bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prognostic Factors Affecting Long-Term Survival after Resection for Noncolorectal, Nonneuroendocrine, and Nonsarcoma Liver Metastases
Authors: Uggeri Fabio , Pinotti Enrico , Sandini Marta , Nespoli Luca , Gianotti Luca , Romano Fabrizio
Published: July 2017

Aim. To evaluate feasibility and long-term outcome after hepatic resection for noncolorectal, nonneuroendocrine, and nonsarcoma (NCNNNS) liver metastases in a single center.Methods. We retrospectively reviewed our experience on patients who underwent surgery for NCNNNS liver metastases from 1995 to 2015. Patient baseline characteristics, tumor features, treatment options, and postoperative outcome were retrieved.Results. We included 47 patients. The overall 5-year survival (OS) rate after hepatectomy was 27.6%, with a median survival of 21 months. Overall survival was significantly longer for patients operated for nongastrointestinal liver metastases when compared with gastrointestinal (41 versus 10 months;p=0.027). OS was significantly worse in patients with synchronous metastases than in those with metachronous disease (10 versus 22 months;p=0.021). The occurrence of major postoperative complication negatively affected long-term prognosis (OS 23.5 versus 9.0 months;p=0.028). Preoperative tumor characteristics (number and size of the lesions), intraoperative features (extension of resection, need for transfusions, and Pringle’s maneuver), and R0 at pathology were not associated with differences in overall survival.Conclusion. Liver resection represents a possible curative option for patients with NCNNNS metastases. The origin of the primary tumor and the timing of metastases presentation may help clinicians to better select which patients could take advantages from surgical intervention.
A Decoupling Control Method for Shunt Hybrid Active Power Filter Based on Generalized Inverse System
Authors: Li Xin , Li Bo
Published: July 2017

In this paper, a novel decoupling control method based on generalized inverse system is presented to solve the problem of SHAPF (Shunt Hybrid Active Power Filter) possessing the characteristics of 2-input-2-output nonlinearity and strong coupling. Based on the analysis of operation principle, the mathematical model of SHAPF is firstly built, which is verified to be invertible using interactor algorithm; then the generalized inverse system of SHAPF is obtained to connect in series with the original system so that the composite system is decoupled under the generalized inverse system theory. The PI additional controller is finally designed to control the decoupled 1-order pseudolinear system to make it possible to adjust the performance of the subsystem. The simulation results demonstrated by MATLAB show that the presented generalized inverse system strategy can realise the dynamic decoupling of SHAPF. And the control system has fine dynamic and static performance.
Oxidative Biochemistry Disbalance and Changes on Proteomic Profile in Salivary Glands of Rats Induced by Chronic Exposure to Methylmercury
Authors: Bittencourt Leonardo Oliveira , Puty Bruna , Charone Senda , Aragão Walessa Alana Bragança , Farias-Junior Paulo Mecenas , Silva Marcia Cristina Freitas , Crespo-Lopez Maria Elena , Leite Aline de Lima , Buzalaf Marilia Afonso Rabelo , Lima Rafael Rodrigues
Published: July 2017

Methylmercury (MeHg) is one of the most toxic mercury species, which can cause many systemic damages, but little is known about its effect in the salivary glands. This study aimed to analyze the mercury levels, oxidative stress, and proteomic profile in parotid, submandibular, and sublingual salivary glands of rats, after chronic MeHg intoxication. Two groups of twenty male Wistar rats (90 days of age) were used on the experiment. MeHg group was intoxicated by intragastric gavage with MeHg at a dose of 0.04 mg/kg/day for 60 days, while the control group received only oil. After the period of intoxication, the glands were collected for evaluation of total mercury levels, proteomic profile, and oxidative balance by analyzing the antioxidant capacity against peroxyl radicals (ACAP), lipid peroxidation (LPO), and nitrite levels. Our results have showed that mercury levels were significant in all three glands compared to the respective control. It also showed lower levels of ACAP, as well as higher LPO and nitrite levels. The proteomic profile presented impairments on structural components of cytoskeleton, metabolic pathways, and oxidative biochemistry. Thus, the exposure to MeHg was able to generate oxidative stress that could be associated with changes in the proteomic profile of salivary glands.
Effects of Fungicides on Rat’s Neurosteroid Synthetic Enzymes
Authors: Shen Xiuwei , Chen Fan , Chen Lanlan , Su Ying , Huang Ping , Ge Ren-Shan
Published: July 2017

Exposure to environmental endocrine disruptors may interfere with nervous system’s activity. Fungicides such as tebuconazole, triadimefon, and vinclozolin have antifungal activities and are used to prevent fungal infections in agricultural plants. In the present study, we studied effects of tebuconazole, triadimefon, and vinclozolin on rat’s neurosteroidogenic 5α-reductase 1 (5α-Red1), 3α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3α-HSD), and retinol dehydrogenase 2 (RDH2). Rat’s 5α-Red1, 3α-HSD, and RDH2 were cloned and expressed in COS-1 cells, and effects of these fungicides on them were measured. Tebuconazole and triadimefon competitively inhibited 5α-Red1, with IC50 values of 8.670 ± 0.771 × 10−6 M and 17.390 ± 0.079 × 10−6 M, respectively, while vinclozolin did not inhibit the enzyme at 100 × 10−6 M. Triadimefon competitively inhibited 3α-HSD, with IC50 value of 26.493 ± 0.076 × 10−6 M. Tebuconazole and vinclozolin weakly inhibited 3α-HSD, with IC50 values about 100 × 10−6 M, while vinclozolin did not inhibit the enzyme even at 100 × 10−6 M. Tebuconazole and triadimefon weakly inhibited RDH2 with IC50 values over 100 × 10−6 M and vinclozolin did not inhibit this enzyme at 100 × 10−6 M. Docking study showed that tebuconazole, triadimefon, and vinclozolin bound to the steroid-binding pocket of 3α-HSD. In conclusion, triadimefon potently inhibited rat’s neurosteroidogenic enzymes, 5α-Red1 and 3α-HSD.
Modified Mahalanobis Taguchi System for Imbalance Data Classification
Authors: El-Banna Mahmoud
Published: July 2017

