bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of a caudolateral approach for arthrocentesis and injection of the equine elbow joint
Authors: Bodaan C. J. , Riley C. B. , Engeli E.
Published: June 2016

The objectives of this study were to evaluate the likelihood of successful arthrocentesis of the equine elbow joint using the caudolateral approach and to determine if the deep branch of the radial nerve (DBRN) varies in its proximity to the site of centesis. Methylene blue (MB) was injected into 71 elbow joint specimens immediately caudal to the lateral collateral ligament using a 3.8‐cm needle advanced to its hub. The elbow joints were dissected, staining of the synovial structures assessed and the proximity of DBRN to the site of centesis evaluated. The articular cartilage of all 71 joints was stained with MB. The location of DBRN did not vary substantially among the specimens and did not course close to the site of centesis. Direct communication was found between the bursa of the tendon of the ulnaris lateralis muscle and the elbow joint in 41 of 71 specimens (57.8 per cent). The caudolateral approach for centesis of the equine elbow joint, performed by inserting a needle 3.8‐cm, was found to be reliable. Radial nerve paralysis reported to be caused by injection of local anaesthetic solution using the caudolateral approach may be due to diffusion of the solution from the dorsal pouch rather than from leakage at the site of centesis.
The effect of phosphate deprivation on protein synthesis and fixed carbon storage reserves in Brassica nigra suspension cells
Authors: Fife Cheryl A. , Newcomb William , Lefebvre Daniel D.
Published: June 2016

Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis was used to analyze labelled proteins from cell suspension cultures of Brassica nigra which differed in their phosphate status. Differences in protein synthesis profiles were detected during cellular transition from phosphate sufficiency to deficiency and between cells which were maintained continuously in either phosphate-sufficient or phosphate-deficient states. Four proteins were identified which increased in their de novo synthesis rates under phosphate-starved conditions. Their approximate molecular mass values and isoelectric points were 64 kDa, pi 5.2; 41 kDa, pi 5.6; 27 kDa, pi 5.7; and 27 kDa, pi 5.2. Conversely, high levels of phosphate supply induced the production of a protein of 33 kDa and pi 5.1. Morphometric analysis revealed that lipid droplets and starch granules in phosphate-deprived suspension cells occupied 13.9 ± 5.0% (mean ± 95% confidence interval) of the total cell volume, whereas in cells supplied with 10 mM KH2PO4 these carbon reserves occupied only 5.7 ± 1.2% of the cell. Chemical analysis of total lipid, phenolics, and protein showed that phosphate-deprived cells had much higher levels of lipid and phenolics, whereas total protein content was independent of phosphate status. These observations suggest possible roles of the proteins preferentially synthesized in B. nigra suspension cells under conditions of phosphate deprivation. Key words: Brassica nigra, carbon metabolism, phosphate deprivation, protein synthesis, ultrastructure.
Nuclear size and shape changes in fusiform cambial cells of Abies balsamea during the annual cycle of activity and dormancy
Authors: Mellerowicz E. J. , Riding R. T. , Little C. H. A.
Published: June 2016

Interphase, prophase, and telophase nuclei were measured at different times during the year in fusiform cambial cells located at the base of the main stem of 6-year-old trees and in 1-year-old shoots from the top of 21-year-old trees. In both materials, the size and shape of nuclei exhibited seasonal changes that were independent of the cell cycle. Nuclear length was greater, whereas nuclear width and depth were smaller, when the cambium was dormant than when it was active. Nuclear volume gradually declined during the growing period and increased during the rest stage of dormancy. Nuclei had the highest surface to volume ratio in the quiescence stage of dormancy. During cambial activity, the projected area of prophase nuclei decreased, whereas it did not change for telophase nuclei. Nuclear volumes from the present investigation were combined with nuclear DNA contents previously recorded to estimate seasonal changes in nuclear DNA concentration which appear to be associated with the annual cycle of cambial activity and dormancy. Key words: balsam fir, periodicity, nucleus, xylogenesis, rest.
Taxonomic examination of Triticale (×Triticosecale)
Authors: Baum Bernard R. , Gupta Pushpendra K.
Published: June 2016

A detailed study of inflorescence, glume, lemma, and lodicule characters was conducted in 108 accessions of triticales (2n = 6x = 42; 2n = 8x = 56), in 102 herbarium specimens representing 21 species of Triticum and Aegilops, and in 30 herbarium specimens representing 12 species of Secale. The differences observed justify in our opinion generic status for triticales. A key has been provided for distinguishing the genera Secale, Triticum, and Aegilops and the nothogenus ×Triticosecale. In addition to morphological differences, cytological differences and other differences in starch granules and glutenin morphology, known from other studies, provide further support for the generic status of triticale. Key words: Triticale, Secale, Triticum, wheat, rye, taxonomy.
Isolation of high molecular weight DNA and double-stranded RNAs from fungi
Authors: Kim W. K. , Mauthe W. , Hausner G. , Klassen G. R.
Published: June 2016

