bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanism of Binding to Ebola Virus Glycoprotein by the ZMapp, ZMAb, and MB-003 Cocktail Antibodies
Authors: Davidson Edgar , Bryan Christopher , Fong Rachel H. , Barnes Trevor , Pfaff Jennifer M. , Mabila Manu , Rucker Joseph B. , Doranz Benjamin J.
Published: August 2015

Cocktails of monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) that target the surface glycoprotein (GP) of Ebola virus (EBOV) are effective in nonhuman primate models and have been used under emergency compassionate-treatment protocols in human patients. However, the amino acids that form the detailed binding epitopes for the MAbs in the ZMapp, ZMAb, and the related MB-003 cocktails have yet to be identified. Other binding properties that define how each MAb functionally interacts with GP—such as affinity, epitope conservation, and epitope accessibility—also remain largely unknown. To help define how each MAb interacts with GP, here we used comprehensive alanine-scanning mutagenesis (shotgun mutagenesis), neutralization escape, and whole virion binding to define each MAb's specific epitope, epitope accessibility, epitope conservation, and apparent affinity. Each of the six therapeutic MAbs binds nonidentical epitopes in the GP base, glycan cap, or mucin-like domain. Their apparent affinity, epitope complementarity, and epitope accessibility helps explain why MAbs 4G7 and 13C6 are more protective than 2G4 and 1H3. The mucin-like domain MAbs 6D8 and 13F6 bind with the strongest apparent affinity, helping to explain their effectiveness
in vivo
despite their inability to neutralize virus.

IMPORTANCE
Ebola virus disease (EVD) can be caused by four different filovirus family members, including Ebola virus (EBOV), which infected 10 times more people in western Africa over the last year than all previous EVD outbreaks combined, with a number of cases distributed across the globe by travelers. Cocktails of inhibitory monoclonal antibodies (MAbs), such as ZMAb, MB-003, and in particular ZMapp, have demonstrated in animal models some of the most significant therapeutic potential for treating EVD, and in 2014, 15 patients were treated with ZMapp or ZMAb under compassionate-use protocols. Here, we have defined the epitope features for the most important therapeutic MAbs against EBOV developed to date. Defining the epitopes and binding characteristics for these MAbs, as well as the commonly used reference MAb KZ52, helps explain their breadth of reactivity against different ebolavirus species, predict viral evasion against these MAbs, and design new cocktails of MAbs with improved complementarity.
Pathogen-Associated Molecular Pattern Recognition of Hepatitis C Virus Transmitted/Founder Variants by RIG-I Is Dependent on U-Core Length
Authors: Kell Alison , Stoddard Mark , Li Hui , Marcotrigiano Joe , Shaw George M. , Gale Michael
Published: August 2015

Despite the introduction of direct-acting antiviral (DAA) drugs against hepatitis C virus (HCV), infection remains a major public health concern because DAA therapeutics do not prevent reinfection and patients can still progress to chronic liver disease. Chronic HCV infection is supported by a variety of viral immune evasion strategies, but, remarkably, 20% to 30% of acute infections spontaneously clear prior to development of adaptive immune responses, thus implicating innate immunity in resolving acute HCV infection. However, the virus-host interactions regulating acute infection are unknown. Transmission of HCV involves one or a few transmitted/founder (T/F) variants. In infected hepatocytes, the retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I) protein recognizes 5′ triphosphate (5′ppp) of the HCV RNA and a pathogen-associated molecular pattern (PAMP) motif located within the 3′ untranslated region consisting of poly-U/UC. PAMP binding activates RIG-I to induce innate immune signaling and type 1 interferon antiviral defenses. HCV poly-U/UC sequences can differ in length and complexity, suggesting that PAMP diversity in T/F genomes could regulate innate immune control of acute HCV infection. Using 14 unique poly-U/UC sequences from HCV T/F genomes recovered from acute-infection patients, we tested whether RIG-I recognition and innate immune activation correlate with PAMP sequence characteristics. We show that T/F variants are recognized by RIG-I in a manner dependent on length of the U-core motif of the poly-U/UC PAMP and are recognized by RIG-I to induce innate immune responses that restrict acute infection. PAMP recognition of T/F HCV variants by RIG-I may therefore impart innate immune signaling and HCV restriction to impact acute-phase-to-chronic-phase transition.

IMPORTANCE
Recognition of nonself molecular patterns such as those seen with viral nucleic acids is an essential step in triggering the immune response to virus infection. Innate immunity is induced by hepatitis C virus infection through the recognition of viral RNA by the cellular RIG-I protein, where RIG-I recognizes a poly-uridine/cytosine motif in the viral genome. Variation within this motif may provide an immune evasion strategy for transmitted/founder viruses during acute infection. Using 14 unique poly-U/UC sequences from HCV T/F genomes recovered from acutely infected HCV patients, we demonstrate that RIG-I binding and activation of innate immunity depend primarily on the length of the uridine core within this motif. T/F variants found in acute infection contained longer U cores within the motif and could activate RIG-I and induce innate immune signaling sufficient to restrict viral infection. Thus, recognition of T/F variants by RIG-I could significantly impact the transition from acute to chronic infection.
Puerperal sepsis in the 21st century: progress, new challenges and the situation worldwide
Authors: Buddeberg Bigna S , Aveling Wynne
Published: August 2015

