bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Iron deficiency anemia at admission for labor and delivery is associated with an increased risk for Cesarean section and adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes
Authors: Drukker Lior , Hants Yael , Farkash Rivka , Ruchlemer Rosa , Samueloff Arnon , Grisaru‐Granovsky Sorina
Published: August 2015

BACKGROUND

Maternal iron deficiency anemia (IDA) impacts placenta and fetus. We evaluated effects of IDA at admission for delivery on cesarean rates, and adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Medical records from Jerusalem (2005‐2012) identified women with a live‐birth singleton fetus in cephalic presentation of any gestational age and excluded planned cesarean, chronic/gestational diseases identified with anemia. Study population was divided into anemic and non‐anemic women using WHO criteria. Main outcome measures: cesarean rate, and adverse outcomes (maternal: packed cells transfusion, early post‐partum hemorrhage, preterm delivery; and neonatal: 5′ Apgar < 7, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit [NICU] admission, extreme birthweights). Continuous variable analysis and multivariate backward step–wise logistic regression models were prepared with Odds Ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI).

RESULTS

In all, 96,066 deliveries were registered, of which 75,660 (78.8%) were included. IDA was present in 7,977 women (10.5%). Anemia at birth was significantly associated with cesarean section (OR 1.30; 95%CI, 1.13‐1.49, p < 0.001), packed cells transfusion (OR 5.48; 95%CI, 4.57‐6.58, p < 0.001), preterm delivery (OR 1.54; 95%CI, 1.36‐1.76, p < 0.001), macrosomia (OR 1.23; 95%CI, 1.12‐1.35, p < 0.001), Large for Gestational Age (OR 1.29; 95%CI, 1.20‐1.39, p < 0.001), Apgar 5′ < 7 (OR 2.21; 95%CI, 1.84‐2.64, p < 0.001), and NICU admission (OR 1.28; 95%CI, 1.04‐1.57, p = 0.018).

CONCLUSION

Iron deficiency anemia at delivery is associated with an increased risk for cesarean section and adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes in otherwise healthy women. Monitoring/correction of hemoglobin concentrations even in late pregnancy may prevent these adverse events.
Smart Well Pattern Optimization Using Gradient Algorithm
Authors: Zhang Liming , Zhang Kai , Chen Yuxue , Li Meng , Yao Jun , Li Lixin , Lee JungIn
Published: August 2015

For a long time, well pattern optimization mainly relies on human experience, numerical simulations are used to test different development plans and then a preferred program is chosen for field implementation. However, this kind of method cannot provide suitable optimal well pattern layout for different geological reservoirs. In recent years, more attentions have been paid to propose well placement theories combining optimization algorithm with reservoir simulation. But these theories are mostly applied in a situation with a small amount of wells. For numerous wells in a large-scale reservoir, it is of great importance to pursue the optimal well pattern in order to obtain maximum economic benefits. The idea in this paper is originated from the idea presented by Onwunalu and Durlofsky (2011, “A New Well-Pattern-Optimization Procedure for Large-Scale Field Development,” SPE J., 16(3), pp. 594-607), which focuses on well pattern optimization, and the innovations are as follows: (1) Combine well pattern variation with production control to get the optimal overall development plan. (2) Rechoose and simplify the optimization variables, deduce the new generation process of well pattern, and use perturbation gradient to solve mathematical model in order to ensure efficiency and accuracy of final results. (3) Constrain optimization variables by log-transformation method. (4) Boundary wells are reserved by shifting into boundary artificially to avoid abrupt change of objective function which leads to a nonoptimal result due to gradient discontinuity at reservoir edge. The method is illustrated by examples of homogeneous and heterogeneous reservoirs. For homogeneous reservoir, perturbation gradient algorithm yields a quite satisfied result. Meanwhile, heterogeneous reservoir tests realize optimization of various well patterns and indicate that gradient algorithm converges faster than particle swarm optimization (PSO).
The Use of Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles for Peak Shaving
Authors: Tse Charles G. , Maples Benjamin A. , Kreith Frank
Published: August 2015

This article is a feasibility analysis of using the batteries in plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) for peak shaving. The analysis focuses on energy availability of the PHEV fleet as well as the financial savings to the utilities by analyzing different charging scenarios and circuitry. The energy availability and the financial savings are heavily dependent on the location and availability of charging stations. Three charging scenarios are analyzed: charging is possible at any time; cars can only be charged overnight; and charging can be done overnight and twice during the day at the place of work for cars used for commuting. The major findings of the study are that charging only overnight will not provide sufficient energy when needed, but both other charging mechanisms can provide effective peak shaving. The charging anytime would require funding a large number of charging station, but charging overnight and at work could be accomplished with relative minor financial investments. The savings from peak shaving could be used for incentives to offset the extra cost of batteries in plug-in electric vehicles (EVs).
Real-time dynamics of peptide ligand–dependent receptor complex formation in planta
Authors: Somssich Marc , Ma Qijun , Weidtkamp-Peters Stefanie , Stahl Yvonne , Felekyan Suren , Bleckmann Andrea , Seidel Claus A. M. , Simon Rüdiger
Published: August 2015

In plants, the flagellin and CLAVATA3 signaling pathways act through induced and preassembled receptor complexes, respectively.
Plant receptor complexes
Authors: de Vries Sacco C.
Published: August 2015

Plant peptide ligands can either stabilize preformed receptor complexes or stimulate receptor complex formation.
Systemic infection causes antibiotic-induced hearing loss
Authors: Ferrarelli Leslie
Published: August 2015

