bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SELF-SIMILAR SUBSETS OF SYMMETRIC CANTOR SETS
Authors: ZENG YING
Published: December 2016

This paper concerns the affine embeddings of general symmetric Cantor sets. Under certain condition, we show that if a self-similar set [Formula: see text] can be affinely embedded into a symmetric Cantor set [Formula: see text], then their contractions are rationally commensurable. Our result supports Conjecture 1.2 in [D. J. Feng, W. Huang and H. Rao, Affine embeddings and intersections of Cantor sets, J. Math. Pures Appl. 102 (2014) 1062–1079].
An efficient controlled quantum secure direct communication and authentication by using four particle cluster states
Authors: Nanvakenari Milad , Houshmand Monireh
Published: December 2016

In this paper, a three-party controlled quantum secure direct communication and authentication (QSDCA) protocol is proposed by using four particle cluster states via a quantum one-time pad and local unitary operations. In the present scheme, only under the permission of the controller, the sender and the receiver can implement secure direct communication successfully. But under any circumstances, Charlie cannot obtain the secret message. Eavesdropping detection and identity authentication are achieved with the help of the previously shared reusable base identity strings of users. This protocol is unconditionally secure in both ideal and practical noisy cases. In one transmission, a qubit of each four particle cluster state is used as controller’s permission and the same qubit with another qubit are used to recover two classical bits of information. In the proposed scheme, the efficiency is improved compared with the previous works.
Construction of new quantum MDS codes derived from constacyclic codes
Authors: Taneja Divya , Gupta Manish , Narula Rajesh , Bhullar Jaskaran
Published: December 2016

Obtaining quantum maximum distance separable (MDS) codes from dual containing classical constacyclic codes using Hermitian construction have paved a path to undertake the challenges related to such constructions. Using the same technique, some new parameters of quantum MDS codes have been constructed here. One set of parameters obtained in this paper has achieved much larger distance than work done earlier. The remaining constructed parameters of quantum MDS codes have large minimum distance and were not explored yet.
Arguing the Case to Include a Wider Range of Stakeholders in the Murray–Darling Basin Policy Process
Authors: Connell Daniel
Published: December 2016

Implementation of water reform in the Murray–Darling Basin has stalled. The principles remain in legislation, but government priorities are increasingly focused on irrigation-based agriculture rather than the comprehensive range of stakeholders with a legitimate interest in decisions about the future of the MDB. The negotiations required to gain parliamentary approval of the MDB Basin Plan in 2012 resulted in extensive concessions. Some have seriously damaged its integrity as a reform package. Within this now fragmented policy framework, the utility of important individual components has been eroded. These include acceptance of the need for a comprehensive analytical framework able to take full account of costs and benefits, the precautionary principle, the beneficiary pays principle, consistent policies for assigning public benefit from public investment, the importance of a comprehensive whole-of-catchment framework for managing social and biophysical processes and the understanding that serious water reform requires change in the cultural values related to the water-human relationship. As a result of these compromises, the capacity of the Basin Plan framework to manage future climate change challenges and development pressures is in doubt. Can this trend be reversed? The paper argues for a revitalization of the public policy process to bring in a wider range of stakeholders and expose decision making to more rigorous assessment. To help achieve this goal, control over a substantial proportion of the environmental water entitlements acquired by the national government should be devolved to elected regional bodies (who would have to work within auditing guidelines). This would stimulate community involvement by providing a substantial activity that would make engagement worthwhile.
Muscle damage and inflammation during recovery from exercise
Authors: Peake Jonathan M. , Neubauer Oliver , Della Gatta Paul A. , Nosaka Kazunori
Published: December 2016

Unaccustomed exercise consisting of eccentric (i.e., lengthening) muscle contractions often results in muscle damage characterized by ultrastructural alterations in muscle tissue, clinical signs, and symptoms (e.g., reduced muscle strength and range of motion, increased muscle soreness and swelling, efflux of myocellular proteins). The time course of recovery following exercise-induced muscle damage depends on the extent of initial muscle damage, which in turn is influenced by the intensity and duration of exercise, joint angle/muscle length, and muscle groups used during exercise. The effects of these factors on muscle strength, soreness, and swelling are well characterized. By contrast, much less is known about how they affect intramuscular inflammation and molecular aspects of muscle adaptation/remodeling. Although inflammation has historically been viewed as detrimental for recovery from exercise, it is now generally accepted that inflammatory responses, if tightly regulated, are integral to muscle repair and regeneration. Animal studies have revealed that various cell types, including neutrophils, macrophages, mast cells, eosinophils, CD8 and T-regulatory lymphocytes, fibro-adipogenic progenitors, and pericytes help to facilitate muscle tissue regeneration. However, more research is required to determine whether these cells respond to exercise-induced muscle damage. A large body of research has investigated the efficacy of physicotherapeutic, pharmacological, and nutritional interventions for reducing the signs and symptoms of exercise-induced muscle damage, with mixed results. More research is needed to examine if/how these treatments influence inflammation and muscle remodeling during recovery from exercise.
Effect of Dendrobium officinale Extraction on Gastric Carcinogenesis in Rats
Authors: Zhao Yi , Liu Yan , Lan Xi-Ming , Xu Guo-Liang , Sun You-Zhi , Li Fei , Liu Hong-Ning
Published: December 2016