The Mahalanobis Taguchi System (MTS) is considered one of the most promising binary classification algorithms to handle imbalance data. Unfortunately, MTS lacks a method for determining an efficient threshold for the binary classification. In this paper, a nonlinear optimization model is formulated based on minimizing the distance between MTS Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) curve and the theoretical optimal point named Modified Mahalanobis Taguchi System (MMTS). To validate the MMTS classification efficacy, it has been benchmarked with Support Vector Machines (SVMs), Naive Bayes (NB), Probabilistic Mahalanobis Taguchi Systems (PTM), Synthetic Minority Oversampling Technique (SMOTE), Adaptive Conformal Transformation (ACT), Kernel Boundary Alignment (KBA), Hidden Naive Bayes (HNB), and other improved Naive Bayes algorithms. MMTS outperforms the benchmarked algorithms especially when the imbalance ratio is greater than 400. A real life case study on manufacturing sector is used to demonstrate the applicability of the proposed model and to compare its performance with Mahalanobis Genetic Algorithm (MGA).
Reviewing the Emergence ofLactococcus garvieae: A Case of Catheter Associated Urinary Tract Infection Caused byLactococcus garvieaeandEscherichia coliCoinfection
Authors: Choksi Tatvam T. , Dadani Farhan
Published: July 2017

Lactococcus garvieaeis considered a low virulence organism which is rarely associated with human infections. Most of the reported cases have been associated with bacteremia with or without endocarditis. We report a rare case of catheter associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) caused byLactococcus garvieaeandEscherichia colicoinfection without any bacteremia in a patient with indwelling urinary catheter placed for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The patient also had a history of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) with long standing famotidine treatment. In our case,Lactococcus garvieaewas initially misidentified asEnterococcusspecies but was later detected by automated microbial identification system VITEK-2 (BioMerieux, Marcy-l'Étoile, France) and was confirmed with API 32 Strep system (BioMerieux, Marcy-l'Étoile, France). The patient responded well to a two-week course of cephalosporin. Interestingly, apart from the acid suppressive treatment, no other risk factors were identified.
Pharmacodynamics and Medicinal Chemistry of an External Chinese Herbal Formula for Mammary Precancerous Lesions
Authors: Chen Ruixue , Zhang Guijuan , Ma Yi , Bie Fengjie , Fan Hongxia , Ma Min
Published: July 2017

Ruyan Neixiao Cream (RYNXC) is a traditional Chinese herbal formula for treating mammary precancerous disease. This study was carried out to investigate in vivo anticancer effect of RYNXC and multiple constituents. 32 virginal Sprague‐Dawley rats were randomly divided into blank control group (BC), mammary precancer models group (MODEL), tamoxifen group (TAM), and Ruyan Neixiao Cream group (RYNXC). TAM was intervened by tamoxifen; RYNXC was intervened by Ruyan Neixiao Cream. The chromatographic separation was performed by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) coupled with mass spectrometry (MS). RYNXC showed significant improvement in erythrocyte aggregation index (EAI), hematocrit (HCT), fibrinogen (FIB), spleen coefficient, and uterus coefficient compared with MODEL. In RYNXC and TAM groups, atypical hyperplasia was observed in pathological mammary tissues; meanwhile in MODEL group, ductal carcinoma was observed in situ. Moreover, fifteen compounds were characterized according to HPLC‐MS data, including organic acids, tannin, alkaloid, volatile oil, anthraquinones, and flavonoids. The study suggests that RYNXC was an effective Chinese herbal formula for mammary precancerous lesions and provides a scientific basis for the quality standard and the pharmacology of RYNXC. It will be beneficial to the future clinical application of RYNXC.
One-Step Synthesis of Hierarchical Micro-Mesoporous SiO2/Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanocomposites for Adsorption of Aqueous Cr(VI)
Authors: Yi Guiyun , Xing Baolin , Zeng Huihui , Wang Xiaodong , Zhang Chuanxiang , Cao Jianliang , Chen Lunjian
Published: July 2017

A novel micro-mesostructured SiO2/reduced graphene oxide (RGO) nanocomposite was successfully synthesized by means of simple one-step hydrothermal method under acidic conditions using tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) and graphene oxide (GO) as the raw material. The nanocomposites were characterized by TEM, XRD, FT-IR, TG-DSC, and N2 adsorption-desorption. The results showed that GO was partially reduced to RGO without adding any reducing agent and SiO2 nanoparticles (ca. 10 nm) were uniformly anchored on the surface of RGO. The optimized composite contained 75 wt.% SiO2 and possessed hierarchical micro-mesoporous structure with surface area of 676 m2/g. The adsorption performance of synthesized SiO2/RGO samples was investigated by removal efficiency of Cr(VI) ions in wastewater. The Cr(VI) adsorption reached equilibrium in 30 min and 98.8% Cr(VI) adsorption efficiency was achieved at pH = 2 at 35°C. Stability tests showed that SiO2 nanoparticles effectively prevented RGO from the restacking. The mechanisms of composite formation and for Cr(VI) adsorption were suggested.
Association between Salivary Leptin Levels and Taste Perception in Children
Authors: Rodrigues Lénia , Espanca Rosa , Costa Ana Rodrigues , Antunes Célia Miguel , Pomar Clarinda , Capela-Silva Fernando , Pinheiro Cristina Conceição , Amado Francisco , Lamy Elsa
Published: July 2017

