bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Upregulation of α-enolase protects cardiomyocytes from phenylephrine-induced hypertrophy
Authors: Gao Si , Liu Xue-ping , Wei Li-hua , Lu Jing , Liu Peiqing
Published: September 2017

Cardiac hypertrophy often refers to the abnormal growth of heart muscle through a variety of factors. The mechanisms of cardiomyocyte hypertrophy have been extensively investigated using neonatal rat cardiomyocytes treated with phenylephrine. α-Enolase is a glycolytic enzyme with “multifunctional jobs” beyond its catalytic activity. Its possible contribution to cardiac dysfunction remains to be determined. The present study aimed to investigate the change of α-enolase during cardiac hypertrophy and explore its role in this pathological process. We revealed that mRNA and protein levels of α-enolase were significantly upregulated in hypertrophic rat heart induced by abdominal aortic constriction and in phenylephrine-treated neonatal rat cardiomyocytes. Furthermore, knockdown of α-enolase by RNA interference in cardiomyocytes mimicked the hypertrophic responses and aggravated phenylephrine-induced hypertrophy without reducing the total glycolytic activity of enolase. In addition, knockdown of α-enolase led to an increase of GATA4 expression in the normal and phenylephrine-treated cardiomyocytes. Our results suggest that the elevation of α-enolase during cardiac hypertrophy is compensatory. It exerts a catalytic independent role in protecting cardiomyocytes against pathological hypertrophy.
Kinematic variables in noncommutative phase space and parameters of noncommutativity
Authors: Gnatenko Kh. P.
Published: September 2017

We consider a space with noncommutativity of coordinates and noncommutativity of momenta. It is shown that coordinates in noncommutative phase space depend on mass therefore they cannot be considered as kinematic variables. Also, noncommutative momenta are not proportional to a mass as it has to be. We find conditions on the parameters of noncommutativity on which these problems are solved. It is important that on the same conditions the properties of kinetic energy are preserved, the motion of the center-of-mass of composite system and relative motion are independent, the trajectory of a particle (composite system) is independent of its mass and composition therefore the weak equivalence principle is recovered in four-dimensional (2D configurational space and 2D momentum space) noncommutative phase space.
(2+1)-dimensional Klein–Gordon oscillator under a magnetic field in the presence of a minimal length in the noncommutative space
Authors: Wu Shu-Rui , Long Zheng-Wen , Long Chao-Yun , Wang Bing-Quan , Liu Yun
Published: September 2017

The (2[Formula: see text]+[Formula: see text]1)-dimensional Klein–Gordon oscillator under a magnetic field in the presence of a minimal length in the noncommutative (NC) space is analyzed via the momentum space representation. Energy eigenvalue of the system is obtained by employing the Jacobi polynomials. In further steps, the special cases are discussed and the corresponding numerical results are depicted, respectively.
A Systematic Review on Smartphone Skin Cancer Apps: Coherent Taxonomy, Motivations, Open Challenges and Recommendations, and New Research Direction
Authors: Yas Qahtan M. , Zaidan A. A. , Zaidan B. B. , Hashim M. , Lim C. K.
Published: September 2017

Objective: This research aims to survey the efforts of researchers in response to the new and disruptive technology of skin cancer apps, map the research landscape from the literature onto coherent taxonomy, and determine the basic characteristics of this emerging field. In addition, this research looks at the motivation behind using Smartphone apps in the diagnosis of skin cancer and in health care and the open challenges that impede the utility of this technology. This study offers valuable recommendations to improve the acceptance and use of medical apps in the literature. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive survey using the keywords “skin cancer,” “apps,” and “Smartphone” or “m-Health” in different variations to find all the relevant articles in three major databases: Web of Science, Science Direct, and IEEE Xplore. These databases broadly cover medical and technical literature. Results: We found 110 articles after a comprehensive survey of the literature. Out of the 110 articles, 46 present actual attempts to develop and design medical apps or share certain experiences of doing so. Twenty-eight articles consist of analytical studies on the incidence of skin cancer, the classification of malignant cancer or benign cancer, and the methods of prevention and diagnosis. Twenty-two articles comprise studies that range from the evaluative or comparative study of apps to the exploration of the desired features for skin cancer detection. Fourteen articles consist of reviews and surveys that refer to actual apps or the literature to describe medical apps for a specific specialty, disease, or skin cancer and provide a general overview of the technology. New research direction: With the exception of the 110 papers reviewed earlier in results section, the new directions of this research were described. In state-of-the-art, no particular study presenting watermarking and stenography approaches for any type of skin cancer images based on Smartphone apps is available. Discussion: Researchers have attempted to develop and improve skin cancer apps in several ways since 2011. However, several areas or aspects require further attention. All the articles, regardless of their research focus, attempt to address the challenges that impede the full utility of skin cancer apps and offer recommendations to mitigate their drawbacks. Conclusions: Research on skin cancer apps is active and efficient. This study contributes to this area of research by providing a detailed review of the available options and problems to allow other researchers and participants to further develop skin cancer apps, and the new directions of this research were described.
Homoclinic and Big Bang Bifurcations of an Embedding of 1D Allee’s Functions into a 2D Diffeomorphism
Authors: Rocha J. Leonel , Taha Abdel-Kaddous , Fournier-Prunaret D.
Published: September 2017