Dendrobium officinale (Tie Pi Shi Hu in Chinese) has been widely used to treat different diseases in China. Anticancer effect is one of the important effects of Dendrobium officinale. However, the molecular mechanism of its anticancer effect remains unclear. In the present study, gastric carcinogenesis in rats was used to evaluate the effect of Dendrobium officinale on cancer, and its pharmacological mechanism was explored. Dendrobium officinale extracts (4.8 and 2.4 g/kg) were orally administered to the rats of the gastric carcinogenesis model. Compared with the cancer model group, the high dose of Dendrobium officinale extracts significantly inhibited the rate of carcinogenesis. Further analysis revealed that Dendrobium officinale extracts could regulate the DNA damage, oxidative stress, and cytokines related with carcinogenesis and induce cell apoptosis in order to prevent gastric cancer.
A New Methodology for Solving Trajectory Planning and Dynamic Load-Carrying Capacity of a Robot Manipulator
Authors: Guo Wanjin , Li Ruifeng , Cao Chuqing , Tong Xunwei , Gao Yunfeng
Published: December 2016

A new methodology using a direct method for obtaining the best found trajectory planning and maximum dynamic load-carrying capacity (DLCC) is presented for a 5-degree of freedom (DOF) hybrid robot manipulator. A nonlinear constrained multiobjective optimization problem is formulated with four objective functions, namely, travel time, total energy involved in the motion, joint jerks, and joint acceleration. The vector of decision variables is defined by the sequence of the time-interval lengths associated with each two consecutive via-points on the desired trajectory of the 5-DOF robot generalized coordinates. Then this vector of decision variables is computed in order to minimize the cost function (which is the weighted sum of these four objective functions) subject to constraints on joint positions, velocities, acceleration, jerks, forces/torques, and payload mass. Two separate approaches are proposed to deal with the trajectory planning problem and the maximum DLCC calculation for the 5-DOF robot manipulator using an evolutionary optimization technique. The adopted evolutionary algorithm is the elitist nondominated sorting genetic algorithm (NSGA-II). A numerical application is performed for obtaining best found solutions of trajectory planning and maximum DLCC calculation for the 5-DOF hybrid robot manipulator.
Predictors of Improved Walking after a Supervised Walking Exercise Program in Men and Women with Peripheral Artery Disease
Authors: Gardner Andrew W. , Parker Donald E. , Montgomery Polly S.
Published: December 2016

We compared the changes in ambulatory outcomes between men and women with symptomatic peripheral arterial disease (PAD) following completion of a supervised, on-site, treadmill exercise program, and we determined whether exercise training variables and baseline clinical characteristics were predictive of changes in ambulatory outcomes in men and women. Twenty-three men and 25 women completed the supervised exercise program, consisting of intermittent walking to mild-to-moderate claudication pain for three months. Men and women significantly increased claudication onset time (COT) (p<0.001andp<0.01, resp.) and peak walking time (PWT) (p<0.001for each group). However, change in PWT was less in women (54%) than in men (77%) (p<0.05). Neither group significantly changed 6-minute walk distance (6MWD). In women, baseline COT was the only predictor for the change in COT (p=0.007) and the change in PWT (p=0.094). In men, baseline COT (p<0.01) and obesity (p<0.10) were predictors for the change in COT, and obesity was the only predictor for the change in PWT (p=0.002). Following a supervised, on-site, treadmill exercise program, women had less improvement in PWT than men, and neither men nor women improved submaximal, overground 6MWD. Furthermore, obese men and patients with lower baseline COT were least responsive to supervised exercise. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrial.gov, unique identifier:NCT00618670.
Novel Browning Agents, Mechanisms, and Therapeutic Potentials of Brown Adipose Tissue
Authors: Wankhade Umesh D. , Shen Michael , Yadav Hariom , Thakali Keshari M.
Published: December 2016

Nonshivering thermogenesis is the process of biological heat production in mammals and is primarily mediated by brown adipose tissue (BAT). Through ubiquitous expression of uncoupling protein 1 (Ucp1) on the mitochondrial inner membrane, BAT displays uncoupling of fuel combustion and ATP production in order to dissipate energy as heat. Because of its crucial role in regulating energy homeostasis, ongoing exploration of BAT has emphasized its therapeutic potential in addressing the global epidemics of obesity and diabetes. The recent appreciation that adult humans possess functional BAT strengthens this prospect. Furthermore, it has been identified that there are both classical brown adipocytes residing in dedicated BAT depots and “beige” adipocytes residing in white adipose tissue depots that can acquire BAT-like characteristics in response to environmental cues. This review aims to provide a brief overview of BAT research and summarize recent findings concerning the physiological, cellular, and developmental characteristics of brown adipocytes. In addition, some key genetic, molecular, and pharmacologic targets of BAT/Beige cells that have been reported to have therapeutic potential to combat obesity will be discussed.
Macroscopic Profile Modification and Microscopic Displacement Mechanism of Weak Gel Flowing in Porous Media
Authors: Wang Jian , Kang Bo , Zhang Liehui , Darowska Beata Joanna , Xu Peng
Published: December 2016

