bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FQC: A novel approach for efficient compression, archival, and dissemination of fastq datasets
Authors: Dutta Anirban , Haque Mohammed Monzoorul , Bose Tungadri , Reddy C. V. S. K. , Mande Sharmila S.
Published: February 2015

Sequence data repositories archive and disseminate fastq data in compressed format. In spite of having relatively lower compression efficiency, data repositories continue to prefer GZIP over available specialized fastq compression algorithms. Ease of deployment, high processing speed and portability are the reasons for this preference. This study presents FQC, a fastq compression method that, in addition to providing significantly higher compression gains over GZIP, incorporates features necessary for universal adoption by data repositories/end-users. This study also proposes a novel archival strategy which allows sequence repositories to simultaneously store and disseminate lossless as well as (multiple) lossy variants of fastq files, without necessitating any additional storage requirements. For academic users, Linux, Windows, and Mac implementations (both 32 and 64-bit) of FQC are freely available for download at: https://metagenomics.atc.tcs.com/compression/FQC .
Computationally predicting protein-RNA interactions using only positive and unlabeled examples
Authors: Cheng Zhanzhan , Zhou Shuigeng , Guan Jihong
Published: February 2015

Protein–RNA interactions (PRIs) are considerably important in a wide variety of cellular processes, ranging from transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulations of gene expression to the active defense of host against virus. With the development of high throughput technology, large amounts of PRI information is available for computationally predicting unknown PRIs. In recent years, a number of computational methods for predicting PRIs have been developed in the literature, which usually artificially construct negative samples based on verified nonredundant datasets of PRIs to train classifiers. However, such negative samples are not real negative samples, some even may be unknown positive samples. Consequently, the classifiers trained with such training datasets cannot achieve satisfactory prediction performance. In this paper, we propose a novel method PRIPU that employs biased-support vector machine (SVM) for predicting Protein-RNA Interactions using only Positive and Unlabeled examples. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first work that predicts PRIs using only positive and unlabeled samples. We first collect known PRIs as our benchmark datasets and extract sequence-based features to represent each PRI. To reduce the dimension of feature vectors for lowering computational cost, we select a subset of features by a filter-based feature selection method. Then, biased-SVM is employed to train prediction models with different PRI datasets. To evaluate the new method, we also propose a new performance measure called explicit positive recall (EPR), which is specifically suitable for the task of learning positive and unlabeled data. Experimental results over three datasets show that our method not only outperforms four existing methods, but also is able to predict unknown PRIs. Source code, datasets and related documents of PRIPU are available at: http://admis.fudan.edu.cn/projects/pripu.htm .
Effects of High Intensity Interval versus Moderate Continuous Training on Markers of Ventilatory and Cardiac Efficiency in Coronary Heart Disease Patients
Authors: Cardozo Gustavo G. , Oliveira Ricardo B. , Farinatti Paulo T. V.
Published: February 2015

Background. We tested the hypothesis that high intensity interval training (HIIT) would be more effective than moderate intensity continuous training (MIT) to improve newly emerged markers of cardiorespiratory fitness in coronary heart disease (CHD) patients, as the relationship between ventilation and carbon dioxide production (VE/VCO2 slope), oxygen uptake efficiency slope (OUES), and oxygen pulse (O2P). Methods. Seventy‐one patients with optimized treatment were randomly assigned into HIIT (n = 23, age = 56 ± 12 years), MIT (n = 24, age = 62 ± 12 years), or nonexercise control group (CG) (n = 24, age = 64 ± 12 years). MIT performed 30 min of continuous aerobic exercise at 70–75% of maximal heart rate (HRmax), and HIIT performed 30 min sessions split in 2 min alternate bouts at 60%/90% HRmax (3 times/week for 16 weeks). Results. No differences among groups (before versus after) were found for VE/VCO2 slope or OUES (P > 0.05). After training the O2P slope increased in HIIT (22%, P < 0.05) but not in MIT (2%, P > 0.05), while decreased in CG (−20%, P < 0.05) becoming lower versus HIIT (P = 0.03). Conclusion. HIIT was more effective than MIT for improving O2P slope in CHD patients, while VE/VCO2 slope and OUES were similarly improved by aerobic training regimens versus controls.
Modelling Signal Controlled Traffic Based on Driving Behaviors
Authors: Wang Yang , Chen Yanyan , Chen Ning
Published: February 2015