The release of LPS from bacteria promotes the uptake and toxicity of antibiotics in the inner ear.
Twofold tumor suppression
Authors: VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: August 2015

In addition to promoting the degradation of β-catenin, APC also promotes growth-inhibiting Hippo signaling in the intestine.
Why women feel more pain
Authors: Ferrarelli Leslie
Published: August 2015

Gender-specific differences in the immune response to nerve injury contribute to the increased susceptibility of females to chronic pain.
NLRP3: From inflammasome to nucleus
Authors: Foley John F.
Published: August 2015

An inflammasome component acts as a transcriptional regulator for the differentiation of a subset of helper T cells.
Oritavancin Pharmacokinetics and Bone Penetration in Rabbits
Authors: Lehoux Dario , Ostiguy Valerie , Cadieux Cordelia , Malouin Mireille , Belanger Odette , Far Adel Rafai , Parr Thomas R.
Published: August 2015

The pharmacokinetics and bone concentrations of oritavancin were investigated after a single intravenous dose was administered to rabbits. The pharmacokinetic profile of oritavancin in rabbits showed that it is rapidly distributed to bone tissues, with concentrations remaining stable for up to 168 h, the last measured time point. Based on these findings, further evaluation of oritavancin for the treatment of infections in bone tissues is warranted.
Population Pharmacokinetics of Fosfomycin in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Parker Suzanne L. , Frantzeskaki Frantzeska , Wallis Steven C. , Diakaki Chryssa , Giamarellou Helen , Koulenti Despoina , Karaiskos Ilias , Lipman Jeffrey , Dimopoulos George , Roberts Jason A.
Published: August 2015

This study describes the population pharmacokinetics of fosfomycin in critically ill patients. In this observational study, serial blood samples were taken over several dosing intervals of intravenous fosfomycin treatment. Blood samples were analyzed using a validated liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry technique. A population pharmacokinetic analysis was performed using nonlinear mixed-effects modeling. Five hundred fifteen blood samples were collected over one to six dosing intervals from 12 patients. The mean (standard deviation) age was 62 (17) years, 67% of patients were male, and creatinine clearance (CL
CR
) ranged from 30 to 300 ml/min. A two-compartment model with between-subject variability on clearance and volume of distribution of the central compartment (

V
c

) described the data adequately. Calculated CL
CR
was supported as a covariate on fosfomycin clearance. The mean parameter estimates for clearance on the first day were 2.06 liters/h,

V
c

of 27.2 liters, intercompartmental clearance of 19.8 liters/h, and volume of the peripheral compartment of 22.3 liters. We found significant pharmacokinetic variability for fosfomycin in this heterogeneous patient sample, which may be explained somewhat by the observed variations in renal function.
Antischistosomal Activity of Oxindolimine-Metal Complexes
Authors: de Moraes Josué , Dario Bruno S. , Couto Ricardo A. A. , Pinto Pedro L. S. , da Costa Ferreira Ana M.
Published: August 2015

In recent years, a class of oxindole-copper and -zinc complex derivatives have been reported as compounds with efficient proapoptotic activity toward different tumor cells (e.g., neuroblastomas, melanomas, monocytes). Here we assessed the efficacy of synthesized oxindole-copper(II), -zinc(II), and -vanadyl (VO
2+
) complexes against adult
Schistosoma mansoni
worms. The copper(II) complexes (50% inhibitory concentrations of 30 to 45 μM) demonstrated greater antischistosomal properties than the analogous zinc and vanadyl complexes regarding lethality, reduction of motor activity, and oviposition.
Similar Neutrophil-Driven Inflammatory and Antibacterial Responses in Elderly Patients with Symptomatic and Asymptomatic Bacteriuria
Authors: Yu Yanbao , Zielinski Martin D. , Rolfe Melanie A. , Kuntz Melissa M. , Nelson Heidi , Nelson Karen E. , Pieper Rembert
Published: August 2015

Differential diagnosis of asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB) and urinary tract infection (UTI) is based on the presence of diverse symptoms, including fever (≥38.5°C), rigors, malaise, lethargy, flank pain, hematuria, suprapubic discomfort, dysuria, and urgent or frequent urination. There is consensus in the medical community that ASB warrants antibiotic treatment only for patients undergoing urological procedures that lead to mucosal bleeding, catheterized individuals whose ASB persists for more than 48 h after catheter removal, and pregnant women. Pyuria is associated with UTI and implicates host immune responses via release of antibacterial effectors and phagocytosis of pathogens by neutrophils. Such responses are not sufficiently described for ASB. Metaproteomic methods were used here to identify the pathogens and evaluate molecular evidence of distinct immune responses in cases of ASB compared to UTI in elderly patients who were hospitalized upon injury. Neutrophil-driven inflammatory responses to invading bacteria were not discernible in most patients diagnosed with ASB compared to those with UTI. In contrast, proteomic urine analysis for trauma patients with no evidence of bacteriuria, including those who suffered mucosal injuries via urethral catheterization, rarely showed evidence of neutrophil infiltration. The same enzymes contributing to the synthesis of leukotrienes LTB
4
and LTC
4
, mediators of inflammation and pain, were found in the UTI and ASB cohorts. These data support the notion that the pathways mediating inflammation and pain in most elderly patients with ASB are not quantitatively different from those seen in most elderly patients with UTI and warrant larger clinical studies to assess whether a common antibiotic treatment strategy for elderly ASB and UTI patients is justified.
Reversal of the Drug Binding Pocket Defects of the AcrB Multidrug Efflux Pump Protein of Escherichia coli
Authors: Soparkar Ketaki , Kinana Alfred D. , Weeks Jon W. , Morrison Keith D. , Nikaido Hiroshi , Misra Rajeev
Published: August 2015