In this work a thorough study is presented of the bifurcation structure of an embedding of one-dimensional Allee’s functions into a two-dimensional diffeomorphism. A complete classification of the nature and stability of the fixed points, on the contour lines of the two-dimensional diffeomorphism, is provided. A necessary and sufficient condition so that the Allee fixed point is a snapback repeller is established. Sufficient conditions for the occurrence of homoclinic tangencies of a saddle fixed point of the two-dimensional diffeomorphism are also established, associated to the snapback repeller bifurcation of the endomorphism defined by the Allee functions. The main results concern homoclinic and big bang bifurcations of the diffeomorphism as “germinal” bifurcations of the Allee functions. Our results confirm previous predictions of structures of homoclinic and big bang bifurcation curves in dimension one and extend these studies to “local” concepts of Allee effect and big bang bifurcations to this two-dimensional exponential diffeomorphism.
Nonlinear Modal Analysis of Transient Behavior in Cascade DC–DC Boost Converters
Authors: Zhang Hao , Li Weijie , Ding Honghui , Luo Pengcheng , Wan Xiaojin , Hu Wanbo
Published: September 2017

This paper deals with the transient characteristics of the cascade DC–DC Boost converter under a large disturbance by using nonlinear modal series method. Based on the power balance principle, a nonlinear averaged model is derived to describe the nonlinear dynamics of the cascade converter. And then, the modal series method is described in detail and the second order approximate solutions are derived by this method. Furthermore, the simulation results and the theoretical analysis demonstrate that there are plenty of modal interactions, particularly the stronger second order modal interactions, which can affect the transient behavior significantly in the disturbed transient process. The modified approximate solutions considering the dominant nonlinear interaction modes of some state variables are subsequently obtained. In addition, by selecting appropriate system parameters, we can improve the transient behavior of the system under disturbance so that the amplitude and duration of the oscillation can be effectively reduced to satisfy the requirements of the system tolerance during the transient process. Moreover, the dominant oscillation modes of each state variable are also studied, which will help us improve the understanding of the salient transient behaviors in DC–DC cascade converters with disturbance. Finally, PSpice circuit experiments are performed to verify the above theoretical and numerical results.
Various Types of Coexisting Attractors in a New 4D Autonomous Chaotic System
Authors: Lai Qiang , Akgul Akif , Zhao Xiao-Wen , Pei Huiqin
Published: September 2017

An unique 4D autonomous chaotic system with signum function term is proposed in this paper. The system has four unstable equilibria and various types of coexisting attractors appear. Four-wing and four-scroll strange attractors are observed in the system and they will be broken into two coexisting butterfly attractors and two coexisting double-scroll attractors with the variation of the parameters. Numerical simulation shows that the system has various types of multiple coexisting attractors including two butterfly attractors with four limit cycles, two double-scroll attractors with a limit cycle, four single-scroll strange attractors, four limit cycles with regard to different parameters and initial values. The coexistence of the attractors is determined by the bifurcation diagrams. The chaotic and hyperchaotic properties of the attractors are verified by the Lyapunov exponents. Moreover, we present an electronic circuit to experimentally realize the dynamic behavior of the system.
Improved Approximation for Fréchet Distance on c-Packed Curves Matching Conditional Lower Bounds
Authors: Bringmann Karl , Künnemann Marvin
Published: September 2017

The Fréchet distance is a well studied and very popular measure of similarity of two curves. The best known algorithms have quadratic time complexity, which has recently been shown to be optimal assuming the Strong Exponential Time Hypothesis (SETH) [Bringmann, FOCS'14].

To overcome the worst-case quadratic time barrier, restricted classes of curves have been studied that attempt to capture realistic input curves. The most popular such class are [Formula: see text]-packed curves, for which the Fréchet distance has a [Formula: see text]-approximation in time [Formula: see text] [Driemel et al., DCG'12]. In dimension [Formula: see text] this cannot be improved to [Formula: see text] for any [Formula: see text] unless SETH fails [Bringmann, FOCS'14].

In this paper, exploiting properties that prevent stronger lower bounds, we present an improved algorithm with time complexity [Formula: see text]. This improves upon the algorithm by Driemel et al. for any [Formula: see text]. Moreover, our algorithm's dependence on [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] is optimal in high dimensions apart from lower order factors, unless SETH fails. Our main new ingredients are as follows: For filling the classical free-space diagram we project short subcurves onto a line, which yields one-dimensional separated curves with roughly the same pairwise distances between vertices. Then we tackle this special case in near-linear time by carefully extending a greedy algorithm for the Fréchet distance of one-dimensional separated curves.
Partitioning Graph Drawings and Triangulated Simple Polygons into Greedily Routable Regions
Authors: Nöllenburg Martin , Prutkin Roman , Rutter Ignaz
Published: September 2017

A greedily routable region (GRR) is a closed subset of [Formula: see text], in which any destination point can be reached from any starting point by always moving in the direction with maximum reduction of the distance to the destination in each point of the path. Recently, Tan and Kermarrec proposed a geographic routing protocol for dense wireless sensor networks based on decomposing the network area into a small number of interior-disjoint GRRs. They showed that minimum decomposition is NP-hard for polygonal regions with holes.