An efficient method for the extraction of DNA and RNA from fungi is described. Urediosporelings and sporidia of two basidiomycete species and mycellia from several species of Ascomycetes and Oomycetes were homogenized in a lysis buffer containing sodium dodecyl sulfate followed by cetyltrimethylammonium bromide extraction of carbohydrates in 1.4 M NaCl, leaving nucleic acids in the supernatant. After chloroform – isoamyl alcohol extraction of proteins, nucleic acids were precipitated with ethanol. Total nucleic acids prepared in this way contained nuclear, ribosomal, and mitochondrial DNA as well as double-stranded and single-stranded RNA. DNA was eluted from agarose gels and digested with endonucleases, labelled by nick translation, and used for hybridization without nonspecific background signal. A method is also described for RNase digestion of single-stranded and double-stranded RNA in agarose gels. Key words: DNA extraction, double-stranded RNA, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide, sodium dodecyl sulfate.
Leaf surface ultrastructure and susceptibility to ammonium nitrate injury
Authors: Bitterlich Iris , Upadhyaya Mahesh K.
Published: June 2016

Ammonium nitrate solution (20% N) can burn the foliage of many broadleaf weeds without significant injury to cole (broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and cauliflower) and onion crops. Scanning electron microscopy showed that a heavy crystalline epicuticular wax layer composed of tubules, dendrites, and (or) platelets was present on the adaxial leaf surface of ammonium nitrate tolerant species. Susceptible species had little or no wax on their leaf surface. Removal of epicuticular wax by cellulose acetate stripping from tolerant cabbage leaves increased ammonium nitrate retention and salt injury. We conclude that epicuticular wax protects the foliage of tolerant species by repelling the salt solution. The solution, however, did not wet the stripped leaves evenly and leaf kill was incomplete, indicating that amorphous cuticular wax offers some protection to these leaves. The foliage of susceptible species, which lacked epicuticular wax, was damaged because it retained the solution. The presence of surface structures such as trichomes on common groundsel (Senecio vulgaris L.), lady's thumb (Polygonum persicaria L.), and shepherd's purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris (L.) Medic.) may further increase solution retention and salt injury. Key words: epicuticular wax, cole crops, onion, weed, leaf surface, trichome.
Immunohistochemical localization of glutamine synthetase in developing maize kernels
Authors: Felker Frederick C. , Muhitch Michael J.
Published: June 2016

Antibodies to spinach (Spinacia oleracea) leaf glutamine synthetase (GS) cross-reacted with all forms of GS from the tissues of the maize (Zea mays L.) kernel. Phycoerythrin-conjugated anti-rabbit IgG was used to detect sites of anti-GS binding in paraformaldehyde-fixed cryostat sections of whole maize kernels from 8 to 32 days after pollination. A positive GS signal was found in the vascular tissue of the kernel base, the pericarp, and lower endosperm cells at all stages examined. Embryo staining increased from none to heavy throughout development and was uniform throughout the embryo. Staining increased throughout the endosperm up to 24 days after pollination, then remained intense in the lower endosperm while decreasing in the upper endosperm. Staining was very weak in the basal endosperm transfer cells, suggesting that GS is not directly involved in the uptake of amino acids into the endosperm. The distribution of GS in the pedicel region is consistent with a possible role of GS in the unloading of amino acids from the phloem. Key words: amino acids, immunofluorescence, seed development, Zea mays.
Spatial patterns of genetic variability in Italian chestnut (Castanea sativa)
Authors: Pigliucci M. , Benedettelli S. , Villani F.
Published: June 2016

The spatial patterns of genetic variation for 15 loci in 18 Italian populations of chestnut were analyzed. Multivariate analysis and spatial autocorrelation analysis showed two clinal variations, one in a west–east direction, the other in a north–south direction. There was a nonrandom spatial pattern of at least three alleles and a marked heterogeneity among populations of many others. An explanation is proposed in terms of migration flow for the majority of the polymorphisms and of selection for the three autocorrelated alleles. However, anthropic interferences may also be important. Key words: chestnut, electrophoresis, spatial autocorrelation, correspondence analysis, genetic boundaries, discriminant analysis.
Structural and dynamic descriptions of the development of Utricularia foliosa and U. australis
Authors: Sattler Rolf , Rutishauser Rolf
Published: June 2016

In this developmental investigation of Utricularia foliosa and U. australis by means of scanning electron microscopy we demonstrate the relativity of morphological facts and descriptions. We provide several descriptions in terms of the structural categories "stem" and '"leaf." These contrasting, if not contradictory, descriptions are complementary to each other, i.e., they present different aspects of the unusual complexity of these species. In addition to these structural descriptions, we provide a dynamic description in terms of process morphology. According to this dynamic approach, each form is seen as a process combination. Structural change during ontogeny and phylogeny is a change in process combinations. From this point of view, the unusual process combinations of the two Utricularia species do not pose a morphological problem, although they cannot be clearly assigned to mutually exclusive categories such as stem and leaf. In addition to the clarification of the developmental morphology of the two Utricularia species, this investigation illustrates process morphology as a general approach to the description and comparison of plant form. The relevance of this approach to other biological disciplines such as cladistics is briefly indicated. Key words: Utricularia, Lentibulariaceae, shoot development, leaf development, morphogenesis, process morphology.
Seasonal changes in the phenolic constituents of jack pine seedlings (Pinus banksiana) in relation to the purpling phenomenon
Authors: Nozzolillo C. , Isabelle P. , Das G.
Published: June 2016