The satiety inducing hormone leptin acts not only at central nervous system but also at peripheral level. Leptin receptors are found in several sense related organs, including the mouth. A role of leptin in sweet taste response has been suggested but, until now, studies have been based on in vitro experiments, or in assessing the levels of the hormone in circulation. The present study investigated whether the levels of leptin in saliva are related to taste perception in children and whether Body Mass Index (BMI) affects such relationship. Sweet and bitter taste sensitivity was assessed for 121 children aged 9-10 years and unstimulated whole saliva was collected for leptin quantification, using ELISA technique. Children females with lower sweet taste sensitivity presented higher salivary leptin levels, but this is only in the normal weight ones. For bitter taste, association between salivary leptin and caffeine threshold detection was observed only in preobese boys, with higher levels of salivary hormone in low sensitive individuals. This study is the first presenting evidences of a relationship between salivary leptin levels and taste perception, which is sex and BMI dependent. The mode of action of salivary leptin at taste receptor level should be elucidated in future studies.
Definition of an On-Board Comfort Index (Rail) for the Railway Transport
Authors: Barone Vincenzo , Mongelli Domenico Walter Edvige , Tassitani Antonio
Published: July 2017

The use of collective transport is strongly influenced by the quality of offered service. One of the overriding factors that affect the modal shift process is the quality of transport systems. To increase the attractiveness of collective transport services and therefore reduce the use of cars, authorities in collaboration with transport companies should take steps to ensure a high level of service quality in the public transport system. The provided quality is the level of quality achieved on daily basis and measured by the customer/user point of view. This research aims to relate service quality perceived by the user to measurements of two environmental indicators, that is, vibration, in reference to which the acceleration transmitted to the body by the vehicle motion and by its vibration will be measured, and noise, in reference to which the Equivalent Sound Pressure Level—Leq (A)—will be measured. Finally, a Comfort Index (CI) (rail) is specified, calibrated, and validated.
Tendon-Sheath Mechanisms in Flexible Membrane Wing Mini-UAVs: Control and Performance
Authors: Tjahjowidodo Tegoeh , Lee Shian
Published: July 2017

Flexible membrane wings (FMWs) are known for two inherent advantages, that is, adaptability to gusty airflow as the wings can flex according to the gust load to reduce the effective angle of attack and the ability to be folded for compact storage purposes. However, the maneuverability of UAV with FMWs is rather limited as it is impossible to install conventional ailerons. The maneuver relies only on the rudders. Some applications utilize torque rods to warp the wings, but this approach makes the FMW become unfoldable. In this research, we proposed the application of a tendon-sheath mechanism to manipulate the wing shape of UAV. Tendon-sheath mechanism is relatively flexible; thus, it can also be folded together with the wings. However, its severe nonlinearity in its dynamics makes the wing warping difficult to control. To compensate for the nonlinearity, a dedicated adaptive controller is designed and implemented. The proposed approach is validated experimentally in a wind tunnel facility with imitated gusty condition and subsequently tested in a real flight condition. The results demonstrate a stable and robust wing warping actuation, while the adaptive washout capability is also validated. Accurate wing warping is achieved and the UAV is easily controlled in a real flight test.
Selaginella bryopteris Aqueous Extract Improves Stability and Function of Cryopreserved Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Singh Abhishek Kumar , Jha Anubhuti , Bit Arindam , Kiassov Andrey P. , Rizvanov Albert A. , Ojha Archit , Bhoi Pooja , Patra Pradeep Kumar , Kumar Awanish , Bissoyi Akalabya
Published: July 2017

The effective long‐term cryopreservation of human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is an essential prerequisite step and represents a critical approach for their sustained supply in basic research, regenerative medicine, and tissue engineering applications. Therefore, attempts have been made in the present investigation to formulate a freezing solution consisting of a combination of Selaginella bryopteris water‐soluble extract with and without dimethyl sulfoxide (Me2SO) for the efficient long‐term storage of human umbilical cord blood‐ (hUCB‐) derived MSCs. The cryopreservation experiment using the formulated freezing solution was further performed with hUCB MSCs in a controlled rate freezer. A significant increase in postthaw cell viability and cell attachment of MSCs was achieved with freezing medium containing Selaginella bryopteris water extract along with 10% Me2SO as compared to the freezing medium containing Me2SO (10% v/v) alone. Furthermore, the decreasing apoptotic events and reactive oxygen species production along with increasing expression of heat shock proteins also confirmed the beneficial effect of Selaginella bryopteris water extract. The beneficial effect of Selaginella bryopteris water extract was validated by its ability to render postpreservation high cell viability. In conclusion, the formulated freezing solution has been demonstrated to be effective for the standardization of cryopreservation protocol for hMSCs.
Influence on Calculated Blood Pressure of Measurement Posture for the Development of Wearable Vital Sign Sensors
Authors: Koyama Shouhei , Ishizawa Hiroaki , Sakaguchi Akio , Hosoya Satoshi , Kawamura Takashi
Published: July 2017

