bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vision and change in introductory physics for the life sciences
Authors: Mochrie S. G. J.
Published: June 2016

Since 2010, our physics department has offered a re-imagined calculus-based introductory physics sequence for the life sciences. These courses include a selection of biologically and medically relevant topics that we believe are more meaningful to undergraduate premedical and biological science students than those found in a traditional course. In this paper, we highlight new aspects of the first-semester course, and present a comparison of student evaluations of this course versus a more traditional one. We also present the effect on student perception of the relevance of physics to biology and medicine after having taken this course.
Phase-sensitive detection in the undergraduate lab using a low-cost microcontroller
Authors: Schultz K. D.
Published: June 2016

Phase-sensitive detection is an important experimental technique that allows signals to be extracted from noisy data. Commercial lock-in amplifiers, often used for phase-sensitive detection, are expensive and host a bewildering array of controls that may intimidate a novice user. Low-cost microcontrollers such as the Arduino family of devices might seem like a good match for learning about such devices, but making a self-contained device that includes a reference signal, a voltage input, a signal mixer, a filter, and a display is difficult. Here, we present the construction of a phase-sensitive detector (PSD) using an Arduino.
Sound transmission in a duct with a side-branch tube array mounted periodically
Authors: Wang Xiaonan , Zhu Wenying , Zhou Yude
Published: June 2016

This paper presents a theoretical study of sound propagation in a duct with a tube array flush-mounted periodically. The underlying wave interaction is analyzed by the transfer matrix method, and validated by the numerical simulation. With identical tubes, a particular situation is observed that the periodic distance and the tube length are “matched,” leading to a strong coupling effect by Bragg reflection and tube resonance, resulting in a wide stopband in low frequency. Even when the tubes in the array are not identical, the Bragg reflection can still work to broaden the stopband which was originally contributed by tube resonances.
Moderate-to-Vigorous Physical Activity Levels in Physical Education, School Recess, and After-School Time: Influence of Gender, Age, and Weight Status
Authors: Viciana Jesús , Mayorga-Vega Daniel , Martínez-Baena Alejandro
Published: June 2016

Background:

Primary and secondary school ages have been considered key moments to address the decrease of moderate-tovigorous physical activity (MVPA). Individual (eg, age, gender, and weight status) and contextual factors (moments of the day) need to be considered for a better explanation of the phenomenon. The quantity and quality of physical activity in Physical Education (PE), school recess (SR), and after school (AS) time need to be taken into account to solve the low levels of MVPA in youth.

Methods:

A sample of adolescents (N = 231, 14.6 ± 1.2 years old) was studied using accelerometry to determine the objective MVPA level in PE, SR, and AS.

Results:

Results indicated statistically significant differences on MVPA between contexts (AS > PE > SR, P < .001) as well as regarding the individual factors: age (older > younger in PE and younger > older in SR time; P < .001), gender (boys > girls in all contexts, P < .001), and weight status (overweight > nonoverweight in AS, P < .01).

Conclusions:

Because students did not meet the daily MVPA recommendations, some strategies have been provided in each of the contexts analyzed.
Staphylococcus aureus Alpha-Toxin Is Conserved among Diverse Hospital Respiratory Isolates Collected from a Global Surveillance Study and Is Neutralized by Monoclonal Antibody MEDI4893
Authors: Tabor David E. , Yu Li , Mok Hoyin , Tkaczyk Christine , Sellman Bret R. , Wu Yuling , Oganesyan Vaheh , Slidel Tim , Jafri Hasan , McCarthy Michael , Bradford Patricia , Esser Mark T.
Published: June 2016

Staphylococcus aureus
infections lead to an array of illnesses ranging from mild skin infections to serious diseases, such endocarditis, osteomyelitis, and pneumonia. Alpha-toxin (Hla) is a pore-forming toxin, encoded by the
hla
gene, that is thought to play a key role in
S. aureus
pathogenesis. A monoclonal antibody targeting Hla, MEDI4893, is in clinical development for the prevention of
S. aureus
ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). The presence of the
hla
gene and Hla protein in 994 respiratory isolates collected from patients in 34 countries in Asia, Europe, the United States, Latin America, the Middle East, Africa, and Australia was determined. Hla levels were correlated with the geographic location, age of the subject, and length of stay in the hospital.
hla
gene sequence analysis was performed, and mutations were mapped to the Hla crystal structure.
S. aureus
supernatants containing Hla variants were tested for susceptibility or resistance to MEDI4893. The
hla
gene was present and Hla was expressed in 99.0% and 83.2% of the isolates, respectively, regardless of geographic region, hospital locale, or age of the subject. More methicillin-susceptible than methicillin-resistant isolates expressed Hla (86.9% versus 78.8%;
P
= 0.0007), and
S. aureus
isolates from pediatric patients expressed the largest amounts of Hla. Fifty-seven different Hla subtypes were identified, and 91% of the isolates encoded an Hla subtype that was neutralized by MED4893. This study demonstrates that Hla is conserved in diverse
S. aureus
isolates from around the world and is an attractive target for prophylactic monoclonal antibody (MAb) or vaccine development.
Posaconazole Plasma Concentrations on Days Three to Five Predict Steady-State Levels
Authors: Prattes Jürgen , Duettmann Wiebke , Hoenigl Martin
Published: June 2016