In this paper, the flowing mechanism and function on the macroscopic and microscopic scale in the porous media of a widely used weak gel of an acrylamide based polymer crosslinked with chromium(III) were studied. Innovative microscopic plane visualization model was designed for microscopic scale experiment and sand pack physical model for macroscopic scale. The microscopic displacing experiments indicate that weak gel mainly intrudes into big pores rather than small ones, which can improve the conformance horizontally and increase the sweep efficiency benefiting from fluid diversion. Additionally, due to good viscoelasticity of weak gel, the negative pressure effect was formed enhancing oil recovery flow from small pore throats. Results of macroscopic physical sand pack flow experiment indicate positive influence of weak gel on vertical conformance control. Although the high permeable layer was not completely blocked, the oil recovery improved as a result of weak gel movement by continuous water flooding. Experiments results lead to conclusion, the primary function of weak gel is oil displacement, profile modification is secondary, and its effect is temporary.
Circadian Rhythm and Stress Response in Droppings ofSerinus canaria
Authors: Turriani Maura , Bernabò Nicola , Barboni Barbara , Todisco Gianluca , Montini Luigi , Berardinelli Paolo
Published: December 2016

Serinus canariais a widespread domestic ornamental songbird, whose limited knowledge of biology make compelling studies aimed to monitor stress. Here, a commercial enzyme immunoassay was adopted to measure immunoreactive corticosterone (CORT) in singleSerinus canariadropping sample, to monitor the daily fecal excretion of CORT in birds bred singly or in-group and to detect the effect promoted by aviary or small transport cage restraint. A robust daily rhythm of CORT was recorded in animals held on short-day light cycle, independent of bred conditions (single or group), which persisted when space availability was modified in single bred animal (transfer in aviary and transport cages). By contrast, a significant change in CORT excretion was recorded when group bred animals are restrained in a smaller cage. The daily rhythm in CORT excretion in response to manipulation showed the greatest response at the beginning of the light period, followed by the absence of the peak usually recorded at the end of the dark phase. These data indicated that EIA could be used as a reliable noninvasive approach to monitor the stress induced by restraint conditions inSerinus canaria.
Adsorption Mechanism of Cu-Doped SnO2 (110) Surface toward H2 Dissolved in Power Transformer
Authors: Wang Feng , Fan Jingmin , Sun Qiuqin , Jiang Qinji , Chen She , Zhou Wu
Published: December 2016

The content of hydrogen is a key quantity in condition assessment and fault diagnosis of power transformer. Based on the density functional theory (DFT), the adsorption mechanism of Cu-doped SnO2 surface toward H2 has been systematically studied in this work. Firstly, the relaxation, the bond length, and overlap population of both the pure and Cu-doped SnO2 are computed. To determine the optimal doping position, the formation energies of four potential sites (i.e., Sn5c, Sn6c, Sn5c-s, and Sn6c-s) are then compared with each other. The adsorption energy and the electronic structure of SnO2 surface are analysed and discussed in detail. Furthermore, to estimate the partial atomic charges and the electrical conductance, the Mulliken population analysis is also performed. It has been found that the bridge oxygen is the most favourable position. The partial density of states of H2 after adsorption is broadened and shifted close to the Fermi level. A large amount of charges would be transferred and then released back into its conduction band, leading to the reduction of resistance and the enhancement of sensitivity toward H2. The results of this work provide references for SnO2-based sensor design.
Vulvar Lobular Capillary Hemangioma: A Rare Location for a Frequent Entity
Authors: Abreu-dos-Santos F. , Câmara S. , Reis F. , Freitas T. , Gaspar H. , Cordeiro M.
Published: December 2016

Lobular capillary hemangioma, or pyogenic granuloma, is an acquired hemorrhagic benign vascular lesion of the skin and mucous membranes. The pyogenic granuloma of the vulva is a rare finding and a limited number of case reports are available in the literature. To the best of our knowledge this is the first case described as a single pyogenic granuloma on the vulva.
Orotracheal Intubation Using the Retromolar Space: A Reliable Alternative Intubation Approach to Prevent Dental Injury
Authors: Nguyen Linh T. , Thakar Sudip D. , Truong Angela T. , Truong Dam-Thuy
Published: December 2016

Despite recent advances in airway management, perianesthetic dental injury remains one of the most common anesthesia-related adverse events and cause for malpractice litigation against anesthesia providers. Recommended precautions for prevention of dental damage may not always be effective because these techniques involve contact and pressure exerted on vulnerable teeth. We describe a novel approach using the retromolar space to insert a flexible fiberscope for tracheal tube placement as a reliable method to achieve atraumatic tracheal intubation. Written consent for publication has been obtained from the patient.
Potential Osteoinductive Effects of Calcitriol on the m-RNA of Mesenchymal Stem Cells Derived from Human Alveolar Periosteum
Authors: Hong Hsiang-Hsi , Hong Adrienne , Yen Tzung-Hai , Wang Yen-Li
Published: December 2016