We studied a wearable blood pressure sensor using a fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensor, which is a highly accurate strain sensor. This sensor is installed at the pulsation point of the human body to measure the pulse wave signal. A calibration curve is built that calculates the blood pressure by multivariate analysis using the pulse wave signal and a reference blood pressure measurement. However, if the measurement height of the FBG sensor is different from the reference measurement height, an error is included in the reference blood pressure. We verified the accuracy of the blood pressure calculation with respect to the measurement height difference and the posture of the subject. As the difference between the measurement height of the FBG sensor and the reference blood pressure measurement increased, the accuracy of the blood pressure calculation decreased. When the measurement height was identical and only posture was changed, good accuracy was achieved. In addition, when calibration curves were built using data measured in multiple postures, the blood pressure of each posture could be calculated from a single calibration curve. This will allow miniaturization of the necessary electronics of the sensor system, which is important for a wearable sensor.
Analyses of the TIARA 43 MeV Proton Benchmark Shielding Experiments Using the ARES Transport Code
Authors: Zhang Bin , Zhang Liang , Chen Yixue
Published: July 2017

ARES is a multidimensional parallel discrete ordinates particle transport code with arbitrary order anisotropic scattering. It can be applied to a wide variety of radiation shielding calculations and reactor physics analysis. To validate the applicability of the code to accelerator shielding problems, ARES is adopted to simulate a series of accelerator shielding experiments for 43 MeV proton-7Li quasi-monoenergetic neutrons, which is performed at Takasaki Ion Accelerator for Advanced Radiation Application. These experiments on iron and concrete were analyzed using the ARES code with FENDL/MG-3.0 multigroup libraries and compared to direct measurements from the BC501A detector. The simulations show good agreement with the experimental data. The ratios of calculated values to experimental data for integrated neutron flux at peak and continuum energy regions are within 64% and 25% discrepancy for the concrete and iron experiments, respectively. The results demonstrate the accuracy and efficiency of ARES code for accelerator shielding calculation.
Akt-mTOR Signaling Mediates Abnormalities in the Proliferation and Apoptosis of Ovarian Granulosa Cells in Patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Song Wan-Juan , Shi Xiaobo , Zhang Jing , Chen Luo , Fu Shu-Xin , Ding Yi-Ling
Published: July 2017

Background/Aims: Abnormal apoptosis of granulosa cells (GCs) is thought to involve in the pathogenesis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS); however, the associated cellular and molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Methods: Primary GCs were obtained from healthy women and women with PCOS. The cell proliferation and apoptosis were analyzed in insulin-stimulated and insulin receptor gene (INSR) siRNA-transfected GCs. The protein expression of Akt-mTOR-S6K1 signal molecules was measured by Western blot. Results: This study showed that 1 nM of insulin significantly stimulated cell proliferation, induced cell apoptosis, and decreased the telomerase activity in GCs from both the healthy women and PCOS patients (p < 0.001), but silencing of INSR expression blocked the effects of insulin. Insulin induced significantly more apoptosis in GCs from PCOS patients than from healthy women (p < 0.01). Insulin significantly increased the ratio of p-Akt/Akt, the expression of mTOR protein, and the ratio of p-S6K1/S6K1 in GCs from normal control than in cells from PCOS patients (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Insulin-induced apoptosis of GCs, less activation of Akt-mTOR signaling, and reduction of telomerase activity may be associated with the pathogenesis of PCOS.
Sweet Taste Perception and Dental Caries in 13- to 15-Year-Olds: A Multicenter Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ashi H. , Lara-Capi C. , Campus G. , Klingberg G. , Lingström P.
Published: July 2017

Dietary habits and, in particular, the intake frequency of sucrose are of major importance for the development of dental caries. The perception of sweet taste is believed to have an influence on sucrose intake and therefore affects the predisposition to dental caries. The aim was to study the caries experience and sweet taste perception and to further analyze the possible relationship between the 2 tested variables in 13- to 15-year-old children from 3 different geographical areas. A cross-sectional survey comprising 669 children (220 Italian, 224 Mexican, and 225 Saudi Arabian) was conducted. The children were examined in their school setting. A sweet taste perception level was determined by the sweet taste threshold (TT) and sweet taste preference (TP). The sweet test was performed with sucrose solutions varying in concentration from 1.63 to 821.52 g/L. The International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS) and DMFS indices were used to diagnose caries. The highest mean value for TT was found for Italian children followed by Saudi and Mexican. Saudi schoolchildren showed the highest mean values for TP and DMFS, followed by Italian and Mexican. A statistically significant difference for TP, TT, DMFS, and initial caries was found between the 3 countries. A weak yet positive correlation was found between taste perception (TT and TP) versus DMFS and manifest caries in all 3 countries (r = 0.137-0.313). The findings of the present study showed a variation in sweet taste perception between the 3 countries, which may influence the caries outcome of the children in the individual countries.
Serum Phospholipid Fatty Acid Composition in Cystic Fibrosis Patients with and without Liver Cirrhosis
Authors: Drzymała-Czyż Sławomira , Szczepanik Mariusz , Krzyżanowska Patrycja , Duś-Żuchowska Monika , Pogorzelski Andrzej , Sapiejka Ewa , Juszczak Paweł , Lisowska Aleksandra , Koletzko Berthold , Walkowiak Jarosław
Published: July 2017

