels were reestablished after stimulation of the glycolytic pathway. We verified the same pattern of results for sperm kinetic variables and the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Thus, we suggest that, after its appropriate stimulation, the glycolytic pathway is capable of maintaining ATP levels, sperm kinetic patterns, and oxidative balance of bovine epididymal spermatozoa submitted to mitochondrial uncoupling.
Rituximab for Treatment of Membranoproliferative Glomerulonephritis and C3 Glomerulopathies
Authors: Rudnicki Michael
Published: May 2017

Membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN) is a histological pattern of injury resulting from predominantly subendothelial and mesangial deposition of immunoglobulins or complement factors with subsequent inflammation and proliferation particularly of the glomerular basement membrane. Recent classification of MPGN is based on pathogenesis dividing MPGN into immunoglobulin-associated MPGN and complement-mediated C3 glomerulonephritis (C3GN) and dense deposit disease (DDD). Current guidelines suggest treatment with steroids, cytotoxic agents with or without plasmapheresis only for subjects with progressive disease, that is, nephrotic range proteinuria and decline of renal function. Rituximab, a chimeric B-cell depleting anti-CD20 antibody, has emerged in the last decade as a treatment option for patients with primary glomerular diseases such as minimal change disease, focal-segmental glomerulosclerosis, or idiopathic membranous nephropathy. However, data on the use of rituximab in MPGN, C3GN, and DDD are limited to case reports and retrospective case series. Patients with immunoglobulin-associated and idiopathic MPGN who were treated with rituximab showed partial and complete responses in the majorities of cases. However, rituximab was not effective in few cases of C3GN and DDD. Despite promising results in immunoglobulin-associated and idiopathic MPGN, current evidence on this treatment remains weak, and controlled and prospective data are urgently needed.
Buprenorphine Alters Inflammatory and Oxidative Stress Molecular Markers in Arthritis
Authors: Hemshekhar Mahadevappa , Anaparti Vidyanand , Hitchon Carol , Mookherjee Neeloffer
Published: May 2017

Buprenorphine is recommended for use as an analgesic in animal models including in murine models of collagen-induced arthritis (CIA). However, the effect of buprenorphine on the expression of disease-associated biomarkers is not well defined. We examined the effect of buprenorphine administration on disease progression and the expression of inflammatory and oxidative stress markers, in a murine model of CIA. Buprenorphine administration altered the expression of cytokines, IFN-γ, IL-6, and MMP-3, and oxidative markers, for example, iNOS, superoxide dismutase (SOD1), and catalase (CAT), in the CIA mice. As buprenorphine is an analgesic, we further monitored the association of expression of these biomarkers with pain scores in a human cohort of early rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Serum MMP-3 levels and blood mRNA expression of antioxidants sod1 and cat correlated with pain scores in the RA cohort. We have demonstrated that administration of buprenorphine alters the expression of inflammatory and oxidative stress-related molecular markers in a murine model of CIA. This caveat needs to be considered in animal experiments using buprenorphine as an analgesic, as it can be a confounding factor in murine studies used for prediction of response to therapy. Furthermore, the antioxidant enzymes that showed an association with pain scores in the human cohort may be explored as biomarkers for pain in future studies.
Light Polarization Using Ferrofluids and Magnetic Fields
Authors: Tufaile Alberto , Vanderelli Timm A. , Tufaile Adriana Pedrosa Biscaia
Published: May 2017

We are presenting an experimental setup based on polarized light, enabling the visualization of the magnetic field of magnetic assemblies using a Hele-Shaw cell filled with ferrofluids. We have simulated the observed patterns with hypergeometric polynomials.
Cardio-Ankle Vascular Index and Indices of Diabetic Polyneuropathy in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Ando Akihiko , Miyamoto Michiaki , Kotani Kazuhiko , Okada Kenta , Nagasaka Shoichiro , Ishibashi Shun
Published: May 2017

The cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI) is used to test vascular function and is an arterial stiffness marker and potential predictor of cardiovascular events. This study aimed to analyze the relation between objective indices of diabetic polyneuropathy (DPN) and the CAVI. One hundred sixty-six patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus were included in this study. We used nerve conduction studies (NCSs) and the coefficient of variation of the R-R interval to evaluate DPN. We estimated arteriosclerosis by the CAVI. Simple and multiple linear regression analyses were performed between neuropathy indices and the CAVI. In univariate analysis, the CAVI showed significant associations with sural sensory nerve conduction velocity and median F-wave conduction velocity. Multiple linear regression analysis for the CAVI showed that sural nerve conduction velocity and median F-wave conduction velocity were significant explanatory variables second only to age. In multiple linear regression analysis for sural nerve conduction velocity among neuropathy indices, the CAVI remained the most significant explanatory variable. In multiple linear regression analysis for median nerve F-wave conduction velocity among neuropathy indices, the CAVI remained the second most significant explanatory variable following HbA1c. These results suggest a close relationship between macroangiopathy and DPN.
Electronic Tongue Combined with Chemometrics to Provenance Discrimination for a Green Tea (Anji-White Tea)
Authors: Yan Si-Min , Hu Zi-Feng , Wu Cheng-Xin , Jin Lu , Chen Gong , Zeng Xian-Yu , Zhu Jia-Qi
Published: May 2017