In urban traffic, of particular interest the traffic breakdown which is primarily resulted from the driving behaviors is emerged to respond to the traffic signal. To investigate the influences of driving behaviors on the traffic breakdown, a cellular automaton model has been developed by incorporating a number of driving behaviors typically manifesting during the different stages when the vehicle approaching a traffic light. Numerical simulations have been performed based on a road segment consisting of three sections and each section is associated with a set of rules. The numerical simulations have demonstrated that the proposed model is capable of producing the time-delayed traffic breakdown and the dissolution of the oversaturated traffic. Furthermore, it has been evidenced that the probability of the traffic breakdown can be increased by involving the slow-to-start behavior. However, the activation of the anticipatory behavior can effectively impede the transition from undersaturated to oversaturated traffic. Finally, the contributions of the driving behaviors on the traffic breakdown have been quantitatively examined.
Flavonoid 4′-O-Methylkuwanon E fromMorus albaInduces the Differentiation of THP-1 Human Leukemia Cells
Authors: Kollar Peter , Bárta Tomáš , Keltošová Stanislava , Trnová Pavlína , Müller Závalová Veronika , Šmejkal Karel , Hošek Jan , Fedr Radek , Souček Karel , Hampl Aleš
Published: February 2015

Aims. In this work we studied cytodifferentiation effects of newly characterized prenyl flavonoid 4′-O-methylkuwanon E (4ME) isolated from white mulberry (Morus albaL.).Main Methods. Cell growth and viability were measured by dye exclusion assay; cell cycle and surface antigen CD11b were monitored by flow cytometry. For the cytodifferentiation of cells the NBT reduction assay was employed. Regulatory proteins were assessed by western blotting.Key Findings. 4ME induced dose-dependent growth inhibition of THP-1 cells, which was not accompanied by toxic effect. Inhibition of cells proliferation caused by 4ME was associated with the accumulation in G1 phase and with downregulation of hyperphosphorylated pRb. Treatment with 4ME led to significant induction of NBT-reducing activity of PMA stimulated THP-1 cells and upregulation expression of differentiation-associated surface antigen CD11b. Our results suggest that monocytic differentiation induced by 4ME is connected with up-regulation of p38 kinase activity.Significance. Our study provides the first evidence that 4ME induces the differentiation of THP-1 human monocytic leukemia cells and thus is a potential cytodifferentiating anticancer agent.
A Novel Method for Investigating the Casimir Effect on Pull-In Instability of Electrostatically Actuated Fully Clamped Rectangular Nano/Microplates
Authors: Mohsenzadeh Arman , Tahani Masoud , Askari Amir R.
Published: February 2015

The objective of the present paper is to represent a novel method to investigate the stable and unstable behaviors of fully clamped rectangular nano/microplates under the effects of electrostatic and Casimir pressures. To this end, the governing partial differential equation of equilibrium is considered and reduced to an algebraic equation using a simple and computationally efficient single degree of freedom (SDOF) model through the Galerkin weighted residual method. The linear and undamped mode-shapes of the plate are used in the Galerkin procedure as the weight function which is obtained by the extended Kantorovich method (EKM). The present findings are compared and validated by available empirical and theoretical results in the literature as well as those obtained by finite element (FE) simulation carried out using COMSOL Multiphysics commercial software and excellent agreements between them are observed.
Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma of the Adult Urinary Bladder: A Rare Case Report of Misclassification as Inflammatory Myofibroblastic Tumor
Authors: Chen Kelven Weijing , Wu Fiona Mei Wen , Lee Victor Kwan Min , Esuvaranathan Kesavan
Published: February 2015

Embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma (ERMS) of the adult urinary bladder is a rare malignant tumour. Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumour (IMT) of the bladder is a benign genitourinary tumour that may appear variable histologically but usually lacks unequivocal malignant traits. Techniques like flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry may be used to differentiate these two tumours. Our patient, a 46-year-old male, had rapidly recurring lower urinary tract symptoms after two transurethral resections of the prostate. He subsequently underwent a transvesical prostatectomy which showed IMT on histology. However, his symptoms did not resolve and an open resection done at our institution revealed a 6 cm tumour arising from the right bladder neck. This time, histology was ERMS with diffuse anaplasia of the bladder. Rapid recurrence of urinary symptoms with prostate regrowth after surgery is unusual. Differential diagnoses of uncommon bladder malignancies should be considered if there is an inconsistent clinical course as treatment approaches are different.
Curing Kinetics of Hybrid Networks Composed of Benzoxazine and Multifunctional Novolac Epoxy
Authors: Ke Wu , Rumin Wang , Jinfang Zeng
Published: February 2015

A novel hybrid network composed of benzoxazines (BZ) and novolac epoxy resin (F-51) was prepared successfully. Thermal properties, curing kinetics, and decomposition process were studied using isothermal differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) in this paper. The reactive mechanism of F-51/BZ mixture system is different from the BZ homopolymers at low temperatures; two resin systems follow the autocatalytic model mainly at high temperatures. Thermogravimetric analysis indicates that F-51 can have no significant effect on thermal degradation temperatures and on increasing char yield.
Performance Analysis for Cooperative Communication System with QC-LDPC Codes Constructed with Integer Sequences
Authors: Zhang Yan , Yang Feng-fan , Song Weijun
Published: February 2015

This paper presents four different integer sequences to construct quasi-cyclic low-density parity-check (QC-LDPC) codes with mathematical theory. The paper introduces the procedure of the coding principle and coding. Four different integer sequences constructing QC-LDPC code are compared with LDPC codes by using PEG algorithm, array codes, and the Mackey codes, respectively. Then, the integer sequence QC-LDPC codes are used in coded cooperative communication. Simulation results show that the integer sequence constructed QC-LDPC codes are effective, and overall performance is better than that of other types of LDPC codes in the coded cooperative communication. The performance of Dayan integer sequence constructed QC-LDPC is the most excellent performance.
Insights into the Antiviral Immunity against Grass Carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) Reovirus (GCRV) in Grass Carp
Authors: Rao Youliang , Su Jianguo
Published: February 2015

Global fish production from aquaculture has rapidly grown over the past decades, and grass carp shares the largest portion. However, hemorrhagic disease caused by grass carp reovirus (GCRV) results in tremendous loss of grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) industry. During the past years, development of molecular biology and cellular biology technologies has promoted significant advances in the understanding of the pathogen and the immune system. Immunoprophylaxis based on stimulation of the immune system of fish has also got some achievements. In this review, authors summarize the recent progresses in basic researches on GCRV; viral nucleic acid sensors, high-mobility group box proteins (HMGBs); pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and retinoic acid inducible gene I- (RIG-I-) like receptors (RLRs); antiviral immune responses induced by PRRs-mediated signaling cascades of type I interferon (IFN-I) and IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs) activation. The present review also notices the potential applications of molecule genetic markers. Additionally, authors discuss the current preventive and therapeutic strategies (vaccines, RNAi, and prevention medicine) and highlight the importance of innate immunity in long term control for grass carp hemorrhagic disease.
The Influence of Functional Fitness and Cognitive Training of Physical Disabilities of Institutions
Authors: Yeh I-Chen , Chang Chia-Ming , Chen Ko-Chia , Hong Wei-Chin , Lu Yu-Hsiung
Published: February 2015