Puerperal sepsis is one of the five leading causes of maternal mortality worldwide, and accounts for 15% of all maternal deaths. The WHO defined puerperal sepsis in 1992 as an infection of the genital tract occurring at any time between the rupture of membranes or labour and the 42nd day post partum; in which, two or more of the following are present: pelvic pain, fever, abnormal vaginal discharge and delay in the reduction of the size of the uterus. At the same time, the WHO introduced the term puerperal infections, which also include non-genital infections in the obstetric population. Recent epidemiological data shows that puerperal sepsis and non-genital tract infections are a major area of concern. In puerperal sepsis, group A streptococcus (GAS) is the most feared pathogen. Up to 30% of the population are asymptomatic carriers of GAS. GAS commonly causes throat infections. Women who died from GAS-positive sepsis all had signs of a throat infection themselves or one of their family members suffered from a throat infection. The pathway of infection is from the hands of the pregnant women or the mother to her perineum. In non-genital tract infections, influenza viruses and the HIV pandemic in the developing part of the world are responsible for many maternal deaths, and demand our attention. The physiological changes of pregnancy and the puerperium can obscure the signs and symptoms of sepsis in the obstetric population. A high level of suspicion is, therefore, needed in the care for the sick pregnant patient. If sepsis is suspected, timely administration of antibiotics, sepsis care bundles, multidisciplinary discussion and early involvement of senior staff members are important to improve outcome.
Cluster decay investigation within a modified Woods–Saxon potential
Authors: Saidi F. , Oudih M. R. , Fellah M. , Allal N. H.
Published: August 2015

The cluster decay process is studied in the WKB approximation based on the unified fission model. The cluster is considered to be emitted by tunneling through a potential barrier taken as the sum of the Coulomb potential, the centrifugal potential and the modified Woods–Saxon (MWS) nuclear potential. The results of our calculations are compared to those obtained by other theoretical models as well as experimental data. It is shown that the unified fission model with the MWS nuclear potential can be successfully used to evaluate the cluster decay half-lives of heavy nuclei.
Remarks about the correspondence between f(R) and Brans–Dicke gravity theories
Authors: Graça J. P. Morais , Bezerra V. B.
Published: August 2015

We discuss the correspondence between metric [Formula: see text] gravity and [Formula: see text] Brans–Dicke theory with a potential, by working out an example that reconfirms this equivalence.
Topology of the ambient boundary and the convergence of causal curves
Authors: Antoniadis Ignatios , Cotsakis Spiros
Published: August 2015

We discuss the topological nature of the boundary spacetime, the conformal infinity of the ambient cosmological metric. Due to the existence of a homothetic group, the bounding spacetime must be equipped not with the usual Euclidean metric topology but with the Zeeman fine topology. This then places severe constraints to the convergence of a sequence of causal curves and the extraction of a limit curve, and also to our ability to formulate conditions for singularity formation.
Free symmetric algebras in division rings generated by enveloping algebras of Lie algebras
Authors: Ferreira Vitor O. , Gonçalves Jairo Z. , Sánchez Javier
Published: August 2015

For any Lie algebra L over a field, its universal enveloping algebra U(L) can be embedded in a division ring 𝔇(L) constructed by Lichtman. If U(L) is an Ore domain, 𝔇(L) coincides with its ring of fractions. It is well known that the principal involution of L, x ↦ -x, can be extended to an involution of U(L), and Cimpric proved that this involution can be extended to one on 𝔇(L). For a large class of noncommutative Lie algebras L over a field of characteristic zero, we show that 𝔇(L) contains noncommutative free algebras generated by symmetric elements with respect to (the extension of) the principal involution. This class contains all noncommutative Lie algebras such that U(L) is an Ore domain.
A series of thermal stable lanthanide porphyrins with a condensed three-dimensional porous open framework: Gas adsorption and magnetic properties
Authors: Yi Xiu-Guang , Huang Jian-Gen , Hu Rong-Hua , Luo Zhi-Gang , Pei Yun-Peng , Chen Wen-Tong
Published: August 2015

A series of lanthanide porphyrins, [ LnIII(TPPSIV) ]n·n H 5 O 2 ( Ln = La , Sm , Eu ; H2TPPS = tetra(4-sulfonatophenyl)porphyrin), have been synthesized through solvothermal reactions and structurally characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. These compounds are characterized by a condensed three-dimensional (3-D) porous open framework. Magnetic measurements reveal that these compounds show ferromagnetic, antiferromagnetic and paramagnetic behavior, respectively. All of the compounds exhibit highly thermal stability. The FT-IR and adsorption measurement of CO 2 were also studied.
Comparative Prevalence of Eating Disorders in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and Other Anxiety Disorders
Authors: Tyagi Himanshu , Patel Rupal , Rughooputh Fabienne , Abrahams Hannah , Watson Andrew J. , Drummond Lynne
Published: August 2015

Objective. The purpose of this study was to compare the prevalence of comorbid eating disorders in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and other common anxiety disorders.Method. 179 patients from the same geographical area with a diagnosis of OCD or an anxiety disorder were divided into two groups based on their primary diagnosis. The prevalence of a comorbid eating disorder was calculated in both groups.Results. There was no statistically significant difference in the prevalence of comorbid eating disorders between the OCD and other anxiety disorders group.Conclusions. These results suggest that the prevalence of comorbid eating disorders does not differ in anxiety disorders when compared with OCD. However, in both groups, it remains statistically higher than that of the general population.
Peanut Husk Filled Polyethylene Composites: Effects of Filler Content and Compatibilizer on Properties
Authors: Obasi Henry C.
Published: August 2015