This study characterized alveolar periosteum-derived mesenchymal stem cells (P-MSCs) and examined the hypothesis that 1,25-(OH)2D3(calcitriol) exerts osteoinductive effects on P-MSCs. The mRNA expressions of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), bone sialoprotein (BSP), core-binding factor alpha-1 (CBFA1), collagen-1 (Col-1), osteocalcin (OCN), and vitamin D3receptor (VDR) were assessed after incubation with calcitriol for 2 weeks. Vitamin C as positive control (Vit. C-p) increased ALP and CBFA1 mRNA expression at both 1 and 2 weeks and increased BSP and Col-1 mRNA expression only at the first week. A concentration of 10−8 M calcitriol enhanced ALP, CBFA1, Col-1, and OCN mRNA expression at both weeks and BSP mRNA expression at the first week. Furthermore, 10−7 M calcitriol increased the mRNA expressions of all compounds at both weeks, except that of CBFA1 at the first week. 10−8 M calcitriol and Vit. C-p enhanced ALP activity at the second and third weeks. The results revealed that 10−9, 10−8, and 10−7 M calcitriol induced osteoinduction in alveolar P-MSCs by increasing ALP, CBFA1, Col-1, and OCN mRNA expression. A 10−7 M calcitriol yielded a higher mRNA expression than Vit. Cp on VDR and OCN mRNA expression at both weeks and on Col-1 mRNA at the second week.
Geminated Maxillary Lateral Incisor with Two Root Canals
Authors: Romano Nayara , Souza-Flamini Luis Eduardo , Mendonça Isabela Lima , Silva Ricardo Gariba , Cruz-Filho Antonio Miranda
Published: December 2016

This paper reports a case of gemination in a maxillary lateral incisor with two root canals and crown-root dilaceration. A 16-year-old male patient was referred for endodontic treatment of the maxillary left lateral incisor and evaluation of esthetic and functional complaints in the anterior region. The patient reported trauma to the anterior primary teeth. There was no spontaneous pain, but the tooth responded positively to the vertical percussion test and negatively to the pulp vitality test. Clinical examination showed esthetic and functional alterations and normal periodontal tissues. CBCT imaging confirmed the suspicion of gemination and crown-root dilaceration and also revealed the presence of two root canals and periapical bone rarefaction. The root canals were instrumented with Reciproc R40 and 1% NaOCl irrigation and were filled by lateral condensation of gutta-percha and AH Plus sealer. The tooth was definitely restored with composite resin to recover esthetics. Continued follow-up over 6 months has shown absence of pain or clinical alterations as well as radiographic image suggestive of apical repair.
A Nonhomogeneous Dirichlet Problem for a Nonlinear Pseudoparabolic Equation Arising in the Flow of Second-Grade Fluid
Authors: Ngoc Le Thi Phuong , Nhan Truong Thi , Long Nguyen Thanh
Published: December 2016

We study the following initial-boundary value problem {ut − μt+αt(∂/∂t)∂2u/∂x2+(γ/x)(∂u/∂x) + fu = f1x,t, 1<x0; u(1,t)=g1(t), u(R,t)=gR(t); u(x,0)=u~0(x)}, where γ>0,R>1 are given constants and f,f1,g1,gR,u~0,α, and μ are given functions. In Part 1, we use the Galerkin method and compactness method to prove the existence of a unique weak solution of the problem above on (0,T), for every T>0. In Part 2, we investigate asymptotic behavior of the solution as t→+∞. In Part 3, we prove the existence and uniqueness of a weak solution of problem {ut − μt+αt(∂/∂t)∂2u/∂x2+(γ/x)(∂u/∂x) + fu = f1x,t, 1<x0; u(1,t)=g1(t), u(R,t)=gR(t)} associated with a “(η,T)-periodic condition” u(x,0)=ηu(x,T), where 0<η≤1 is given constant.
[3 + 2] versus [2 + 2] Addition: A Density Functional Theory Study on the Mechanistic Aspects of Transition Metal-Assisted Formation of 1,2-Dinitrosoalkanes
Authors: Opoku Ernest , Tia Richard , Adei Evans
Published: December 2016

The pathways for the transition metal-assisted formation of 1,2-dinitrosoalkane complexes of cobalt and its congeners, have been studied using DFT/M06 with theLACVP*basis set. The activation barriers for the one-step [3 + 2] addition pathway for the formation of 1,2-dinitrosoalkanes, proposed by Bergman and Becker, are generally low compared to the activation barriers for the [2 + 2] addition to form an intermediate, which is the first of the two-step pathway proposed by Rappé and Upton, which are very high. The barriers of the rearrangement of the Rappé intermediates to the final products by reductive elimination involving the second metal-nitrogenπ-bond are also very high. The reactions of the Co complexes have lower activation barriers than Rh and Ir complexes. The barriers of the reactions involving olefins with electron-donating groups are generally lower compared to the reactions of the parent (unsubstituted) ethylene while the activation barriers for reactions of olefins with electron-withdrawing groups are generally higher compared to the parent (unsubstituted) ethylene. The one-step [3 + 2] pathway remains the most favoured irrespective of the metal centre or the nature of the olefin. The mechanism of the reaction is therefore settled in favour of the [3 + 2] addition pathway.
Mandibular Symmetrical Bilateral Canine-Lateral Incisors Transposition: Its Early Diagnosis and Treatment Considerations
Authors: Shapira Yehoshua , Finkelstein Tamar , Kadry Rana , Schonberger Shirley , Shpack Nir
Published: December 2016

Bilateral mandibular tooth transposition is a relatively rare dental anomaly caused by distal migration of the mandibular lateral incisors and can be detected in the early mixed dentition by radiographic examination. Early diagnosis and interceptive intervention may reduce the risk of possible transposition between the mandibular canine and lateral incisor. This report illustrates the orthodontic management of bilateral mandibular canine-lateral incisor transposition. Correct positioning of the affected teeth was achieved on the left side while teeth on the right side were aligned in their transposed position. It demonstrates the outcome of good alignment of the teeth in the dental arch.
Chronic Cluster Headache with an Atypical Presentation and Treatment Response
Authors: Santos Telma , Morais Hugo
Published: December 2016