The AcrB protein of
Escherichia coli
, together with TolC and AcrA, forms a contiguous envelope conduit for the capture and extrusion of diverse antibiotics and cellular metabolites. In this study, we sought to expand our knowledge of AcrB by conducting genetic and functional analyses. We began with an AcrB mutant bearing an F610A substitution in the drug binding pocket and obtained second-site substitutions that overcame the antibiotic hypersusceptibility phenotype conferred by the F610A mutation. Five of the seven unique single amino acid substitutions—Y49S, V127A, V127G, D153E, and G288C—mapped in the periplasmic porter domain of AcrB, with the D153E and G288C mutations mapping near and at the distal drug binding pocket, respectively. The other two substitutions—F453C and L486W—were mapped to transmembrane (TM) helices 5 and 6, respectively. The nitrocefin efflux kinetics data suggested that all periplasmic suppressors significantly restored nitrocefin binding affinity impaired by the F610A mutation. Surprisingly, despite increasing MICs of tested antibiotics and the efflux of
N
-phenyl-1-naphthylamine, the TM suppressors did not improve the nitrocefin efflux kinetics. These data suggest that the periplasmic substitutions act by influencing drug binding affinities for the distal binding pocket, whereas the TM substitutions may indirectly affect the conformational dynamics of the drug binding domain.

IMPORTANCE
The AcrB protein and its homologues confer multidrug resistance in many important human bacterial pathogens. A greater understanding of how these efflux pump proteins function will lead to the development of effective inhibitors against them. The research presented in this paper investigates drug binding pocket mutants of AcrB through the isolation and characterization of intragenic suppressor mutations that overcome the drug susceptibility phenotype of mutations affecting the drug binding pocket. The data reveal a remarkable structure-function plasticity of the AcrB protein pertaining to its drug efflux activity.
An Essential Poison: Synthesis and Degradation of Cyclic Di-AMP in Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Gundlach Jan , Mehne Felix M. P. , Herzberg Christina , Kampf Jan , Valerius Oliver , Kaever Volkhard , Stülke Jörg
Published: August 2015

Gram-positive bacteria synthesize the second messenger cyclic di-AMP (c-di-AMP) to control cell wall and potassium homeostasis and to secure the integrity of their DNA. In the firmicutes, c-di-AMP is essential for growth. The model organismBacillus subtilisencodes three diadenylate cyclases and two potential phosphodiesterases to produce and degrade c-di-AMP, respectively. Among the three cyclases, CdaA is conserved in nearly all firmicutes, and this enzyme seems to be responsible for the c-di-AMP that is required for cell wall homeostasis. Here, we demonstrate that CdaA localizes to the membrane and forms a complex with the regulatory protein CdaR and the glucosamine-6-phosphate mutase GlmM. Interestingly,cdaA,cdaR, andglmMform a gene cluster that is conserved throughout the firmicutes. This conserved arrangement and the observed interaction between the three proteins suggest a functional relationship. Our data suggest that GlmM and GlmS are involved in the control of c-di-AMP synthesis. These enzymes convert glutamine and fructose-6-phosphate to glutamate and glucosamine-1-phosphate. c-di-AMP synthesis is enhanced if the cells are grown in the presence of glutamate compared to that in glutamine-grown cells. Thus, the quality of the nitrogen source is an important signal for c-di-AMP production. In the analysis of c-di-AMP-degrading phosphodiesterases, we observed that both phosphodiesterases, GdpP and PgpH (previously known as YqfF), contribute to the degradation of the second messenger. Accumulation of c-di-AMP in agdpP pgpHdouble mutant is toxic for the cells, and the cells respond to this accumulation by inactivation of the diadenylate cyclase CdaA.

IMPORTANCEBacteria use second messengers for signal transduction. Cyclic di-AMP (c-di-AMP) is the only second messenger known so far that is essential for a large group of bacteria. We have studied the regulation of c-di-AMP synthesis and the role of the phosphodiesterases that degrade this second messenger. c-di-AMP synthesis strongly depends on the nitrogen source: glutamate-grown cells produce more c-di-AMP than glutamine-grown cells. The accumulation of c-di-AMP in a strain lacking both phosphodiesterases is toxic and results in inactivation of the diadenylate cyclase CdaA. Our results suggest that CdaA is the critical diadenylate cyclase that produces the c-di-AMP that is both essential and toxic upon accumulation.
Masquerading optic neuritis
Authors: McVeigh Katherine , Vakros Georgios , Girgis Rafik
Published: August 2015

A 54-year-old woman presented to the ophthalmology emergency department with a 10-day history of blurred vision. The best-corrected visual acuities and Ishihara colour vision were bilaterally reduced with a left relative afferent pupillary defect. Slit-lamp examination was otherwise normal. Retrobulbar optic neuritis (ON) was presumed as she had suffered with this previously and was known to have multiple sclerosis (MS). She was recalled the following week for visual field (VF) testing, which was not available at the time of presentation. VFs demonstrated an incongruous left homonymous hemianopia. She was immediately referred to the medical team to investigate for a stroke, which was subsequently excluded. Thereafter, a trial of pulsed methylprednisolone was commenced, resulting in near complete resolution of the hemianopia. This case demonstrates not only the importance of VF testing, but also how ON may present with any field defect, including mimicking a stroke, a point valuable to ophthalmologists and medics alike.
Post-strabismus surgery aqueous misdirection syndrome
Authors: Angmo Dewang , Nayak Bhagabat , Gupta Viney
Published: August 2015