This paper aims to provide a stable instrumental method for provenance discrimination of Anji-White tea by its distinctive taste. 180 authentic and 60 counterfeit white tea samples were collected for specific geographical origins detection; all of them were measured by electronic tongue coupled with 7 independent sensors. Therefore, chemometrics methods, principal component analysis (PCA), and partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLSDA) were performed in classification. The PCA distribution shows that, in provenance analysis, PCA is a simple and reliable tool for small sample sets, but for sets with large objects, PCA seems powerless in classification. Therefore, PLSDA was applied to develop a classification model. The prediction sensitivity and specificity of PLSDA, respectively, reached 0.917 and 0.950. This study demonstrates the potential of combining electronic tongue system and chemometrics as an effective tool for specific geographical origins detection in Anji-White tea.
Serum Alanine Aminotransferase Levels within Normal Range Have Different Associations with Augmentation Index and Other Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in Nondrinkers and Drinkers: A Chinese Community-Based Analysis
Authors: Fu Shihui , Liu Chunling , Luo Leiming , Ye Ping
Published: May 2017

Background. To investigate whether serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels within normal range were associated with augmentation index (AIx) and cardiometabolic risk factors in nondrinkers and drinkers in Chinese community-dwelling population. Methods. There were 4165 participants with serum ALT levels within normal range. Results. Alcohol drinking was observed in 1173 participants (28.2%). In multivariate analysis, serum ALT levels of nondrinkers were independently associated with age, sex, body mass index (BMI), hypertension, diabetes mellitus, diastolic blood pressure, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-c), and AIx, while serum ALT levels of drinkers were independently associated with age, sex, BMI, triglyceride, and LDL-c (p<0.05 for all). Conclusions. Associations of serum ALT levels within normal range with age, sex, body height and weight, and blood lipid were simultaneously present in participants with and without alcohol drinking, while associations of serum ALT levels within normal range with AIx, blood pressure, and glucose were seen in nondrinkers rather than in drinkers. These findings not only provide the evidence that serum ALT levels, even within the normal range, have different associations with arteriosclerosis and cardiometabolic risk factors in nondrinkers and drinkers but also are helpful in understanding the underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms linking the hepatic function to arteriosclerosis and cardiometabolic risk factors.
Prestress Loss of CFL in a Prestressing Process for Strengthening RC Beams
Authors: Guo Xinyan , Liu Dong , Huang Peiyan , Zheng Xiaohong
Published: May 2017

A prestressing system was designed to strengthen reinforced concrete (RC) beams with prestressed carbon fiber laminate (CFL). During different prestressing processes, prestress loss was measured using strain gauges attached on the surface of CFL along the length direction. The prestress loss was 50–68% of the whole prestress loss, which is typically associated with CFL slipping between the grip anchors. Approximately 20–27% of the prestress loss was caused by the elastic shortening of the RC beam. An analytical model using linear-elastic theory was constructed to calculate the prestress loss caused by CFL slipping between the anchors and the elastic shortening of the strengthened beams. The compared results showed that the analytical model of prestress loss can describe the experimental data well. Methods of reducing the prestress loss were also suggested. Compared to other experiments, the prestressing system proposed by this research group was effective because the maximum percentage of prestress loss was 14.9% and the average prestress loss was 12.5%.
Nonlinear Dynamic Analysis of Macrofiber Composites Laminated Shells
Authors: Guo Xiangying , Liu Dameng , Zhang Wei , Sun Lin , Chen Shuping
Published: May 2017

This work presents the nonlinear dynamical analysis of a multilayer d31 piezoelectric macrofiber composite (MFC) laminated shell. The effects of transverse excitations and piezoelectric properties on the dynamic stability of the structure are studied. Firstly, the nonlinear dynamic models of the MFC laminated shell are established. Based on known selected geometrical and material properties of its constituents, the electric field of MFC is presented. The vibration mode-shape functions are obtained according to the boundary conditions, and then the Galerkin method is employed to transform partial differential equations into two nonlinear ordinary differential equations. Next, the effects of the transverse excitations on the nonlinear vibration of MFC laminated shells are analyzed in numerical simulation and moderating effects of piezoelectric coefficients on the stability of the system are also presented here. Bifurcation diagram, two-dimensional and three-dimensional phase portraits, waveforms phases, and Poincare diagrams are shown to find different kinds of periodic and chaotic motions of MFC shells. The results indicate that piezoelectric parameters have strong effects on the vibration control of the MFC laminated shell.
Right Hemisphere Grey Matter Volume and Language Functions in Stroke Aphasia
Authors: Lukic Sladjana , Barbieri Elena , Wang Xue , Caplan David , Kiran Swathi , Rapp Brenda , Parrish Todd B. , Thompson Cynthia K.
Published: May 2017