We consider minimum GRR decomposition for plane straight-line drawings of graphs. Here, GRRs coincide with self-approaching drawings of trees, a drawing style which has become a popular research topic in graph drawing. We show that minimum decomposition is still NP-hard for graphs with cycles and even for trees, but can be solved optimally for trees in polynomial time, if we allow only certain types of GRR contacts. Additionally, we give a 2-approximation for simple polygons, if a given triangulation has to be respected.
High-resolution stratigraphy and zircon U–Pb geochronology of the Middle Triassic Buchenstein Formation (Dolomites, northern Italy): precession-forcing of hemipelagic carbonate sedimentation and calibration of the Anisian–Ladinian boundary interval
Authors: Wotzlaw Jörn-Frederik , Brack Peter , Storck Julian-Christopher
Published: September 2017

Orbitally forced cyclic variations in sedimentary sequences provide evidence for short-term fluctuations of Earth climate and a tool for high-resolution timescale calibration. We here present stratigraphic and geochronological evidence for precession-forcing in Middle Triassic hemipelagic limestones of the Buchenstein Formation (Dolomites, northern Italy). High-resolution stratigraphy of several correlative sections of the Buchenstein Formation documents a coherent cycle pattern. Isotope dilution thermal ionization mass spectrometry zircon U–Pb geochronology of tuffs bracketing the cyclic interval reveals an average cycle duration of 18.5 ± 2.1 kyr, consistent with a shorter climatic precession cycle in the Middle Triassic compared with today. This suggests a predominantly precession-controlled climate in this low-latitude setting of the western Tethys and allows high-precision calibration of the Anisian–Ladinian boundary interval. From integrating cyclostratigraphic and U–Pb geochronological constraints, our best estimate for the age of the Anisian–Ladinian boundary is 241.464 ± 0.064/0.097/0.28 Ma. We also provide precise estimates for lithostratigraphic boundaries, biostratigraphic markers and magnetic reversals within the boundary interval. Stratigraphic intervals with elevated sedimentation rate record a sub-Milankovitch signal that may be equivalent to patterns in adjacent carbonate platforms such as the Latemar platform. The origin of this sub-Milankovitch signal remains unknown but highlights the potential to investigate shorter-term climatic variations in Mesozoic sedimentary sequences.

Supplementary material:
Isotope dilution thermal ionization mass spectrometry U–Pb and laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry trace element data tables as well as the results of the Bayesian age modelling are available at
https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.3861817
.
PPARα agonist fenofibrate enhances fatty acid β-oxidation and attenuates polycystic kidney and liver disease in mice
Authors: Lakhia Ronak , Yheskel Matanel , Flaten Andrea , Quittner-Strom Ezekiel B. , Holland William L. , Patel Vishal
Published: September 2017

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα) is a nuclear hormone receptor that promotes fatty acid β-oxidation (FAO) and oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). We and others have recently shown that PPARα and its target genes are downregulated, and FAO and OXPHOS are impaired in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). However, whether PPARα and FAO/OXPHOS are causally linked to ADPKD progression is not entirely clear. We report that expression of PPARα and FAO/OXPHOS genes is downregulated, and in vivo β-oxidation rate of3H-labeled triolein is reduced in Pkd1RC/RCmice, a slowly progressing orthologous model of ADPKD that closely mimics the human ADPKD phenotype. To evaluate the effects of upregulating PPARα, we conducted a 5-mo, randomized, preclinical trial by treating Pkd1RC/RCmice with fenofibrate, a clinically available PPARα agonist. Fenofibrate treatment resulted in increased expression of PPARα and FAO/OXPHOS genes, upregulation of peroxisomal and mitochondrial biogenesis markers, and higher β-oxidation rates in Pkd1RC/RCkidneys. MRI-assessed total kidney volume and total cyst volume, kidney-weight-to-body-weight ratio, cyst index, and serum creatinine levels were significantly reduced in fenofibrate-treated compared with untreated littermate Pkd1RC/RCmice. Moreover, fenofibrate treatment was associated with reduced kidney cyst proliferation and infiltration by inflammatory cells, including M2-like macrophages. Finally, fenofibrate treatment also reduced bile duct cyst number, cyst proliferation, and liver inflammation and fibrosis. In conclusion, our studies suggest that promoting PPARα activity to enhance mitochondrial metabolism may be a useful therapeutic strategy for ADPKD.
Sympathetic function during whole body cooling is altered in hypertensive adults
Authors: Greaney Jody L. , Kenney W. Larry , Alexander Lacy M.
Published: September 2017

During moderate cold exposure, cardiovascular-related morbidity and mortality increase disproportionately in hypertensive adults (HTN); however, the mechanisms underlying this association are not well defined. We hypothesized that whole body cold stress would evoke exaggerated increases in blood pressure (BP) and muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) in HTN compared with normotensive adults (NTN) and that sympathetic baroreflex function would be altered during cooling in HTN. MSNA (peroneal microneurography) and beat-to-beat BP (Finometer) were measured continuously in 10 NTN (6 men/4 women; age 53 ± 3 yr; resting BP 125 ± 3/79 ± 1 mmHg) and 13 HTN (7 men/6 women; age 58 ± 2 yr; resting BP 146 ± 5/88 ± 2 mmHg) during whole body cooling-induced reductions in mean skin temperature (Tsk; water-perfused suit) from 34.0 to 30.5°C. During cooling, the increase in mean arterial pressure was greater in HTN (NTN: Δ6 ± 2 vs. HTN: Δ11 ± 1 mmHg; P = 0.02) and accompanied by exaggerated increases in MSNA (NTN: Δ8 ± 3 vs. HTN: Δ20 ± 3 bursts/100 heart beats; P < 0.01). The slope of the relation between MSNA and diastolic BP did not change during cooling in NTN (Tsk 34.0°C: −4.4 ± 0.8 vs. Tsk 30.5°C: −5.0 ± 0.3 bursts·100 heart beats−1·mmHg−1; P = 0.47) but increased in HTN (Tsk 34.0°C: −3.6 ± 0.4 vs. Tsk 30.5°C: −5.4 ± 0.4 bursts·100 heart beats)−1·mmHg−1; P = 0.02). These findings demonstrate that the cooling-induced increases in BP and MSNA are exaggerated in HTN. Furthermore, during cooling, sympathetic baroreflex sensitivity increases in HTN, but not NTN, presumably to allow for baroreflex-mediated buffering of excessive cooling-induced increases in BP. Collectively, these findings suggest that sympathetic function is altered during whole body cooling in hypertension.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY These novel findings demonstrate that whole body cooling-induced reductions in mean skin temperature elicited greater increases in blood pressure and muscle sympathetic nerve activity in hypertensive adults. In addition, during moderate cold exposure, sympathetic baroreflex sensitivity increased in hypertensive, but not normotensive, adults.
Hyperpolarization-activated cyclic-nucleotide-gated channels potentially modulate axonal excitability at different thresholds
Authors: Weerasinghe Dinushi , Menon Parvathi , Vucic Steve
Published: September 2017