Low posaconazole plasma concentrations (PPCs) have been associated with breakthrough invasive fungal infections. We assessed the correlation between pre-steady-state PPCs (obtained between days 3 and 5) and PPCs obtained during steady state in 48 patients with underlying hematological malignancies receiving posaconazole oral-solution prophylaxis. Pre-steady-state PPCs correlated significantly with PPCs obtained at steady state (Spearman
r
= 0.754;
P
< 0.001). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis of pre-steady-state PPCs revealed an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.884 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.790 to 0.977) for predicting satisfactory PPCs at steady state.
Antifungal Activity of Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cells against Cryptococcus neoformans
In Vitro
Requires Expression of Dectin-3 (CLEC4D) and Reactive Oxygen Species
Authors: Hole Camaron R. , Leopold Wager Chrissy M. , Mendiola Andrew S. , Wozniak Karen L. , Campuzano Althea , Lin Xin , Wormley Floyd L.
Published: June 2016

Conventional dendritic cells (cDCs) are critical for protection against pulmonary infection with the opportunistic fungal pathogen
Cryptococcus neoformans
; however, the role of plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) is unknown. We show for the first time that murine pDCs have direct activity against
C. neoformans
via reactive oxygen species (ROS), a mechanism different from that employed to control
Aspergillus fumigatus
infections. The anticryptococcal activity of murine pDCs is independent of opsonization but appears to require the C-type lectin receptor Dectin-3, a receptor not previously evaluated during cryptococcal infections. Human pDCs can also inhibit cryptococcal growth by a mechanism similar to that of murine pDCs. Experimental pulmonary infection of mice with a
C. neoformans
strain that induces protective immunity demonstrated that recruitment of pDCs to the lungs is CXCR3 dependent. Taken together, our results show that pDCs inhibit
C. neoformans
growth
in vitro
via the production of ROS and that Dectin-3 is required for optimal growth-inhibitory activity.
Evidence that BosR (BB0647) Is a Positive Autoregulator in Borrelia burgdorferi
Authors: Ouyang Zhiming , Zhou Jianli , Norgard Michael V.
Published: June 2016

Borrelia burgdorferi
survives in nature through a complex tick-mammalian life cycle. During its transit between ticks and mammalian hosts,
B. burgdorferi
must dramatically alter its outer surface profile in order to interact with and adapt to these two diverse niches. It has been established that the regulator BosR (BB0647) in
B. burgdorferi
plays important roles in modulating borrelial host adaptation. However, to date, how
bosR
expression itself is controlled in
B. burgdorferi
remains largely unknown. Previously, it has been shown that DNA sequences upstream of BosR harbor multiple sites for the binding of recombinant BosR, suggesting that BosR may influence its own expression in
B. burgdorferi
. However, direct experimental evidence supporting this putative autoregulation of BosR has been lacking. Here, we investigated the expression of
bosR
throughout the tick-mammal life cycle of
B. burgdorferi
via quantitative reverse transcription (RT)-PCR analyses. Our data indicated that
bosR
is expressed not only during mouse infection, but also during the tick acquisition, intermolt, and transmission phases. Further investigation revealed that
bosR
expression in
B. burgdorferi
is influenced by environmental stimuli, such as temperature shift and pH change. By employing luciferase reporter assays, we also identified two promoters potentially driving
bosR
transcription. Our study offers strong support for the long-postulated function of BosR as an autoregulator in
B. burgdorferi
.
Late recurrence of a completely occluded large intracranial aneurysm treated with a Tubridge flow diverter
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxi , Lv Nan , Wang Chi , Cao Wei , Liu Jianmin , Huang Qinghai
Published: June 2016

We report a rare case of recurrence of a large intracavernous aneurysm after angiography proved complete occlusion. The aneurysm was treated by a combination of a Tubridge flow diverter and coils, and balloon angioplasty, after flow diverter devices deployment for parent vessel stenosis. Six month angiographic follow-up demonstrated complete occlusion. Unfortunately, obvious aneurysm recurrence was confirmed on 2 year angiographic follow-up. The probable mechanism of recurrence was analyzed.
Paediatric nasal polyps in cystic fibrosis
Authors: Mohd Slim Mohd Afiq , Dick David , Trimble Keith , McKee Gary
Published: June 2016

Patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) are at increased risk of nasal polyps. We present the case of a 17-month-old Caucasian patient with CF who presented with hypertelorism causing cycloplegic astigmatism, right-sided mucoid discharge, snoring and noisy breathing. Imaging suggested bilateral mucoceles in the ethmoid sinuses. Intraoperatively, bilateral soft tissue masses were noted, and both posterior choanae were patent. Polypectomy and bilateral mega-antrostomies were performed. Histological examination revealed inflammatory nasal polyposis typical of CF. The role of early functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) in children with CF nasal polyposis remains questionable as the recurrence rate is higher, and no improvement in pulmonary function has been shown. Our case, however, clearly demonstrates the beneficial upper airway symptom relief and normalisation of facial appearance following FESS in a child with this condition.
Study protocol—investigation of the Delirium Observation Screening Scale (DOSS) for the routine detection of delirium in the care home setting: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Teale Elizabeth , Young John , Siddiqi Najma , Munyombwe Theresa , Harrison Jennifer , Schuurmanns Marieke
Published: June 2016

Introduction

Delirium is a common and distressing condition associated with frailty, dementia and comorbidity. These are common in long-term care settings. Residents in care homes are therefore at particular risk of delirium. Despite this, methods to detect delirium in care homes are lacking, with existing diagnostic tools taking too long, or requiring specific training to deliver. This limits their feasibility for use for the routine detection of delirium by care home staff. Routine screening for delirium in care homes would allow timely attention to exacerbating factors to attenuate the episode, and facilitate future research into delirium in the care home environment.

