bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Draft Genome Sequence of a Taxonomically Unique Acinetobacter Clinical Strain with Proteolytic and Hemolytic Activities
Authors: Traglia German Matías , Almuzara Marisa , Barberis Claudia , Montaña Sabrina , Schramm Sareda T. J. , Enriquez Brandi , Mussi María Alejandra , Vay Carlos , Iriarte Andres , Ramírez María Soledad
Published: March 2015

Acinetobacter sp. strain A47, which has been recovered from several soft tissue samples from a patient undergoing reconstructive surgery due to a traumatic amputation, was categorized as a taxonomically unique bacterial strain. The molecular analysis based on three housekeeping protein-coding genes (16S rRNA,
rpoB
, and
gyrB
) showed that strain A47 does not belong to any of the hitherto known taxa and may represent a previously undescribed Acinetobacter species.
Genome Sequence of Clostridium acetobutylicum GXAS18-1, a Novel Biobutanol Production Strain
Authors: Mo Xinchun , Pei Jianxin , Guo Yuan , Lin Lihua , Peng Lixin , Kou Chan , Fan Danmin , Pang Hao
Published: March 2015

Clostridium acetobutylicum
is an organism involved in the production of acetone and butanol by traditional acetone-butanol-ethanol fermentation (ABE). We report the draft genome sequence of
C. acetobutylicum
strain GXAS18-1, which can produce ABE directly from cassava flour
.
Genome Sequence of Pseudomonas azelaica Strain Aramco J
Authors: El-Said Mohamed Magdy , García José L. , Martínez Igor , del Cerro Carlos , Nogales Juan , Díaz Eduardo
Published: March 2015

We report here the draft genome sequence of Pseudomonas azelaica strain Aramco J (7.3 Mbp; GC content, 61.9%), one of the few bacteria that can completely mineralize different hydroxybiphenyls, e.g., 2-hydroxybiphenyl, 2,2′-dihydroxybiphenyl, and 3-hydroxybiphenyl. The findings obtained from its genome annotation suggest that this strain becomes a useful biocatalyst for aromatic bioconversions.
Draft Genome Sequence of Exopolysaccharide-Producing Cyanobacterium Aphanocapsa montana BDHKU 210001
Authors: Bhattacharyya Sourav , Chandrababunaidu Mathu Malar , Sen Deeya , Panda Arijit , Ghorai Arpita , Bhan Sushma , Sanghi Neha , Tripathy Sucheta
Published: March 2015

We report for the first time the draft genome sequence of Aphanocapsa montana BDHKU 210001, a halotolerant cyanobacterium isolated from India. This is a marine exopolysaccharide (EPS)-producing cyanobacterium. The genome of this species is assembled into 11.50 million bases, with 296 scaffolds carrying approximately 7,296 protein-coding genes.
Complete Genome Sequences of One Human Respiratory Syncytial Antigenic Group A Virus from China and Its Four Mouse-Adapted Isolates
Authors: Zhang Ke , He Jie , Li Cun , Bose Michael E. , Henrickson Kelly J. , Zhou Jie , Zheng Bo-Jian
Published: March 2015

In this study, one human respiratory syncytial antigenic group A virus (HRSV-A-GZ08-0) and its four BALB/c mouse-adapted isolates were sequenced and elucidated. Nineteen nucleotides were mutated between HRSV-A-GZ08-0 and the four mouse-adapted isolates.
Draft Genome Sequence of Cyanobacterium
Hassallia byssoidea
Strain VB512170, Isolated from Monuments in India
Authors: Singh Deeksha , Chandrababunaidu Mathu Malar , Panda Arijit , Sen Diya , Bhattacharyya Sourav , Adhikary Siba Prasad , Tripathy Sucheta
Published: March 2015

The draft genome assembly of Hassallia byssoidea strain VB512170 with a genome size of ~13 Mb and 10,183 protein-coding genes in 62 scaffolds is reported here for the first time. This is a terrestrial hydrophobic cyanobacterium isolated from monuments in India. We report several copies of luciferase and antibiotic genes in this organism.
Draft Genome Sequence of Filamentous Marine Cyanobacterium Lyngbya confervoides Strain BDU141951
Authors: Chandrababunaidu Mathu Malar , Sen Diya , Tripathy Sucheta
Published: March 2015

Lyngbya confervoides strain BDU141951 is a fast-growing, unicellular, marine, nonheterocystous cyanobacterium forming long unbranched filaments inside sheaths. Here, we report the draft genome assembly of Lyngbya confervoides BDU141951 for the first time. The genome size is 8,799,693 bp and has 6,093 putative protein-coding genes assembled into 298 scaffolds.
Draft Genome Sequence of Aeromonas caviae Strain L12, a Quorum-Sensing Strain Isolated from a Freshwater Lake in Malaysia
Authors: Chan Kok-Gan , Chin Pui-San , Tee Kok Keng , Chang Chien-Yi , Yin Wai-Fong , Sheng Kit-Yeng
Published: March 2015

Here, we present the draft genome sequence of
Aeromonas caviae
strain L12, which shows quorum-sensing activity. The availability of this genome sequence is important to the research of the quorum-sensing regulatory system in this isolate.
Draft Genome Sequence of Streptococcus equinus (Streptococcus bovis) HC5, a Lantibiotic Producer from the Bovine Rumen
Authors: Azevedo Analice C. , Bento Cláudia B. P. , Ruiz Jeronimo C. , Queiroz Marisa V. , Mantovani Hilário C.
Published: March 2015