Needles of jack pine seedlings in their 1st and 2nd years of growth in the Kemptville, Ontario, forest tree nursery station were analysed during the summer and fall of 1987 for chemical changes associated with the purpling phenomenon. Anthocyanins, whose presence is responsible for the purple colour, appeared in 1st year needles only after the first frost in early September and increased in amount in both 1st and 2nd year needles throughout October and November. A proanthocyanidin reaction was always present during the summer at variable levels but increased markedly in late fall. Total phenolics showed a gradual increase over the season. Paper chromatograms of crude extracts showed that glucose was the major free sugar and remained at a more or less constant level, whereas free amino acids gradually declined. Soluble proteins increased in late autumn. Total chlorophyll content showed no significant seasonal change. Experiments on 1st year plants showed that nutrient deficiencies resulted in some purpling at normal temperatures that was markedly enhanced by exposure to cold. Depurpling occurred in warm temperature. Plants transplanted from the nursery in early September to a warm greenhouse and exposed to natural light and daylengths did not purple. It is concluded that low temperature is the major factor in purpling and that maintenance of the pigmentation depends on a balance of low temperature enhanced synthesis and warm temperature enhanced degradation.
The influence of vehicle–tire contact force area on vehicle–bridge dynamic interaction
Authors: Zhang Longwei , Zhao Hua , OBrien Eugene J. , Shao Xudong , Tan Chengjun
Published: June 2016

This paper proposes an updated vehicle–tire contact force model to simulate vehicle–bridge interaction, considering the tire contact area and the thickness of the bridge wearing surface. In contrast to the traditional methods of using a single-point tire contact force with a moving average filter, the proposed model uses multiple-point contact forces to account for the tire contact area. Results show that both the longitudinal and transverse distribution of tire contact force have a significant effect.
A mechanistic empirical approach for the evaluation of the structural capacity and remaining service life of flexible pavements at the network level
Authors: Saleh Mofreh
Published: June 2016

Road asset managers need to utilize reliable indicators for the structural condition and remaining service life at the network level to make rational decisions of the required funding and the optimum strategies for maintenance and rehabilitation. The surface deflection bowls and pavement critical responses were generated by computer simulations for a total of 2880 flexible pavement sections. The normalized area was computed from the deflection bowl data and it was found to be very well correlated with the compressive strain at the top of the subgrade. While the pavement surface curvature and area under pavement profile were highly correlated with the tensile strain at the bottom of the asphalt concrete layer. Thus, these parameters were used to evaluate the remaining service life in rutting and fatigue. Field data showed an excellent match between the trends obtained from the field and computer simulated data.
Size-dependent predation alters interactions between parasites and predators
Authors: Catania S.V.L. , Koprivnikar J. , McCauley S.J.
Published: June 2016

Increasing evidence indicates that parasites play an important role within many systems as prey for higher trophic levels. Predation on parasites can decrease their numbers and may affect host infection rates. Cercariae, a free-living infectious stage of trematode parasites, are abundant in freshwater systems and are directly consumed by a number of freshwater predators. However, few studies have tested whether predators exhibit a preference for cercariae when alternative prey are available or how these preferences vary across predator body sizes. We assessed whether dragonfly larvae (dot-tailed whiteface, Leucorrhinia intacta (Hagen, 1861)), top predators in freshwater systems without fish, foraged preferentially when presented with two prey types, cercariae and zooplankton, and whether foraging preferences changed across predator body size. Body size of larval dragonfly predators was found to be significantly, and negatively, related to the fraction of cercariae in the diet. Larger bodied dragonfly larvae shifted their diet choice from cercariae to zooplankton. Changes in foraging selectivity as body size increases across a predator’s ontogeny can alter the strength of predator–prey interactions. Further investigation into size-selective foraging on parasites may provide new insights into the effects of predation on parasite abundance and transmission in natural systems.
Ribosomal DNA locus variation and REMAP analysis of the diploid and triploid complexes ofLilium lancifolium
Authors: Nguyen Truong Xuan , Lee Sung-Il , Rai Rameshwar , Kim Nam-Soo , Kim Jong Hwa
Published: June 2016

Lilium lancifolium Thunb. (2n = 2x = 24) is a cytologically conspicuous species with both diploids and triploids in nature. Cytological and molecular genetic analyses were carried out in both diploids and triploids that were collected from 55 geographical locations in Korea, Japan, and China. While the 5S rRNA gene loci were located at duplicated loci on the long arm of chromosome 2, the 45S rRNA gene loci were present in chromosomes 1, 2, 4, 6, 7, and 11. While the loci on chromosomes 1 and 7 were constant, the loci on chromosomes 2, 4, 6, 7, and 11 were variable in some plants so that the L. lancifolium accessions were grouped into 7 cytotypes in diploids and 12 cytotypes in triploids. REMAP marker analysis revealed that the diploids were classified into seven clusters, and the triploids were classified into a large cluster. Geographic, cytological, and genetic differentiations were not related in both the diploid and triploid accessions of L. lancifolium. Thus, current genetic variations occurred prior to the geographic differentiation in both diploids and triploids, and the 45S rDNA cytotype variations occurred after geographic differentiation in the current habitats of L. lancifolium.
Expert System for Ice Hockey Game Prediction: Data Mining with Human Judgment
Authors: Gu Wei , Saaty Thomas L. , Whitaker Rozann
Published: June 2016