Methods

Residents from 4 large care homes will be asked to consent (or their consultees asked to provide a declaration of agreement) to participate in the study. Care home staff will administer the 25-item Delirium Observation Screening Scale (DOSS)—a delirium screening tool based on observed behaviours—and this will be tested against the research standard Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) administered by trained research assistants performed two times per week for all participating residents.

Analysis

Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, likelihood ratios and a diagnostic OR will be calculated for the detection of delirium with the 25-item DOSS. The feasibility of routine delirium screening and the scaling properties of the 25-item DOSS will also be explored.

Ethics and Dissemination

For residents lacking capacity to participate, a consultee will be approached for a declaration of agreement for inclusion in the study. Results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and disseminated in written format to clinical commissioning groups, general practitioners and relevant third parties.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN14608554.
Reducing time to angiography and hospital stay for patients with high-risk non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome: retrospective analysis of a paramedic-activated direct access pathway
Authors: Koganti S , Patel N , Seraphim A , Kotecha T , Whitbread M , Rakhit R D
Published: June 2016

Objective

To assess whether a novel ‘direct access pathway’ (DAP) for the management of high-risk non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndromes (NSTEACS) is safe, results in ‘shorter time to intervention and shorter admission times’. This pathway was developed locally to enable London Ambulance Service to rapidly transfer suspected high-risk NSTEACS from the community to our regional heart attack centre for consideration of early angiography.

Methods

This is a retrospective case–control analysis of 289 patients comparing patients with high-risk NSTEACS admitted via DAP with age-matched controls from the standard pan-London high-risk ACS pathway (PLP) and the conventional pathway (CP). The primary end point of the study was time from admission to coronary angiography/intervention. Secondary end point was total length of hospital stay.

Results

Over a period of 43 months, 101 patients were admitted by DAP, 109 matched patients by PLP and 79 matched patients through CP. Median times from admission to coronary angiography for DAP, PLP and CP were 2.8 (1.5–9), 16.6 (6–50) and 60 (33–116) hours, respectively (p<0.001). Median length of hospital stay for DAP and PLP was similar at 3.0 (2.0–5.0) days in comparison to 5 (3–7) days for CP (p<0.001).

Conclusions

DAP resulted in a significant reduction in time to angiography for patients with high-risk NSTEACS when compared to existing pathways.
A pharmacoeconomic approach to assessing the costs and benefits of air quality interventions that improve health: a case study
Authors: Lomas James , Schmitt Laetitia , Jones Sally , McGeorge Maureen , Bates Elizabeth , Holland Mike , Cooper Duncan , Crowther Richard , Ashmore Mike , Rojas-Rueda David , Weatherly Helen , Richardson Gerry , Bojke Laura
Published: June 2016

Objective

This paper explores the use of pharmacoeconomic methods of valuation to health impacts resulting from exposure to poor air quality. In using such methods, interventions that reduce exposure to poor air quality can be directly compared, in terms of value for money (or cost-effectiveness), with competing demands for finite resources, including other public health interventions.

Design

Using results estimated as part of a health impact assessment regarding a West Yorkshire Low Emission Zone strategy, this paper quantifies cost-saving and health-improving implications of transport policy through its impact on air quality.

Data source

Estimates of health-related quality of life and the National Health Service (NHS)/Personal Social Services (PSS) costs for identified health events were based on data from Leeds and Bradford using peer-reviewed publications or Office for National Statistics releases.

Population

Inhabitants of the area within the outer ring roads of Leeds and Bradford.

Main outcomes measures

NHS and PSS costs and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs).

Results

Averting an all-cause mortality death generates 8.4 QALYs. Each coronary event avoided saves £28 000 in NHS/PSS costs and generates 1.1 QALYs. For every fewer case of childhood asthma, there will be NHS/PSS cost saving of £3000 and a health benefit of 0.9 QALYs. A single term, low birthweight birth avoided saves £2000 in NHS/PSS costs. Preventing a preterm birth saves £24 000 in NHS/PSS costs and generates 1.3 QALYs. A scenario modelled in the West Yorkshire Low Emission Zone Feasibility Study, where pre-EURO 4 buses and HGVs are upgraded to EURO 6 by 2016 generates an annual benefit of £2.08 million and a one-off benefit of £3.3 million compared with a net present value cost of implementation of £6.3 million.

Conclusions

Interventions to improve air quality and health should be evaluated and where improvement of population health is the primary objective, cost-effectiveness analysis using a NHS/PSS costs and QALYs framework is an appropriate methodology.
Electronic capture of patient-reported and clinician-reported outcome measures in an elective orthopaedic setting: a retrospective cohort analysis
Authors: Malhotra Karan , Buraimoh Olatunbosun , Thornton James , Cullen Nicholas , Singh Dishan , Goldberg Andrew J
Published: June 2016

Objectives

To determine whether an entirely electronic system can be used to capture both patient-reported outcomes (electronic Patient-Reported Outcome Measures, ePROMs) as well as clinician-validated diagnostic and complexity data in an elective surgical orthopaedic outpatient setting. To examine patients' experience of this system and factors impacting their experience.