Hyperpolarization-activated cyclic-nucleotide-gated (HCN) channels mediate differences in sensory and motor axonal excitability at different thresholds in animal models. Importantly, HCN channels are responsible for voltage-gated inward rectifying ( Ih) currents activated during hyperpolarization. The Ih currents exert a crucial role in determining the resting membrane potential and have been implicated in a variety of neurological disorders, including neuropathic pain. In humans, differences in biophysical properties of motor and sensory axons at different thresholds remain to be elucidated and could provide crucial pathophysiological insights in peripheral neurological diseases. Consequently, the aim of this study was to characterize sensory and motor axonal function at different threshold. Median nerve motor and sensory axonal excitability studies were undertaken in 15 healthy subjects (45 studies in total). Tracking targets were set to 20, 40, and 60% of maximum for sensory and motor axons. Hyperpolarizing threshold electrotonus (TEh) at 90–100 ms was significantly increased in lower threshold sensory axons times ( F = 11.195, P < 0.001). In motor axons, the hyperpolarizing current/threshold ( I/ V) gradient was significantly increased in lower threshold axons ( F = 3.191, P < 0.05). The minimum I/ V gradient was increased in lower threshold motor and sensory axons. In conclusion, variation in the kinetics of HCN isoforms could account for the findings in motor and sensory axons. Importantly, assessing the function of HCN channels in sensory and motor axons of different thresholds may provide insights into the pathophysiological processes underlying peripheral neurological diseases in humans, particularly focusing on the role of HCN channels with the potential of identifying novel treatment targets.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Hyperpolarization-activated cyclic-nucleotide-gated (HCN) channels, which underlie inward rectifying currents ( Ih), appear to mediate differences in sensory and motor axonal properties. Inward rectifying currents are increased in lower threshold motor and sensory axons, although different HCN channel isoforms appear to underlie these changes. While faster activating HCN channels seem to underlie Ih changes in sensory axons, slower activating HCN isoforms appear to be mediating the differences in Ih conductances in motor axons of different thresholds. The differences in HCN gating properties could explain the predilection for dysfunction of sensory and motor axons in specific neurological diseases.
Assessment of Elementary School Teachers’ Level of Knowledge and Attitude regarding Traumatic Dental Injuries in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Awad Manal A. , AlHammadi Eman , Malalla Mariam , Maklai Zainab , Tariq Aisha , Al-Ali Badria , Al Jameel Alaa , El Batawi Hisham
Published: September 2017

Introduction. In this cross-sectional study, the level of knowledge and attitude of elementary school teachers regarding traumatic dental injuries (TDI) were assessed.Materials and Methods. A questionnaire was distributed to 330 elementary school teachers in 30 randomly selected schools in the Emirates of Sharjah and Dubai. The questionnaire collected information on participants’ demographic characteristics, first aid training, and attitude about emergency management of TDI.Results. 292 teachers (88%) completed the questionnaires; of these, 95% were females, and 50% of the participants had first aid training. Knowledge about tooth avulsion was inadequate, and first aid training was not associated with correct responses to management of avulsed teeth(p>0.05). A significantly higher percentage of younger teachers(p<0.05)expressed the need for future education on TDI management. A significantly higher percentage of participants who had an educational position (95%) indicated that they did not have enough knowledge regarding TDI compared to physical education teachers (79%) and administrators (87%)(p<0.05).Conclusions.Elementary school teachers in the UAE have a low level of knowledge regarding the management of dental trauma. Educational programs that address TDI are needed and could improve the elementary school teachers’ level of knowledge in emergency management of TDI.
Two‐Dimensional Simulation of Flows in an Open Channel with Groin‐Like Structures by iRIC Nays2DH
Authors: Ali Md. Shahjahan , Hasan Md. Milon , Haque Masuma
Published: September 2017