This paper describes an expert system to predict National Hockey League (NHL) game outcome. A new method based on both data and judgments is used to estimate the hockey game performance. There are many facts and judgments that could influence an outcome. We employed the support vector machine to determine the importance of these factors before we incorporate them into the prediction system. Our system combines data and judgments and used them to predict the win–lose outcome of all the 89 post-season games before they took place. The accuracy of our prediction with the combined factors was 77.5%. This is to date the best accuracy reported of hockey games prediction.
Computational design of ZnP(P)4 stacks: Three modes of binding
Authors: Kuznetsov Aleksey E.
Published: June 2016

A large variety of metalloporphyrin arrays, including stacks, have been synthesized and extensively explored for their numerous applications in molecular devices. Motivated by the phenomenon of formation of stacks by regular metalloporphyrins, we performed the computational check of the stack formation between the MP(P)4 species without any linkers or substituents. For this we chose the ZnP(P)4 species as the simplest MP(P)4 compound. Three modes of binding or coordination were found to be possible between the monomeric ZnP(P)4 units. The “convexity-to-convexity” dimer I generally is the most stable compound with the highest binding energy. The dimers II and III are generally bound significantly weaker than the “convexity-to-convexity” dimer I. In the dimer I, the strongly convex shape of both monomer units was demonstrated. The Zn–Zn distances in the dimer I, ca. 3.5[Formula: see text]Å, were computed to be significantly shorter than in two other dimers. This could lead to additional interactions between the metal centers with unpaired d-electrons involved in the formation of such a dimer. In the dimer I significant decrease of the charge was found on the Zn-centers, along with slight decrease of the positive charge on the P-centers coordinated to the Zn-centers of another monomer, and slight buildup of the positive charge on the P-centers not coordinated to the Zn-centers of another monomer.
Metric and connections in theories of gravity. The role of equivalence principle
Authors: Capozziello Salvatore , De Laurentis Mariafelicia
Published: June 2016

Fundamental issues underlying gravitational physics and some of the shortcomings of Einstein’s general relativity (GR) are discussed. In particular, after taking into account the role of the two main objects of relativistic theories of gravity, i.e. the metric and the connection fields, we consider the possibility that they are not trivially related so that the geodesic structure and the causal structure of the spacetime could be disentangled, as supposed in the Palatini formulation of gravity. In this perspective, the equivalence principle (EP), in its weak and strong formulations, can play a fundamental role in discriminating among competing theories. The possibility of its violation at quantum level could open new perspectives in gravitational physics and in unification with other interactions. We shortly debate the possibility of EP measurements by ground-based and space experiments.
Realistic FDTD Simulations of Plasmonic Properties on Ag Columnar Thin Films as SERS Biosensor
Authors: Liao Yan-Juan , Huang Jing-Nan , Guo Jia-Yang , Jiang Shao-Ji
Published: June 2016

Noble metal sculptured thin films are of great interest during last decade as excellent surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrates due to remarkable plasmonic properties in the visible and near-infrared range. In this work, Ag columnar thin films (Ag-CTFs) have been prepared by the glancing angle deposition technique. Finite-difference time-domain simulations has been utilized to study plasmonic properties of Ag-CTFs with a more accurate model based on binary scanning electron microscope (SEM) images by taking account of the shape irregularities, size distributions and random arrangement. The calculated absorption spectra based on the model of binarized SEM images show the best agreement with the measured spectra compared with models of periodic array with a regular shape. The near-field plasmonic properties are simulated based on the verified model. The distributions of electric field enhancement and hot spots are confirmed to be spectral and polarization dependent. There are multiple resonance peaks from visible to near-infrared and multiple eigenmodes coexist at the same wavelength and electric field enhancement are mainly excited by the polarized light vertical to the gap orientation. The electric field enhancement is found to distribute unevenly in the films with surface-localized feature. The equations to calculate the simulation SERS enhancement factor (EF) and total number of hot spots (tHN) are modified according to the above discussions. The experimental SERS EFs are on the order of 107–108, which indicates the high sensitivity of the films and the simulation SERS EFs and tHNs show good agreement with the experimental EFs. It is found that the SERS performance of Ag-CTFs is decided by both the cross-section structural characteristics and film thickness, which affect the electric filed enhancement and number of adsorbed molecules, respectively. Our work could be helpful in understanding the SERS mechanism and useful to the optimization of metal sculptured thin films for designing SERS biosensor.
Looks Like Eve
Authors: Eberz Simon , Rasmussen Kasper B. , Lenders Vincent , Martinovic Ivan
Published: June 2016

We introduce a novel biometric based on distinctive eye movement patterns. The biometric consists of 20 features that allow us to reliably distinguish users based on differences in these patterns. We leverage this distinguishing power along with the ability to gauge the users’ task familiarity, that is, level of knowledge, to address insider threats. In a controlled experiment, we test how both time and task familiarity influence eye movements and feature stability, and how different subsets of features affect the classifier performance. These feature subsets can be used to tailor the eye movement biometric to different authentication methods and threat models. Our results show that eye movement biometrics support reliable and stable continuous authentication of users. We investigate different approaches in which an attacker could attempt to use inside knowledge to mimic the legitimate user. Our results show that while this advance knowledge is measurable, it does not increase the likelihood of successful impersonation. In order to determine the time stability of our features, we repeat the experiment twice within 2 weeks. The results indicate that we can reliably authenticate users over the entire period. We show that lower sampling rates provided by low-cost hardware pose a challenge, but that reliable authentication is possible even at the rate of 50Hz commonly available with consumer-level devices. In a second set of experiments, we evaluate how our authentication system performs across a variety of real-world tasks, including reading, writing, and web browsing. We discuss the advantages and limitations of our approach in detail and give practical insights on the use of this biometric in a real-world environment.
Platelet interaction with lymphatics aggravates intestinal inflammation by suppressing lymphangiogenesis
Authors: Sato Hirokazu , Higashiyama Masaaki , Hozumi Hideaki , Sato Shingo , Furuhashi Hirotaka , Takajo Takeshi , Maruta Koji , Yasutake Yuichi , Narimatsu Kazuyuki , Yoshikawa Kenichi , Kurihara Chie , Okada Yoshikiyo , Watanabe Chikako , Komoto Shunsuke , Tomita Kengo , Nagao Shigeaki , Miura Soichiro , Hokari Ryota
Published: June 2016