Design

Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data.

Setting

Single centre series. Outpatient clinics at an elective foot and ankle unit in the UK.

Participants

All new adult patients attending elective orthopaedic outpatient clinics over a 32-month period.

Interventions

All patients were invited to complete ePROMs prior to attending their outpatient appointment. At their appointment, those patients who had not completed ePROMs were offered the opportunity to complete it on a tablet device with technical support. Matched diagnostic and complexity data were captured by the treating consultant during the appointment.

Outcome measures

Capture rates of patient-reported and clinician-reported data. All information and technology (IT) failures, language and disability barriers were captured. Patients were asked to rate their experience of using ePROMs. The scoring systems used included EQ-5D-5L, the Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOxFQ) and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) pain score.

Results

Out of 2534 new patients, 2176 (85.9%) completed ePROMs, of whom 1090 (50.09%) completed ePROMs at home/work prior to their appointment. 31.5% used a mobile (smartphone/tablet) device. Clinician-reported data were captured on 2491 patients (98.3%). The mean patient experience score of using Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) was 8.55±1.85 out of 10 and 666 patients (30.61%) left comments. Of patients leaving comments, 214 (32.13%) felt ePROMs did not adequately capture their symptoms and these patients had significantly lower patient experience scores (p<0.001).

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the successful implementation of technology into a service improvement programme. Excellent capture rates of ePROMs and clinician-validated diagnostic data can be achieved within a National Health Service setting.
BET 2: Do fluoroquinolones increase the incidence of tendinopathy?
Authors: Baombe Janos P , Ford Rebecca
Published: June 2016

A shortcut review of the literature was carried out to establish whether the use of fluoroquinolones was associated with an increased risk of tendinopathy in adult patients. 10 trials were found to be directly relevant to the three-part question. The author, date and country of publication, patient group studied, study type, relevant outcomes, results and study weaknesses of these papers are tabulated. The clinical bottom line is that there is an association between the use of fluoroquinolones and a broad range of tendinopathies.
Loss of histone variant macroH2A2 expression associates with progression of anal neoplasm
Authors: Hu Wan-Hsiang , Miyai Katsumi , Sporn Judith C , Luo Linda , Wang Jean Y J , Cosman Bard , Ramamoorthy Sonia
Published: June 2016

Aims

The macroH2A histone variants are epigenetic marks for inactivated chromatin. In this study, we examined the expression of macroH2A2 in anal neoplasm from anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN) to anal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).

Methods

AIN and anal SCC samples were analysed for macroH2A2 expression, HIV and human papilloma virus (HPV). The association of macroH2A2 expression with clinical grade, disease recurrence, overall survival and viral involvement was determined.

Results

macroH2A2 was expressed in normal squamous tissue and lower grade AIN (I and II). Expression was lost in 38% of high-grade AIN (III) and 71% of anal SCC (p=0.002). Patients with AIN with macroH2A2-negative lesions showed earlier recurrence than those with macroH2A2-positive neoplasm (p=0.017). With anal SCC, macroH2A2 loss was more prevalent in the HPV-negative tumours.

Conclusions

Loss of histone variant macroH2A2 expression is associated with the progression of anal neoplasm and can be used as a prognostic biomarker for high-grade AIN and SCC.
Canadian physical activity guidelines for adults: are Canadians aware?
Authors: Dale Leila Pfaeffli , LeBlanc Allana G. , Orr Krystn , Berry Tanya , Deshpande Sameer , Latimer-Cheung Amy E. , O’Reilly Norm , Rhodes Ryan E. , Tremblay Mark S. , Faulkner Guy
Published: June 2016

The present study evaluated awareness of the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology’s 2011 Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines for Adults and assessed correlates. Reported awareness of the physical activity (PA) guidelines was 12.9% (204/1586) of the total sample surveyed. More than half (55%) self-reported meeting PA guidelines of ≥ 150 min of moderate to vigorous PA per week. Awareness of PA guidelines was significantly related to participants’ level of PA (χ2 (1) = 30.63, p < 0.001, φ = –0.14), but not to any demographic variables.
Pipe–soil interaction model for current-induced pipeline instability on a sloping sandy seabed
Authors: Gao Fu-Ping , Wang Ning , Li Jinhui , Han Xi-Ting
Published: June 2016

As offshore exploitation moves to deeper waters, ocean currents become the prevailing hydrodynamic loads on pipelines, and at the same time a sloping seabed is always encountered. The prediction of lateral soil resistance is vital in evaluating pipeline on-bottom stability. Unlike previous pipe–soil interaction models used mainly for horizontal seabed conditions, a pipe–soil interaction model for current-induced downslope and upslope instabilities is proposed by using the limit equilibrium approach. The Coulomb’s theory of passive earth pressure for the sloping seabed is incorporated in the derivation. The model verification with existing full-scale tests shows good agreement between the experimental results and predicted ones. Parametric study indicates that the effect of slope angle on pipeline lateral soil resistance is significant in the examined range of slope angle from –15° to 15°. The critical pipeline embedment and corresponding passive pressure decrease approximately linearly with increasing slope angle.
The effect of subchronic supplementation with folic acid andl-arginine on homocysteine-induced seizures
Authors: Rasic-Markovic A. , Hrncic D. , Krstic D. , Colovic M. , Djuric E. , Rankov-Petrovic B. , Susic V. , Stanojlovic O. , Djuric D.
Published: June 2016