The management of cluster headache (CH) may be challenging. We report a 50-year-old male with recurrent attacks of dull and severe unilateral periorbital pain, lasting 30–45 minutes, twice a day, exclusively during sleep, and accompanied by ipsilateral rhinorrhea and lacrimation. The pain switched sides within every attack. CH treatment was initiated but the patient maintained recurrence rates compatible with chronic CH, even after increasing verapamil to 460 mg/day. Afterwards we decided to add lithium (800 mg/day). With this treatment the severity and recurrence of CH substantially decreased, despite the patient’s autonomous decision to take lithium only during the acute phase of the cluster. The exclusively alternating location and the excellent response to short cycles of lithium represent two unique features of CH.
Generation of Cholinergic and Dopaminergic Interneurons from Human Pluripotent Stem Cells as a Relevant Tool for In Vitro Modeling of Neurological Disorders Pathology and Therapy
Authors: Ochalek Anna , Szczesna Karolina , Petazzi Paolo , Kobolak Julianna , Dinnyes Andras
Published: December 2016

The cellular and molecular bases of neurological diseases have been studied for decades; however, the underlying mechanisms are not yet fully elucidated. Compared with other disorders, diseases of the nervous system have been very difficult to study mainly due to the inaccessibility of the human brain and live neurons in vivo or in vitro and difficulties in examination of human postmortem brain tissue. Despite the availability of various genetically engineered animal models, these systems are still not adequate enough due to species variation and differences in genetic background. Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) reprogrammed from patient somatic cells possess the potential to differentiate into any cell type, including neural progenitor cells and postmitotic neurons; thus, they open a new area to in vitro modeling of neurological diseases and their potential treatment. Currently, many protocols for generation of various neuronal subtypes are being developed; however, most of them still require further optimization. Here, we highlight accomplishments made in the generation of dopaminergic and cholinergic neurons, the two subtypes most affected in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases and indirectly affected in Huntington’s disease. Furthermore, we discuss the potential role of hiPSC‐derived neurons in the modeling and treatment of neurological diseases related to dopaminergic and cholinergic system dysfunction.
Deregulated Cardiac Specific MicroRNAs in Postnatal Heart Growth
Authors: Yu Pujiao , Wang Hongbao , Xie Yuan , Zhou Jinzhe , Yao Jianhua , Che Lin
Published: December 2016

The heart is recognized as an organ that is terminally differentiated by adulthood. However, during the process of human development, the heart is the first organ with function in the embryo and grows rapidly during the postnatal period. MicroRNAs (miRNAs, miRs), as regulators of gene expression, play important roles during the development of multiple systems. However, the role of miRNAs in postnatal heart growth is still unclear. In this study, by using qRT-PCR, we compared the expression of seven cardiac- or muscle-specific miRNAs that may be related to heart development in heart tissue from mice at postnatal days 0, 3, 8, and 14. Four miRNAs—miR-1a-3p, miR-133b-3p, miR-208b-3p, and miR-206-3p—were significantly decreased while miR-208a-3p was upregulated during the postnatal heart growth period. Based on these results, GeneSpring GX was used to predict potential downstream targets by performing a 3-way comparison of predictions from the miRWalk, PITA, and microRNAorg databases. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis were used to identify potential functional annotations and signaling pathways related to postnatal heart growth. This study describes expression changes of cardiac- and muscle-specific miRNAs during postnatal heart growth and may provide new therapeutic targets for cardiovascular diseases.
In Vivo Wound Healing Activity of Abrus cantoniensis Extract
Authors: Zeng Qi , Xie Hui , Song Hongjin , Nie Fayu , Wang Jiahua , Chen Dan , Wang Fu
Published: December 2016

Abrus cantoniensis (Leguminosae sp.) is a traditionally used remedy for treating rheumatism, blood stasis, and internal injuries. In order to reveal a new insight of the utilization of the plant, solvent extraction by ethyl acetate (EA) was performed in order to evaluate the plant extracts’ in vivo excision and incision‐wound potentials with models. The contents of the EA fraction, wound healing activity, acute oral toxicity, and acute dermal toxicity were studied. As a result, the main chemical constituents of the EA fraction were alkaloids, flavonoids, and steroids. The acute oral toxicity test results and assessment of skin hypoallergenicity showed that the plant extract was safe at LD50 as high as 5000 mg/kg. Both excision and incision model tests results indicated that the EA fraction of A. cantoniensis showed a significant wound healing capacity at a concentration of 5% (v/w) (p < 0.01) as observed by the increased wound contraction, decreased epithelialization time, and increased hydroxyproline content compared to the ones of the controls. The present study showed that the EA fraction of A. cantoniensis possesses potential wound healing activities and provided recent results for the use of A. cantoniensis for wound curing.
Reversal of Trimethyltin‐Induced Learning and Memory Deficits by 3,5‐Dicaffeoylquinic Acid
Authors: Kang Jin Yong , Park Seon Kyeong , Guo Tian Jiao , Ha Jeong Su , Lee Du Sang , Kim Jong Min , Lee Uk , Kim Dae Ok , Heo Ho Jin
Published: December 2016