Lymphatic failure is a histopathological feature of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Recent studies show that interaction between platelets and podoplanin on lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) suppresses lymphangiogenesis. We aimed to investigate the role of platelets in the inflammatory process of colitis, which is likely to be through modulation of lymphangiogenesis. Lymphangiogenesis in colonic mucosal specimens from patients with IBD was investigated by studying mRNA expression of lymphangiogenic factors and histologically by examining lymphatic vessel (LV) densities. Involvement of lymphangiogenesis in intestinal inflammation was studied by administering VEGF-receptor 3 (VEGF-R3) inhibitors to the mouse model of colitis using dextran sulfate sodium and evaluating platelet migration to LVs. The inhibitory effect of platelets on lymphangiogenesis was investigated in vivo by administering antiplatelet antibody to the colitis mouse model and in vitro by coculturing platelets with lymphatic endothelial cells. Although mRNA expressions of lymphangiogenic factors such as VEGF-R3 and podoplanin were significantly increased in the inflamed mucosa of patients with IBD compared with those with quiescent mucosa, there was no difference in LV density between them. In the colitis model, VEGF-R3 inhibition resulted in aggravated colitis, decreased lymphatic density, and increased platelet migration to LVs. Administration of an antiplatelet antibody increased LV densities and significantly ameliorated colitis. Coculture with platelets inhibited proliferation of LECs in vitro. Our data suggest that despite elevated lymphangiogenic factors during colonic inflammation, platelet migration to LVs resulted in suppressed lymphangiogenesis, leading to aggravation of colitis by blocking the clearance of inflammatory cells. Modulating the interaction between platelets and LVs could be a new therapeutic means for treating IBD.
A possible carbon monoxide shuttle in the lung
Authors: Coburn Ronald F.
Published: June 2016

The Coburn, Forster, Kane Equation (CFKE) describes a current understanding of the physiology of lung uptake and excretion of carbon monoxide (CO). The lung mean capillary PCO is an important term in this equation because it drives CO excretion and functions as “back-pressure” during uptake of exogenous CO. Results of previous studies have indicated that the mean capillary PCO of normal human lungs is equal to values calculated using the Haldane Equation, as described by the CFKE. The physiological explanation of how this parameter is set at this level is unknown. As a possible explanation, this study tested a hypothesis that a CO shuttle could be involved. Results of calculation-simulations indicate that a CO shuttle operates in a single alveolus model and imply that it could function as a determinant of the lung mean capillary PCO.
Qualitative dimensions of exertional dyspnea in adults with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Quon Bradley S. , Wilkie Sabrina S. , Ramsook Andrew H. , Schaeffer Michele R. , Puyat Joseph H. , Wilcox Pearce G. , Guenette Jordan A.
Published: June 2016

No studies of cystic fibrosis (CF) have systematically characterized the evolution of the qualitative dimensions of exertional dyspnea. Adults with CF ( n = 25) and control individuals matched for sex, age, and body mass index ( n = 25) underwent cardiopulmonary cycle exercise testing with a detailed evaluation of ventilatory and dyspnea responses. The qualitative dimensions of dyspnea were examined during each exercise stage by having subjects select phrases that best described their breathing (i.e., “work/effort,” “unsatisfied inspiration,” and “unsatisfied expiration”). Subjects also selected phrases that described the quality of their breathing at peak exercise using an established 15-item questionnaire, which was then clustered into different categories. Subjects with CF had greater ventilatory requirements, higher end-inspiratory and end-expiratory lung volumes (% total lung capacity), and an earlier inflection/plateau in tidal volume during exercise compared with control subjects. Increased work/effort was the dominant qualitative descriptor in both groups throughout exercise. Unsatisfied inspiration was selected by 48% of subjects with CF and 40% of controls at some point during exercise. The onset of unsatisfied inspiration in these subjects occurred at a significantly lower relative exercise intensity in subjects with CF vs. controls (72 ± 21 vs. 94 ± 11% Wmax, P < 0.01). Chest tightness was the only qualitative descriptor cluster that was selected more frequently by subjects with CF vs. controls (36 vs. 0%, respectively, P < 0.05) at peak exercise. Therapeutic interventions that reduce ventilatory requirements and improve lung volumes may delay the onset of distressing sensations such as unsatisfied inspiration and chest tightness in adults with CF.
Intrauterine growth restriction inhibits expression of eukaryotic elongation factor 2 kinase, a regulator of protein translation
Authors: McKnight Robert A. , Yost Christian C. , Zinkhan Erin K. , Fu Qi , Callaway Christopher W. , Fung Camille M.
Published: June 2016