The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of subchronic co-administration of folic acid (F) and l-arginine (A) on behavioural and electroencephalographic (EEG) characteristics of dl homocysteine thiolactone (H) induced seizures in adult rats. The activity of membrane ATPases in different brain regions were also investigated. Rats were treated with F, A, or vehicle for 15 days (regimen: F 5 mg/kg + A 500 mg/kg (F5A500); F 10 mg/kg + A 300 mg/kg (F10A300)). Seizures were elicited by convulsive dose of H (H, F5A500H, F10A300H) Subchronic supplementation with F and A did not affect seizure incidence, number of seizure episodes, and severity in F5A500H and F10A300H groups vs. H group. However, a tendency to increase latency and decrease the number of seizure episodes was noticed in the F10A300H group. EEG mean spectral power densities during ictal periods were significantly lower in F10A300H vs. H group. The activity of Na+/K+-ATPase and Mg2+-ATPase was significantly increased in almost all examined structures in rats treated with F and A. We can conclude that subchronic supplementation with folic acid and l-arginine has an antiepileptic effect in dl homocysteine thiolactone induced epilepsy.
Effects of Tribulus terrestris saponins on exercise performance in overtraining rats and the underlying mechanisms
Authors: Yin Liang , Wang Qian , Wang Xiaohui , Song Liang-Nian
Published: June 2016

The objective of this study was to determine the effects of Tribulus terrestris L. (TT) saponins on exercise performance and the underlying mechanisms. A rat overtraining model was established and animals were treated with TT extracts (120 mg/kg body mass) 30 min before each training session. Serum levels of testosterone and corticosterone and levels of androgen receptor (AR) and insulin growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R) in the liver, gastrocnemius, and soleus were determined by ELISA and Western blot. Treatment of rats with TT saponins significantly improved the performance of the overtraining rats, reflected by the extension of time to exhaustion, with a concomitant increase in body mass, relative mass, and protein levels of gastrocnemius. Overtraining alone induced a significant decrease in the serum level of testosterone. In contrast, treatment with TT saponins dramatically increased the serum level of testosterone in overtraining rats to about 150% of control and 216% of overtraining groups, respectively. In addition, TT saponins resulted in a further significant increase in AR in gastrocnemius and significantly suppressed the overtraining-induced increase in IGF-1R in the liver. These results indicated that TT saponins increased performance, body mass, and gastrocnemius mass of rats undergoing overtraining, which might be attributed to the changes in androgen–AR axis and IGF-1R signaling.
SU(2/1) gauge-Higgs unification
Authors: Loginov E. K.
Published: June 2016

We discuss a question whether the observed Weinberg angle and Higgs mass are calculable in the formalism based on a construction in which the electroweak gauge group [Formula: see text] is embedded in the graded Lie group [Formula: see text]. Here, we follow original works of Ne’eman and Fairlie believing that bosonic fields take their values in the Lie superalgebra and fermionic fields take their values in its representation space. At the same time, our approach differs significantly. The main one is that while for them the gauge symmetry group is [Formula: see text], here we consider only symmetries generated by its even subgroup, i.e. symmetries of the standard electroweak model. The reason is that such formalism fixes the quartic Higgs coupling and at the same time removes the sign and statistics problems. The main result is that the presented model predicts values of the Weinberg angle and the Higgs mass correctly up to the two-loop level. Moreover, the model sets the unification scale coinciding with the electroweak scale and automatically describes the fermions correctly with the correct quark and lepton charges.
Invariant Symmetric Bilinear Forms and Derivation Algebras of Unitary Lie Algebras
Authors: Zheng Yelong , Gao Jiwen , Chang Zhihua , Gao Yun
Published: June 2016

Invariant symmetric bilinear forms and derivation algebras of a unitary Lie algebra L over R are characterized: ℬ(L) ≅ (R+/([R,R] ∩ R+))* and Der (L) = Inn (L)+ Der (L)0 = Inn (L)+ SDer (R), which recover what of the special linear Lie algebra and Steinberg Lie algebra over R, where R is a unital involutory associative algebra over a field 𝔽.
Locally Graded n-Bell Groups
Authors: Faramarzi Salles Asadollah
Published: June 2016

Let n ≠ 0, 1 be an integer and [Formula: see text] be the variety of n-Bell groups defined by the law [xn,y][x,yn]-1= 1. Let [Formula: see text] be the class of groups in which for any infinite subsets X and Y there exist x ∈ X and y ∈ Y such that [xn,y][x,yn]-1= 1. In this paper we prove [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are the classes of all finite groups and all locally graded groups, respectively.
Diurnal variation in the control of ventilation in response to rising body temperature during exercise in the heat
Authors: Tsuji Bun , Honda Yasushi , Kondo Narihiko , Nishiyasu Takeshi
Published: June 2016