Agrowaste biocomposites were obtained using peanut husk filler and LDPE. The effects of agrofiller content and compatibilizer on the mechanical and biodegradable properties of the composites have been discussed. Mechanical and biodegradable behaviour of LDPE became noticeably worse when it was blended with agrofiller, due to poor compatibility between the two phases. The presence of MAPE in the composites and its compatibility with the agrofiller, led to much better dispersion and homogeneity of agrofiller in the matrix and consequently to improved properties. Water absorption and thickness swelling indices increased with increasing filler content and were reduced on addition of MAPE. Furthermore, weight loss of composites via enzymatic degradation showed that both composites were biodegradable even at high levels of filler addition. However, composites with MAPE exhibited lower weight loss.
Soil Carbon Accumulation and CO2Flux in Experimental Restoration Plots, Southern Iceland: Comparing Soil Treatment Strategies
Authors: Tanner Lawrence H. , Nivison Morgan , Arnalds Olafur , Svavarsdóttir Kristin
Published: August 2015

Experimental plots were established on severely eroded land surfaces in Iceland in 1999 to study the rates and limits of soil carbon sequestration during restoration and succession. The carbon content in the upper 10 cm of soils increased substantially during the initial eight years in all plots for which the treatments included both fertilizer and seeding with grasses, concomitant with the increase in vegetative cover. In the following five years, however, the soil carbon accumulation rates declined to negligible for most treatments and the carbon content in soils mainly remained relatively constant. We suggest that burial of vegetated surfaces by aeolian drift and nutrient limitation inhibited productivity and carbon sequestration in most plots. Only plots seeded with lupine demonstrated continued long-term soil carbon accumulation and soil CO2flux rates significantly higher than background levels. This demonstrates that lupine was the sole treatment that resulted in vegetation capable of sustained growth independent of nutrient availability and resistant to disruption by aeolian processes.
Structural, Thermal, Optical, Electrical, and Adhesive Characteristics of FePdB Thin Films
Authors: Chen Yuan-Tsung
Published: August 2015

To study the structural, thermal, electrical, optical, and adhesive properties of magnetic FePdB thin films, 25–200‐Å‐thick Fe40Pd40B20 and Fe60Pd20B20 films were deposited on a glass substrate by direct current (DC) magnetron sputtering at room temperature (RT). X‐ray diffraction (XRD) patterns indicated that the 25–75‐Å‐thick Fe40Pd40B20 and Fe60Pd20B20 films were amorphous, whereas the 100–200‐Å‐thick Fe40Pd40B20 and Fe60Pd20B20 films were crystalline, with a face‐centered cubic (FCC) FePd (111) textured structure. The activation energy of the Fe40Pd40B20 and Fe60Pd20B20 thin films decreased as thickness was increased. The 25‐Å‐thick Fe40Pd40B20 film exhibited the highest resistivity, whereas the 200‐Å‐thick Fe60Pd20B20 film exhibited the lowest resistivity. Increasing the thickness and crystallization reduced transmission. The Fe40Pd40B20 thin films exhibited higher surface energy and stronger adhesion than did Fe60Pd20B20 thin films.
Genetic Risk Score Predicts Late-Life Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Wollam Mariegold E. , Weinstein Andrea M. , Saxton Judith A. , Morrow Lisa , Snitz Beth , Fowler Nicole R. , Suever Erickson Barbara L. , Roecklein Kathryn A. , Erickson Kirk I.
Published: August 2015

Introduction. A family history of Alzheimer’s disease is a significant risk factor for its onset, but the genetic risk associated with possessing multiple risk alleles is still poorly understood.Methods. In a sample of 95 older adults (Mean age = 75.1, 64.2% female), we constructed a genetic risk score based on the accumulation of risk alleles inBDNF, COMT,andAPOE. A neuropsychological evaluation and consensus determined cognitive status (44 nonimpaired, 51 impaired). Logistic regression was performed to determine whether the genetic risk score predicted cognitive impairment above and beyond that associated with each gene.Results. An increased genetic risk score was associated with a nearly 4-fold increased risk of cognitive impairment (OR = 3.824,P= .013) when including the individual gene polymorphisms as covariates in the model.Discussion. A risk score combining multiple genetic influences may be more useful in predicting late-life cognitive impairment than individual polymorphisms.
Metastatic Squamous Cell Carcinoma Component from an Adenosquamous Carcinoma of the Lung with Identical Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Mutations
Authors: Burkart Jarred , Shilo Konstantin , Zhao Weiqiang , Ozkan Efe , Ajam Amna , Otterson Gregory A.
Published: August 2015

The case reported is a young “light” ex-smoker who initially had a localized adenosquamous carcinoma bearing an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) sensitizing mutation. He first recurred six months after initial treatment within the brain with a pure squamous histology and the same EGFR mutation. Surgical resection and radiation rendered him disease-free. Subsequent isolated recurrence within the lung eighteen months later was a pure adenocarcinoma, again with the same identified EGFR mutation. These histologic changes (from adenosquamous to pure squamous to pure adenocarcinoma) have been described but not before in the absence of any selection pressure with EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors. This case points out the histologic “flexibility” of EGFR mutant lung cancers and the importance for appropriate molecular testing in nonsmokers with lung cancer of any histologic type.
Congenital Upper Eyelid Coloboma: Clinical and Surgical Management
Authors: Ortega Molina José María , Mora Horna Eduardo Ramón , Salgado Miranda Andrés David , Rubio Rosa , Solans Pérez de Larraya Ana , Salcedo Casillas Guillermo
Published: August 2015