Nutrient deprivation suppresses protein synthesis by blocking peptide elongation. Transcriptional upregulation and activation of eukaryotic elongation factor 2 kinase (eEF2K) blocks peptide elongation by phosphorylating eukaryotic elongation factor 2. Previous studies examining placentas from intrauterine growth restricted (IUGR) newborn infants show decreased eEF2K expression and activity despite chronic nutrient deprivation. However, the effect of IUGR on hepatic eEF2K expression in the fetus is unknown. We, therefore, examined the transcriptional regulation of hepatic eEF2K gene expression in a Sprague-Dawley rat model of IUGR. We found decreased hepatic eEF2K mRNA and protein levels in IUGR offspring at birth compared with control, consistent with previous placental observations. Furthermore, the CpG island within the eEF2K promoter demonstrated increased methylation at a critical USF 1/2 transcription factor binding site. In vitro methylation of this binding site caused near complete loss of eEF2K promoter activity, designating this promoter as methylation sensitive. The eEF2K promotor in IUGR offspring also lost the protective histone covalent modifications associated with unmethylated CGIs. In addition, the +1 nucleosome was displaced 3′ and RNA polymerase loading was reduced at the IUGR eEF2K promoter. Our findings provide evidence to explain why IUGR-induced chronic nutrient deprivation does not result in the upregulation of eEF2K gene transcription.
Effects of Synthetic Serum Supplementation in Sperm Preparation Media on Sperm Capacitation and Function Test Results
Authors: Shih Ying-Fu , Tzeng Shu-Ling , Chen Wen-Jung , Huang Chun-Chia , Chen Hsiu-Hui , Lee Tsung-Hsien , Lee Maw-Sheng
Published: June 2016

Albumin supplementation of culture media induces sperm capacitation in assisted reproduction technique cycles. Synthetic serum supplementation is clinically used to replace albumin for preventing transmission of infectious agents. However, the effects of synthetic serum supplementation on sperm capacitation have rarely been investigated. Spermatozoa from 30 men with normal basic semen analysis results were collected, divided into five aliquots, and cultured in capacitating conditions in four combinations of two synthetic serum supplements, serum substitute supplement (SSS) and serum protein substitute (SPS), and two fertilization media, Quinns Advantage™ Fertilization (QF) and human tubular fluid (HTF) media. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in spermatozoa were measured through chemiluminescence. Furthermore, acrosome reaction and western blotting for tyrosine phosphorylation were used to evaluate sperm capacitation. HTF+SSS had significantly higher ROS levels than QF+SPS did (11,725 ± 1,172 versus 6,278 ± 864 relative light units). In addition, the spermatozoa cultured in QF+SPS had lower motility, acrosome reaction rates, and tyrosine phosphorylation levels compared with those cultured in HTF+SSS. In conclusion, the effects of synthetic serum supplementation on sperm capacitation varied according to the combination of media. These differences may lead to variations in spermatozoon ROS levels, thus affecting sperm function test results.
Disrupted Endothelial Cell Layer and Exposed Extracellular Matrix Proteins Promote Capture of Late Outgrowth Endothelial Progenitor Cells
Authors: Zhao Jing , Mitrofan Claudia-Gabriela , Appleby Sarah L. , Morrell Nicholas W. , Lever Andrew M. L.
Published: June 2016

Late outgrowth endothelial progenitor cells (LO‐EPC) possess a high proliferative potential, differentiate into vascular endothelial cells (EC), and form networks, suggesting they play a role in vascular repair. However, due to their scarcity in the circulation there is a requirement for ex vivo expansion before they could provide a practical cell therapy and it is currently unclear if they would home and engraft to an injury site. Using an in vitro flow system we studied LO‐EPC under simulated injury conditions including EC activation, ischaemia, disrupted EC integrity, and exposed basement membrane. Perfused LO‐EPC adhered to discontinuous EC paracellularly at junctional regions between adjacent cells under shear stress 0.7 dyn/cm2. The interaction was not adhesion molecule‐dependent and not enhanced by EC activation. LO‐EPC expressed high levels of the VE‐Cadherin which may explain these findings. Ischaemia reperfusion injury decreased the interaction with LO‐EPC due to cell retraction. LO‐EPC interacted with exposed extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, fibronectin and vitronectin. The interaction was mediated by integrins α5β3, αvβ1, and αvβ3. This study has demonstrated that an injured local environment presents sufficient adhesive signals to capture flow perfused LO‐EPC in vitro and that LO‐EPC have properties consistent with their potential role in vascular repair.
Nonlinear Dynamics and Analysis of Intracranial Saccular Aneurysms with Growth and Remodeling
Authors: Badgaish Manal , Lin Jeng-Eng , Seshaiyer Padmanabhan
Published: June 2016