Background/Aims: Cystic fibrosis (CF) liver disease is the third most frequent cause of death in CF patients. Although it alters fatty acid (FA) metabolism, data concerning the profile of FA in CF patients with liver cirrhosis is lacking. This study aimed to assess the FA composition of serum phospholipids in CF patients with and without liver cirrhosis. Methods: The study comprised 25 CF patients with liver cirrhosis and 25 without it. We assessed Z-scores for body height and weight, lung function, exocrine pancreatic sufficiency and colonization with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. FAs' profile of serum glycerophospholipids was quantified by gas chromatography mass spectrometry. Results: In CF patients with liver cirrhosis, the levels of C16:0 were higher and the amounts of C20:2n-6, C20:3n-6, C20:4n-6, and all the n-3 polyunsaturated FAs (PUFAs) (C18:3n-3, C20:5n-3, C22:5n-3, C22:6n-3) were lower than those in CF subjects without liver cirrhosis. The n-6/n-3, C20:4n-6/C18:2n-6, total n-6/C18:2n-6, C20:5n-3/C18:3n-3 and total n-3/C18:3n-3 ratios did not differ between the 2 groups. Conclusions: Liver cirrhosis may associate with profound abnormalities in the composition of serum glycerophospholipids FAs in CF patients. None of the analyzed clinical factors could explain the greater prevalence of low levels of PUFAs in this CF subgroup.
Langerhans Cells Express IL-17A in the Epidermis of Chromoblastomycosis Lesions
Authors: Alves de Lima Silva Aline , Criado Paulo Ricardo , Nunes Ricardo Spina , Kanashiro-Galo Luciane , Seixas Duarte Maria Irma , Sotto Mirian N. , Pagliari Carla
Published: July 2017

Chromoblastomycosis (CBM) is a chronic fungal infection that affects skin and subcutaneous tissue, and little is known about the immunological aspects of such lesions. We have previously described the high expression of IL-17 in this group. Understanding the innate immune response of patients with CBM would improve the knowledge of its immunopathogenesis and contribute to the most appropriate therapies. Nineteen biopsies of verrucous form were obtained from patients with clinical and histopathological diagnosis of CBM, without treatment. This was done with a double immunostaining with conventional immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence technique as well as confocal microscopy to detect Langerin and IL-17 expression. All of the specimens that were analyzed showed expression of Langerin in the epidermis - the same as the control group. However, only the CBM group presented cells expressing CD207 in the dermis. Interestingly, the coexpression of IL-17 and Langerin was visualized along the epidermis and dermis in 100% of the lesion group. We demonstrated for the first time in situ coexpression of IL-17 and Langerin (CD207) in epidermal cells of patients with CBM and speculated on their role as IL-17-producing cells or whether they could be a new subpopulation of dendritic cells distinct from Langerhans cells.
Extensive Amplification of Telomeric Repeats in the Karyotypically Highly Diverse African Pygmy Mice
Authors: Colomina Victor , Catalan Josette , Britton-Davidian Janice , Veyrunes Frédéric
Published: July 2017

Telomeres are ribonucleoprotein structures protecting the physical ends of eukaryotic chromosomes. However, telomeric sequences can also occur at non-terminal regions of chromosomes, forming the so-called interstitial telomeric sequences (ITSs). Some ITSs are considered as relics of past chromosomal rearrangements and as such provide important insights into karyotype evolution. By FISH, we explored the distribution of telomeric motifs in the genome of a complex of mammalian species that has long been recognized for its extraordinary karyotypic diversity: the African pygmy mice. This survey involved 5 species, representing 10 highly diverse karyotypes with or without autosomal and sex-autosome robertsonian (Rb) fusions. The study revealed that in species with an ancestral-like karyotype (i.e., no fusions; Mus mattheyi and M. indutus), only terminal telomeres were observed, whereas in species experiencing intense chromosomal evolution (e.g., M. minutoides, M. musculoides), a large amplification of telomeric repeats was also identified in the pericentromeric region of acrocentrics and most metacentrics. We concluded that (i) the mechanism of Rb fusion in the African pygmy mice is different than the one highlighted in the house mouse; (ii) the intensity of the ITS hybridization signal could be a signature of the age of formation of the Rb fusion; (iii) the large amplification of pericentromeric telomeric sequences in acrocentrics may mediate the formation of Rb fusions, and (iv) the ITSs on the sex-autosome fusion Rb(X.1) may participate to the insulation buffer between the sexual and autosomal arms to prevent X inactivation from spreading and silencing autosomal genes and allow the independent regulation of replication timing of both segments.
Risk Factors for Community-Acquired Pneumonia in Adults: A Systematic Review of Observational Studies
Authors: Almirall Jordi , Serra-Prat Mateu , Bolíbar Ignasi , Balasso Valentina
Published: July 2017