We investigated whether heat-induced hyperventilation during exercise is affected by time of day, as diurnal variation leads to higher core temperatures in the evening. Nineteen male subjects were divided into two experiments ( protocol 1, n = 10 and protocol 2, n = 9). In protocol 1, subjects performed cycle exercise at 50% peak oxygen uptake in the heat (37°C and 50% RH) in the morning (0600) and evening (1800). Results showed that baseline resting and exercising esophageal temperature ( Tes) were significantly (0.5°C) higher in the evening than morning. Minute ventilation (V̇e) increased from 54.3 ± 7.9 and 54.9 ± 6.8 l/min at 10 min to 71.4 ± 8.1 and 76.5 ± 11.8 l/min at 48.5 min in the morning and evening, respectively (both P < 0.01). Time of day had no effect on V̇e ( P = 0.44). When V̇e as the output response was plotted against Tes as thermal input, the Tes threshold for increases in V̇e was higher in the evening than morning (37.2 ± 0.7 vs. 36.6 ± 0.6°C, P = 0.009), indicating the ventilatory response to the same core temperature is smaller in the evening. In protocol 2, the circadian rhythm-related higher resting Tes seen in the evening was adjusted down to the same temperature seen in the morning by immersing the subject in cold water. Importantly, the time course of changes in V̇e during exercise were smaller in the evening, but the threshold for V̇e remained higher in the evening than morning ( P < 0.001). Collectively, those results suggest that time of day has no effect on time course hyperventilation during exercise in the heat, despite the higher core temperatures in the evening. This is likely due to diurnal variation in the control of ventilation in response to rising core temperature.
A Ruptured Digital Epidermal Inclusion Cyst: A Sinister Presentation
Authors: Bohler Iain , Fletcher Phillip , Ragg Amanda , Vane Andrew
Published: June 2016

Epidermal inclusion cysts are benign cutaneous lesions caused by dermal or subdermal implantation and proliferation of epidermal squamous epithelium as a result of trauma or surgery. They are typically located on the scalp, face, trunk, neck, or back; however they can be found anywhere on the body. Lesions are asymptomatic unless complicated by rupture, malignant transformation to squamous cell carcinoma, or infection at which point they can clinically appear as more sinister pathologies. We present the case of a 45-year-old laborer with a ruptured epidermal inclusion cyst, manifesting clinically and radiographically as a malignancy. Following MRI, definitive surgical management may appear to be a logical progression in management of the patient. This case however is a good example of why meticulously following surgical protocol when evaluating an unknown soft tissue mass is imperative. By following protocol, an alternate diagnosis was made and the patient has since gone on to a make a full recovery without life transforming surgery.
Study of Methylene Blue Degradation by Gold Nanoparticles Synthesized within Natural Zeolites
Authors: León Ericka Rodríguez , Rodríguez Eduardo Larios , Beas César Rodríguez , Plascencia-Villa Germán , Palomares Ramón Alfonso Iñiguez
Published: June 2016

We carried out thein situsynthesis of gold nanoparticles inside a natural clinoptilolite-type zeolite matrix, using ascorbic acid as reducing agent. The microstructure of both zeolite and zeolite-gold nanocomposite was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (STEM), and Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) techniques. Size distribution as assessed by STEM indicated that 60% of gold nanoparticles measured less than 2.5 nm. Determination of the surface area by the BET method revealed a specific value of 27.35 m2/g. The catalytic activity of zeolite-gold regarding methylene blue degradation under different light-exposing conditions was evaluated by UV-Vis spectroscopy. The results indicated that 50% degradation was achieved in only 11 min in presence of sunlight. This reaction was faster in comparison with those obtained using a white LED light. A notable aspect of this study is that catalysis was carried out without the addition of any strong reducing agents, such as sodium borohydride (NaBH4).
Osteoporosis and Impaired Trabecular Bone Score in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Brunerová Ludmila , Ronová Petra , Verešová Jana , Beranová Petra , Potoèková Jana , Kasalický Petr , Rychlík Ivan
Published: June 2016

Background/Aims: Small attention is paid to other types of bone diseases then chronic kidney disease-mineral and bone disorder in dialysis patients. The aim of our study was to assess the occurrence of osteoporosis and bone microarchitecture by trabecular bone score in this population. Methods: 59 patients (67.6 ± 13.1 years, 43 males) treated with hemodiafIltration underwent densitometry (Lunar Prodigy, TBS software 2.1.2) and laboratory assessment. Results: Osteoporosis was observed in 34% patients, high bone turnover was found in 80% of them, with SHPT (PTH > 300 ng/l) present in 69%. TBS was significantly decreased in 47.5% of the patients. TBS correlated with T- and Z-scores of the lumbar spine and proximal femur in the total population (P < 0.0001) and in men (P < 0.00001) and there were significant differences between TBS in groups with normal densitometry, osteopenia, and osteoporosis, both in total population (P < 0.0001; P < 0.01) and in men (P < 0.001; P < 0.001). Conclusions: Osteoporosis was found in about 1/3 of patients treated with hemodiafiltration. Normal TBS was found in only 1/4 of the dialysis population. TBS correlated with densitometric parameters and was significantly different relative to T-scores.
Gastric Anatomic Type Is Associated with Obesity and Gender
Authors: Wang Yu Jen , Hung Kun-Long , Yang Jui-Neng , Wang Tien-Cheng , Chin Chih-Hui
Published: June 2016