The antiamnesic effect of 3,5‐dicaffeoylquinic acid (3,5‐diCQA) as the main phenolic compound in Artemisia argyi H. extract on cognitive dysfunction induced by trimethyltin (TMT) (7.1 μg/kg of body weight; intraperitoneal injection) was investigated in order to assess its ameliorating function in mice. In several behavioral tests, namely, the Y‐maze, passive avoidance, and Morris water maze (MWM) test, 3,5‐diCQA significantly ameliorated learning and memory deficits. After the behavioral tests, brain tissues from the mice were analyzed to characterize the basis of the neuroprotective effect. Acetylcholine (ACh) levels increased, whereas the activity of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) decreased upon administration of 3,5‐diCQA. In addition, 3,5‐diCQA effectively protected against an increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) content, an increase in the oxidized glutathione (GSH) ratio, and a decline of total superoxide dismutase (SOD) level. 3,5‐diCQA may prevent neuronal apoptosis through the protection of mitochondrial activities and the repression of apoptotic signaling molecules such as p‐Akt, BAX, and p‐tau (Ser 404).
Establishment of a Novel Model for Anticancer Drug Resistance in Three‐Dimensional Primary Culture of Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Usui Tatsuya , Sakurai Masashi , Enjoji Shuhei , Kawasaki Hideyoshi , Umata Koji , Ohama Takashi , Fujiwara Nobuyuki , Yabe Ryotaro , Tsuji Shunya , Yamawaki Hideyuki , Hazama Shoichi , Takenouchi Hiroko , Nakajima Masao , Tsunedomi Ryouichi , Suzuki Nobuaki , Nagano Hiroaki , Sato Koichi
Published: December 2016

Tumor microenvironment has been implicated in tumor development and progression. As a three‐dimensional tumor microenvironment model, air liquid interface (ALI) organoid culture from oncogene transgenic mouse gastrointestinal tissues was recently produced. However, ALI organoid culture system from tissues of colorectal cancer patients has not been established. Here, we developed an ALI organoid model from normal and tumor colorectal tissues of human patients. Both organoids were successfully generated and showed cystic structures containing an epithelial layer and surrounding mesenchymal stromal cells. Structures of tumor organoids closely resembled primary tumor epithelium. Expression of an epithelial cell marker, E‐cadherin, a goblet cell marker, MUC2, and a fibroblast marker, vimentin, but not a myofibroblast marker, α‐smooth muscle actin (SMA), was observed in normal organoids. Expression of E‐cadherin, MUC2, vimentin, and α‐SMA was observed in tumor organoids. Expression of a cancer stem cell marker, LGR5 in tumor organoids, was higher than that in primary tumor tissues. Tumor organoids were more resistant to toxicity of 5‐fluorouracil and Irinotecan than colorectal cancer cell lines, SW480, SW620, and HCT116. These findings indicate that ALI organoid culture from colorectal cancer patients may become a novel model that is useful for examining resistance to chemotherapy in tumor microenvironment.
Risk Assessment of Drought Based on IEAPP-IDM in Qujing, Yunnan Province, China
Authors: Deng Menghua , Chen Junfei , Liu Guiyun , Wang Huimin
Published: December 2016

A new model for risk assessment of drought based on projection pursuit optimized by immune evolutionary algorithm and information diffusion method (IEAPP-IDM) was proposed. Due to the fact that drought risk assessment is a complex multicriteria and multilevel problem, the IEAPP-IDM model can project the multidimensional indicators of samples into one-dimension projection scores; then, the information carried by the projection scores was diffused into drought risk levels; finally, the drought disaster risk estimate was obtained. In the present study, Qujing was employed to assess the drought risk with the proposed model. The results showed that Xuanwei possessed higher risk, while Luliang and Zhanyi possessed lower risk. At the same time, the probability risk of drought in Malong and Luoping was increasing, while the probability risk of drought in in Qilin and Shizong was decreasing. The results obtained by the assessment model are consistent with the actual situation of Qujing and verify the model’s effectiveness. The study can provide scientific reference in drought risk management for Qujing and other places of China.
A Time to Pause and Reflect: When a Patient with Autoimmune Hepatitis Stops Responding to Corticosteroids
Authors: Tsang Lewis , Fadia Mitali , Chitturi Shivakumar
Published: December 2016

Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) with features of autoimmunity (AI) is a challenging diagnosis to make particularly due to its apparent corticosteroid responsiveness. We present the case of a 74-year-old woman who presented with a 2-week history of jaundice and fatigue. She was initially diagnosed with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) based on biochemical and histological characteristics and prompt response with budesonide but a biochemical relapse occurred soon after inadvertent rechallenge with irbesartan, a drug that she had discontinued prior to her presentation but was not initially considered to be a cause of her symptoms.
Measurement of Total Free Iron in Soils by H2S Chemisorption and Comparison with the Citrate Bicarbonate Dithionite Method
Authors: Fan Shui-Sheng , Chang Feng-Hsiang , Hsueh Hsin-Ta , Ko Tzu-Hsing
Published: December 2016