Streptococcus equi
nus

(
Streptococcus bovis
) HC5 is a bacteriocinogenic lactic acid bacterium with simple growth requirements. The draft genome sequence of

S. equi
nus

HC5 consists of 1,846,241 bp, with a G+C content of 37.04%.
In silico
analysis indicated that

S. equi
nus

HC5 might be useful to control bacteria that are detrimental to livestock animals.
Spontaneous iliopsoas muscle haematoma as a complication of anticoagulation in acute cerebral venous thrombosis: to stop or not to stop (the anticoagulation)?
Authors: Fernandes Carina , Pereira Pedro , Rodrigues Miguel
Published: March 2015

Spontaneous iliopsoas muscle haematoma is an infrequent complication of anticoagulation, potentially causing neurological dysfunction through compression of the femoral nerve or lumbar plexus. The authors report the case of a puerperal woman admitted for an extensive cerebral venous thrombosis. Anticoagulation was started, with clinical improvement. The patient later reported low back pain irradiating to the right thigh and developed neurological impairment consistent with lumbar plexus dysfunction. A pelvic CT scan revealed a right iliopsoas muscle haematoma. Considering the risk of anticoagulation suspension, a conservative approach was chosen, with maintenance of anticoagulation. Clinical and functional improvement occurred, with mild right hip and knee flexion paresis as sequelae. Anticoagulation complications are challenging, especially when interruption of anticoagulation may threaten vital and functional outcomes. Therefore, a careful evaluation is essential, since no clinical guidelines are available. In this case, continuing anticoagulation provided a good functional outcome.
Recurrent ischaemic stroke unveils polycythaemia vera
Authors: Abdel-Rahman Islam , Murphy Christie
Published: March 2015

Polycythaemia vera is a recognised cause of ischaemic stroke. If not treated, this condition may result in recurrent strokes. This is a case of a 61-year-old Caucasian man presenting with the inability to ambulate for 3 days. Brain imaging revealed acute and chronic infarctions in the brain stem and the cerebrum. Polycythaemia vera was diagnosed and treated during the admission. The unique mechanisms and management issues of ischaemic stroke associated with polycythaemia vera are discussed.
Complete atrioventricular block in pregnancy: report of seven pregnancies in a patient without pacemaker
Authors: Keepanasseril Anish , Maurya Dilip Kumar , J Yavana Suriya , Selvaraj Raja
Published: March 2015

Obstetric management of a woman with a permanent pacemaker in situ is well reported in the literature; but those who present without pacing are still debatable. The necessity for setting the optimal timing or rate of temporary artificial pacing, specifically for labour, has not been objectively assessed. Temporary pacing in most cases reported in the literature might be to withstand the variations in haemodynamic status during delivery and labour. We report a case of a patient with complete heart block without any pacing who had seven pregnancies without any significant changes in haemodynamic status during labour and delivery. Managing a pregnancy without pacing might be an appropriate alternative for women without any underlying cardiac disorder, as it will not lead to significant changes in the haemodynamic system.
The impact of intellectual property regulation on global medical technology innovation
Authors: Chao Tiffany E , Mody Gita N
Published: March 2015

Technology innovation has the potential to expand equitable healthcare to underserved populations in global health. At the same time, device patents and their legislation can be barriers to innovation for developing countries. This article reviews the current landscape of international intellectual property regulation and reasons why inventors of healthcare devices for the developing world have varying interest in pursuing patent protection of their devices. Finally, we highlight some opportunities for frugal approaches to intellectual property protection as well as propose more imaginative legislation in developing countries.
Curriculum based clinical review: small bowel imaging in Crohn's disease
Authors: Kaye Tom L , Wilkinson Chris
Published: March 2015

The multidisciplinary management of patients with small bowel Crohn's disease is complex with an increasing reliance on imaging to guide management. The use of barium fluoroscopy is in decline with a shift towards the cross-sectional modalities. This article provides an overview of the various techniques used to image the small bowel, and highlights the clinical scenarios where imaging tests are most useful.
The Burwell roadmap
Authors: Hirsch Joshua A , Leslie-Mazwi Thabele M , Barr Robert M , McGinty Geraldine , Nicola Gregory N , Patel Aman B , Manchikanti Laxmaiah
Published: March 2015

In January 2015 the current Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) outlined a bold initiative to shape the delivery of healthcare through a set of strategies aimed at improving the quality of care and reducing the growth of healthcare costs. The strategies include increasing payment incentives tied to higher value care, increasing care coordination and integration, and increasing access to information to guide patients and clinicians. Significantly, the proposal includes specific goals for alternative payment models and value-based payments for the first time in the history of the Medicare program.
Cervical intervertebral foraminal disc extrusion in dogs: clinical presentation, MRI characteristics and outcome after medical management
Authors: Bersan E. , McConnell F. , Trevail R. , Behr S. , De Decker S. , Volk H. A. , Smith P. M. , Gonçalves R.
Published: March 2015