The role of the right hemisphere (RH) in recovery from aphasia is incompletely understood. The present study quantified RH grey matter (GM) volume in individuals with chronic stroke-induced aphasia and cognitively healthy people using voxel-based morphometry. We compared group differences in GM volume in the entire RH and in RH regions-of-interest. Given that lesion site is a critical source of heterogeneity associated with poststroke language ability, we used voxel-based lesion symptom mapping (VLSM) to examine the relation between lesion site and language performance in the aphasic participants. Finally, using results derived from the VLSM as a covariate, we evaluated the relation between GM volume in the RH and language ability across domains, including comprehension and production processes both at the word and sentence levels and across spoken and written modalities. Between-subject comparisons showed that GM volume in the RH SMA was reduced in the aphasic group compared to the healthy controls. We also found that, for the aphasic group, increased RH volume in the MTG and the SMA was associated with better language comprehension and production scores, respectively. These data suggest that the RH may support functions previously performed by LH regions and have important implications for understanding poststroke reorganization.
Motorcycle On-Road Driving Parameters Influencing Fuel Consumption and Emissions on Congested Signalized Urban Corridor
Authors: Seedam Atthapol , Satiennam Thaned , Radpukdee Thana , Satiennam Wichuda , Ratanavaraha Vatanavongs
Published: May 2017

This study aims to find the on-road driving parameters influencing fuel consumption and emissions of motorcycle driving on a congested signalized urban corridor. A motorcycle onboard measurement system was developed to measure instantaneously and continuously record on-road driving data, including speed-time profile, emissions, and fuel consumption, by the second. The test motorcycles were driven by 30 sample motorcyclists on a signalized urban corridor in Khon Kaen City, Thailand, to collect their on-road driving behavior during the morning peak period. Cluster analysis was applied to analyze collected driving data and to categorize the drivers by level of fuel consumption and on-road driver behavior. The on-road driving parameter influencing fuel consumption and emissions was then determined. Results revealed that proportion of idle time significantly influenced fuel consumption and emissions of motorcycle driving on a congested signalized urban corridor, though aggressive driving behavior, hard acceleration and deceleration, did not have the same kind of influence.
Injection-Site Sarcoma in a Dog: Clinical and Pathological Findings
Authors: Jacobs Terry M. , Poehlmann Cathy E. , Kiupel Matti
Published: May 2017

This case report documents the clinical and pathological findings in a dog that rapidly developed a high-grade sarcoma at the site of multiple vaccinations and follows the response to surgery and adjunct treatment with toceranib. An 11-year-old female spayed Labrador Retriever presented with dorsocervical subcutaneous masses at the injection site three weeks after receiving DA2PP-Lepto, Rabies, and Bordetella vaccinations. A high-grade soft tissue sarcoma was diagnosed microscopically and immunohistochemistry revealed positive expression of VEGFr, PDGFr, SCF, and EGFR. Repeat surgical resections and targeted treatment with toceranib resulted in a stable remission for nearly two years.
TSH Variability of Patients Affected by Differentiated Thyroid Cancer Treated with Levothyroxine Liquid Solution or Tablet Form
Authors: Cappelli Carlo , Pirola Ilenia , Gandossi Elena , Casella Claudio , Lombardi Davide , Agosti Barbara , Marini Fiorella , Delbarba Andrea , Castellano Maurizio
Published: May 2017

Background. Recent guidelines from the American Thyroid Association (ATA) indicate that, in many patients affected by differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC), the serum TSH should be maintained between 0.1 and 0.5 mU/L. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the TSH variability of patients affected by DTC treated with liquid L-T4 formulation or in tablet form. Patients and Methods. Patients were eligible if (a) they were submitted to a total thyroidectomy and 131I remnant ablation for DTC in our institution and (b) they were classified low-risk patients according to ATA guidelines 2009. Patients were randomized (1 : 1) to receive treatment of hypothyroidism with liquid L-T4 or tablet form. The first check-up evaluation was made from 8 to 12 months after 131I remnant ablation. TSH values were established again after further 12 months. Results. A significant increase in TSH values (median) was observed in patients taking tablets [TSH (min–max): 0.28 (0.1–0.45) versus 0.34 (0.01–0.78) mIU/L, p=0.041] as compared to those taking liquid formulation [TSH (min–max): 0.28 (0.1–0.47) versus 0.30 (0.1–0.55) mIU/L, p=0.345]. Conclusions. The use of L-T4 liquid formulation, as compared to that of tablets, resulted in a significantly higher number of DTC patients maintaining TSH values in range for the ATA risk score, reducing TSH variability over the time.
Brain Oscillations Elicited by the Cold Pressor Test: A Putative Index of Untreated Essential Hypertension
Authors: Papageorgiou Christos , Manios Efstathios , Tsaltas Eleftheria , Koroboki Eleni , Alevizaki Maria , Angelopoulos Elias , Dimopoulos Meletios-Athanasios , Papageorgiou Charalabos , Zakopoulos Nikolaos
Published: May 2017