Purpose. The goal was to describe our experience in the surgical management and treatment of four patients with congenital upper eyelid colobomas.Methods. A descriptive, observational, retrospective study was performed including patients with congenital eyelid colobomas referred to Asociación para Evitar la Ceguera en México I.A.P. “Dr. Luis Sánchez Bulnes” between 2004 and 2014 and assessed by the Oculoplastics and Orbit Service.Results. The four cases required surgical treatment of the eyelid defects before one year of age and their evolution was monitored from the time of referral to the present day. One of the patients needed a second surgical procedure to repair the eyelid defect and correct the strabismus.Conclusions. Eyelid colobomas are a potential threat to vision at an early age, which requires close monitoring of the visual development of patients.
Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding from Gastric Amyloidosis in a Patient with Smoldering Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Gjeorgjievski Mihajlo , Purohit Treta , Amin Mitual B. , Kurtin Paul J. , Cappell Mitchell S.
Published: August 2015

Amyloidosis is a common complication of patients with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM), and multiple myeloma (MM). This proteinaceous material can be deposited intercellularly in any organ system, including the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. In the GI tract, amyloidosis affects the duodenum most commonly, followed by the stomach and colorectum. Gastric amyloidosis causes symptoms of nausea, vomiting, early satiety, abdominal pain, and GI bleeding. A case of upper GI bleeding from gastric amyloidosis is presented in a patient with SMM. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) revealed a gastric mass. Endoscopic biopsies revealed amyloid deposition in the lamina propria, consistent with gastric amyloidosis. Liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry performed on peptides extracted from Congo red-positive microdissected areas of paraffin-embedded stomach specimens revealed a peptide profile consistent with AL- (lambda-) type amyloidosis. Based on this and multiple other case reports, we recommend that patients with GI bleeding and MGUS, SMM, or MM undergo EGD and pathologic examination of endoscopic biopsies of identified lesions using Congo red stains for amyloidosis for early diagnosis and treatment.
One-Year Results of Simultaneous Topography-Guided Photorefractive Keratectomy and Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking in Keratoconus Utilizing a Modern Ablation Software
Authors: Sherif A. M. , Ammar M. A. , Mostafa Y. S. , Gamal Eldin S. A. , Osman A. A.
Published: August 2015

Purpose.To evaluate effectiveness of simultaneous topography-guided photorefractive keratectomy and corneal collagen cross-linking in mild and moderate keratoconus.Methods. Prospective nonrandomized interventional study including 20 eyes of 14 patients with grade 1-2 keratoconus that underwent topography-guided PRK using a Custom Ablation Transition Zone (CATz) profile with 0.02% MMC application immediately followed by standard 3 mw/cm2UVA collagen cross-linking. Maximum ablation depth did not exceed 58 μm. Follow-up period: 12 months.Results.Progressive statistically significant improvement of UCVA from0.83±0.37logMAR preoperative, reaching0.25±0.26logMAR at 12 months (P<0.001). Preoperative BCVA (0.27±0.31logMAR) showed a progressive improvement reaching0.08±0.12logMAR at 12 months (P=0.02). MeanKmax reduced from48.9±2.8to45.4±3.1 D at 12 months (P<0.001), meanKmin reduced from45.9±2.8 D to44.1±3.2 D at 12 months (P<0.003), mean keratometric asymmetry reduced from3.01±2.03 D to1.25±1.2 D at 12 months (P<0.001). The safety index was 1.39 at 12 months and efficacy index 0.97 at 12 months.Conclusion. Combined topography-guided PRK and corneal collagen cross-linking are a safe and effective option in the management of mild and moderate keratoconus.Precis. To our knowledge, this is the first published study on the use of the CATz ablation system on the Nidek Quest excimer laser platform combined with conventional cross-linking in the management of mild keratoconus.
Current Concept and Update of the Macrophage Plasticity Concept: Intracellular Mechanisms of Reprogramming and M3 Macrophage “Switch” Phenotype
Authors: Malyshev Igor , Malyshev Yuri
Published: August 2015

Macrophages play a key role in immunity. In this review, we consider the traditional notion of macrophage plasticity, data that do not fit into existing concepts, and a hypothesis for existence of a new switch macrophage phenotype. Depending on the microenvironment, macrophages can reprogram their phenotype toward the proinflammatory M1 phenotype or toward the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype. Macrophage reprogramming involves well-coordinated changes in activities of signalling and posttranslational mechanisms. Macrophage reprogramming is provided by JNK-, PI3K/Akt-, Notch-, JAK/STAT-, TGF-β-, TLR/NF-κB-, and hypoxia-dependent pathways. Posttranscriptional regulation is based on micro-mRNA. We have hypothesized that, in addition to the M1 and M2 phenotypes, an M3 switch phenotype exists. This switch phenotype responds to proinflammatory stimuli with reprogramming towards the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype or, contrarily, it responds to anti-inflammatory stimuli with reprogramming towards the proinflammatory M1 phenotype. We have found signs of such a switch phenotype in lung diseases. Understanding the mechanisms of macrophage reprogramming will assist in the selection of new therapeutic targets for correction of impaired immunity.
The Actual Maximum Throughput of Mobile Ad Hoc Networks with Reed-Solomon Coding
Authors: Fan Yuanyuan , Yang Bin , Yu Xiaomei
Published: August 2015