We performed a systematic review of the literature to establish conclusive evidence of risk factors for community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). Observational studies (cross-sectional, case-control, and cohort studies) the primary outcome of which was to assess risk factors for CAP in both hospitalized and ambulatory adult patients with radiologically confirmed pneumonia were selected. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale specific for cohort and case-control designs was used for quality assessment. Twenty-nine studies (20 case-control, 8 cohort, and 1 cross-sectional) were selected, with 44.8% of them focused on elderly subjects ≥65 years of age and 34.5% on mixed populations (participants' age >14 years). The median quality score was 7.44 (range 5-9). Age, smoking, environmental exposures, malnutrition, previous CAP, chronic bronchitis/chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, functional impairment, poor dental health, immunosuppressive therapy, oral steroids, and treatment with gastric acid-suppressive drugs were definitive risk factors for CAP. Some of these factors are modifiable. Regarding other factors (e.g., gender, overweight, alcohol use, recent respiratory tract infections, pneumococcal and influenza vaccination, inhalation therapy, swallowing disorders, renal and liver dysfunction, diabetes, and cancer) no definitive conclusion could be established. Prompt assessment and correction of modifiable risk factors could reduce morbidity and mortality among adult CAP patients, particularly among the elderly.
A Proposal of the European Association for the Study of Obesity to Improve the ICD-11 Diagnostic Criteria for Obesity Based on the Three Dimensions Etiology, Degree of Adiposity and Health Risk
Authors: Hebebrand Johannes , Holm Jens-Christian , Woodward Euan , Baker Jennifer Lyn , Blaak Ellen , Durrer Schutz Dominique , Farpour-Lambert Nathalie J. , Frühbeck Gema , Halford Jason G.C. , Lissner Lauren , Micic Dragan , Mullerova Dana , Roman Gabriela , Schindler Karin , Toplak Hermann , Visscher Tommy L.S. , Yumuk Volkan
Published: July 2017

Diagnostic criteria for complex medical conditions caused by a multitude of both genetic and environmental factors should be descriptive and avoid any attribution of causality. Furthermore, the wording used to describe a disorder should be evidence-based and avoid stigmatization of the affected individuals. Both terminology and categorizations should be readily comprehensible for healthcare professionals and guide clinical decision making. Uncertainties with respect to diagnostic issues and their implications may be addressed to direct future clinical research. In this context, the European Association of the Study of Obesity (EASO) considers it an important endeavor to review the current ICD-11 Beta Draft for the definition of overweight and obesity and to propose a substantial revision. We aim to provide an overview of the key issues that we deem relevant for the discussion of the diagnostic criteria. We first discuss the current ICD-10 criteria and those proposed in the ICD 11 Beta Draft. We conclude with our own proposal for diagnostic criteria, which we believe will improve the assessment of patients with obesity in a clinically meaningful way.
PDGF Promotes the Warburg Effect in Pulmonary Arterial Smooth Muscle Cells via Activation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR/HIF-1α Signaling Pathway
Authors: Xiao Yunbin , Peng Hongyan , Hong Chenliang , Chen Zhi , Deng Xicheng , Wang Aiping , Yang Fang , Yang Li , Chen Chen , Qin Xuping
Published: July 2017

Background/Aims: The enhanced proliferation of pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) is a central pathological component in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Both the Warburg effect and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) are involved in the proliferation of PASMCs. However, the mechanism underlying the crosstalk between the Warburg effect and PDGF during PASMC proliferation is still unknown. We hypothesized that PDGF promotes the Warburg effect via activating the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) signaling pathway and hypoxia-inducible factor 1-α (HIF-1α) in proliferative PASMCs. Methods: PASMCs were derived from pulmonary arteries of SD rats; cell viability, the presence of metabolites, and metabolic enzyme activities assay were determined by MTT assays, kit assays and western blot analysis, respectively. Results: PDGF promoted PASMC proliferation in a dose- and time-dependent manner, accompanied by an enhanced Warburg effect. Treatment with PDGFR antagonists, Warburg effect inhibitor and PDK1 inhibitor significantly inhibited PI3K signaling activation, HIF-1α expression and PASMC proliferation induced by PDGF, respectively. Furthermore, treatment with PI3K signaling pathway inhibitors remarkably suppressed PDGF-induced PASMC proliferation and the Warburg effect. Conclusion: microplate reader (Biotek, Winooski The Warburg effect plays a critical role in PDGF-induced PASMC proliferation and is mediated by activation of the PI3K signaling pathway and HIF-1α.
The Role of Exogenous Hydrogen Sulfide in Free Fatty Acids Induced Inflammation in Macrophages
Authors: Luo Zhu-lin , Ren Jian-dong , Huang Zhu , Wang Tao , Xiang Ke , Cheng Long , Tang Li-jun
Published: July 2017

Background: This study aimed to investigate whether exogenous hydrogen sulfide (H2S) can protect the RAW264.7 macrophages against the inflammation induced by free fatty acids (FFA) by blunting NLRP3 inflammasome activation via a specific TLR4/NF-κB pathway. Methods: RAW264.7 macrophages were exposed to increasing concentrations of FFA for up to 3 days to induce FFA-induced inflammation. The cells were pretreated with NaHS (a donor of H2S) before exposure to FFA. Cell viability, cell apoptosis, TLR4, NF-κB, NLRP3 inflammasome, IL-1β, IL-18 and cleaved caspase-3 expression were measured by a combination of MTT assay, ELISA, and immunoblotting. Results: H2S attenuated FFA-induced cell apoptosis, and reduced the expression of NLRP3, ASC, pro-caspase-1, caspase-1, IL- 1β, IL-18 and caspase-3. In addition, H2S inhibited the FFA-induced activation of TLR4 and NF-κB. Furthermore, NLRP3 inflammasome activation was regulated by the TLR4 and NF-κB pathway. Conclusion: The present study demonstrated for the first time that H2S appears to suppress FFA-induced macrophage inflammation and apoptosis by inhibiting the TLR4/ NF-κB pathway and its downstream NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Thus H2S might possess potential in the treatment of diseases resulting from FFA overload like insulin resistance and type diabetes.
Estrogen and Environmental Enrichment Differentially Affect Neurogenesis, Dendritic Spine Immunolabeling and Synaptogenesis in the Hippocampus of Young and Reproductively Senescent Female Rats
Authors: Sager Tina , Kashon Michael L. , Krajnak Kristine
Published: July 2017