Objective. Essential hypertension is associated with reduced pain sensitivity of unclear aetiology. This study explores this issue using the Cold Pressor Test (CPT), a reliable pain/stress model, comparing CPT-related EEG activity in first episode hypertensives and controls. Method. 22 untreated hypertensives and 18 matched normotensives underwent 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM). EEG recordings were taken before, during, and after CPT exposure. Results. Significant group differences in CPT-induced EEG oscillations were covaried with the most robust cardiovascular differentiators by means of a Canonical Analysis. Positive correlations were noted between ABPM variables and Delta (1–4 Hz) oscillations during the tolerance phase; in high-alpha (10–12 Hz) oscillations during the stress unit and posttest phase; and in low-alpha (8–10 Hz) oscillations during CPT phases overall. Negative correlations were found between ABPM variables and Beta2 oscillations (16.5–20 Hz) during the posttest phase and Gamma (28.5–45 Hz) oscillations during the CPT phases overall. These relationships were localised at several sites across the cerebral hemispheres with predominance in the right hemisphere and left frontal lobe. Conclusions. These findings provide a starting point for increasing our understanding of the complex relationships between cerebral activation and cardiovascular functioning involved in regulating blood pressure changes.
A Real-Time Analysis Method for Pulse Rate Variability Based on Improved Basic Scale Entropy
Authors: Chou Yongxin , Zhang Ruilei , Feng Yufeng , Lu Mingli , Lu Zhenli , Xu Benlian
Published: May 2017

Base scale entropy analysis (BSEA) is a nonlinear method to analyze heart rate variability (HRV) signal. However, the time consumption of BSEA is too long, and it is unknown whether the BSEA is suitable for analyzing pulse rate variability (PRV) signal. Therefore, we proposed a method named sliding window iterative base scale entropy analysis (SWIBSEA) by combining BSEA and sliding window iterative theory. The blood pressure signals of healthy young and old subjects are chosen from the authoritative international database MIT/PhysioNet/Fantasia to generate PRV signals as the experimental data. Then, the BSEA and the SWIBSEA are used to analyze the experimental data; the results show that the SWIBSEA reduces the time consumption and the buffer cache space while it gets the same entropy as BSEA. Meanwhile, the changes of base scale entropy (BSE) for healthy young and old subjects are the same as that of HRV signal. Therefore, the SWIBSEA can be used for deriving some information from long-term and short-term PRV signals in real time, which has the potential for dynamic PRV signal analysis in some portable and wearable medical devices.
Structure and Morphology Effects on the Optical Properties of Bimetallic Nanoparticle Films Laser Deposited on a Glass Substrate
Authors: Kucherik A. O. , Arakelyan S. M. , Kutrovskaya S. V. , Osipov A. V. , Istratov A. V. , Vartanyan T. A. , Itina T. E.
Published: May 2017

Moving nanosecond laser system is used for laser-assisted thermodiffusion deposition of metallic nanoparticles from water-based colloidal solutions. The results obtained for both gold and silver nanoparticles show that film morphology strongly depends on laser scanning speed and the number of passages. We show, furthermore, the possibility of producing bimetallic Au:Ag thin films by laser irradiation of the mixed solutions. As a result of several laser scans, granular nanometric films are found to grow with a well-controlled composition, thickness, and morphology. By changing laser scanning parameters, film morphology can be varied from island structures to quasi-periodic arrays. The optical properties of the deposited structures are found to depend on the film composition, thickness, and mean separation between the particles. The transparency spectra of the deposited films are shown to be defined by their morphology.
The Influence of Temperature on the Formation of Cubic Structured CdO Nanoparticles and Their Thin Films from Bis(2-hydroxy-1-naphthaldehydato)cadmium(II) Complex via Thermal Decomposition Technique
Authors: Xaba Thokozani , Moloto Makwena J. , Malik Mohammad A. , Moloto Nosipho
Published: May 2017