The aim of the present study was to retrospectively evaluate the clinical signs, MRI characteristics, interobserver agreement and outcome after medical treatment in dogs affected by cervical intervertebral foraminal disc extrusion (CIFDE). The medical records of three referral institutions were searched for dogs diagnosed with CIFDE between 2010 and 2012. Thirteen dogs were identified with CIFDE; affected dogs often had a normal neurological examination, with cervical hyperaesthesia and lameness as the most common clinical signs. On MRI, sagittal images showed no evidence of compression of the spinal cord; CIFDE could be identified only on transverse sections in all cases. An excellent interobserver agreement was found in the localisation of the affected intervertebral disc space, and a substantial agreement was found on the detection of CIFDE versus foraminal stenosis caused by overgrowing articular processes. All but two dogs recovered completely, and they were considered free of clinical signs without analgesia within a median of 7.5 weeks (range: 2–20) after medical management was started. The remaining two dogs were surgically treated followed by complete recovery. In view of our findings, the importance of a thorough MRI investigation in dogs presenting with cervical hyperaesthesia as the sole clinical sign should be highlighted.
Non-similar solution of free convective flow of power law nanofluids in porous medium along a vertical cone and plate with thermal and mass convective boundary conditions
Authors: Khan W.A. , Uddin M. Jashim , Ismail A.I.M.
Published: March 2015

This paper investigates non-similar solution of free convective boundary layer flow of a viscous incompressible fluid along a vertical cone and plate embedded in a Darcian porous medium filled with power law non-Newtonian nanofluids. The effects of the thermal and mass convective boundary conditions are taken into account, which makes the present analysis practically applicable. The governing boundary layer equations are converted into a system of non-similar differential equations by using suitable transformations before being solved numerically. The effects of the controlling parameters on the dimensionless velocity, temperature, nanoparticle volume fraction, and the local Nusselt and Sherwood numbers are reported. It is found that the velocity, temperature, and concentration increase with mass transfer velocity for both the vertical plate and cone. Further, the velocity reduces whilst the temperature and concentration increase with increasing buoyancy ratio parameter for all three types of nanofluids in the case of both geometries. The local Nusselt and the local Sherwood numbers are found to be higher for dilatant nanofluids than pseudoplastic nanofluids and Newtonian fluids in each case. The numerical results for special cases are compared with the published data and an excellent agreement has been found.
19-Norvitamin D analogs for breast cancer therapy
Authors: Matsumoto Yotaro , Kittaka Atsushi , Chen Tai C.
Published: March 2015

The active form of vitamin D3, 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3(1α,25(OH)2D3or calcitriol), is known to inhibit the proliferation and invasiveness of many types of cancer cells, including breast, colon, pancreatic, prostate, and liver cancer cells. These findings support the use of 1α,25(OH)2D3for the treatment of these types of cancer. However, 1α,25(OH)2D3can cause hypercalcemia, so analogs of 1α,25(OH)2D3that are less calcemic but exhibit more potent anti-tumor activity would be good candidates as therapeutic agents. Therefore, a series of 19-norvitamin D analogs, in which the methylidene group on C19 is replaced with 2 hydrogen atoms, have been synthesized by several laboratories. In our laboratory, we have designed and synthesized a series of 2α-functional group substituted 19-norvitamin D3analogs and examined their anti-proliferative activity. Among them, 2α- and 2β-(3-hydroxypropyl)-1α,25-dihydroxy-19-norvitamin D3(MART-10 and MART-11) were found to be the most promising. Here, we review the rationale and approaches for the synthesis of different 19-norvitamin D analogs, and the pre-clinical studies using these analogs in breast cancer cells, in particular, we chose MART-10 for its potential application to the prevention and treatment of breast cancer.
The influence of food quantity on carbon and nitrogen stable isotope values in southern African spiny mice (Acomys spinosissimus)
Authors: Robb G.N. , Woodborne S. , de Bruin P.R. , Medger K. , Bennett N.C.
Published: March 2015

Stable isotope analysis is frequently applied as a tool to examine dietary patterns in animals. However, some of the underlying assumptions associated with using this approach are increasingly being questioned. We carried out a controlled diet experiment on the southern African spiny mouse (Acomys spinosissimus Peters, 1852) to test a number of aspects relating to these assumptions and also examine the hypothesis that stable isotopes, especially δ15N, can be used to provide evidence of nutritional stress. We compared the δ13C and δ15N values of livers and blood from animals that were fed ad libitum with animals undergoing a 10% reduction in food supply. Food-restricted animals showed no significant difference in δ15N; however, δ13C values of both liver and blood were depleted. Restricted animals also had a significantly lower C:N ratio. We examined the role of lipids and found following lipid extraction that both livers and lipids still showed the same separation in carbon values. Tissue–diet discrimination values were also calculated and found to be higher for both Δ13C and Δ15N compared with other mice species. Empirical values for discrimination rates were then compared with values calculated using an alternative method based on employing generic values and were found to be dissimilar, suggesting the use of generic values are not always appropriate. Our results highlight the need for greater understanding of the assumptions associated with using stable isotope analysis to examine diet and we suggest that studying a single species under captive conditions presents an ideal method to begin to test these hypotheses.
A comprehensive model of soft interactions in the LHC era
Authors: Gotsman Errol , Levin Eugene , Maor Uri
Published: March 2015

In this review we present our model which is an example of the self-consistent approach that incorporates our theoretical understanding of long distance physics, based both on N = 4 SYM for strong coupling and on the matching with the perturbative QCD approach. We demonstrate how important and decisive the LHC data were on strong interactions which led us to a set of the phenomenological parameters that fully confirmed our theoretical expectations, and produced a new picture of the strong interaction at high energy. We also show how far we have come towards creating a framework for the description of minimal bias events for high energy scattering without generating Monte Carlo codes.
Forward physics at the LHC
Authors: Royon Christophe
Published: March 2015