Maximum throughput serves as a fundamental metric for evaluating the performance of mobile ad hoc networks. However, the actual maximum throughput still remains significantly unknown in such networks. This paper studies the actual maximum throughput of mobile ad hoc networks under a general routing scheme with reed-solomon coding, where a source node first encodes a group ofgpackets intow(w≥g) code blocks, and then these code blocks are transmitted to distinct relay nodes, which forward them to destination node. The originalgpackets can be decoded once the destination node receives anygcode blocks. To explore the actual maximum throughput, we first establish two Markov chain models to capture the fastest packet sending and receiving processes at source and destination nodes under the considered routing scheme. Based on the Markov chain models, we then derive a closed-form expression for the maximum throughput in such networks. Finally, extensive simulations and theoretical results are presented to validate the accuracy of our theoretical maximum throughput analysis in mobile ad hoc networks and to illustrate how network parameters influence the maximum throughput performance.
Lie Symmetry Analysis of a First-Order Feedback Model of Option Pricing
Authors: Sinkala Winter , Nkalashe Tembinkosi F.
Published: August 2015

A first-order feedback model of option pricing consisting of a coupled system of two PDEs, a nonliner generalised Black-Scholes equation and the classical Black-Scholes equation, is studied using Lie symmetry analysis. This model arises as an extension of the classical Black-Scholes model when liquidity is incorporated into the market. We compute the admitted Lie point symmetries of the system and construct an optimal system of the associated one-dimensional subalgebras. We also construct some invariant solutions of the model.
The Major Prognostic Features of Nuclear ReceptorNR5A2in Infiltrating Ductal Breast Carcinomas
Authors: Chang Li-Yun , Liu Li-Yu D. , Roth Don A. , Kuo Wen-Hung , Hwa Hsiao-Lin , Chang King-Jen , Hsieh Fon-Jou
Published: August 2015

Background. Gene expression profiles of 181 breast cancer samples were analyzed to identify prognostic features of nuclear receptorsNR5A1andNR5A2based upon their associated transcriptional networks.Methods. A supervised network analysis approach was used to build the NR5A-mediated transcriptional regulatory network. Other bioinformatic tools and statistical methods were utilized to confirm and extend results from the network analysis methodology.Results.NR5A2expression is a negative factor in breast cancer prognosis in both ER(−) and ER(−)/ER(+) mixed cohorts. The clinical and cohort significance ofNR5A2-mediated transcriptional activities indicates that it may have a significant role in attenuating grade development and cancer related signal transduction pathways.NR5A2signature that conditions poor prognosis was identified based upon results from 15 distinct probes. Alternatively, the expression ofNR5A1predicts favorable prognosis when concurrentNR5A2expression is low. A favorable signature of eight transcription factors mediated byNR5A1was also identified.Conclusions. Correlation of poor prognosis andNR5A2activity is identified byNR5A2-mediated 15-gene signature.NR5A2may be a potential drug target for treating a subset of breast cancer tumors across breast cancer subtypes, especially ER(−) breast tumors. The favorable prognostic feature ofNR5A1is predicted byNR5A1-mediated 8-gene signature.
Intravenous Injections of Human Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Modulated the Redox State in a Rat Model of Radiation Myelopathy
Authors: Zhang Jing , Li Lian-Bing , Qiu Zhu , Ren Hong-Bo , Wu Jia-Yan , Wang Tao , Bao Zhong-Hui , Yang Ji-Fan , Zheng Ke , Li Shao-Lin , Wei Li , You Hua
Published: August 2015

The main aim of the present study was to assess the antioxidative effects of human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (UC-MSCs) in a rat model of radiation myelopathy. UC-MSCs were isolated from Wharton’s jelly (WJ) of umbilical cords. An irradiated cervical spinal cord rat model (C2-T2 segment) was generated using a60Co irradiator to deliver 30 Gy of radiation. UC-MSCs were injected through the tail vein at 90 days, 97 days, 104 days, and 111 days after-irradiation. Histological damage was examined by cresyl violet/Nissl staining. The activities of two antioxidant enzymes catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) in the spinal cord were measured by the biomedical assay. In addition, the levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2) in the spinal cord were determined by ELISA methods. Multiple injections of UC-MSCs through the tail vein ameliorated neuronal damage in the spinal cord, increased the activities of the antioxidant enzymes CAT and GPX, and increased the levels of VEGF and Ang-2 in the spinal cord. Our results suggest that multiple injections of UC-MSCs via the tail vein in the rat model of radiation myelopathy could significantly improve the antioxidative microenvironment in vivo.
Smoking Status Effect on Inflammatory Markers in a Randomized Trial of Current and Former Heavy Smokers
Authors: Aldaham Sami , Foote Janet A. , Chow H.-H. Sherry , Hakim Iman A.
Published: August 2015