Background: Studies examining the ability of estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) to enhance memory in women, and in animal models, have not produced consistent results. However, studies examining the effects of activity and exposure to novel environments consistently find enhancement of memory. Methods: An animal model of reproductive aging was used to determine if estradiol (E2) replacement, activity, and/or exposure to an enriched environment could act synergistically to improve memory, and neural correlates of memory. Young (3 months) and reproductively senescent (12 months) female rats were ovariectomized and received either vehicle or E2 treatment. Rats were assigned to 1 of 3 exposures; control: rats remained in their cage; maze control: rats were put into a pen where they could move and explore; enriched maze: rats were put into a pen with various items to climb on or investigate. The amount of time rats were active in each environment was measured. On the third day of exposure, one of the items in the enriched environment was exchanged, and the amount of time animals spent investigating the new item was used as a measure of memory. Results: E2 increased activity, immunostaining for proliferating cell nuclear antigen, and synaptic markers, synaptophysin and spinophilin, in the hippocampus of all animals. However, E2- and activity-induced changes in these markers were more pronounced in young rats. Only young rats displayed improved recognition in response to E2. Conclusions: Older rats may need an extended period of ERT or increased activity before the benefits on memory become apparent.
Physical Activity and Characteristics of the Carotid Artery Wall in High‐Risk Patients—The SMART (Second Manifestations of Arterial Disease) Study
Authors: Boss H. Myrthe , van der Graaf Yolanda , Visseren Frank L. J. , Van den Berg‐Vos Renske M. , Bots Michiel L. , de Borst Gert Jan , Cramer Maarten J. , Kappelle L. Jaap , Geerlings Mirjam I. , van Petersen R. , Dinther B. G. F. , Algra A. , Grobbee D. E. , Rutten G. E. H. M. , Leiner T. , Doevendans P. A.
Published: July 2017

Background

Physical activity reduces the risk of vascular disease. This benefit is not entirely explained through an effect on vascular risk factors. We examined the relationship of physical activity and characteristics of the carotid artery wall in patients with vascular disease or risk factors.

Methods and Results

Cross‐sectional analyses were performed in 9578 patients from the
SMART
(Second Manifestations of Arterial Disease) study, a prospective cohort study among patients with vascular disease or risk factors. Physical activity was assessed using questionnaires. Carotid intima‐media thickness and carotid artery stenosis of both common carotid arteries was measured. In a subset of 3165 participants carotid diastolic diameter and distension were assessed. Carotid stiffness was expressed as the distensibility coefficient and Young's elastic modulus. Regression analyses adjusted for vascular risk factors showed that physical activity was inversely associated with diastolic diameter (fifth versus first quintile B=−0.13 mm; 95%
CI
, −0.21 to −0.05) and decreased risk of carotid artery stenosis (relative risk, 0.58; 95%
CI
, 0.48–0.69). A light level of physical activity was associated with less carotid stiffness (second versus first quintile; Young's elastic modulus B=−0.11 kPa
−1
×10
−3
; 95%
CI
, −0.16 to −0.06; distensibility coefficient B=0.93 kPa×10
3
; 95%
CI
, 0.34–1.51), but there was no additional benefit with increasing levels of physical activity. In patients with vascular disease, physical activity was inversely associated with common carotid intima‐media thickness, but not in patients with vascular risk factors.

Conclusions

In patients with vascular disease or risk factors, increased physical activity was associated with smaller carotid diastolic diameter, decreased risk of carotid artery stenosis, and less carotid stiffness, but it only showed benefits on carotid intima‐media thickness in patients with vascular disease.
Gold Staters of Aspurgus and Mithridates iii and New Complexes with Coins and Jewellery Items from the Artezian Settlement
Authors: Abramzon Mikhail , Vinokurov Nikolaï
Published: July 2017

This paper examines new numismatic material serving as the basic chronological reference point of the burnt layer at the Artezian settlement in the Eastern Crimea, the early Citadel of which and adjoining quarters met their end during the Roman-Bosporan War ofad45-49. The 2013-2014 excavations yielded new finds of the remains of wooden caskets containing Bosporan coins dating from the end of the 1st centurybcto the first half of the 1st centuryad, and also gold, silver and bronze jewellery items and necklaces. Apart from caskets, a significant number of purses with Bosporan bronze, isolated cistophori of Ephesus and Pergamum, Roman denarii and hundreds of Bosporan coins bearing the names of the cities Caesarea (Panticapaeum) and Agrippia (Phanagoria), and also the names of the rulers Aspurgus, Gepaepyris and Mithridatesiiiwere found in the burnt level.