We present possible measurements on forward physics and diffraction that can be accomplished at the LHC.
On the integral cohomology of toric varieties
Authors: Kim Jin Hong
Published: March 2015

It is known that the integral cohomology algebra of any smooth compact toric variety XΣ associated to a complete regular fan Σ is isomorphic to the Stanley–Reisner algebra ℤ[Σ] modulo the ideal JΣ generated by linear relations determined by Σ. The aim of this paper is to show how to determine the integral cohomology algebra of a toric variety (in particular, a projective toric variety) associated to a certain simplicial fan. As a consequence, we confirm our expectation that for a certain simplicial fan the integral cohomology algebra is also given by the same formula as in a complete regular fan.
Group algebras and semigroup algebras defined by permutation relations of fixed length
Authors: Cedó Ferran , Jespers Eric , Klein Georg
Published: March 2015

Let H be a subgroup of Sym n, the symmetric group of degree n. For a fixed integer l ≥ 2, the group G presented with generators x1, x2,…,xn and with relations xi1xi2⋯xil = xσ(i1) xσ(i2)⋯xσ(il), where σ runs through H, is considered. It is shown that G has a free subgroup of finite index. For a field K, properties of the algebra K[G] are derived. In particular, the Jacobson radical 𝒥(K[G]) is always nilpotent, and in many cases the algebra K[G] is semiprimitive. Results on the growth and the Gelfand–Kirillov dimension of K[G] are given. Further properties of the semigroup S and the semigroup algebra K[S] with the same presentation are obtained, in case S is cancellative. The Jacobson radical is nilpotent in this case as well, and sufficient conditions for the algebra to be semiprimitive are given.
The new Lie point reductions and similarity solutions for the Gordon-type equation of the Milne metric
Authors: Nadjafikhah Mehdi , Hamedi Mobarra Leila
Published: March 2015

In this paper, three similarity solutions of a mathematical model for the gravitational waves of the Milne expanding empty spacetime, namely, the Gordon-type equation of the Milne metric will be determined. This equation is a linear second-order partial differential equation, dependent on a functional parameter. Formerly, some Lie reductions of the equation have been found, only for the special cases of its parameter. In this work, by applying a symmetry method for the Gordon-type equation, its new Lie reductions will be found, in the general form of the parameter. Then, its three similarity solutions will be presented.
Experiences of Someone with a Neuromuscular Disease in Operating a PC (and Ways to Successfully Overcome Challenges)
Authors: Felzer Torsten , Rinderknecht Stephan
Published: March 2015

This article describes the experiences of the first author, who was diagnosed with the neuromuscular disease Friedreich's Ataxia more than 25 years ago, with the innovative approach to human-computer interaction characterized by the software tool
OnScreenDualScribe
. Originally developed by (and for!) the first author, the tool replaces the standard input devices—that is, keyboard and mouse—with a small numeric keypad, making optimal use of his abilities. This work attempts to illustrate some of the difficulties the first author usually has to face when operating a computer, due to considerable motor problems. The article will discuss what he tried in the past, and why
OnScreenDualScribe
, offering various assistive techniques—including word prediction, an ambiguous keyboard, and stepwise pointing operations—is indeed a viable alternative. In a pilot study that was repeated multiple times with slight variations over a period of 3 years, the first author's entry rate with
OnScreenDualScribe
(including early versions of the tool) increased from 1.38wpm to 6.16wpm, while his achievable typing rate went from 12wpm to 3.5wpm in the course of 24 years. However, the ultimate goal is to help not just one single person, but to make the system—which not only accelerates entry, but also clearly reduces the required effort—available to anyone with similar conditions.
Termination of Transcription of Short Noncoding RNAs by RNA Polymerase II
Authors: Arndt Karen M. , Reines Daniel
Published: March 2015

The RNA polymerase II transcription cycle is often divided into three major stages: initiation, elongation, and termination. Research over the last decade has blurred these divisions and emphasized the tightly regulated transitions that occur as RNA polymerase II synthesizes a transcript from start to finish. Transcription termination, the process that marks the end of transcription elongation, is regulated by proteins that interact with the polymerase, nascent transcript, and/or chromatin template. The failure to terminate transcription can cause accumulation of aberrant transcripts and interfere with transcription at downstream genes. Here, we review the mechanism, regulation, and physiological impact of a termination pathway that targets small noncoding transcripts produced by RNA polymerase II. We emphasize the Nrd1–Nab3–Sen1 pathway in yeast, in which the process has been extensively studied. The importance of understanding small RNA termination pathways is underscored by the need to control noncoding transcription in eukaryotic genomes.
Statistical Aspects of Food Safety Sampling
Authors: Jongenburger I. , den Besten H.M.W. , Zwietering M.H.
Published: March 2015

In food safety management, sampling is an important tool for verifying control. Sampling by nature is a stochastic process. However, uncertainty regarding results is made even greater by the uneven distribution of microorganisms in a batch of food. This article reviews statistical aspects of sampling and describes the impact of distributions on the sampling results. Five different batch contamination scenarios are illustrated: a homogeneous batch, a heterogeneous batch with high- or low-level contamination, and a batch with localized high- or low-level contamination. These batch contamination scenarios showed that sampling results have to be interpreted carefully, especially when heterogeneous and localized contamination in food products is expected.
Hyaluronan mediates airway hyperresponsiveness in oxidative lung injury
Authors: Lazrak Ahmed , Creighton Judy , Yu Zhihong , Komarova Svetlana , Doran Stephen F. , Aggarwal Saurabh , Emala Charles W. , Stober Vandy P. , Trempus Carol S. , Garantziotis Stavros , Matalon Sadis
Published: March 2015