Background. The level of systemic inflammation as measured by circulating levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) is linked to an increased risk for cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and cancer.Methods. We recruited 154 current and former smokers between 40 and 80 years of age with 25 or more pack-years of smoking history to study the relationship between inflammatory markers (CRP and IL-6) and smoking status.Results. Our results show that male smokers had significantly higher levels of serum IL-6 compared to male former smokers. We did not find any gender specific differences for smoking and CRP levels but the IL-6 levels were slightly lower in females compared to males. Additionally, our results show that CRP is significantly associated with IL-6 regardless of smoking status. Modelling indicates that the significant predictors of CRP levels were biomarkers of the metabolic syndrome while the significant predictors of IL-6 levels were age and plasma triglycerides among former smokers and the numbers of smoked packs of cigarettes per year among smokers.Conclusions. In conclusion, our study showed that CRP levels were not associated with markers of smoking intensity. However, IL-6 levels were significantly associated with smoking especially among current smokers.
Anesthetic Approach for a Patient with Jeune Syndrome
Authors: Buget Mehmet I. , Ozkan Emine , Edipoglu Ipek S. , Kucukay Suleyman
Published: August 2015

Jeune syndrome (JS) is an autosomal recessive disease also known as asphyxiating thoracic dystrophy. A narrow bell-shaped thoracic wall and short extremities are the most typical features of the syndrome. Prognosis in JS depends on the severity of the pulmonary hypoplasia caused by the chest wall deformity. Most patient deaths are due to respiratory problems at early ages. Herein, we report a case of JS patient, who was scheduled for femoral extension under general anesthesia. The severity of respiratory problems in JS patients is thought to diminish with age. Our case supported this theory, and we managed the anesthetic process uneventfully.
Analytical Study on Dynamic Response of Deep Foundation Pit Support Structure under the Action of Subway Train Vibration Load: A Case Study of Deep Foundation Pit of the New Museum Near Metro Line 2 in Chengdu, China
Authors: Dapeng Zhu , Liangkai Qin , Yundian Lin
Published: August 2015

Presently, foundation pit support structures are generally regarded as the temporary structures and the impact of vibration loads is often overlooked. As opposed to static and seismic loads, the vibration loads of subway trains are a type of cyclic load with a relatively long duration of action and a definite cycle; it is of great importance for the design of foundation pit support structures to correctly evaluate the impact of subway train vibrations on deep foundation pit and support works. In this paper, a dynamic three-dimensional numerical model is built that considers the vibration load of subway trains on the basis of the static numerical model for deep foundation pit support structures and simplified train loads to study the impact of train vibrations on deep foundation pit and permanent support structures. Studies have shown that the dynamic response of surface displacement mainly occurs in the early period of dynamic load, the vibration load of subway trains has little impact on ground subsidence, the support pile structure is in an elastic state during dynamic response under the action of subway train vibrations, and the action of train vibration loads is inimical to the safety of foundation pit support structures and should be closely studied.
Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy in the Setting of Tension Pneumothorax
Authors: Gale Michael , Loarte Pablo , Mirrer Brooks , Mallet Thierry , Salciccioli Louis , Petrie Alison , Cohen Ronny
Published: August 2015

Background. Takotsubo cardiomyopathy is defined as a transient left ventricular dysfunction, usually accompanied by electrocardiographic changes. The literature documents only two other cases of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy in the latter setting.Methods. A 78-year-old female presented to the ED with severe shortness of breath, hypertension, and tachycardia. On physical exam, heart sounds (S1 and S2) were regular and wheezing was noticed bilaterally. We found laboratory results with a WBC of 20.0 (103/μL), troponin of 16.52 ng/mL, CK-mb of 70.6%, and BNP of 177 pg/mL. The patient was intubated for acute hypoxemic respiratory failure. A chest X-ray revealed a large left-sided tension pneumothorax. Initial echocardiogram showed apical ballooning with a LVEF of 10–15%. A cardiac angiography revealed normal coronary arteries with no coronary disease. After supportive treatment, the patient’s condition improved with a subsequent echocardiogram showing a LVEF of 60%.Conclusion. The patient was found to have Takotsubo cardiomyopathy in the setting of a tension pneumothorax. The exact mechanisms of ventricular dysfunction have not been clarified. However, multivessel coronary spasm or catecholamine cardiotoxicity has been suggested to have a causative role. We suggest that, in our patient, left ventricular dysfunction was induced by the latter mechanism related to the stress associated with acute pneumothorax.
Acupuncture to Treat Sleep Disorders in Postmenopausal Women: A Systematic Review
Authors: Bezerra A. G. , Pires G. N. , Andersen M. L. , Tufik S. , Hachul H.
Published: August 2015

Sleep disorders are commonly observed among postmenopausal women, with negative effects on their quality of life. The search for complementary therapies for sleep disorders during postmenopausal period is of high importance, and acupuncture stands out as an appropriate possibility. The present review intended to systematically evaluate the available literature, compiling studies that have employed acupuncture as treatment to sleep disorders in postmenopausal women. A bibliographic search was performed in PubMed/Medline and Scopus. Articles which had acupuncture as intervention, sleep related measurements as outcomes, and postmenopausal women as target population were included and evaluated according to the Cochrane risk of bias tool and to the STRICTA guidelines. Out of 89 search results, 12 articles composed our final sample. A high heterogeneity was observed among these articles, which prevented us from performing a meta-analysis. Selected articles did not present high risk of bias and had a satisfactory compliance rate with STRICTA guidelines. In general, these studies presented improvements in sleep-related variables. Despite the overall positive effects, acupuncture still cannot be stated as a reliable treatment for sleep-related complaints, not due to inefficacy, but rather limited evidence. Nevertheless, results are promising and new comprehensive and controlled studies in the field are encouraged.
A Simulation of the Reception of Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast Signals in Low Earth Orbit
Authors: Van Der Pryt Richard , Vincent Ron
Published: August 2015

Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) is an air traffic surveillance technology in which aircraft transmit position and identification. The development of space-based ADS-B will allow precise control of aircraft in areas that are not covered by radar, such as oceanic regions and high latitudes. The Royal Military College of Canada has developed a spaceborne ADS-B receiver scheduled to fly on the Canadian Advanced Nanospace eXperiment-7 (CanX-7) satellite. The payload is planned to collect data over the North Atlantic region, which will then be compared to truth data provided by air traffic services. A model was created to determine power levels arriving at the satellite to provide confidence in the ADS-B receiver and antenna proposed for CanX-7. The model takes into account neutral atmosphere and ionospheric effects, aircraft-satellite geometry, and antenna radiation patterns. A simulation was run by inserting real aircraft data from the North Atlantic Track System into the model and placing the satellite at altitudes of 400, 600, and 800 km. Results of the simulation indicate that power received at the satellite, ranging between −98.5 dBm and −103 dBm for the selected altitudes, will be sufficient to successfully conduct the mission.
A Study to Inform the Design of a National Multicentre Randomised Controlled Trial to Evaluate If Reducing Serum Phosphate to Normal Levels Improves Clinical Outcomes including Mortality, Cardiovascular Events, Bone Pain, or Fracture in Patients on Dialysis
Authors: Bhargava Ramya , Kalra Philip A. , Brenchley Paul , Hurst Helen , Hutchison Alastair
Published: August 2015

Background. Retrospective, observational studies link high phosphate with mortality in dialysis patients. This generates research hypotheses but does not establish “cause-and-effect.” A large randomised controlled trial (RCT) of about 3000 patients randomised 50 : 50 to lower or higher phosphate ranges is required to answer the key question: does reducing phosphate levels improve clinical outcomes? Whether such a trial is technically possible is unknown; therefore, a study is necessary to inform the design and conduct of a future, definitive trial.Methodology. Dual centre prospective parallel group study: 100 dialysis patients randomized to lower (phosphate target 0.8 to 1.4 mmol/L) or higher range group (1.8 to 2.4 mmol/L). Non-calcium-containing phosphate binders and questionnaires will be used to achieve target phosphate. Primary endpoint: percentage successfully titrated to required range and percentage maintained in these groups over the maintenance period. Secondary endpoints: consent rate, drop-out rates, and cardiovascular events.Discussion. This study will inform design of a large definitive trial of the effect of phosphate on mortality and cardiovascular events in dialysis patients. If phosphate lowering improves outcomes, we would be reassured of the validity of this clinical practice. If, on the other hand, there is no improvement, a reassessment of resource allocation to therapies proven to improve outcomes will result.Trial Registration Number. This trial is registered with ISRCTN registration numberISRCTN24741445.
Systematic Analysis of Endometrial Cancer-Associated Hub Proteins Based on Text Mining
Authors: Gao Huiqiao , Zhang Zhenyu
Published: August 2015

Objective. The aim of this study was to systematically characterize the expression of endometrial cancer- (EC-) associated genes and to analysis the functions, pathways, and networks of EC-associated hub proteins.Methods. Gene data for EC were extracted from the PubMed (MEDLINE) database using text mining based on NLP. PPI networks and pathways were integrated and obtained from the KEGG and other databases. Proteins that interacted with at least 10 other proteins were identified as the hub proteins of the EC-related genes network.Results. A total of 489 genes were identified as EC-related withP<0.05, and 32 pathways were identified as significant (P<0.05,FDR<0.05). A network of EC-related proteins that included 271 interactions was constructed. The 17 proteins that interact with 10 or more other proteins (P<0.05,FDR<0.05) were identified as the hub proteins of this PPI network of EC-related genes. These 17 proteins are EGFR, MET, PDGFRB, CCND1, JUN, FGFR2, MYC, PIK3CA, PIK3R1, PIK3R2, KRAS, MAPK3, CTNNB1, RELA, JAK2, AKT1, and AKT2.Conclusion. Our data may help to reveal the molecular mechanisms of EC development and provide implications for targeted therapy for EC. However, corrections between certain proteins and EC continue to require additional exploration.
Discovering Alzheimer Genetic Biomarkers Using Bayesian Networks
Authors: Sherif Fayroz F. , Zayed Nourhan , Fakhr Mahmoud
Published: August 2015