A 24-year-old man was referred to the glaucoma clinic of our tertiary eye care centre in view of uncontrolled intraocular pressure (IOP) in the left eye despite maximal medication. The patient had undergone left eye cosmetic squint surgery 1 month before (medial rectus resection 9 mm and lateral rectus recession 12 mm) for congenital third nerve palsy. Post-squint surgery, the patient developed pain and was being managed symptomatically. However, 1 week later, he developed diffuse corneal oedema and severe pain, and was readmitted for management in the same hospital. He presented to our centre with an IOP of 16 mm Hg in the right eye and 58 mm Hg in the left eye. We made a diagnosis of left eye post-strabismus surgery aqueous misdirection syndrome, and performed left eye core vitrectomy with 360° goniosynechialysis and ultimately a trabeculectomy to reduce IOP.
Addison's disease in a patient with hypothyroidism: autoimmune polyglandular syndrome type 2
Authors: Bain Anna , Stewart Munro , Mwamure Peter , Nirmalaraj Kingsley
Published: August 2015

A 57-year-old Caucasian woman with known autoimmune hypothyroidism diagnosed in 2006 presented to hospital with flu-like symptoms and circulatory collapse. She reported weight loss and gradual increase in her skin pigmentation over a 1-year period. Aggressive fluid resuscitation was instituted. Hormonal tests showed primary adrenal insufficiency. Appropriate steroid replacement was started with rapid clinical response. Subsequent antibody tests confirmed the diagnosis of autoimmune polyglandular type 2 (Schmidt's) syndrome. The adrenal crisis had been precipitated by influenza virus type B infection.
Hand ischaemia after radial artery cannulation
Authors: Onal Ozkan , Salman Ebru , Yetisir Fahri , Kilic Mehmet
Published: August 2015

Arterial cannulation for haemodynamic monitoring has become a routine procedure in the clinical management of critically ill adults. Thrombosis is the most common complication of this procedure. We report the case of a patient with multiple traumatic injuries in which radial artery cannulation was associated with compartment syndrome of the forearm and hand.
Successful treatment of a radial artery pseudoaneurysm in an octogenarian
Authors: Mohamed Mohamed Osama , Saif Mohsin , Townend John N , Khan Sohail Q
Published: August 2015

The transradial approach for coronary catheterisation has gained rising popularity owing to its fewer access site complications compared with the transfemoral approach. A rare but recognisable complication of the procedure is radial artery pseudoaneurysm (PSA). We report a case of radial PSA occurring 2 h following percutaneous coronary intervention in an 85-year-old woman, which was successfully treated by ultrasound-guided thrombin injection. This non-surgical technique has recently gained rising popularity as a relatively novel modality of managing radial PSA.
Is young fatherhood causally related to midlife mortality? A sibling fixed-effect study in Finland
Authors: Einiö Elina , Nisén Jessica , Martikainen Pekka
Published: August 2015

Background

Previous studies have shown that young fatherhood is associated with higher later-life mortality. It is unclear whether the association is credible, in the sense that mortality and young fatherhood appear to be associated because both are determined by family-related environmental, socioeconomic and genetic characteristics.

Methods

We used a household-based 10% sample drawn from the 1950 Finnish census to estimate all-cause mortality of fathers born during 1940–1950. The fathers were followed from age 45 until death, or the end of age 54. We used a standard Cox model and a sibling fixed-effects Cox model to examine whether the effect of young fatherhood was independent of observed adulthood characteristics and unobserved early-life characteristics shared by brothers.

Results

Men who had their first child before the age of 22 or at ages 22–24 had higher mortality as compared with their brothers who had their first child at the median or mean age of 25–26. Men who had their first child later at ages 30–44 had lower mortality than their brothers who had a first child before the age of 25. The pattern of results from a standard model was similar to that obtained from a fixed-effects sibling model.

Conclusions

The findings suggest a causal effect of young fatherhood on mortality and highlight the need to support young fathers in their family life to improve health behaviours and health.
Kinetic and mechanistic studies of the reactions of 2-mercaptoethanol and thioglycolic acid with a Co(III)-bound superoxide complex
Authors: Mandal Arabinda , Das Ranendu Sekhar , Singh Bula , Banerjee Rupendranath , Mukhopadhay Subrata
Published: August 2015