This study presents the results obtained from the numerical simulation on turbulent flows around a single groin for different orientations. Here iRIC Nays2DH, which is based on 2D model, is used to simulate the flows in a straight open channel with groin of 45°, 90°, and 135° angled with the approaching flow. A depth‐averaged k- ε model is used as turbulence closure model with finite differential advections as upwind scheme. The numerical results of velocity and bed shear stress profiles are compared with the available experimental data. Good agreements are found between experimental and calculated results. From the simulation, it is observed that the peak of velocity and bed shear stress is maximum at the position of head of groin when lateral distance y/l = 1, where l is the groin length. The position of maximum velocity and bed shear stress is found to be shifted towards downstream with increasing y/l. The maximum velocity and bed shear stress for 135° groin are found lower than the other two cases for all the sections of y/l.
Numerical Analysis of Ground Motion Effects in the Loess Regions of Western China
Authors: Chen Tuo , Ma Wei , Wang Jianzhou
Published: September 2017

Loess is widely distributed in the western part of China and its area comprises 6.6% of Chinese territory. Because of the characteristics of high porosity, low strength, and weak cementation, the loess is characterized by high seismic vulnerability which has been observed and confirmed by many researchers at home and abroad. The postquake field investigation and the laboratory study have shown that the ground motion effects, including the amplification effects and slope effects, were obvious in loess sites. Moreover, the causes of landslides, seismic subsidence, and liquefaction were mainly attributed to this special soil structure and properties. In this paper, based on the data of shear wave velocity of typical loess in Lanzhou region, combining the results of dynamic triaxial tests, the numerical analysis of ground motion effects in the loess regions is analyzed. The results reveal how the ground motion effects are checked and demonstrated the important role of numerical simulations while studying the characteristics of ground motions.
Phage-Displayed Peptides Selected to Bind Envelope Glycoprotein Show Antiviral Activity against Dengue Virus Serotype 2
Authors: de la Guardia Carolina , Quijada Mario , Lleonart Ricardo
Published: September 2017

Dengue virus is a growing public health threat that affects hundreds of million peoples every year and leave huge economic and social damage. The virus is transmitted by mosquitoes and the incidence of the disease is increasing, among other causes, due to the geographical expansion of the vector’s range and the lack of effectiveness in public health interventions in most prevalent countries. So far, no highly effective vaccine or antiviral has been developed for this virus. Here we employed phage display technology to identify peptides able to block the DENV2. A random peptide library presented in M13 phages was screened with recombinant dengue envelope and its fragment domain III. After four rounds of panning, several binding peptides were identified, synthesized, and tested against the virus. Three peptides were able to block the infectivity of the virus while not being toxic to the target cells. Blind docking simulations were done to investigate the possible mode of binding, showing that all peptides appear to bind domain III of the protein and may be mostly stabilized by hydrophobic interactions. These results are relevant to the development of novel therapeutics against this important virus.
Coliform Bacteria for Bioremediation of Waste Hydrocarbons
Authors: Khanafer Majida , Al-Awadhi Husain , Radwan Samir
Published: September 2017

Raw, domestic sewage of Kuwait City contained about 106 ml−1colony forming units ofEnterobacter hormaecheisubsp.oharae(56.6%),Klebsiellaspp. (36%), andEscherichia coli(7.4%), as characterized by their 16S rRNA-gene sequences. The isolated coliforms grew successfully on a mineral medium with crude oil vapor as a sole source of carbon and energy. Those strains also grew, albeit to different degrees, on individualn-alkanes with carbon chains between C9and C36and on the individual aromatic hydrocarbons, toluene, naphthalene, phenanthrene, and biphenyl as sole sources of carbon and energy. These results imply that coliforms, like other hydrocarbonoclastic microorganisms, oxidize hydrocarbons to the corresponding alcohols and then to aldehydes and fatty acids which are biodegraded byβ-oxidation to acetyl CoA. The latter is a well-known key intermediate in cell material and energy production.E. colicells grown in the presence ofn-hexadecane (but not in its absence) exhibited typical intracellular hydrocarbon inclusions, as revealed by transmission electron microscopy. Raw sewage samples amended with crude oil,n-hexadecane, or phenanthrene lost these hydrocarbons gradually with time. Meanwhile, the numbers of total and individual coliforms, particularlyEnterobacter, increased. It was concluded that coliform bacteria in domestic sewage, probably in other environmental materials too, are effective hydrocarbon-biodegrading microorganisms.
Serum Uric Acid Is Associated with Poor Outcome in Black Africans in the Acute Phase of Stroke
Authors: Mapoure Yacouba N. , Ayeah Chia Mark , Doualla M. S. , Ba H. , Ngahane Hugo B. Mbatchou , Mbahe Salomon , Luma Henry N.
Published: September 2017

Background.Prognostic significance of serum uric acid (SUA) in acute stroke still remains controversial.Objectives.To determine the prevalence of hyperuricemia and its association with outcome of stroke patients in the Douala General Hospital (DGH).Methods.This was a hospital based prospective cohort study which included acute stroke patients with baseline SUA levels and 3-month poststroke follow-up data. Associations between high SUA levels and stroke outcomes were analyzed using multiple logistic regression and survival analysis (Cox regression and Kaplan-Meier).Results.A total of 701 acute stroke patients were included and the prevalence of hyperuricemia was 46.6% with a mean SUA level of 68.625 ± 24 mg/l. Elevated SUA after stroke was associated with death (OR = 2.067; 95% CI: 1.449–2.950;p< 0.001) but did not predict this issue. However, an independent association between increasing SUA concentration and mortality was noted in a Cox proportional hazards regression model (adjusted HR = 1.740; 95% CI: 1.305–2.320;p< 0.001). Furthermore, hyperuricemia was an independent predictor of poor functional outcome within 3 months after stroke (OR = 2.482; 95% CI: 1.399–4.404;p= 0.002).Conclusion.The prevalence of hyperuricemia in black African stroke patients is quite high and still remains a predictor of poor outcome.
Knitting the Threads of Silk through Time: Behçet’s Disease—Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Adeeb Fahd , Stack Austin G. , Fraser Alexander D.
Published: September 2017