Recently, researchers have developed a great interest in the synthesis of metal oxide nanoparticles due to their potential applications in various fields of science and industry, especially in catalysis, due to their high activity. Bis(2-hydroxy-1-naphthaldehydato)cadmium(II) complexes were prepared and used as precursors for the synthesis of cadmium oxide nanoparticles via thermal decomposition method using HDA as a stabilizing agent. The prepared complexes were also used as single source precursors to prepare CdO thin films onto the glass substrates by spin coating and were annealed at 250, 300, and 350°C, respectively. The precursors were characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, elemental analysis, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The synthesized CdO nanoparticles and CdO thin films were characterized by ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy, photoluminescence (PL), X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and atomic force microscopy (AFM).
Association of Baseline Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio with Clinicopathological Characteristics of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Manatakis Dimitrios K. , Tseleni-Balafouta Sofia , Balalis Dimitrios , Soulou Vasiliki N. , Korkolis Dimitrios P. , Sakorafas George H. , Plataniotis Georgios , Gontikakis Emmanouil
Published: May 2017

Objective. To investigate the potential association of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), a surrogate systemic inflammatory biomarker, with clinical and pathological characteristics of papillary thyroid cancers. Methods. 205 patients with papillary carcinoma were identified from the institutional thyroid cancer database between 2006 and 2015 (55 males, 150 females, mean age 51.2 ± 14.7 years). NLR was calculated as the absolute neutrophil count divided by the absolute lymphocyte count, based on the preoperative complete blood cell counts. Results. NLR was significantly higher in carcinomas with extrathyroidal invasion (2.74 ± 01.24 versus 2.39 ± 0.96, p=0.04) and bilateral (2.67 ± 1.15 versus 2.35 ± 0.96, p=0.03) and multifocal tumours (2.65 ± 1.08 versus 2.29 ± 0.96, p=0.01), as well as lymph node-positive tumours (3.12 ± 1.07 versus 2.41 ± 1.02, p=0.03). On the other hand, NLR values were not associated with gender, age, tumour size, histologic subtype, the presence of thyroiditis, and TNM staging. Conclusions. As an index of inflammation, NLR is inexpensive, readily available, and easy to extract from routine blood tests. We found increased NLR values in papillary carcinomas with poorer histopathological profile and more aggressive clinical behaviour. Whether this systemic inflammatory response, as expressed by the NLR, represents the inflammatory microenvironment leading to tumourigenesis, or is a tumour-associated phenomenon, remains to be elucidated and warrants further study.
Stabilisation of Collagen Sponges by Glutaraldehyde Vapour Crosslinking
Authors: Peng Yong Y. , Glattauer Veronica , Ramshaw John A. M.
Published: May 2017

Glutaraldehyde is a well-recognised reagent for crosslinking and stabilising collagens and other protein-based materials, including gelatine. In some cases, however, the use of solutions can disrupt the structure of the material, for example, by causing rapid dispersion or distortions from surface interactions. An alternative approach that has been explored in a number of individual cases is the use of glutaraldehyde vapour. In this study, the effectiveness of a range of different glutaraldehyde concentrations in the reservoir providing vapour, from 5% to 25% (w/v), has been explored at incubation times from 5 h to 48 h at room temperature. These data show the effectiveness of the glutaraldehyde vapour approach for crosslinking collagen and show that materials with defined, intermediate stability could be obtained, for example, to control resorption rates in vivo.
Prevalence of Positive Diabetes-Associated Autoantibodies among Type 2 Diabetes and Related Metabolic and Inflammatory Differences in a Sample of the Bulgarian Population
Authors: Zaharieva Emanuela Tsvetkova , Velikova Tsvetelina Veselinova , Tsakova Adelina Dimitrova , Kamenov Zdravko Asenov
Published: May 2017

Background. The study aimed to estimate the prevalence of unrecognized cases with positive autoantibodies among type 2 diabetes (T2D) in a sample of the Bulgarian population and to compare some metabolic and inflammatory markers to those of patients having negative autoantibodies and subjects with latent autoimmune diabetes (LADA). Methods. Patients with T2D, patients with LADA, and control participants were enrolled. Antiglutamic acid decarboxylase, anti-insulinoma-associated 2, and antizinc transporter 8 autoantibodies were assayed through ELISA. C-reactive protein and interleukin 6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor alpha were assessed. Results. Ten percent of patients with T2D had positive autoantibodies. They had lower body mass index (p=0.014), worse glycemic control (HbA1c, p=0.033), and better HDL cholesterol (p=0.026) than those in negative autoantibodies cases. Compared to LADA, glycemia and anthropometric data did not differ significantly but metabolic syndrome was more prevalent among newly found cases with positive autoantibodies (p=0.046). Their level of inflammatory markers was similar to that of patients having negative autoantibodies (p>0.05), but IL-6 was higher when compared to LADA (p=0.002). Conclusion. Prevalence of patients having positive autoantibodies within T2D in the analyzed sample of the Bulgarian population was 10%. They shared common metabolic features with subjects with LADA, but inflammatory phenotype was closer to that of T2D.
A Study on the Effects of Heavy Backpack and Development of a Preventative Prototype
Authors: Hossain F. M. A. , Tonima Masuda A.
Published: May 2017