In acid media ([H+] = 0.01–0.06 M), 2-mercaptoethanol (HSCH2CH2OH, abbreviated as MERCAP) and thioglycolic acid (HSCH2COOH, abbreviated as TGA) reduce the superoxo complex [(en)(dien)CoIII(O2)CoIII(en)(dien)]5+ (1) to the corresponding peroxo complex [(en)(dien)CoIII(μ-O2)CoIII(en)(dien)]4+ (2). The observed rate (ko), although proportional to both [MERCAP] and [TGA], is higher for TGA than for MERCAP, which is contrary to the expected trend on the basis of standard reduction potential (–0.14 versus –0.26 V, respectively). Moreover, ko values decrease with increasing media ionic strength (I) and [H+] and thus, thiolate anions are supposed to be the reactive forms of the reductants. Under the experimental conditions, the concentrations of such reductants (–SCH2CH2OH and HOOCCH2S–, respectively) from MERCAP (pKa = 9.7) and TGA (pKa1, pKa2 = 3.53, 10.10) are very small. However, for TGA, the tautomerization between HSCH2COO– and –SCH2COOH (pKi = 7.0) plays a significant role in increasing the concentration of HOOCCH2S–. The rates of both of the reactions are limited by the rate of solvent diffusion and this fact is also supported by the relatively low activation energy (Ea), for the reactions. The Ea values for the reactions with MERCAP and TGA are close enough (29.6 ± 1.3 and 27.0 ± 0.4 kJ M−1 respectively) to suggest a common reaction mechanism for both.
Impact of dietary fiber/starch ratio in shaping caecal microbiota in rabbits
Authors: Zhu Yanli , Wang Chunyang , Li Fuchang
Published: August 2015

The objective of this experiment was to determine whether changing the dietary neutral detergent fiber (NDF)/starch ratio affected caecal microbiota when 4 different diets (diet A: 2.3 NDF/starch, diet B: 1.9, diet C: 1.4, diet D: 1.0) were formulated. A total of 200 weaned rabbits (35 days old, 50 per group) were used for the experiment, which started after an adaptation period of 7 days (i.e., day 42). Caecal contents were obtained from rabbits fed different NDF/starch diets at 52, 62, 72, and 82 days of life. The bacterial community structure was characterized by high-throughput 16S rRNA sequencing. Firmicutes, Actinobacteria, Synergistetes, and Tenericutes did not significantly change with diet or age. However, Bacteroidetes (P < 0.05), Proteobacteria (P < 0.01), and Verrucomicrobia (P < 0.05) reads were significantly affected by diet, and Proteobacteria (P < 0.01) and Verrucomicrobia (P < 0.05) reads were significantly influenced by age. At the genus level, Escherichia/Shigella (P < 0.01) was overrepresented in diet A (high fiber) relative to diet D (high starch) in 52- and 62-day-old rabbits. Venn diagrams and heat map plot analyses revealed that the number of gut species shared between animals with different diet treatments increased with age. These results suggest that dietary fiber per starch ratios and age significantly alter the composition of caecal microbiota in growing rabbits.
Global Dynamics of a Parasite-Host Model with Nonlinear Incidence Rate
Authors: Tang Yilei
Published: August 2015

The paper is concerned with the effect of a nonlinear incidence rate Sp Iq on dynamical behaviors of a parasite-host model. It is shown that the global attractor of the parasite-host model is an equilibrium if q = 1, which is similar to that of the parasite-host model with a nonlinear incidence rate of the fractional function [Formula: see text]. However, when q is greater than one, more positive equilibria appear and limit cycles arise from Hopf bifurcations at the positive equilibria for the model with the incidence rate Sp Iq. It reveals that the nonlinear incidence rate of the exponential function Sp Iq for generic p and q can lead to more complicated and richer dynamics than the bilinear incidence rate or the fractional incidence rate for this model.
The Influence of Initial Values on Spatial Coherence Resonance in a Neuronal Network
Authors: Li Yuye , Gu Huaguang
Published: August 2015

Noise-induced single spatial coherence resonance (CR) and multiple spatial CRs simulated in a network have been reported independently in previous studies. In this paper, the relationship between the single and multiple spatial CRs is established by adjusting the initial values of the network composed of Morris–Lecar (ML) model neurons. The ML model manifests a saddle-node bifurcation on an invariant cycle through which a resting state is changed to a stable limit cycle corresponding to period-1 firing. Under resting state, a stable node, a saddle, and an unstable focus coexist. The membrane potential of the unstable focus is much higher than that of the stable node. When the initial value is closer to the unstable focus, the residence time of membrane potential on a high level is longer; correspondingly, the spatial CRs appear more frequently with respect to noise intensity and the coherence degree becomes stronger. The single spatial CR is induced by noise with high intensity. Multiple spatial CRs are induced by noise with high, middle, and even low noise intensities, respectively. When the initial values are closer to an unstable focus, the residence time of membrane potentials on a higher level is longer, which is important to the generation of multiple CRs, and builds a relationship between single and multiple spatial CRs.
Evaluation of sums involving Gaussian q-binomial coefficients with rational weight functions
Authors: Kiliç Emrah , Prodinger Helmut
Published: August 2015

We consider sums of the Gaussian [Formula: see text]-binomial coefficients with a parametric rational weight function. We use the partial fraction decomposition technique to prove the claimed results. We also give some interesting applications of our results to certain generalized Fibonomial sums weighted with finite products of reciprocal Fibonacci or Lucas numbers.
A mathematical analysis of MHD blood flow of Eyring–Powell fluid through a constricted artery
Authors: Saleem Najma , Munawar Sufian
Published: August 2015

The present study deals with the flow of blood through a stenotic artery in the presence of a uniform magnetic field. Different flow situations are taken into account by considering the regular and irregular shapes of stenosis lying inside the walls of artery. Blood inside the artery is assumed to be Eyring–Powell fluid. A mathematical model is developed and simplified under the physical assumptions of stenosis. The regular perturbation method is adopted to find the solutions for axial velocity and pressure gradient. The variations in pressure drop across the stenosis length, the impedance and the shear stress at the walls of stenotic artery are discussed in detail through graphs. It is observed that the Eyring–Powell fluid is helpful in reducing the resistance to the flow in stenotic artery. Moreover, symmetric form of stenosis is more hazardous as compared to asymmetric stenosis.
New magnetostratigraphic dating of the Palaeogene syntectonic sediments of the west-central Pyrenees: tectonostratigraphic implications
Authors: Oliva-Urcia Belén , Beamud Elisabet , Garcés Miguel , Arenas Concha , Soto Ruth , Pueyo Emilio L. , Pardo Gonzalo
Published: August 2015