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) contribute most of the genetic variation to the human genome. SNPs associate with many complex and common diseases like Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Discovering SNP biomarkers at different loci can improve early diagnosis and treatment of these diseases. Bayesian network provides a comprehensible and modular framework for representing interactions between genes or single SNPs. Here, different Bayesian network structure learning algorithms have been applied in whole genome sequencing (WGS) data for detecting the causal AD SNPs and gene-SNP interactions. We focused on polymorphisms in the top ten genes associated with AD and identified by genome-wide association (GWA) studies. New SNP biomarkers were observed to be significantly associated with Alzheimer’s disease. These SNPs are rs7530069, rs113464261, rs114506298, rs73504429, rs7929589, rs76306710, and rs668134. The obtained results demonstrated the effectiveness of using BN for identifying AD causal SNPs with acceptable accuracy. The results guarantee that the SNP set detected by Markov blanket based methods has a strong association with AD disease and achieves better performance than both naïve Bayes and tree augmented naïve Bayes. Minimal augmented Markov blanket reaches accuracy of 66.13% and sensitivity of 88.87% versus 61.58% and 59.43% in naïve Bayes, respectively.
Reduction of Pain and Edema of the Legs by Walking Wearing Elastic Stockings
Authors: Carvalho Carlos Alberto , Lopes Pinto Renata , Guerreiro Godoy Maria de Fatima , Pereira de Godoy Jose Maria
Published: August 2015

Aim. The objective of the current study was to evaluate the reduction of edema and pain with the use of elastic stockings.Method. The effect of walking on a treadmill for 50 minutes in the evening wearing elastic compression stockings on pain and edema was evaluated in a prospective randomized crossover clinical trial. In Assessment 1, the legs of participants were measured by volumetry at 7:00 a.m. and they were asked to perform their normal daily activities and to return at 4:00 p.m. Forty-two legs of 21 female patients with ages of the participants ranged from 32 to 72 years with signs and symptoms of chronic venous disease. The sizes of the legs of all patients were evaluated by water displacement volumetry and a visual analog scale was used to assess pain.Results. After walking for 50 minutes on the treadmill, the volume reduced (pairedt-test:pvalue < 0.03). In relation to pain, there was a reduction in pain after the treadmill session using the elastic stocking (Wilcoxon signed rank test:pvalue < 0.007).Conclusion. The reduction of edema and pain of the legs during the course of the day can be accomplished with the use of elastic stockings, as well as walking.
Chylous Ascites: A Rare Adverse Effect of Methimazole Treatment for Grave’s Disease—A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Khoury Tawfik , Schneider Ronen
Published: August 2015

A 40-year-old woman was admitted due to an urticarial rash that was attributed to recent onset of methimazole treatment for a diagnosis of Grave’s disease. The patient had no prior significant medical history and used no medications, including over-the-counter or herbal medications. Her sister had Grave’s disease. On admission, the patient received corticosteroids with improvement in her rash. On the second day of the hospitalization, the patient complained of abdominal discomfort. Abdominal ultrasound revealed a large amount of new onset ascites. Peritoneal tap yielded a milky fluid with high triglyceride level (12.2 mmol/L or 1080 mg/dL), consistent with chylous ascites. After discontinuation of the methimazole, the ascites disappeared. The patient later underwent therapeutic thyroidectomy, after which all features of thyrotoxicosis had improved.
Prevalence of Virulence Factors and Drug Resistance in Clinical Isolates of Enterococci: A Study from North India
Authors: Banerjee Tuhina , Anupurba Shampa
Published: August 2015

Along with emergence of multidrug resistance, presence of several virulence factors in enterococci is an emerging concept. This study was undertaken to determine the prevalence of various virulence factors phenotypically and genotypically in enterococci and study their association with multidrug resistance. A total of 310 enterococcal isolates were studied, comprising 155E. faeciumand 155E. faecalis. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was done by disc diffusion and agar dilution method. Hemolysin, gelatinase, biofilm production, and haemagglutination were detected phenotypically and presence of virulence genes, namely,asa1, gelE, cylA, esp, andhyl, was detected by multiplex PCR. Of the total, 47.41% isolates were high level gentamicin resistant (HLGRE) and 7.09% were vancomycin resistant (VRE). All the virulence traits studied were found in varying proportions, with majority inE. faecalis(p>0.05). Strong biofilm producers possessed eitherasa1orgelEgene.gelEsilent gene was detected in 41.37% (12/29). However, increase in resistance was associated with significant decrease in expression or acquisition of virulence genes. Further, acquisition of vancomycin resistance was the significant factor responsible for the loss of virulence traits. Though it is presumed that increased drug resistance correlates with increased virulence, acquisition of vancomycin resistance might be responsible for reduced expression of virulence traits to meet the “biological cost” relating to VRE.
Effect of Cortical Bone Thickness on Detection of Intraosseous Lesions by Ultrasonography
Authors: Adibi Sadaf , Shakibafard Alireza , Karimi Sarvestani Zohreh , Saadat Najmeh , Khojastepour Leila
Published: August 2015

Background. Usefulness of ultrasound (US) in detection of intrabony lesions has been showed. A cortical bone perforation or a very thin and intact cortical bone is prerequisite for this purpose.Objective. The current in vitro study was aimed at measuring the cut-off thickness of the overlying cortical bone which allows ultrasonic assessment of bony defects.Materials and Methods. 20 bovine scapula blocks were obtained. Samples were numbered from 1 to 20. In each sample, 5 artificial lesions were made. The lesions were made in order to increase the overlying bone thickness, from 0.1 mm in the first sample to 2 mm in the last one (with 0.1 mm interval). After that, the samples underwent ultrasound examinations by two practicing radiologists.Results. All five lesions in samples numbered 1 to 11 were detected as hypoechoic area. Cortical bone thickness more than 1.1 mm resulted in a failure in the detection of central lesions.Conclusion. We can conclude that neither bony perforation nor very thin cortical bones are needed to consider US to be an effective imaging technique in the evaluation of bony lesion.