Objective: To enhance our understanding of the associations among gastric anatomy, obesity, and gender. Methods: 777 randomly selected participants received health checkups, including a series of radiographs of the upper gastrointestinal tract (UGI); the findings were linked with each corresponding subject's gender and BMI. We measured the length, angle, and different portions of the stomach with the subjects in the standing position using radiographs to classify all individuals into anatomic types 1 through 6 based on gastric morphology. The gastric morphology was identified based on the initial UGI examination: 166 follow-up UGI radiographs at 12 ± 1.5 months to evaluate whether the stability of gastric anatomy persisted over time. Results: There was a significant difference in anatomic types between females and males (p < 0.001). The proportions of men with certain types (e.g., barium initially pools in a retroflexed fundus) were significantly higher than those of women; these participants were more likely to be overweight/obese (p < 0.001) compared with participants with other anatomic types. Additionally, the proportion of women with gastroptosis was significantly higher than that of men; participants with this type were less likely to be overweight/obese (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Gastric anatomic types were associated with obesity and gender.
Increased Calcineurin A Expression Is Associated with a Lower Relapse-Free Survival Rate after Colorectal Cancer Surgery
Authors: Niitsu Hiroaki , Hinoi Takao , Sentani Kazuhiro , Mukai Shoichiro , Adachi Tomohiro , Saito Yasufumi , Miguchi Masashi , Kochi Masatoshi , Sada Haruki , Oue Naohide , Yasui Wataru , Ohdan Hideki
Published: June 2016

Objective: Increased expression of calcineurin in colorectal cancer (CRC) has been reported. Although the oncogenic function has been suggested, the clinical relevance is still unclear. We herein studied calcineurin expression as a prognostic biomarker in patients receiving curative surgery for stages I-III CRC. Methods: In 121 patients with stages I-III CRC treated at Hiroshima University between 1997 and 2003, calcineurin A expression was examined using immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining of surgical specimens. Specimens were considered positive for calcineurin A if any IHC-stained cells were observed within the carcinomatous area, and clinicopathological characteristics and survival outcomes were compared between IHC-positive and -negative groups. Results: Calcineurin A was preferentially expressed in the cytoplasm of cancer cells, and a median of 8% of the cells (range: 0-80%; interquartile range: 0-22.5%) were stained within the carcinomatous areas. Of 121 cases, 81 were determined as IHC positive while 40 were determined to be negative. Positive expression of calcineurin A, as well UICC-TNM stage, was associated with low relapse-free survival (RFS) rates in multivariate analyses (hazard ratio = 2.92; 95% CI: 1.27-7.92; p = 0.010). Conclusion: Increased calcineurin A expression is associated with lower RFS rates and may have clinical value in predicting recurrence.
Characterization of Integrons and Sulfonamide Resistance Genes among Bacteria from Drinking Water Distribution Systems in Southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Adesoji Ayodele T. , Ogunjobi Adeniyi A. , Olatoye Isaac O.
Published: June 2016

Background: The emergence of antibiotic resistance among pathogenic bacteria in clinical and environmental settings is a global problem. Many antibiotic resistance genes are located on mobile genetic elements such as plasmids and integrons, enabling their transfer among a variety of bacterial species. Water distribution systems may be reservoirs for the spread of antibiotic resistance. Materials and Methods: Bacteria isolated from raw, treated, and municipal tap water samples from selected water distribution systems in south-western Nigeria were investigated using the point inoculation method with seeded antibiotics, PCR amplification, and sequencing for the determination of bacterial resistance profiles and class 1/2 integrase genes and gene cassettes, respectively. Results:sul1,sul2, and sul3 were detected in 21.6, 27.8, and 0% of the isolates, respectively (n = 162). Class 1 and class 2 integrons were detected in 21.42 and 3.6% of the isolates, respectively (n = 168). Genes encoding resistance to aminoglycosides (aadA2, aadA1, and aadB), trimethoprim (dfrA15, dfr7, and dfrA1), and sulfonamide (sul1) were detected among bacteria with class 1 integrons, while genes that encodes resistance to strepthothricin (sat2) and trimethoprim (dfrA15) were detected among bacteria with class 2 integrons. Conclusions: Bacteria from these water samples are a potential reservoir of multidrug-resistant traits including sul genes and mobile resistance elements, i.e. the integrase gene.
A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Studies Examining the Use of Brain Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy versus Craniotomy for the Treatment of High-Grade Tumors in or near Areas of Eloquence: An Examination of the Extent of Resection and Major Complication Rates Associated with Each Type of Surgery
Authors: Barnett Gene H. , Voigt Jeffrey D. , Alhuwalia Manmeet S.
Published: June 2016

Background: The extent of resection (EOR) of high-grade gliomas (WHO grade III or IV) in or near areas of eloquence is associated with overall patient survival, but with higher major neurocognitive complications. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis was undertaken of the peer-reviewed literature in order to identify studies which examined EOR or extent of ablation (EOA) and major complications (defined as neurocognitive or functional complications which last >3 months duration after surgery) associated with either brain laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) or open craniotomy in high-grade tumors in or near areas of eloquence. Results: Eight studies on brain LITT (n = 79 patients) and 12 craniotomy studies (n = 1,036 patients) were identified which examined either/both EOR/EOA and complications. Meta-analysis demonstrated an EOA/EOR of 85.4 ± 10.6% with brain LITT versus 77.0 ± 40% with craniotomy (mean difference: 8%; 95% CI: 2-15; p = 0.01; inverse variance, random effects model). Meta-analysis of proportions of major complications for each individual therapy demonstrated major complications of 5.7% (95% CI: 1.8-11.6) and 13.8% (95% CI: 10.3-17.9) for LITT and craniotomy, respectively. Conclusion: In patients presenting with high-grade gliomas in or near areas of eloquence, early results demonstrate that brain LITT may be a viable surgical alternative.
Leukocyte Telomere Length Predicts SSRI Response in Major Depressive Disorder: A Preliminary Report
Authors: Hough Christina M. , Bersani F. Saverio , Mellon Synthia H. , Epel Elissa S. , Reus Victor I. , Lindqvist Daniel , Lin Jue , Mahan Laura , Rosser Rebecca , Burke Heather , Coetzee John , Nelson J. Craig , Blackburn Elizabeth H. , Wolkowitz Owen M.
Published: June 2016