New magnetostratigraphic results from a 3300 m-thick section across the syntectonic fluvial sediments of the Campodarbe Formation (Upper Eocene–Oligocene) in the Ebro foreland basin (NE Spain) are presented. The new data allow the top of the Campodarbe Formation to be correlated to Chron 7r (Chattian), younger than previously stated (C10r), therefore shifting the age of significant palaeogeographical changes in the foreland basin. The deformation in the southern front produces the cannibalization in the piggyback basin of 1300 m of sediments spanning
c.
3.7 Myr. Average accumulation rates are lower in the Ebro foreland basin than in the piggyback basin and decrease from 35 to 27 cm kyr
−1
by the time the San Felices thrust sheet activity decelerates (at
c.
28 Myr). Shifts of accumulation rates result from accommodation space changes, which occur locally and are linked to the activity of the San Felices thrust, while the sediment supply occurs at orogenic scale (source of sediments is
c.
200 km to the NE). Finally, sequence boundaries previously considered isochronous in the continental record of the Cenozoic Pyrenean basins are revealed to be 1.8–1 Myr older in the piggyback basin than in the Ebro foreland basin.
Numerical Study on Crack Propagation by Using Softening Model under Blasting
Authors: Hu Rong , Zhu Zheming , Xie Jun , Xiao Dingjun
Published: August 2015

A mixed failure criterion, which combined the modified maximum principal stress criterion with the damage model of tensile crack softening, was developed to simulate crack propagation of rock under blasting loads. In order to validate the proposed model, a set of blasting models with a crack and a borehole with different incident angles with the crack were established. By using this model, the property of crack propagation was investigated. The linear equation of state (EOS) was used for rock, and the JWL EOS was applied to the explosive. In order to validate the numerical simulation results, experiments by using PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate) with a crack and a borehole were carried out. The charge structure and incident angle of the blasting experimental model were the same as those in the numerical models. The experiment results agree with the numerical simulation results.
Gene Signature of Human Oral Mucosa Fibroblasts: Comparison with Dermal Fibroblasts and Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Miyoshi Keiko , Horiguchi Taigo , Tanimura Ayako , Hagita Hiroko , Noma Takafumi
Published: August 2015

Oral mucosa is a useful material for regeneration therapy with the advantages of its accessibility and versatility regardless of age and gender. However, little is known about the molecular characteristics of oral mucosa. Here we report the first comparative profiles of the gene signatures of human oral mucosa fibroblasts (hOFs), human dermal fibroblasts (hDFs), and hOF-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (hOF-iPSCs), linking these with biological roles by functional annotation and pathway analyses. As a common feature of fibroblasts, both hOFs and hDFs expressed glycolipid metabolism-related genes at higher levels compared with hOF-iPSCs. Distinct characteristics of hOFs compared with hDFs included a high expression of glycoprotein genes, involved in signaling, extracellular matrix, membrane, and receptor proteins, besides a low expression of HOX genes, the hDFs-markers. The results of the pathway analyses indicated that tissue-reconstructive, proliferative, and signaling pathways are active, whereas senescence-related genes in p53 pathway are inactive in hOFs. Furthermore, more than half of hOF-specific genes were similarly expressed to those of hOF-iPSC genes and might be controlled by WNT signaling. Our findings demonstrated that hOFs have unique cellular characteristics in specificity and plasticity. These data may provide useful insight into application of oral fibroblasts for direct reprograming.
Binding of CXCL8/IL‐8 to Mycobacterium tuberculosis Modulates the Innate Immune Response
Authors: Krupa Agnieszka , Fol Marek , Dziadek Bozena R. , Kepka Ewa , Wojciechowska Dominika , Brzostek Anna , Torzewska Agnieszka , Dziadek Jaroslaw , Baughman Robert P. , Griffith David , Kurdowska Anna K.
Published: August 2015

Interleukin‐8 (IL‐8) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of several human respiratory diseases, including tuberculosis (TB). Importantly and in direct relevance to the objectives of this report quite a few findings suggest that the presence of IL‐8 may be beneficial for the host. IL‐8 may aid with mounting an adequate response during infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tb); however, the underlying mechanism remains largely unknown. The major goal of our study was to investigate the contribution of IL‐8 to the inflammatory processes that are typically elicited in patients with TB. We have shown for the first time that IL‐8 can directly bind to tubercle bacilli. We have also demonstrated that association of IL‐8 with M. tb molecules leads to the augmentation of the ability of leukocytes (neutrophils and macrophages) to phagocyte and kill these bacilli. In addition, we have shown that significant amount of IL‐8 present in the blood of TB patients associates with erythrocytes. Finally, we have noted that IL‐8 is the major chemokine responsible for recruiting T lymphocytes (CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ T cells). In summary, our data suggest that the association of IL‐8 with M. tb molecules may modify and possibly enhance the innate immune response in patients with TB.
Dichloroacetate Decreases Cell Health and Activates Oxidative Stress Defense Pathways in Rat Alveolar Type II Pneumocytes
Authors: Valauri-Orton Alexis , Bschorer Frizzi , Bernd Karen K.
Published: August 2015