Chlorine (Cl2) inhalation induces severe oxidative lung injury and airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) that lead to asthmalike symptoms. When inhaled, Cl2 reacts with epithelial lining fluid, forming by-products that damage hyaluronan, a constituent of the extracellular matrix, causing the release of low-molecular-weight fragments (L-HA, <300 kDa), which initiate a series of proinflammatory events. Cl2 (400 ppm, 30 min) exposure to mice caused an increase of L-HA and its binding partner, inter-α-trypsin-inhibitor (IαI), in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Airway resistance following methacholine challenge was increased 24 h post-Cl2 exposure. Intratracheal administration of high-molecular-weight hyaluronan (H-HA) or an antibody against IαI post-Cl2 exposure decreased AHR. Exposure of human airway smooth muscle (HASM) cells to Cl2 (100 ppm, 10 min) or incubation with Cl2-exposed H-HA (which fragments it to L-HA) increased membrane potential depolarization, intracellular Ca2+, and RhoA activation. Inhibition of RhoA, chelation of intracellular Ca2+, blockade of cation channels, as well as postexposure addition of H-HA, reversed membrane depolarization in HASM cells. We propose a paradigm in which oxidative lung injury generates reactive species and L-HA that activates RhoA and Ca2+ channels of airway smooth muscle cells, increasing their contractility and thus causing AHR.
Effects of Heat and Mass Transfer on the Peristaltic Transport of MHD Couple Stress Fluid through Porous Medium in a Vertical Asymmetric Channel
Authors: Ramesh K. , Devakar M.
Published: March 2015

The intrauterine fluid flow due to myometrial contractions is peristaltic type motion and the myometrial
contractions may occur in both symmetric and asymmetric directions. The channel asymmetry is produced by choosing the peristaltic wave train on the walls to have different amplitude, and phase due to the variation of channel width, wave amplitudes and phase differences. In this paper, we study the effects of heat and mass transfer on the peristaltic transport of magnetohydrodynamic couple stress fluid through homogeneous porous medium in a vertical asymmetric channel. The flow is investigated in the wave frame of reference moving with constant velocity with the wave. The governing equations of couple stress fluid have been simplified under the long wave length approximation. The exact solutions of the resultant governing equations have been derived for the stream function, temperature, concentration, pressure gradient, and heat transfer coefficients. The pressure difference and frictional forces at both the walls are calculated using numerical integration. The influence of diverse flow parameters on the fluid velocity, pressure gradient, temperature, concentration, pressure difference, frictional forces, heat transfer coefficients, and trapping has been discussed. The graphical results are also discussed for four different wave shapes. It is noticed that increasing of couple
stresses and heat generation parameter increases the size of the trapped bolus. The heat generation parameter increases the peristaltic pumping and temperature.
Mechanism Research of Arch Dam Abutment Forces during Overload
Authors: Xia Yu , Li Chuangdi , Zhao Xiaolian , Zhang Zhongqing
Published: March 2015

This paper presents research on the abutment forces of a double-curvature arch dam during overload based on numerical calculation results obtained through finite element method by Ansys. Results show that, with an increase in elevation, the abutment forces and bending moment of the arch dam increase first and then decrease from the bottom to the top of the dam. Abutment forces and bending moment reach their maximum at the middle or middle-down portion of the dam. The distributions of abutment forces and moment do not change during overload. The magnitude of each arch layer’s forces and moment increases linearly during overload. This result indicates that each arch layer transmits bearing loads to the rocks of the left and right banks steadily. This research explains the operating mechanism of an arch dam under normal and overload conditions. It provides a simple method to calculate the distribution of forcesFxandFyand a new method to calculate the overload factor of an arch dam through the estimation of arch layers based on the redistribution characteristic of arch abutment forces.
MDSC and TGFβ Are Required for Facilitation of Tumor Growth in the Lungs of Mice Exposed to Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Shvedova Anna A. , Kisin Elena R. , Yanamala Naveena , Tkach Alexey V. , Gutkin Dmitriy W. , Star Alexander , Shurin Galina V. , Kagan Valerian E. , Shurin Michael R.
Published: March 2015

During the last decades, changes have been observed in the frequency of different histologic subtypes of lung cancer, one of the most common causes of morbidity and mortality, with a declining proportion of squamous cell carcinomas and an increasing proportion of adenocarcinomas, particularly in developed countries. This suggests the emergence of new etiologic factors and mechanisms, including those defining the lung microenvironment, promoting tumor growth. Assuming that the lung is the main portal of entry for broadly used nanomaterials and their established proinflammatory propensities, we hypothesized that nanomaterials may contribute to changes facilitating tumor growth. Here, we report that an acute exposure to single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) induces recruitment and accumulation of lung-associated myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) and MDSC-derived production of TGFβ, resulting in upregulated tumor burden in the lung. The production of TGFβ by MDSC requires their interaction with both SWCNT and tumor cells. We conclude that pulmonary exposure to SWCNT favors the formation of a niche that supports ingrowth of lung carcinoma in vivo via activation of TGFβ production by SWCNT-attracted and -presensitized MDSC. Cancer Res; 75(8); 1615–23. ©2015 AACR.
The c-Met Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor JNJ-38877605 Causes Renal Toxicity through Species-Specific Insoluble Metabolite Formation
Authors: Lolkema Martijn P. , Bohets Hilde H. , Arkenau Hendrik-Tobias , Lampo Ann , Barale Erio , de Jonge Maja J.A. , van Doorn Leni , Hellemans Peter , de Bono Johann S. , Eskens Ferry A.L.M.
Published: March 2015

Purpose: The receptor tyrosine kinase c-Met plays an important role in tumorigenesis and is a novel target for anticancer treatment. This phase I, first-in-human trial, explored safety, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and initial antitumor activity of JNJ-38877605, a potent and selective c-Met inhibitor.