Posture is a bigger concern than most think. With growing workload for school children, the weight of this issue is increasing every day. It can not only affect a child in the present but also have long-term effects on their body and render their spine vulnerable to injuries. Therefore the solutions can be either to decrease their workload, that is, decrease the weight of their backpack, or to constantly guide them to a better posture for the betterment of their spinal shape and thus their health. The aim of this paper is to find which part of the spine is affected the most by the heavy load and develop a prototype: a monitoring system that is effective in guiding a child to constantly keep their posture in check and is also simple enough to be worn every day.
Gastric Schwannoma: A Tumor Must Be Included in Differential Diagnoses of Gastric Submucosal Tumors
Authors: Hu Bao-guang , Wu Feng-jie , Zhu Jun , Li Xiao-mei , Li Yu-ming , Feng Yan , Li He-sheng
Published: May 2017

Gastric schwannoma (GS) is a rare neoplasm of the stomach. It accounts for 0.2% of all gastric tumors and is mostly benign, slow-growing, and asymptomatic. Due to its rarity, GS is not widely recognized by clinicians, and the precise differential diagnosis between GS and other gastric submucosal tumors remains difficult preoperatively. The present study reports a case of GS misdiagnosed as gastrointestinal stromal tumor and reviews the clinical, imaging, and pathological features, treatment, and follow-up of 221 patients with GS previously reported in the English literature. Although GS is rare, the case reported in the current study highlights the importance of including GS in differential diagnoses of gastric submucosal tumors. Furthermore, the findings of the review suggest that although many cases are asymptomatic, the most common symptoms are abdominal pain or discomfort, not gastrointestinal bleeding, and malignant GSs present with clinical symptoms more commonly. Although large-sample multicenter studies on the efficacy, safety, and oncological outcomes of minimally invasive techniques are required, the findings presented herein may be helpful for clinicians when diagnosing or treating GS.
Association of Metabolic Syndrome and Human Papillomavirus Infection in Men and Women Residing in the United States
Authors: Molokwu Jennifer C. , Penaranda Eribeth , Lopez David S. , Dwivedi Alok , Dodoo Christopher , Shokar Navkiran
Published: May 2017

Background: An estimated 33% of adults in the United States have metabolic syndrome (MetS), which has been associated with an increased risk for various cancer types. Theories of synergism among components of MetS that increase cancer risk via chronic inflammation and oxidative stress have been proposed. We hypothesize that men and women with MetS may have compromised immunological response resulting in increased risk for persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. The goal of this study is to determine the association of MetS with HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18 and to explore variation of these associations by gender using data from a national survey.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional study using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

Results: Thirty-two percent of the population sampled met the criteria for MetS (16% men and 33% women). Nineteen percent tested positive for HPV (6, 11, 16, and 18). Prevalence of HPV infection was estimated at 13% for men and 30% for females. MetS was found to be significantly associated with increased risk of HPV6, 11, 16, or 18 in the entire cohort [RR = 1.24; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.03–1.48] and in females (RR = 1.26; 95% CI, 1.02–1.56). Although the adjusted risk of HPV+ve status was found to be 21% higher in men with MetS compared with those without, this difference did not attain statistical significance.

Conclusions: We observed a significant association between metabolic syndrome and HPV sero-positivity among the overall population and among females. Although not significant, a similar effect was noted in men. Further prospective studies are needed to better understand this relationship.

Impact:To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study evaluating the impact of metabolic syndrome on HPV positivity in both males and females. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 26(8); 1321–7. ©2017 AACR.
Regulation of USP37 Expression by REST-Associated G9a-Dependent Histone Methylation
Authors: Dobson Tara H.W. , Hatcher Rashieda J. , Swaminathan Jyothishmathi , Das Chandra M. , Shaik Shavali , Tao Rong-Hua , Milite Ciro , Castellano Sabrina , Taylor Pete H. , Sbardella Gianluca , Gopalakrishnan Vidya
Published: May 2017

The deubiquitylase (DUB) USP37 is a component of the ubiquitin system and controls cell proliferation by regulating the stability of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1B, (CDKN1B/p27Kip1). The expression of USP37 is downregulated in human medulloblastoma tumor specimens. In the current study, we show that USP37 prevents medulloblastoma growth in mouse orthotopic models, suggesting that it has tumor-suppressive properties in this neural cancer. Here, we also report on the mechanism underlying USP37 loss in medulloblastoma. Previously, we observed that the expression of USP37 is transcriptionally repressed by the RE1 silencing transcription factor (REST), which requires chromatin remodeling factors for its activity. Genetic and pharmacologic approaches were employed to identify a specific role for G9a, a histone methyltransferase (HMT), in promoting methylation of histone H3 lysine-9 (H3K9) mono- and dimethylation, and surprisingly trimethylation, at the USP37 promoter to repress its gene expression. G9a inhibition also blocked the tumorigenic potential of medulloblastoma cells in vivo. Using isogenic low- and high-REST medulloblastoma cells, we further showed a REST-dependent elevation in G9a activity, which further increased mono- and trimethylation of histone H3K9, accompanied by downregulation of USP37 expression. Together, these findings reveal a role for REST-associated G9a and histone H3K9 methylation in the repression of USP37 expression in medulloblastoma.