Behçet’s disease (BD) is a chronic relapsing vasculitis that affects vessels of all types and sizes with a broad spectrum of phenotypic heterogeneity and complex immunopathogenesis. Efforts by the scientific community to resolve the unmet needs of BD and gaps in our knowledge have been hampered by considerable challenges that primarily relate to the rare nature of the disease in many parts of the world and its heterogeneity. Controversies remain in many aspects of the disease including the diagnostic criteria, immunopathogenesis and biomarker discovery, geographical variation, and therapeutic considerations. In this review, we highlight recent advances in our scientific understanding of BD, shed new insights into diagnostic and treatment strategies, and discuss residual gaps in our knowledge that will serve as the basis for current and future research.
Insulin-Like Growth Factor Binding Protein-6 Alters Skeletal Muscle Differentiation of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Aboalola Doaa , Han Victor K. M.
Published: September 2017

Insulin-like growth factor binding protein-6 (IGFBP-6), the main regulator of insulin-like growth factor-2 (IGF-2), is a component of the stem cell niche in developing muscle cells. However, its role in muscle development has not been clearly defined. In this study, we investigated the role of IGFBP-6 in muscle commitment and differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells derived from the placenta. We showed that placental mesenchymal stem cells (PMSCs) have the ability to differentiate into muscle cells when exposed to a specific culture medium by expressing muscle markers Pax3/7, MyoD, myogenin, and myosin heavy chain in a stage-dependent manner with the ultimate formation of multinucleated fibers and losing pluripotency-associated markers, OCT4 and SOX2. The addition of IGFBP-6 significantly increased pluripotency-associated markers as well as muscle differentiation markers at earlier time points, but the latter decreased with time. On the other hand, silencing IGFBP-6 decreased both pluripotent and differentiation markers at early time points. The levels of these markers increased as IGFBP-6 levels were restored. These findings indicate that IGFBP-6 influences MSC pluripotency and myogenic differentiation, with more prominent effects observed at the beginning of the differentiation process before muscle commitment.
MicroRNAs Regulate Thymic Epithelium in Age-Related Thymic Involution via Down- or Upregulation of Transcription Factors
Authors: Xu Minwen , Zhang Xiaoli , Hong Ruiyun , Su Dong-Ming , Wang Liefeng
Published: September 2017

Age-related thymic involution is primarily induced by defects in nonhematopoietic thymic epithelial cells (TECs). It is characterized by dysfunction of multiple transcription factors (TFs), such asp63andFoxN1, and also involves other TEC-associated regulators, such asAire. These TFs and regulators are controlled by complicated regulatory networks, in which microRNAs (miRNAs) act as a key player. miRNAs can either directly target the 3′-UTRs (untranslated regions) of the TFs to suppress TF expression or target TF inhibitors to reduce or increase TF inhibitor expression and thereby indirectly enhance or inhibit TF expression. Here, we review the current understanding and recent studies about how miRNAs are involved in age-related thymic involution via regulation of TEC-autonomous TFs. We also discuss potential strategies for targeting miRNAs to rejuvenate age-related declined thymic function.
Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis: Persistent Sore Throat and Dysphagia in an Elderly Smoker Male
Authors: Goico-Alburquerque Ana , Zulfiqar Beenish , Antoine Ranae , Samee Mohammed
Published: September 2017

Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) is rarely symptomatic. However, it can present with dyspnea, hoarseness, dysphagia, and stridor. An 80-year-old chronic smoker male presented with 6-month history of sore throat and progressive dysphagia. Computed tomography of the neck revealed bulky anterior bridging syndesmophytes along the anterior aspect of the cervical spine and facet effusion involving four contiguous vertebrae consistent with DISH. Dysphagia secondary to DISH was diagnosed. Fiberoptic laryngoscopy showed bilateral vocal cord paralysis. Patient’s airway became compromised requiring tracheostomy tube placement. After discussion of therapeutic options, patient agreed on a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube insertion for nutritional support. Osteophytectomy was left to be discussed further.
Mycochemical Characterization of Agaricus subrufescens considering Their Morphological and Physiological Stage of Maturity on the Traceability Process
Authors: Zied Diego Cunha , Pardo Jose E , Tomaz Rafael Simões , Miasaki Celso Tadao , Pardo-Giménez Arturo
Published: September 2017