Experimental Design: We performed a phase I dose-escalation study according to the standard 3+3 design.

Results: Even at subtherapeutic doses, mild though recurrent renal toxicity was observed in virtually all patients. Renal toxicity had not been observed in preclinical studies in rats and dogs. Additional preclinical studies pointed toward the rabbit as a suitable toxicology model, as the formation of the M10 metabolite of JNJ-38877605 specifically occurred in rabbits and humans. Additional toxicology studies in rabbits clearly demonstrated that JNJ-38877605 induced species-specific renal toxicity. Histopathological evaluation in rabbits revealed renal crystal formation with degenerative and inflammatory changes. Identification of the components of these renal crystals revealed M1/3 and M5/6 metabolites. Accordingly, it was found that humans and rabbits showed significantly increased systemic exposure to these metabolites relative to other species. These main culprit insoluble metabolites were generated by aldehyde oxidase activity. Alternative dosing schedules of JNJ-3877605 and concomitant probenecid administration in rabbits failed to prevent renal toxicity at dose levels that could be pharmacologically active.

Conclusions: Combined clinical and correlative preclinical studies suggest that renal toxicity of JNJ-38877605 is caused by the formation of species-specific insoluble metabolites. These observations preclude further clinical development of JNJ-38877605. Clin Cancer Res; 21(10); 2297–304. ©2015 AACR.
Effects of Aging and Acid Reflux on Esophageal Motility
Authors: Kawami Noriyuki , Iwakiri Katsuhiko , Sano Hirohito , Tanaka Yuriko , Sakamoto Choitsu
Published: March 2015

Backgrounds: It is generally thought that esophageal motility decreases with age; however, a decrease in esophageal motility may also be caused by esophagitis. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of aging and acid reflux on esophageal motility. Methods: 40 young (under 45) healthy subjects (HS), 40 elderly (over 65) HS, and 40 elderly (over 65) patients with mild reflux esophagitis (RE), underwent esophageal high-resolution manometry (HRM). Lower esophageal sphincter pressure (LESP), primary peristalsis (PP), and secondary peristalsis (SP) were evaluated. Results: There was no difference in the LESP and also in the success rate of PP between young and elderly HS or between elderly HS and RE. There was no difference in the distal contractile integral (DCI) of PP and SP between the young and elderly HS, but in the elderly RE, it was significantly lower than in the elderly HS. There was no difference in the success rate of SP between elderly HS and RE, but in elderly HS it was significantly lower than in young HS. Conclusions: Aging may cause a decrease in the success rate of SP, and acid reflux itself may cause a decrease of the DCI in PP and SP.
Effect of Neutral pH and Low-Glucose Degradation Product-Containing Peritoneal Dialysis Solution on Residual Renal Function in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wang Jialin , Zhu Nan , Yuan Weijie
Published: March 2015

Background: Glucose degradation products (GDPs) in peritoneal dialysis (PD) solution (PDS) have been shown to inflict damage to the kidney, which is the major organ for advanced glycosylation end product elimination. Hence, this study investigated whether new PDSs with neutral pH and low-GDPs have a beneficial effect on the preservation of residual renal function (RRF) among PD patients. Methods: Randomized controlled trials examining the effect of neutral pH and low-GDP PDSs on RRF in PD patients >18 years old compared with conventional PDSs were selected. The modality of PD treatment was continuous ambulatory PD. The primary outcome variable was mean RRF value. Weekly Kt/V, urine volume, peritoneal ultrafiltration, blood pressure and all-cause mortality of PD patients were measured as secondary outcome variables. Results: We identified 6 randomized controlled trials and found that patients using low-GDP PDSs had a much slower rate of RRF loss compared with patients using conventional PDSs [mean difference (MD) = 0.45, 95% confidence intervals (CI) 0.10-0.80, p = 0.01]. In addition, weekly Kt/V was markedly improved in the low-GDP PDS group (MD = 0.13, 95% CI 0.06-0.21, p = 0.0005), and urine volume was increased (MD = 110.34, 95% CI 8.58-212.10, p = 0.03). No significant differences were observed between the two groups with respect to peritoneal ultrafiltration, blood pressure and risk of all-cause mortality. Conclusion: Our meta-analysis demonstrates a significant benefit of using low-GDP PDSs for RRF preservation in PD patients. Further trials are needed to determine whether this beneficial effect can affect long-term clinical outcomes.
Navigation Surgery Using an Augmented Reality for Pancreatectomy
Authors: Okamoto Tomoyoshi , Onda Shinji , Yasuda Jungo , Yanaga Katsuhiko , Suzuki Naoki , Hattori Asaki
Published: March 2015