Implications: Reactivation of USP37 by G9a inhibition has the potential for therapeutic applications in REST-expressing medulloblastomas. Mol Cancer Res; 15(8); 1073–84. ©2017 AACR.
p53 Maintains Baseline Expression of Multiple Tumor Suppressor Genes
Authors: Pappas Kyrie , Xu Jia , Zairis Sakellarios , Resnick-Silverman Lois , Abate Francesco , Steinbach Nicole , Ozturk Sait , Saal Lao H. , Su Tao , Cheung Pamela , Schmidt Hank , Aaronson Stuart , Hibshoosh Hanina , Manfredi James , Rabadan Raul , Parsons Ramon
Published: May 2017

TP53 is the most commonly mutated tumor suppressor gene and its mutation drives tumorigenesis. Using ChIP-seq for p53 in the absence of acute cell stress, we found that wild-type but not mutant p53 binds and activates numerous tumor suppressor genes, including PTEN, STK11(LKB1), miR-34a, KDM6A(UTX), FOXO1, PHLDA3, and TNFRSF10B through consensus binding sites in enhancers and promoters. Depletion of p53 reduced expression of these target genes, and analysis across 18 tumor types showed that mutation of TP53 associated with reduced expression of many of these genes. Regarding PTEN, p53 activated expression of a luciferase reporter gene containing the p53-consensus site in the PTEN enhancer, and homozygous deletion of this region in cells decreased PTEN expression and increased growth and transformation. These findings show that p53 maintains expression of a team of tumor suppressor genes that may together with the stress-induced targets mediate the ability of p53 to suppress cancer development. p53 mutations selected during tumor initiation and progression, thus, inactivate multiple tumor suppressor genes in parallel, which could account for the high frequency of p53 mutations in cancer.

Implications: In this study, we investigate the activities of p53 under normal low-stress conditions and discover that p53 is capable of maintaining the expression of a group of important tumor suppressor genes at baseline, many of which are haploinsufficient, which could contribute to p53-mediated tumor suppression. Mol Cancer Res; 15(8); 1051–62. ©2017 AACR.
Human Invariant Natural Killer T Cells Respond to Antigen-Presenting Cells Exposed to Lipids from Olea europaea Pollen
Authors: Abos Gracia Beatriz , López Relaño Juan , Revilla Ana , Castro Lourdes , Villalba Mayte , Martín Adrados Beatriz , Regueiro Jose Ramon , Fernández-Malavé Edgar , Martínez Naves Eduardo , Gómez del Moral Manuel
Published: May 2017

Background: Allergic sensitization might be influenced by the lipids present in allergens, which can be recognized by natural killer T (NKT) cells on antigen-presenting cells (APCs). The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of olive pollen lipids in human APCs, including monocytes as well as monocyte-derived macrophages (Mϕ) and dendritic cells (DCs). Methods: Lipids were extracted from olive (Olea europaea) pollen grains. Invariant (i)NKT cells, monocytes, Mϕ, and DCs were obtained from buffy coats of healthy blood donors, and their cell phenotype was determined by flow cytometry. iNKT cytotoxicity was measured using a lactate dehydrogenase assay. Gene expression of CD1A and CD1D was performed by RT-PCR, and the production of IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, and TNF-α cytokines by monocytes, Mϕ, and DCs was measured by ELISA. Results: Our results showed that monocytes and monocyte-derived Mϕ treated with olive pollen lipids strongly activate iNKT cells. We observed several phenotypic modifications in the APCs upon exposure to pollen-derived lipids. Both Mϕ and monocytes treated with olive pollen lipids showed an increase in CD1D gene expression, whereas upregulation of cell surface CD1d protein occurred only in Mϕ. Furthermore, DCs differentiated in the presence of human serum enhance their surface CD1d expression when exposed to olive pollen lipids. Finally, olive pollen lipids were able to stimulate the production of IL-6 but downregulated the production of lipopolysaccharide- induced IL-10 by Mϕ. Conclusions: Olive pollen lipids alter the phenotype of monocytes, Mϕ, and DCs, resulting in the activation of NKT cells, which have the potential to influence allergic immune responses.
Tattoo Pigments Are Observed in the Kupffer Cells of the Liver Indicating Blood-Borne Distribution of Tattoo Ink
Authors: Sepehri Mitra , Sejersen Tobias , Qvortrup Klaus , Lerche Catharina M. , Serup Jørgen
Published: May 2017