There are ten gold staters of Aspurgus and Mithridatesiiiamong the most important recent discoveries. The find of a unique Mithridates’ stater marked with the year 343 of the Bosporan Era (=ad46/47) and the analysis of the archaeological context of the burnt layer allow us to re-date the fortress’ fall to autumnad46, or to the end of the summer – autumnad47. The new date of the catastrophe proves that Artezian and other fortresses of Mithridates situated in the European Bosporus, with synchronous layers of the ravages of war were also revealed by archaeology, had offered their resistance to Cotys I and the Romans in the course of a year or two after those seized the capital and the principal cities of the Bosporus.
A Warrior Burial from the Ust’-Al’ma Necropolis (Mid-1st Cent. ad)
Authors: Trufanov Aleksandr A. , Mordvintseva Valentina I.
Published: July 2017

In 2015 during excavations in the Ust’-Al’ma necropolis, a grave with a side-chamber was discovered (No. 1074). The deceased was a male aged 25-35 who had suffered many injuries during his life which could be traces of blows received in battle. The burial complex dates from the mid-1st century ad and belongs to a group of ‘Barbarian’ elite burials complete with gold funeral wreaths and face-coverings (eye- and mouth-covers). Most of these graves are earthen catacombs located along the road leading towards the ancient fortified settlement of Ust’-Al’ma on the western coast of the Crimean peninsula. Assemblages from male burials of this group usually contain weapons (sword, bow, arrows). As a rule, the burial goods are plentiful and rich. Elements of burial attire are often made of precious metals, and are represented by armlets, brooches, pendants, amulets, items from belt-sets and plaques which would have been sewn on to items of apparel. Among other burial goods, there are amphorae, wooden utensils with carved figures of animals and Roman imported bronze and silver ware. Taking into consideration that these burial structures were of a special type, that the graves had been positioned in a special area along the road leading to the settlement, as well as the extraordinary splendor of the grave goods, it can be concluded that they were burials for individuals belonging to the highest ranks of the social elite. The use of an unusual type of burial structure (a grave with a side-chamber) and the relatively small number of grave goods, which were nevertheless signs of high social rank (a funeral wreath, face-coverings, a sword), indicate the special status of the individual buried in Grave No. 1074.
Post-Achaemenid Legacy of the Persian Gulf Hinterland
Authors: Chaverdi Alireza Askari
Published: July 2017

The archaeological site of Tomb-e Bot, located in the Mohr County of southern Fars Province, is a major settlement of Arsacid and Sasanid date. The site was selected for detailed investigation from among the 76 sites recorded by the general survey of southern Fars region to provide answers to outstanding questions on ancient Iran, in particular during the period from the Achaemenids to the Sasanids. The survey team systematically collected all visible architectural remains, including capitals with volutes and addorsed animal protomes as well as surface ceramics and attempted to draw and register the whole assemblage of finds. Documenting and analyzing the assemblage revealed that centuries after the Achaemenid demise the Persepolis artistic legacy had run on at the site in religious beliefs and among the local groups, from the Seleucid and Arsacid periods up to the rise of the Sasanids.
The Headdress of the Tillya Tepe “Prince”
Authors: Shenkar Michael
Published: July 2017

The sensational finds made at Tillya Tepe in Northern Afghanistan close to the modern city of Sheberghān, are the primary source for reconstructing the cultural history of Bactria in the turbulent period between the end of Greek rule and the rise of the Kushan Empire. The paucity of written sources from this period (mid second centurybceto mid first centuryce), and our resulting lack of understanding of even major political and cultural events, has led to its apt characterization as the “Dark Age” of Bactrian history. In this context, a special place should therefore be reserved for archaeological finds and Tillya Tepe is undoubtedly the most important site of this period. The significance of the Tillya Tepe finds for the reconstruction of Bactrian history and its cultural landscape has long been recognized, but they still have much to offer in terms of historical inquiry. In what follows I shall attempt a new reconstruction of the headdress of a “prince” buried in Graveivand conclude that it allows us to place him within the orbit of the Indo-Parthian Gondopharid dynasty, one of the most powerful regional political entities of the period.
International Mediation in Africa: Experiences and Challenges
Authors: Gounden Vasu
Published: July 2017

Although informal and traditionally driven practices of mediation have existed for many generations, institutionalized and African-driven mediation became more important following the end of the Cold War. Mediation initiatives undertaken over the past 25 years, partly as a consequence of the increase in intra-state conflicts on the continent, have resulted in the generation of a deep body of knowledge and the evolution of a community of practitioners. This article examines two of the first post-1990 African-driven mediation processes – the Arusha Peace Process for Burundi and the Inter-Congolese Dialogue (icd) for the Democratic Republic of the Congo (drc) – to highlight key lessons that emerged, including the choice of mediator, who to include in the mediation, the impact of regional and international dynamics on the mediation, the importance and challenges of addressing the root causes of the conflict in a mediation process, and the role of non-state actors and Track ii diplomacy.
Illustrated guide to the echinoid (Echinodermata: Echinoidea) fauna of South Africa
Authors: FILANDER ZOLEKA , GRIFFITHS CHARLES
Published: July 2017

The sea-urchins (class Echinoidea) of South Africa have received little taxonomic attention since the last comprehensive regional monographic guide, which was published in 1976 and is thus now severely outdated. That account was also poorly illustrated, making it difficult to use. Recent work by the authors has also added some 19 additional species to the known fauna, which now stands at 70 species. The aims of this study are thus to revise and update the South African echinoid fauna list, and to present a new, easy to use and fully-illustrated guide to all known regional species. The analysis is based mainly on examination of samples from the Iziko South African Museum collections, although additional records from other museum collections, the published literature, photographic images submitted to the EchinoMap Virtual Museum Database and any other reliable records are also included. A short account of each species is given, including relevant synonymy and literature, and brief notes on identification, size, and global distribution. Photographs that best represent the diagnostic features of each species and a map showing its known records within the region accompany each species account. A binary key to species is also provided.