Short leukocyte telomere length (LTL) may be associated with several psychiatric disorders, including major depressive disorder (MDD). Short LTL has previously been associated with poor response to psychiatric medications in bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, but no studies have prospectively assessed the relationship of LTL to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) response in MDD. We assessed pre-treatment LTL, depression severity [using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS)], and self-reported positive and negative affect in 27 healthy, unmedicated adults with MDD. The subjects then underwent open-label treatment with an SSRI antidepressant for 8 weeks, after which clinical ratings were repeated. The analyses were corrected for age, sex, and body mass index. ‘Non-responders' to treatment (HDRS improvement <50%) had significantly shorter pre-treatment LTL than ‘responders' (p = 0.037). Further, shorter pre-treatment LTL was associated with less improvement in negative affect (p < 0.010) but not with changes in positive affect (p = 0.356). This preliminary study is the first to assess the relationship between LTL and response to SSRIs in MDD and among the first to prospectively assess its relationship to treatment outcome in any psychiatric illness. Our data suggest that short LTL may serve as a vulnerability index of poorer response to SSRI treatment, but this needs examination in larger samples.
High-NaCl Diet Aggravates Cardiac Injury in Rats with Adenine-Induced Chronic Renal Failure and Increases Serum Troponin T Levels
Authors: Kashioulis Pavlos , Hammarsten Ola , Marcussen Niels , Shubbar Emman , Saeed Aso , Guron Gregor
Published: June 2016

Aims: To examine the effects of 2 weeks of high-NaCl diet on left ventricular (LV) morphology and serum levels of cardiac troponin T (cTnT) in rats with adenine-induced chronic renal failure (ACRF). Methods: Male Sprague-Dawley rats either received chow containing adenine or were pair-fed an identical diet without adenine [controls (C)]. Approximately 10 weeks after the beginning of the study, the rats were randomized to either remain on a normal NaCl diet (NNa; 0.6%) or to be switched to high-NaCl chow (HNa; 4%) for 2 weeks, after which acute experiments were performed. Results: Rats with ACRF showed statistically significant increases (p < 0.001) in arterial pressure (AP), LV weight and fibrosis, and serum cTnT levels compared to controls. Two weeks of high-NaCl intake augmented the increases in AP, LV weight and fibrosis, and serum cTnT concentrations only in ACRF rats (p < 0.05 for group × NaCl intake interaction). Compared to group C-NNa, cTnT levels were elevated approximately 6-fold in group ACRF-NNa and 24-fold in group ACRF-HNa. Focal LV injury with cardiomyocyte necrosis, scarring, and fibrinoid necrosis of small arteries were only detected in group ACRF-HNa. There was a strong correlation between the degree of LV fibrosis and serum cTnT levels in ACRF rats (r = 0.81, p < 0.01). Conclusion: Two weeks of high-NaCl diet in rats with ACRF produces LV injury and aggravates increases in serum cTnT levels, presumably by causing hypertension-induced small artery lesions leading to myocardial ischemia. This model may be suitable for studying pathophysiological mechanisms in chronic renicardiac syndromes.
Altered Superficial White Matter on Tractography MRI in Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Reginold William , Luedke Angela C. , Itorralba Justine , Fernandez-Ruiz Juan , Islam Omar , Garcia Angeles
Published: June 2016

Background/Aims: Superficial white matter provides extensive cortico-cortical connections. This tractography study aimed to assess the diffusion characteristics of superficial white matter tracts in Alzheimer's disease. Methods: Diffusion tensor 3T magnetic resonance imaging scans were acquired in 24 controls and 16 participants with Alzheimer's disease. Neuropsychological test scores were available in some participants. Tractography was performed by the Fiber Assignment by Continuous Tracking (FACT) method. The superficial white matter was manually segmented and divided into frontal, parietal, temporal and occipital lobes. The mean diffusivity (MD), radial diffusivity (RD), axial diffusivity (AxD) and fractional anisotropy (FA) of these tracts were compared between controls and participants with Alzheimer's disease and correlated with available cognitive tests while adjusting for age and white matter hyperintensity volume. Results: Alzheimer's disease was associated with increased MD (p = 0.0011), increased RD (p = 0.0019) and increased AxD (p = 0.0017) in temporal superficial white matter. In controls, superficial white matter was associated with the performance on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, Stroop and Trail Making Test B tests, whereas in Alzheimer's disease patients, it was not associated with the performance on cognitive tests. Conclusion: Temporal lobe superficial white matter appears to be disrupted in Alzheimer's disease.