Aim: Tattoo pigments are deposited in the skin and known to distribute to regional lymph nodes. Tattoo pigments are small particles and may be hypothesized to reach the blood stream and become distributed to peripheral organs. This has not been studied in the past. The aim of the study was to trace tattoo pigments in internal organs in mice extensively tattooed with 2 different tattoo ink products. Material/Methods: Three groups of mice were studied, i.e., 10 tattooed black, 10 tattooed red, and 5 untreated controls. They were tattooed on the entire back with commercial tattoo inks, black and red. Mice were sacrificed after 1 year. Samples were isolated from tattooed skin, lymph nodes, liver, spleen, kidney, and lung. Samples were examined for deposits of tattoo pigments by light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Results: TEM identified intracellular tattoo pigments in the skin and in lymph nodes. TEM in both groups of tattooed mice showed tattoo pigment deposits in the Kupffer cells in the liver, which is a new observation. TEM detected no pigment in other internal organs. Light microscopy showed dense pigment in the skin and in lymph nodes but not in internal organs. Conclusion: The study demonstrated black and red tattoo pigment deposits in the liver; thus, tattoo pigment distributed from the tattooed skin via the blood stream to this important organ of detoxification. The finding adds a new dimension to tattoo pigment distribution in the body, i.e., as observed via the blood in addition to the lymphatic pathway.
Pneumothorax during Pemetrexed Treatment in a Patient with Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Nakahara Yoshiro , Mikura Shinichiro , Nagamata Makoto , Fukui Tomoya , Sasaki Jiichiro , Masuda Noriyuki
Published: May 2017

Pemetrexed is a multitargeted antifolate that has demonstrated antitumor activity in non-small cell lung cancer. A 70-year-old male presented with a stage IV non-small cell lung cancer. The patient was treated with pemetrexed as third-line chemotherapy. However, a pneumothorax occurred 16 days after the administration of the second cycle of pemetrexed. The pneumothorax was slight and the patient was observed without undergoing any additional treatment. Twenty-four days after its initial occurrence, the pneumothorax had improved. This is the first case of pneumothorax that has been observed during pemetrexed treatment. Pneumothorax during chemotherapy is rare; however, it is a life-threatening complication and should not be overlooked.
Role of Albumin in Growth Inhibition in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Bağırsakçı Ezgi , Şahin Eren , Atabey Neşe , Erdal Esra , Guerra Vito , Carr Brian I.
Published: May 2017

Objective: Levels of serum albumin have recently emerged, together with C-reactive protein, as an important prognostic indicator for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). It has recently been reported that larger HCCs are associated with lower albumin levels. However, the albumin-mediated growth decrease has yet to be determined. Methods: We examined a large HCC cohort and then by direct exposure of HCC cells in vitro, the relationship of albumin levels to HCC growth. Results: We found that patients with lower albumin levels had significantly larger maximum tumor diameters, more portal vein thrombosis, more tumor multifocality, higher α-fetoprotein levels, and a lower survival than patients with higher albumin levels. Direct addition of exogenous albumin at physiological concentrations resulted in decreased growth in several HCC cell lines in vitro. We found a decrease in MAP kinase levels and in levels of Cdk2 and Cdk4, cyclinE, as well as in α-fetoprotein. Conclusion: These results indicate that in addition to its role as a monitor of systemic inflammation, albumin may have a direct role in HCC growth inhibition, either through modulation of α-fetoprotein or through its actions on growth-controlling kinases.
Biomarkers to Stratify Risk Groups among Children with Malnutrition in Resource-Limited Settings and to Monitor Response to Intervention
Authors: McGrath Christine J. , Arndt Michael B. , Walson Judd L.
Published: May 2017

Despite global efforts to reduce childhood undernutrition, current interventions have had little impact on stunting and wasting, and the mechanisms underlying growth faltering are poorly understood. There is a clear need to distinguish populations of children most likely to benefit from any given intervention and to develop tools to monitor response to therapy prior to the development of morbid sequelae. In resource-limited settings, environmental enteric dysfunction (EED) is common among children, contributing to malnutrition and increasing childhood morbidity and mortality risk. In addition to EED, early alterations in the gut microbiota can adversely affect growth through nutrient malabsorption, altered metabolism, gut inflammation, and dysregulation of the growth hormone axis. We examined the evidence linking EED and the gut microbiome to growth faltering and explored novel biomarkers to identify subgroups of children at risk of malnutrition due to underlying pathology. These and other biomarkers could be used to identify specific groups of children at risk of malnutrition and monitor response to targeted interventions.