A new mathematical model for the interaction of blood flow with the arterial wall surrounded by cerebral spinal fluid is developed with applications to intracranial saccular aneurysms. The blood pressure acting on the inner arterial wall is modeled via a Fourier series, the arterial wall is modeled as a spring-mass system incorporating growth and remodeling, and the surrounding cerebral spinal fluid is modeled via a simplified one-dimensional compressible Euler equation with inviscid flow and negligible nonlinear effects. The resulting nonlinear coupled fluid-structure interaction problem is analyzed and a perturbation technique is employed to derive the first-order approximation solution to the system. An analytical solution is also derived for the linearized version of the problem using Laplace transforms. The solutions are validated against related work from the literature and the results suggest the biological significance of the inclusion of the growth and remodeling effects on the rupture of intracranial aneurysms.
Preexisting Antibodies to an F(ab′)2Antibody Therapeutic and Novel Method for Immunogenicity Assessment
Authors: Ruppel Jane , Brady Ann , Elliott Rebecca , Leddy Cecilia , Palencia Marco , Coleman Daniel , Couch Jessica A. , Wakshull Eric
Published: June 2016

Anti-therapeutic antibodies (ATAs) may impact drug exposure and activity and induce immune complex mediated toxicity; therefore the accurate measurement of ATA is important for the analysis of drug safety and efficacy. Preexisting ATAs to the hinge region of anti-Delta like ligand 4 (anti-DLL4) F(ab′)2, a potential antitumor therapeutic, were detected in cynomolgus monkey serum, which presented a challenge in developing assays for detecting treatment induced ATA. A total ATA assay was developed using a bridging ELISA that detected both anti-CDR and anti-framework ATA including anti-hinge reactivity. A competition assay that could detect 500 ng/mL of anti-CDR ATA in the presence of preexisting ATA was also developed to determine ATA specific to the anti-DLL4 F(ab′)2CDR using anti-DLL4 F(ab′)2and a control F(ab′)2. We used these assay methods in a cynomolgus monkey in vivo study to successfully evaluate total and anti-CDR ATA. The preexisting anti-hinge reactivity was also observed to a lesser extent in human serum, and a similar approach could be applied for specific immunogenicity assessment in clinical trials.
Optimization of Access Threshold for Cognitive Radio Networks with Prioritized Secondary Users
Authors: Zhao Yuan , Wang Jialiang , Liu Jiemin , Bai Luyi
Published: June 2016

We propose an access control scheme in cognitive radio networks with prioritized Secondary Users (SUs). Considering the different types of data in the networks, the SU packets in the system are divided into SU1 packets with higher priority and SU2 packets with lower priority. In order to control the access of the SU2 packets (including the new arrival SU2 packets and the interrupted SU2 packets), a dynamic access threshold is set. By building a discrete-time queueing model and constructing a three-dimensional Markov chain with the number of the three types of packets in the system, we derive some performance measures of the two types of the SU packets. Then, with numerical results, we show the change trends for the different performance measures. At last, considering the tradeoff between the throughput and the average delay of the SU2 packets, we build a net benefit function to make optimization for the access threshold.
Study on Synthesis and Photocatalytic Activity of Porous Titania Nanotubes
Authors: Liu Huang , Zhang Yanhua , Yang Hongtao , Xiao Wei , Sun Lanlan
Published: June 2016

Using the common natural cellulose substance (filter paper) and triblock copolymer (Pluronic P123) micelles as dual templates, porous titania nanotubes with enhanced photocatalytic activity have been successfully synthesized through sol-gel methods. Firstly, P123 micelles were adsorbed onto the surfaces of cellulose nanofibers of filter paper, followed by hydrolysis and condensation of tetrabutyl titanate around these micelles to form titania layer. After calcination to remove the organic templates, hierarchical titania nanotubes with pores in the walls were obtained. The sample was characterized by X-ray diffraction pattern (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), nitrogen adsorption/desorption, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), Ultraviolet-Visible Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy (UV-Vis DRS), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). As compared with commercial P25 catalyst, the porous titania nanotubes prepared by this method displayed significantly enhanced photocatalytic activity for degrading methyl orange under UV irradiation. Within 10 minutes, the porous titania nanotubes are able to degrade over 70% of the original MO, while the value for the commercial Degussa P25 is only about 33%.
Restoration of Polyamine Metabolic Patterns in In Vivo and In Vitro Model of Ischemic Stroke following Human Mesenchymal Stem Cell Treatment
Authors: Shin Tae Hwan , Phukan Geetika , Shim Jeom Soon , Nguyen Duc-Toan , Kim Yongman , Oh-Lee Justin D. , Lee Hyeon-Seong , Paik Man Jeong , Lee Gwang
Published: June 2016

We investigated changes in PA levels by the treatment of human bone‐marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBM‐MSCs) in ischemic stroke in rat brain model and in cultured neuronal SH‐SY5Y cells exposed to oxygen‐glucose deprivation (OGD). In ischemic rat model, transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAo) was performed for 2 h, followed by intravenous transplantation of hBM‐MSCs or phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS) the day following MCAo. Metabolic profiling analysis of PAs was examined in brains from three groups: control rats, PBS‐treated MCAo rats (MCAo), and hBM‐MSCs‐treated MCAo rats (MCAo + hBM‐MSCs). In ischemic cell model, SH‐SY5Y cells were exposed to OGD for 24 h, treated with hBM‐MSCs (OGD + hBM‐MSCs) prior to continued aerobic incubation, and then samples were collected after coculture for 72 h. In the in vivo MCAo ischemic model, levels of some PAs in brain samples of the MCAo and MCAo + hBM‐MSCs groups were significantly different from those of the control group. In particular, putrescine, cadaverine, and spermidine in brain tissues of the MCAo + hBM‐MSCs group were significantly reduced in comparison to those in the MCAo group. In the in vitro OGD system, N1‐acetylspermidine, spermidine, N1‐acetylspermine, and spermine in cells of the OGD + hBM‐MSCs group were significantly reduced compared to those of OGD group.
Clinical-Radiological Correlation of Retained Silicone Sponge Presenting as Orbital Inflammation
Authors: Rubinstein Tal J. , Clemett John , Birnbach Charles D. , LauKaitis Steven J. , Sires Bryan S.
Published: June 2016