Free iron is one of the major analytical items for soil basic properties. It is also an important indicator for understanding the genesis of soil, soil classification, and soil distribution behavior. In this study, an alternative analytical method (chemisorption) based on thermodynamic knowledge was proposed for measurement of total free iron oxides in soils. Several representative soil samples belonging to alfisols, ultisols, inceptisols, and entisols were collected from Taiwan and tested by the chemisorption, and the estimated total free iron oxides were compared with those measured from the traditional citrate bicarbonate dithionite (CBD) method. Experimental results showed that the optimal operating temperature was found to be at 773 K and the carbon monoxide (CO) is the best gaseous reagent to promote the formation of FeS. The estimated total free iron oxides for soil samples determined from the chemisorption in the presence of CO were very close to those from the CBD technique. The result of regression indicates that the estimated total free iron is strongly correlated with the CBD-Fe content (R2=0.999) in the presence of CO.
Morphometric Analysis of the Infraorbital Foramen: The Clinical Relevance
Authors: Nanayakkara Deepthi , Peiris Roshan , Mannapperuma Navini , Vadysinghe Amal
Published: December 2016

The present study was conducted to ascertain the shape, size, presence of accessory foramina, direction, and the precise position of the infraorbital foramen (IOF) in relation to the inferior orbital margin (IOM), anterior nasal spine (ANS), nasion (Na), maxillary teeth, and supraorbital foramen/notch (SOF/N) in adult skulls in a Sri Lankan population. Fifty-four skulls (42 males and 12 females) were analyzed. The IOF was oval in shape (38.6% and 36.3% on the right and left side, resp.) in a majority of skulls. The direction of the IOF was mostly medially downward (48.6%). Accessory foramina were found in 7.4% of the skulls. The infraorbital foramina were located at a mean distance of 6.52 ± 2.03 mm and 7.30 ± 1.57 mm, vertically below the IOM on the right and left side, respectively; 33.81 ± 2.68 mm and 34.23 ± 2.56 mm from the ANS on the right and left side, respectively; and 42.37 ± 3.52 mm and 42.52 ± 3.28 mm from the Na on the right and left side, respectively. In relation to the upper teeth the majority of IOF (37.5% and 55.9% on the right and left side, resp.) were located in the same vertical axis as the tip of the buccal cusp of the maxillary second premolar tooth.
Dephosphorylation of Y685-VE-Cadherin Involved in Pulmonary Microvascular Endothelial Barrier Injury Induced by Angiotensin II
Authors: Wu Zhiyong , Wang Zhiwei , Dai Feifeng , Liu Huagang , Ren Wei , Chang Jinxing , Li Bowen
Published: December 2016

Angiotensin II (AngII) caused pulmonary microvascular endothelial barrier injury, which induced acute aortic dissection (AAD) combined with acute lung injury (ALI). However, the exact mechanism is unclear. We investigated the role of dephosphorylation of Y685-VE-cadherin in the AngII induced pulmonary microvascular endothelial barrier injury. Mice or pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (PMVECs) were divided into control group, AngII group, AngII+PP2 (Src kinase inhibitor) group, and PP2 group. PP2 was used to inhibit the phosphorylation of Y685-VE-cadherin. Pathological changes, infiltration of macrophages and neutrophils, and pulmonary microvascular permeability were used to determine the pulmonary microvascular endothelial barrier function. Flow cytometry was used to determine the apoptosis of PMVECs, and immunofluorescence was used to determine the skeletal arrangement. Transendothelial resistance was used to detect the permeability of endothelial barrier. Phosphorylation of Y685-VE-cadherin was significantly reduced after AngII stimulation (P<0.05), together with skeletal rearrangement, and elevation of endothelial permeability which finally induced endothelial barrier injury. After PP2 interference, the phosphorylation of Y685-VE-cadherin was further reduced and the endothelial permeability was further elevated. These data indicated that AngII could induce pulmonary injury by triggering endothelial barrier injury, and such process may be related to the dephosphorylation of Y685-VE-cadherin and the endothelial skeletal rearrangement.
Insulin Resistance in Adipose Tissue but Not in Liver Is Associated with Aortic Valve Calcification
Authors: Jorge-Galarza Esteban , Posadas-Romero Carlos , Torres-Tamayo Margarita , Medina-Urrutia Aida X. , Rodas-Díaz Marco A. , Posadas-Sánchez Rosalinda , Vargas-Alarcón Gilberto , González-Salazar María del Carmen , Cardoso-Saldaña Guillermo C. , Juárez-Rojas Juan G.
Published: December 2016

Background. Insulin resistance is involved in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease, but its relationship with cardiovascular calcification has yielded conflicting results. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the role of hepatic and adipose tissue insulin resistance on the presence of coronary artery (CAC > 0) and aortic valve calcification (AVC > 0).Methods. In 1201 subjects (52% women,53.6±9.3years old) without familiar and personal history of coronary heart disease, CAC and AVC were assessed by multidetector-computed tomography. Cardiovascular risk factors were documented and lipid profile, inflammation markers, glucose, insulin, and free fatty acids were measured. Hepatic insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and adipose tissue insulin resistance (Adipo-IR) indices were calculated.Results. There was a significant relationship between HOMA-IR and Adipo-IR indices (r=0.758,p<0.001). Participants in the highest quartiles of HOMA-IR and Adipo-IR indices had a more adverse cardiovascular profile and higher prevalence of CAC > 0 and AVC > 0. After full adjustment, subjects in the highest quartile of Adipo-IR index had higher odds of AVC > 0 (OR: 2.40; 95% CI: 1.30–4.43), as compared to those in the lowest quartile.Conclusions. Adipo-IR was independently associated with AVC > 0. This suggests that abnormal adipose tissue function favors insulin resistance that may promote the development and progression of AVC.
PLGA/Nano-ZnO Composite Particles for Use in Biomedical Applications: Preparation, Characterization, and Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Stanković Ana , Sezen Meltem , Milenković Marina , Kaišarević Sonja , Andrić Nebojša , Stevanović Magdalena
Published: December 2016