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the utility of navigation surgery using augmented reality technology (AR-based NS) for pancreatectomy. Methods: The 3D reconstructed images from CT were created by segmentation. The initial registration was performed by using the optical location sensor. The reconstructed images were superimposed onto the real organs in the monitor display. Of the 19 patients who had undergone hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery using AR-based NS, the accuracy, visualization ability, and utility of our system were assessed in five cases with pancreatectomy. Results: The position of each organ in the surface-rendering image corresponded almost to that of the actual organ. Reference to the display image allowed for safe dissection while preserving the adjacent vessels or organs. The locations of the lesions and resection line on the targeted organ were overlaid on the operating field. The initial mean registration error was improved to approximately 5 mm by our refinements. However, several problems such as registration accuracy, portability and cost still remain. Conclusion: AR-based NS contributed to accurate and effective surgical resection in pancreatectomy. The pancreas appears to be a suitable organ for further investigations. This technology is promising to improve surgical quality, training, and education.
Comparison of Histochemical Staining Methods and Correlation with Transient Elastography in Acute Hepatitis
Authors: Cabibi Daniela , Calvaruso Vincenza , Giuffrida Letizia , Ingrao Sabrina , Balsamo Laura , Giannone Antonino Giulio , Petta Salvatore , Di Marco Vito
Published: March 2015

Objective: To compare Masson's trichrome (MT), Sirius red (SR) and orcein staining in acute hepatitis (AH) and to correlate them with transient elastography (TE), a noninvasive method to assess hepatic fibrosis. Methods: We evaluated liver stiffness by TE in a cohort of 34 consecutive patients and assessed MT-, SR- and orcein-stained biopsies using the METAVIR scoring system and digital image analysis (DIA). Results: MT and SR both showed severe fibrosis (stage III-IV, DIA = 12.7%). Orcein showed absent or mild fibrosis (stage 0-II, DIA = 4.4%; p < 0.05). In 29/34 cases (85%), stiffness values were >12.5 kPa, in keeping with SR/MT but not with orcein results. Conclusions: Even though in AH true elastic fibrosis is typically absent or mild, TE shows elevated stiffness values, in keeping with SR/MT evaluations. If not properly evaluated in the clinical context, these results would lead to an overestimation of fibrosis. Orcein is the only staining able to evidence the absence of true elastic fibrosis, which is a typical feature of AH. This is the first study comparing different staining procedures performed on AH biopsies by DIA versus TE.
A Formação do Laço social na TV e em sites de redes sociais: as hashtags Saramandaia e Donaredonda no processo de conversação em rede
Authors: Bressan Junior Mario Abel , Finger Cristiane Costa
Published: March 2015

O objetivo desta pesquisa é analisar a configuração do laço social e do processo de conversação em sites de redes sociais, por meio da utilização das #saramandaia e #donaredonda no twitter. Foram analisadas as #saramandaia, postadas nos dias 27 e 28 de setembro de 2013 e #donaredonda, postadas de 05 de novembro a 05 de dezembro de 2013. Pode-se então deduzir que assim como na televisão as hashtags analisadas formam um laço social, por constituírem uma conversão em rede. 
Mediações entre o cinema e a dança: Territórios em questão
Authors: Duarte Carolina Natal
Published: March 2015

Esse texto pretende abordar e evidenciar as múltiplas formas de se pensar o diálogo entre o cinema e a dança, através do corpo e do movimento. Assim, compôs-se um panorama com algumas obras do cinema, que podem ser vistas aliadas à perspectiva da dança e vice-versa, ou diferentes expressões que foram revisitadas e se transformaram em estéticas audiovisuais, compondo espaços de experimentos artísticos-poéticos do cinema- (e da) dança.

 
Apresentação
Authors: Morettin Eduardo Victorio , Machado Irene
Published: March 2015

Apresentação da edição 42 da revista Significação
O Cinema Científico
Authors: Machado Arlindo
Published: March 2015

Nos idos dos anos 1940, o fotógrafo e cineasta brasileiro Benedito Junqueira Duarte introduziu entre nós a ideia de um cinema científico, um cinema organicamente íntimo à pesquisa científica. Em que pese sua importante contribuição na precisa definição do que pode ser esse tema, ele realizou mais de 500 filmes, metade dos quais podendo ser considerados verdadeiros filmes científicos, principalmente no campo das investigações médico-cirúrgicas. O artigo visa argumentar sobre as reais possibilidades que a obra de Duarte pode contribuir para uma compreensão do passado e do futuro do cinema.
O retorno de Khulekani Khumalo, cativo de zumbis: impostura, lei, e paradoxos da noção de pessoa na África do Sul pós-colonial
Authors: Comaroff John , Comaroff Jean
Published: March 2015

O que poderiam impostores nos dizer sobre a noção de pessoa em tempos “pós-coloniais”? O que a impostura nos diz sobre os meios de produzir individualidade, identidade, viabilidade social? Se a figura do falso duplo há tempos assombra noções ocidentais de pessoa, em tempos de Modernidade tardia imposturas de diversos tipos se tornam cada vez mais intrigantes. Na África do Sul pós- apartheid, onde sequestro de identidade, plágio, falsificação, ou mesmo crimes falsos acontecem cotidianamente, a impostura é especialmente comum. Discutindo um célebre caso nacional – o alegado “retorno” de um famoso músico Zulu que havia morrido três anos antes – esse artigo explora o que tais atos de impostura podem nos dizer sobre autoconstrução pós-colonial, sobre a noção de pessoa sob condições sociais contemporâneas, e sobre as dificuldades criadas por tudo isso para a Lei, a evidência, e o sentido de reconhecimento.
A câmera, o fuzil e a crítica analítica. Uma resenha de Cámaras en trance, de Ignacio del Valle Dávila
Authors: Silva Alexsandro De Sousa e
Published: March 2015