A 32-year-old female who underwent scleral buckle removal presented 5 weeks postoperatively with a red, fluctuant subconjunctival mass. CT scan identified an irregularly bordered, hypoattenuated lesion next to the globe with the density of air. Ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgeons were consulted to evaluate orbital cellulitis with intraorbital gas, at which point it was deemed that the hypoattenuated mass was likely a retained sponge element based on its radiological features. Additional surgical exploration identified the retained silicone sponge. This clinical photographic-radiological correlation of retained silicone sponges presenting as orbital inflammation reminds surgeons to meticulously explant buckle material.
A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis Estimating the Expected Dropout Rates in Randomized Controlled Trials on Yoga Interventions
Authors: Cramer Holger , Haller Heidemarie , Dobos Gustav , Lauche Romy
Published: June 2016

A reasonable estimation of expected dropout rates is vital for adequate sample size calculations in randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Underestimating expected dropouts rates increases the risk of false negative results while overestimating rates results in overly large sample sizes, raising both ethical and economic issues. To estimate expected dropout rates in RCTs on yoga interventions, MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, IndMED, and the Cochrane Library were searched through February 2014; a total of 168 RCTs were meta‐analyzed. Overall dropout rate was 11.42% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 10.11%, 12.73%) in the yoga groups; rates were comparable in usual care and psychological control groups and were slightly higher in exercise control groups (rate = 14.53%; 95% CI = 11.56%, 17.50%; odds ratio = 0.82; 95% CI = 0.68, 0.98; p = 0.03). For RCTs with durations above 12 weeks, dropout rates in yoga groups increased to 15.23% (95% CI = 11.79%, 18.68%). The upper border of 95% CIs for dropout rates commonly was below 20% regardless of study origin, health condition, gender, age groups, and intervention characteristics; however, it exceeded 40% for studies on HIV patients or heterogeneous age groups. In conclusion, dropout rates can be expected to be less than 15 to 20% for most RCTs on yoga interventions. Yet dropout rates beyond 40% are possible depending on the participants’ sociodemographic and health condition.
Supramaximal Stimulus Intensity as a Diagnostic Tool in Chronic Demyelinating Neuropathy
Authors: Parker Vivien , Warman Chardon Jodi , Mills Julie , Goldsmith Claire , Bourque Pierre R.
Published: June 2016

Objective.The ability to correctly identify chronic demyelinating neuropathy can have important therapeutic and prognostic significance. The stimulus intensity value required to obtain a supramaximal compound muscle action potential amplitude is a commonly acquired data point that has not been formally assessed as a diagnostic tool in routine nerve conduction studies to identify chronic neuropathies. We postulated that this value was significantly elevated in chronic demyelinating neuropathy.Methods.We retrospectively reviewed electrophysiology laboratory records to compare the stimulus intensity values recorded during median and ulnar motor nerve conduction studies. The groups studied included normal controls (n=42) and the following diagnostic categories: chronic inflammatory demyelinating neuropathy (CIDP) (n=20), acquired inflammatory demyelinating neuropathy (AIDP) (n=13), Charcot Marie Tooth (CMT) type 1 or 4C (n=15), carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) (n=11), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) (n=18).Results.Supramaximal intensities were significantly higher in patients with CMT (median nerve: 43.4 mA) and CIDP (median nerve: 38.9 mA), whereas values similar to normal controls (median nerve: 25.3 mA) were obtained in ALS, CTS, and AIDP.Conclusions.Supramaximal stimulus intensity may be used as an additional criterion to identify the pathophysiology of neuropathy. We postulate that endoneurial hypertrophic changes may increase electrical impedance and thus the threshold of excitation at nodes of Ranvier.
A Review on Epoxy and Polyester Based Polymer Concrete and Exploration of Polyfurfuryl Alcohol as Polymer Concrete
Authors: Kumar Rakesh
Published: June 2016

Petroleum based epoxy and polyester based thermoset resins can be used to produce high-quality polymer concrete. However, petroleum based resources are finite and this has necessitated the development of thermoset bioresins to be used as polymer concrete. Furfuryl alcohol (FA), a thermoset bioresin, is derived from lignocellulosic biomass and it can be polymerized into polyfurfuryl alcohol (PFA) in the presence of an acid catalyst. The highly exothermic polymerization reactions involving conversion of FA to PFA can be used to fabricate PFA based concrete with rock-like structure. The PFA based polymer concrete offers the broadest range of chemical resistance against acid and alkali over all other types of polymer concrete which are based upon different thermoset polymeric systems. In this review paper, we have discussed the formulations (incorporation of aggregates, fillers, and resin) and properties (especially compressive and flexural) of epoxy and polyester based polymer concrete. In another section, we have given the mechanical, thermal, and water resistance properties of PFA based biopolymer, biocomposites, nanocomposites, and polymer concrete. Lastly, we have tried to explore whether PFA can be used successfully as biopolymer concrete or not.