Dichloroacetate (DCA) is a water purification byproduct that is known to be hepatotoxic and hepatocarcinogenic and to induce peripheral neuropathy and damage macrophages. This study characterizes the effects of the haloacetate on lung cells by exposing rat alveolar type II (L2) cells to 0–24 mM DCA for 6–24 hours. Increasing DCA concentration and the combination of increasing DCA concentration plus longer exposures decrease measures of cellular health. Length of exposure has no effect on oxidative stress biomarkers, glutathione, SOD, or CAT. Increasing DCA concentration alone does not affect total glutathione or its redox ratio but does increase activity in the SOD/CAT oxidative stress defense pathway. These data suggest that alveolar type II cells rely on SOD and CAT more than glutathione to combat DCA-induced stress.
Genetic Diversity of Human Adenovirus in Children with Acute Gastroenteritis, Albania, 2013–2015
Authors: La Rosa G. , Della Libera S. , Petricca S. , Iaconelli M. , Donia D. , Saccucci P. , Cenko F. , Xhelilaj G. , Divizia M.
Published: August 2015

The objectives of the present study were to assess the occurrence of human adenoviruses (HAdVs) in paediatric patients with gastroenteritis in Albania and to characterize HAdV strains. Faecal specimens from children admitted with acute gastroenteritis to the Paediatric Hospital in Tirana were screened for HAdV, using broad-range primers targeting the hexon gene, in combination with species-specific primers targeting the fiber gene. Phylogenetic analysis was then performed to assess the genetic relationships among the different sequences and between the sequences of the samples and those of the prototype strains. Adenovirus DNA was detected in 33/142 samples (23.2%); 14 belonged to species F (13 HAdV-41 and 1 HAdV-40), 13 to species C (1 HAdV-1, 8 HAdV-2, and 4 HAdV-5), 5 to species B (HAdV-3), and 1 to species A (HAdV-12). Rotavirus coinfection was present in 9/33 (27.2%) positive samples. In the remaining 24 positive samples (12 enteric—F species; 12 nonenteric—A, B, or C species), HAdVs were detected as unique viral pathogens, suggesting that HAdV may be an important cause of diarrhoea in children requiring hospitalization. This is the first study investigating the presence of human adenoviruses (species A–G) as etiologic agents of viral gastroenteritis in children in Albania.
Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids: The Way Forward in Times of Mixed Evidence
Authors: Weylandt Karsten H. , Serini Simona , Chen Yong Q. , Su Hui-Min , Lim Kyu , Cittadini Achille , Calviello Gabriella
Published: August 2015

Almost forty years ago, it was first hypothesized that an increased dietary intake of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) from fish fat could exert protective effects against several pathologies. Decades of intense preclinical investigation have supported this hypothesis in a variety of model systems. Several clinical cardiovascular studies demonstrated the beneficial health effects of omega-3 PUFA, leading medical institutions worldwide to publish recommendations for their increased intake. However, particularly in recent years, contradictory results have been obtained in human studies focusing on cardiovascular disease and the clinical evidence in other diseases, particularly chronic inflammatory and neoplastic diseases, was never established to a degree that led to clear approval of treatment with omega-3 PUFA. Recent data not in line with the previous findings have sparked a debate on the health efficacy of omega-3 PUFA and the usefulness of increasing their intake for the prevention of a number of pathologies. In this review, we aim to examine the controversies on the possible use of these fatty acids as preventive/curative tools against the development of cardiovascular, metabolic, and inflammatory diseases, as well as several kinds of cancer.
Hematopoietic Stem and Immune Cells in Chronic HIV Infection
Authors: Zhang Jielin , Crumpacker Clyde
Published: August 2015

Hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) belongs to multipotent adult somatic stem cells. A single HSC can reconstitute the entire blood system via self-renewal, differentiation into all lineages of blood cells, and replenishment of cells lost due to attrition or disease in a person’s lifetime. Although all blood and immune cells derive from HSC, immune cells, specifically immune memory cells, have the properties of HSC on self-renewal and differentiation into lineage effector cells responding to the invading pathogens. Moreover, the interplay between immune memory cell and viral pathogen determines the course of a viral infection. Here, we state our point of view on the role of blood stem and progenitor cell in chronic HIV infection, with a focus on memory CD4 T-cell in the context of HIV/AIDS eradication and cure.
B-iTRS: A Bio-Inspired Trusted Routing Scheme for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Zhang Mingchuan , Zheng Ruijuan , Wu Qingtao , Wei Wangyang , Bai Xiuling , Zhao Haixia
Published: August 2015

In WSNs, routing algorithms need to handle dynamical changes of network topology, extra overhead, energy saving, and other requirements. Therefore, routing in WSNs is an extremely interesting and challenging issue. In this paper, we present a novel bio-inspired trusted routing scheme (B-iTRS) based on ant colony optimization (ACO) and Physarum autonomic optimization (PAO). For trust assessment, B-iTRS monitors neighbors’ behavior in real time, receives feedback from Sink, and then assesses neighbors’ trusts based on the acquired information. For routing scheme, each node finds routes to the Sink based on ACO and PAO. In the process of path finding, B-iTRS senses the load and trust value of each node and then calculates the link load and link trust of the found routes to support the route selection. Moreover, B-iTRS also assesses the route based on PAO to maintain the route table. Simulation results show how B-iTRS can achieve the effective performance compared to existing state-of-the-art algorithms.
Lung Injury Prediction Score Is Useful in Predicting Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome and Mortality in Surgical Critical Care Patients
Authors: Bauman Zachary M. , Gassner Marika Y. , Coughlin Megan A. , Mahan Meredith , Watras Jill
Published: August 2015