O texto tem como objetivo fazer uma leitura crítica do livro Cámaras en trance e mapear as principais linhas de argumentação, as principais contribuições para os estudos do movimento conhecido como Nuevo Cine Latinoamericano e possibilidades de pesquisa que a leitura da obra propicia.
Genetic and Genomic Approaches to Understanding Macrophage Identity and Function
Authors: Glass Christopher K.
Published: March 2015

A major goal of our laboratory is to understand the molecular mechanisms that underlie the development and functions of diverse macrophage phenotypes in health and disease. Recent studies using genetic and genomic approaches suggest a relatively simple model of collaborative and hierarchical interactions between lineage-determining and signal-dependent transcription factors that enable selection and activation of transcriptional enhancers that specify macrophage identity and function. In addition, we have found that it is possible to use natural genetic variation as a powerful tool for advancing our understanding of how the macrophage deciphers the information encoded by the genome to attain specific phenotypes in a context-dependent manner. Here, I will describe our recent efforts to extend genetic and genomic approaches to investigate the roles of distinct tissue environments in determining the phenotypes of different resident populations of macrophages.
Deficiency of Endogenous Acute-Phase Serum Amyloid A Protects apoE
−/−
Mice From Angiotensin II–Induced Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Formation
Authors: Webb Nancy R. , De Beer Maria C. , Wroblewski Joanne M. , Ji Ailing , Bailey William , Shridas Preetha , Charnigo Richard J. , Noffsinger Victoria P. , Witta Jassir , Howatt Deborah A. , Balakrishnan Anju , Rateri Debra L. , Daugherty Alan , De Beer Frederick C.
Published: March 2015

Objective—

Rupture of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), a major cause of death in the aged population, is characterized by vascular inflammation and matrix degradation. Serum amyloid A (SAA), an acute-phase reactant linked to inflammation and matrix metalloproteinase induction, correlates with aortic dimensions before aneurysm formation in humans. We investigated whether SAA deficiency in mice affects AAA formation during angiotensin II (Ang II) infusion.

Approach and Results—

Plasma SAA increased ≈60-fold in apoE
−/−
mice 24 hours after intraperitoneal Ang II injection (100 μg/kg; n=4) and ≈15-fold after chronic 28-day Ang II infusion (1000 ng/kg per minute; n=9). AAA incidence and severity after 28-day Ang II infusion was significantly reduced in apoE
−/−
mice lacking both acute-phase SAA isoforms (SAAKO; n=20) compared with apoE
−/−
mice (SAAWT; n=20) as assessed by in vivo ultrasound and ex vivo morphometric analyses, despite a significant increase in systolic blood pressure in SAAKO mice compared with SAAWT mice after Ang II infusion. Atherosclerotic lesion area of the aortic arch was similar in SAAKO and SAAWT mice after 28-day Ang II infusion. Immunostaining detected SAA in AAA tissues of Ang II–infused SAAWT mice that colocalized with macrophages, elastin breaks, and enhanced matrix metalloproteinase activity. Matrix metalloproteinase-2 activity was significantly lower in aortas of SAAKO mice compared with SAAWT mice after 10-day Ang II infusion.

Conclusions—

Lack of endogenous acute-phase SAA protects against experimental AAA through a mechanism that may involve reduced matrix metalloproteinase-2 activity.
Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Vascular Function
Authors: Long Michelle T. , Wang Na , Larson Martin G. , Mitchell Gary F. , Palmisano Joseph , Vasan Ramachandran S. , Hoffmann Udo , Speliotes Elizabeth K. , Vita Joseph A. , Benjamin Emelia J. , Fox Caroline S. , Hamburg Naomi M.
Published: March 2015

Objective—

Patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease; however, it is not known whether NAFLD contributes to cardiovascular disease independent of established risk factors. We examined the association between NAFLD and vascular function.

Approach and Results—

We conducted a cross-sectional study of 2284 Framingham Heart Study participants without overt cardiovascular disease who had liver fat attenuation measured on computed tomography and who had measurements of vascular function and covariates. We evaluated the association between NAFLD and vascular function using multivariable partial correlations adjusting for age, sex, cohort, smoking, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, body mass index, and visceral adipose tissue. The prevalence of NAFLD in our sample (mean age, 52±12 years; 51.4% women) was 15.3%. In age-, sex-, and cohort-adjusted analyses, greater liver fat was modestly associated with lower flow-mediated dilation (
r
=−0.05;
P
=0.02), lower peripheral arterial tonometry ratio (
r
=−0.20;
P
<0.0001), higher carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (
r
=0.13;
P
<0.0001), and higher mean arterial pressure (
r
=0.11;
P
<0.0001). In multivariable-adjusted models, NAFLD remained associated with higher mean arterial pressure (
r
=0.06;
P
=0.005) and lower peripheral arterial tonometry ratio (
r
=−0.12;
P
<0.0001). The association between NAFLD and peripheral arterial tonometry ratio persisted after further adjustment for body mass index and visceral adipose tissue.

Conclusions—

For multiple measures of vascular function, the relationship with NAFLD appeared largely determined by shared cardiometabolic risk factors. The persistent relationship with reduced peripheral arterial tonometry response beyond established risk factors suggests that NAFLD may contribute to microvascular dysfunction.