Agaricus subrufescens Peck is a basidiomycete with immunomodulatory compounds and antitumor activities. This research evaluated the mycochemical composition of A. subrufescens, considering their morphological and physiological stage of maturity, with a particular focus on the development of a traceability process for the formulation of new nutritional products based on fungal foods. The stipes contained a high amount of dry matter (10.33%), total carbohydrate (69.56%), available carbohydrate (63.89%), and energy value (363.97 kcal 100 g−1 DM). The pilei contained a high amount of moisture (90.66%), nitrogen (7.75%), protein (33.96%), ash (8.24), crude fat (2.44%), acid detergent fiber (16.75 g kg−1), neutral detergent fiber (41.82 g kg−1), hemicellulose (25.07 g kg−1), and lignin (9.77 g kg−1). Stipes with mature physiological stage had higher values of dry matter (10.50%), crude fiber (5.94%), total carbohydrate (72.82%), AC (66.88%), and energy value (364.91 kcal 100 g−1 DM). Pilei of the mushrooms in the immature physiological stage had higher values of P (36.83%), N (8.41%), and A (8.44%). Due to the differences between the mycochemical compositions of the morphological parts of mushrooms linked to their physiological stage of maturity, such characteristics have immense potential to be considered for a traceability process. This study can be used for the purpose of providing the consumer with more product diversity, optimizing bioactivities of composts, and allowing farmers an efficient and profitable use of the mushroom biomass.
Recovery from Repeated Sudden Hearing Loss in a Patient with Takayasu’s Arteritis Treated with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: The First Report in the Literature
Authors: Ralli Massimo , Greco Antonio , Falasca Vincenzo , Altissimi Giancarlo , Tombolini Mario , Turchetta Rosaria , de Fazio Sara , de Vincentiis Marco , Cianfrone Giancarlo
Published: September 2017

Hearing loss has been rarely reported in Takayasu’s arteritis, may present as Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss, and usually responds well to corticosteroid therapy. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is commonly used as a supplementary treatment to corticosteroids for Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss. We present the case of a 36-year-old woman with Takayasu’s arteritis who had two episodes of sudden hearing loss involving one ear at a time with an 11-month delay between each episode. During the first episode, the patient was treated with high-dose intramuscular corticosteroids with a temporary improvement of auditory threshold that deteriorated 14 days after cessation of therapy. In the second episode, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy was associated with corticosteroids, with improvements in both ears, including the one that was unresponsive in the long term to previous pharmacologic therapy. In this case, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy could have acted synergically with corticosteroids playing a role in hearing restoration.
Fatigue Evaluation of Recycled Asphalt Mixture Based on Energy-Controlled Mode
Authors: Ma Tao , Cui Kai , Zhao Yongli , Huang Xiaoming
Published: September 2017

The fatigue properties of asphalt mixtures are important inputs for mechanistic-empirical pavement design. To understand the fatigue properties of asphalt mixtures better and to predict the fatigue life of asphalt mixtures more precisely, the energy-controlled test mode was introduced. Based on the implementation theory, the laboratory practice for the energy-controlled mode was realized using a four-point-bending fatigue test with multiple-step loading. In this mode, the fatigue performance of typical AC-20 asphalt specimens with various reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) contents was tested and evaluated. Results show that the variation regulation of the dissipated energy and accumulative energy is compatible with the loading control principle, which proves the feasibility of the method. In addition, the fatigue life of the asphalt mixture in the energy-controlled mode was between that for the stress-controlled and strain-controlled modes. The specimen with a higher RAP content has a longer fatigue life and better fatigue performance.
Expression and Role of the Calcium‐Sensing Receptor in Rat Peripheral Blood Polymorphonuclear Neutrophils
Authors: Zhai Tai-yu , Cui Bao-hong , Zou Lei , Zeng Jing-ya , Gao Song , Zhao Qianyu , Wang Yuan , Xie Wan-lin , Sun Yi-hua
Published: September 2017

The calcium‐sensing receptors (CaSRs) play an important role in many tissues and organs that are involved in inflammatory reactions. Peripheral blood polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs) are important inflammatory cells. However, the expression and functions of CaSR in peripheral blood PMNs are still not reported. In this study, we collected rat peripheral blood PMNs to observe the relationship between CaSR and PMNs. From the results, we found first that the CaSR protein was expressed in PMNs, and it increased after PMNs were activated with fMLP. In addition, CaSR activator cincalcet promoted the expression of CaSR and P‐p65 (NF‐κB signaling pathway protein) and Bcl‐xl (antiapoptosis protein), and it increased the secretion of interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and myeloperoxidase (MPO); meanwhile, it decreased proapoptosis protein Bax expression and the production of IL‐10 and reactive oxygen species (ROS). At the same time, cincalcet also decreased the PMN apoptosis rate analyzed by flow cytometry. However, CaSR inhibitor NPS‐2143 and NF‐κB signaling pathway inhibitor PDTC reverse the results cited earlier. All of these results indicated that CaSR can regulate PMN functions and status to play a role in inflammation, which is probably through the NF‐κB signaling pathway.
Extrinsic Apoptosis Pathway Altered by Glycogen Synthase Kinase-3β Inhibitor Influences the Net Drug Effect on NSC-34 Motor Neuron-Like Cell Survival
Authors: Kim Jee-Eun , Lim Jung Hyun , Jeon Gye Sun , Shin Je-Young , Ahn Suk-Won , Kim Seung Hyun , Lee Kwang-Woo , Hong Yoon-Ho , Sung Jung-Joon
Published: September 2017

Glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) inhibitors have been suggested as a core regulator of apoptosis and have been investigated as therapeutic agents for neurodegenerative diseases, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. However, GSK-3β has an interesting paradoxical effect of being proapoptotic during mitochondrial-mediated intrinsic apoptosis but antiapoptotic during death receptor-mediated extrinsic apoptosis. We assessed the effect of low to high doses of a GSK-3β inhibitor on survival and apoptosis of the NSC-34 motor neuron-like cell line after serum withdrawal. Then, we identified changes in extrinsic apoptosis markers, including Fas, Fas ligand, cleaved caspase-8, p38α, and the Fas-Daxx interaction. The GSK-3β inhibitor had an antiapoptotic effect at the low dose but was proapoptotic at the high dose. Proapoptotic effect at the high dose can be explained by increased signals in cleaved caspase-8 and the motor neuron-specific p38α and Fas-Daxx interaction. Our results suggest that GSK-3β inhibitor dose may determine the summation effect of the intrinsic and extrinsic apoptosis pathways. The extrinsic apoptosis pathway might be another therapeutic target for developing a potential GSK-3β inhibitor.
Surface Plasmon Enhanced Light Trapping in Metal/Silicon Nanobowl Arrays for Thin Film Photovoltaics
Authors: Sun Ruinan , Fu Haoxin , Wang Jiang , Wang Yachun , Du Xingchen , Zhao Haichuan , Huo Chenliang , Peng Kuiqing
Published: September 2017

Enhancing the light absorption in thin film silicon solar cells with nanophotonic and plasmonic structures is important for the realization of high efficiency solar cells with significant cost reduction. In this work, we investigate periodic arrays of conformal metal/silicon nanobowl arrays (MSNBs) for light trapping applications in silicon solar cells. They exhibited excellent light-harvesting ability across a wide range of wavelengths up to infrared regimes. The optimized structure (MSNBsH) covered by SiO2 passivation layer and hemisphere Ag back reflection layer has a maximal short-circuit density (Jsc) 25.5 mA/cm2, which is about 88.8% higher than flat structure counterpart, and the light-conversion efficiency (η) is increased two times from 6.3% to 12.6%. The double-side textures offer a promising approach to high efficiency ultrathin silicon solar cells.
Effects of Blanching and Natural Convection Solar Drying on Quality Characteristics of Red Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.)
Authors: Owusu-Kwarteng James , Kori Francis K. K. , Akabanda Fortune
Published: September 2017

The objective of this work was to determine the effects of blanching and two drying methods, open-sun drying and natural convection solar drying, on the quality characteristics of red pepper. A 2 × 3 factorial design with experimental factors as 2 drying methods (open-sun drying and use of solar dryer) and 3 levels of pepper blanching (unblanched, blanched in plain water, and blanched in 2% NaCl) was conducted. Dried pepper samples were analysed for chemical composition, microbial load, and consumer sensory acceptability. Blanching of pepper in 2% NaCl solution followed by drying in a natural convection solar dryer reduced drying time by 15 hours. Similarly, a combination of blanching and drying in the solar dryer improved microbial quality of dried pepper. However, blanching and drying processes resulted in reduction in nutrients such as vitamin C and minerals content of pepper. Blanching followed by drying in natural convection solar dryer had the highest consumer acceptability scores for colour and overall acceptability, while texture and aroma were not significantly (p>0.05) affected by the different treatments. Therefore, natural convection solar dryer can be used to dry pepper with acceptable microbial and sensory qualities, as an alternative to open-sun drying.
Heme Oxygenase Induction Suppresses Hepatic Hepcidin and Rescues Ferroportin and Ferritin Expression in Obese Mice
Authors: Puri Nitin , Arefiev Yevgeniy , Chao Robert , Sacerdoti David , Chaudry Hibba , Nichols Alexandra , Srikanthan Krithika , Nawab Athar , Sharma Dana , Lakhani Vishal Hari , Klug Rebecca , Sodhi Komal , Peterson Stephen J.
Published: September 2017

Hepcidin, a phase II reactant secreted by hepatocytes, regulates cellular iron levels by increasing internalization of ferroportin-a transmembrane protein facilitating egress of cellular iron. Chronic low-grade inflammatory states, such as obesity, have been shown to increase oxidative stress and enhance hepcidin secretion from hepatocytes and macrophages. Heme-heme oxygenase (HO) is a stress response system which reduces oxidative stress. We investigated the effects of HO-1 induction on hepatic hepcidin levels and on iron homeostasis in hepatic tissues from lean and obese mice. Obese mice exhibited hyperglycemia (p<0.05); increased levels of proinflammatory cytokines (MCP-1, IL-6,p<0.05); oxidative stress (p<0.05); and increased hepatic hepcidin levels (p<0.05). Enhancement of hepcidin was reflected in the reduced expression of ferroportin in obese mice (p<0.05). However, this effect is accompanied by a significant decline in ferritin expression. Additionally, there are reduced insulin receptor phosphorylation and attenuation of metabolic regulators pAMPK, pAKT, and pLKB1. Cobalt protoporphyrin- (CoPP-) induced HO-1 upregulation in obese mice reversed these alterations (p<0.05), while attenuating hepatic hepcidin levels. These effects of CoPP were prevented in obese mice concurrently exposed to an inhibitor of HO (SnMP) (p<0.05). Our results highlight a modulatory effect of HO on iron homeostasis mediated through the suppression of hepatic hepcidin.
Optical Network Models and Their Application to Software-Defined Network Management
Authors: Szyrkowiec Thomas , Autenrieth Achim , Kellerer Wolfgang
Published: September 2017

Software-defined networking is finding its way into optical networks. Here, it promises a simplification and unification of network management for optical networks allowing automation of operational tasks despite the highly diverse and vendor-specific commercial systems and the complexity and analog nature of optical transmission. Common abstractions and interfaces are a fundamental component for software-defined optical networking. Currently, a number of models for optical networks are available. They all claim to provide open and vendor agnostic management of optical equipment. In this work, we survey and compare the most important models and propose an intent interface for creating virtual topologies which is integrated in the existing model ecosystem.