Copolymer poly (DL-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) is extensively investigated for various biomedical applications such as controlled drug delivery or carriers in the tissue engineering. In addition, zinc oxide (ZnO) is widely used in biomedicine especially for materials like dental composites, as a constituent of creams for the treatment of a variety of skin irritations, to enhance the antibacterial activity of different medicaments and so on. Uniform, spherical ZnO nanoparticles (nano-ZnO) have been synthesized via microwave synthesis method. In addition to obtaining nano-ZnO, a further aim was to examine their immobilization in the PLGA polymer matrix (PLGA/nano-ZnO) and this was done by a simple physicochemical solvent/nonsolvent method. The samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, laser diffraction particle size analyzer, differential thermal analysis, and thermal gravimetric analysis. The synthesized PLGA/nano-ZnO particles are spherical, uniform, and with diameters below 1 µm. The influence of the different solvents and the drying methods during the synthesis was investigated too. The biocompatibility of the samples is discussed in terms of in vitro toxicity on human hepatoma HepG2 cells by application of MTT assay and the antimicrobial activity was evaluated by broth microdilution method against different groups of microorganisms (Gram-positive bacteria, Gram-negative bacteria, and yeastCandida albicans).
The DART Study: Results from the Dose-Escalation and Expansion Cohorts Evaluating the Combination of Dalantercept plus Axitinib in Advanced Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Voss Martin H. , Bhatt Rupal S. , Plimack Elizabeth R. , Rini Brian I. , Alter Robert S. , Beck J. Thaddeus , Wilson Dawn , Zhang Xiaosha , Mutyaba Musa , Glasser Chad , Attie Kenneth M. , Sherman Matthew L. , Pandya Shuchi S. , Atkins Michael B.
Published: December 2016

Purpose: Activin receptor-like kinase 1 (ALK1) is a novel target in angiogenesis. Concurrent targeting of ALK1 and VEGF signaling results in augmented inhibition of tumor growth in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) xenograft models. Dalantercept is an ALK1-receptor fusion protein that acts as a ligand trap for bone morphogenetic proteins 9 and 10. The DART Study evaluated the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and antitumor activity of dalantercept plus axitinib in patients with advanced RCC and determined the optimal dose for further testing.

Experimental Design: Patients received dalantercept 0.6, 0.9, or 1.2 mg/kg subcutaneously every 3 weeks plus axitinib 5 mg by mouth twice daily until disease progression or intolerance.

Results: Twenty-nine patients were enrolled in the dose escalation (n = 15) and expansion (n = 14) cohorts. There were no dose-limiting toxicities or grade 4/5 treatment-related adverse events. In addition to common VEGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor effects, such as fatigue and diarrhea, commonly seen treatment-related adverse events were peripheral edema, epistaxis, pericardial effusion, and telangiectasia. The objective response rate by RECIST v1.1 was 25% with responses seen at all dose levels. The overall median progression-free survival was 8.3 months.

Conclusions: The combination of dalantercept plus axitinib is well tolerated and associated with clinical activity. On the basis of safety and efficacy results, the 0.9 mg/kg dose level was chosen for further study in a randomized phase II trial of dalantercept plus axitinib versus placebo plus axitinib. Clin Cancer Res; 23(14); 3557–65. ©2016 AACR.
Predictive Outcomes for HER2-enriched Cancer Using Growth and Metastasis Signatures Driven By SPARC
Authors: Güttlein Leandro N. , Benedetti Lorena G. , Fresno Cristóbal , Spallanzani Raúl G. , Mansilla Sabrina F. , Rotondaro Cecilia , Raffo Iraolagoitia Ximena L. , Salvatierra Edgardo , Bravo Alicia I. , Fernández Elmer A. , Gottifredi Vanesa , Zwirner Norberto W. , Llera Andrea S. , Podhajcer Osvaldo L.
Published: December 2016

Understanding the mechanism of metastatic dissemination is crucial for the rational design of novel therapeutics. The secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC) is a matricellular glycoprotein which has been extensively associated with human breast cancer aggressiveness although the underlying mechanisms are still unclear. Here, shRNA-mediated SPARC knockdown greatly reduced primary tumor growth and completely abolished lung colonization of murine 4T1 and LM3 breast malignant cells implanted in syngeneic BALB/c mice. A comprehensive study including global transcriptomic analysis followed by biological validations confirmed that SPARC induces primary tumor growth by enhancing cell cycle and by promoting a COX-2–mediated expansion of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC). The role of SPARC in metastasis involved a COX-2–independent enhancement of cell disengagement from the primary tumor and adherence to the lungs that fostered metastasis implantation. Interestingly, SPARC-driven gene expression signatures obtained from these murine models predicted the clinical outcome of patients with HER2-enriched breast cancer subtypes. In total, the results reveal that SPARC and its downstream effectors are attractive targets for antimetastatic therapies in breast cancer.

Implications: These findings shed light on the prometastatic role of SPARC, a key protein expressed by breast cancer cells and surrounding stroma, with important consequences for disease outcome. Mol Cancer Res; 15(3); 304–16. ©2016 AACR.