Background. Lung injury prediction score (LIPS) is valuable for early recognition of ventilated patients at high risk for developing acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). This study analyzes the value of LIPS in predicting ARDS and mortality among ventilated surgical patients.Methods. IRB approved, prospective observational study including all ventilated patients admitted to the surgical intensive care unit at a single tertiary center over 6 months. ARDS was defined using the Berlin criteria. LIPS were calculated for all patients and analyzed. Logistic regression models evaluated the ability of LIPS to predict development of ARDS and mortality. A receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve demonstrated the optimal LIPS value to statistically predict development of ARDS.Results. 268 ventilated patients were observed; 141 developed ARDS and 127 did not. The average LIPS for patients who developed ARDS was8.8±2.8versus5.4±2.8for those who did not (p<0.001). An ROC area under the curve of 0.79 demonstrates LIPS is statistically powerful for predicting ARDS development. Furthermore, for every 1-unit increase in LIPS, the odds of developing ARDS increase by 1.50 (p<0.001) and odds of ICU mortality increase by 1.22 (p<0.001).Conclusion. LIPS is reliable for predicting development of ARDS and predicting mortality in critically ill surgical patients.
Patient-Specific CT-Based Instrumentation versus Conventional Instrumentation in Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Study on Clinical Outcomes and In-Hospital Data
Authors: Kotela Andrzej , Lorkowski Jacek , Kucharzewski Marek , Wilk-Frańczuk Magdalena , Śliwiński Zbigniew , Frańczuk Bogusław , Łęgosz Paweł , Kotela Ireneusz
Published: August 2015

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a frequently performed procedure in orthopaedic surgery. Recently, patient-specific instrumentation was introduced to facilitate correct positioning of implants. The aim of this study was to compare the early clinical results of TKA performed with patient-specific CT-based instrumentation and conventional technique. A prospective, randomized controlled trial on 112 patients was performed between January 2011 and December 2011. A group of 112 patients who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were enrolled in this study and randomly assigned to an experimental or control group. The experimental group comprised 52 patients who received the Signature CT-based implant positioning system, and the control group consisted of 60 patients with conventional instrumentation. Clinical outcomes were evaluated with the KSS scale, WOMAC scale, and VAS scales to assess knee pain severity and patient satisfaction with the surgery. Specified in-hospital data were recorded. Patients were followed up for 12 months. At one year after surgery, there were no statistically significant differences between groups with respect to clinical outcomes and in-hospital data, including operative time, blood loss, hospital length of stay, intraoperative observations, and postoperative complications. Further high-quality investigations of various patient-specific systems and longer follow-up may be helpful in assessing their utility for TKA.
Microbiological Analysis of Necrosols Collected from Urban Cemeteries in Poland
Authors: Całkosiński Ireneusz , Płoneczka-Janeczko Katarzyna , Ostapska Magda , Dudek Krzysztof , Gamian Andrzej , Rypuła Krzysztof
Published: August 2015

Decomposition of organic matter is the primary function in the soil ecosystem, which involves bacteria and fungi. Soil microbial content depends on many factors, and secondary biological and chemical contaminations change and affect environmental feedback. Little work has been done to estimate the microbiological risk for cemetery employees and visitors. The potential risk of infection for people in the cemetery is primarily associated with injury and wound contamination during performing the work. The aim of this study was to analyze the microbiota of cemetery soil obtained from cemeteries and bacterial composition in selected soil layers encountered by gravediggers and cemetery caretakers. The most common bacterial pathogens wereEnterococcusspp. (80.6%),Bacillusspp. (77.4%), andE. coli(45.1%). The fungiPenicilliumspp. andAspergillusspp. were isolated from 51% and 6.4% of samples, respectively. Other bacterial species were in the ground cemetery relatively sparse. Sampling depth was not correlated with bacterial growth (p>0.05), but it was correlated with several differences in microbiota composition (superficial versus deep layer).
Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Early Prevention of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Disease: A Focus on Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Thomas J. , Thomas C. J. , Radcliffe J. , Itsiopoulos C.
Published: August 2015

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the leading cause of dementia and the most common neurodegenerative disease in the elderly. Furthermore, AD has provided the most positive indication to support the fact that inflammation contributes to neurodegenerative disease. The exact etiology of AD is unknown, but environmental and genetic factors are thought to contribute, such as advancing age, family history, presence of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease (CVD) and diabetes, and poor diet and lifestyle. It is hypothesised that early prevention or management of inflammation could delay the onset or reduce the symptoms of AD. Normal physiological changes to the brain with ageing include depletion of long chain omega-3 fatty acids and brains of AD patients have lower docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) levels. DHA supplementation can reduce markers of inflammation. This review specifically focusses on the evidence in humans from epidemiological, dietary intervention, and supplementation studies, which supports the role of long chain omega-3 fatty acids in the prevention or delay of cognitive decline in AD in its early stages. Longer term trials with long chain omega-3 supplementation in early stage AD are warranted. We also highlight the importance of overall quality and composition of the diet to protect against AD and dementia.