According to an investigation done by Taiwan Ministry of the Interior in 2013, there was more than 90% of the disability care institutions mainly based on life care. Previous studies have shown that individuals can effectively improve physical and cognitive training, improved in independent living and everyday competence. The purpose of the study was to investigate influence of the intervention program applying functional fitness and cognitive training to disabled residents in the institution. The subjects were disabled persons of a care institution in southern Taiwan and were randomly divided into training and control groups, both having 17 subjects. The age of the subjects was between 56 and 98 years with a mean age of 79.08 ± 10.04 years; the subjects of training group implemented 12 weeks of training on physical and cognitive training, while the control group subjects did not have any training program. The results revealed that subjects of the training group have significantly improved their functional shoulder rotation flexibility of left and right anterior hip muscle group flexibility of right, sitting functional balance of left and right, naming, attention, delayed recall, orientation, and Montreal cognitive assessment (MOCA). The study suggested developing physical fitness programs and physical and cognitive prescriptions for the disabled people of the institutions.
Omental Infarction Mimicking Cholecystitis
Authors: Smolilo David , Lewis Benjamin C. , Yeow Marina , Watson David I.
Published: February 2015

Omental infarction can be difficult to diagnose preoperatively as imaging may be inconclusive and patients often present in a way that suggests a more common surgical pathology such as appendicitis. Here, a 40-year-old Caucasian man presented to casualty with shortness of breath and progressive right upper abdominal pain, accompanied with right shoulder and neck pain. Exploratory laparoscopy was eventually utilised to diagnose an atypical form of omental infarction that mimics cholecystitis. The vascular supply along the long axis of the segment was occluded initiating necrosis. In this case, the necrotic segment was adherent with the abdominal wall, a pathology not commonly reported in cases of omental infarction.
Treatment of Prolactinomas in Low-Income Countries
Authors: Kruljac Ivan , Kirigin Lora Stanka , Strinović Mateja , Marinković Jelena , Pećina Hrvoje Ivan , Čerina Vatroslav , Stipić Darko , Vrkljan Milan
Published: February 2015

Purpose. In low-income countries, prolactinomas are difficult to manage with dopamine agonists (DA). We compared the effectiveness of DA in microprolactinomas as a first line treatment and as adjuvant therapy for residual macroprolactinomas treated surgically.Methods. Our retrospective study analyzed 78 patients, 38 with microprolactinomas and 40 with macroprolactinomas. Microprolactinomas were treated with DA. Macroprolactinomas were treated with microsurgical or endoscopic adenomectomies and adjuvant DA. Surgical remission was defined as normoprolactinemia three months postoperatively, and long-term remission as normoprolactinemia at the last control.Results. Surgical remission was achieved in 9 patients (23%). Postsurgical tumor mass was reduced by 50% (34–68). Residual macroprolactinoma size was greater than microprolactinoma size prior to treatment (10 mm versus 4 mm,P<0.001). Both groups received similar doses of DA. Long-term remission occurred in 68% of microprolactinomas and 43% of macroprolactinomas (P=0.102). Prolactin (PRL) levels at the last control were similar in both groups (23.1 versus 32.9 mcg/L,P=0.347).Conclusion. Comparable remission rates and PRL levels were reached in microprolactinomas and macroprolactinomas using similar doses of DA. Although complete tumor resection is the goal of surgery, our study suggests that even partial surgical removal has a role in treatment of prolactinomas since it may enhance the response to DA.
Resonance Spectra of Caged Stringy Black Hole and Its Spectroscopy
Authors: Sakalli I. , Tokgoz G.
Published: February 2015

Maggiore’s method (MM), which evaluates the transition frequency that appears in the adiabatic invariant from the highly damped quasinormal mode (QNM) frequencies, is used to investigate the entropy/area spectra of the Garfinkle–Horowitz–Strominger black hole (GHSBH). Instead of the ordinary QNMs, we compute the boxed QNMs (BQNMs) that are the characteristic resonance spectra of the confined scalar fields in the GHSBH geometry. For this purpose, we assume that the GHSBH has a confining cavity (mirror) placed in the vicinity of the event horizon. We then show how the complex resonant frequencies of the caged GHSBH are computed using the Bessel differential equation that arises when the scalar perturbations around the event horizon are considered. Although the entropy/area is characterized by the GHSBH parameters, their quantization is shown to be independent of those parameters. However, both spectra are equally spaced.
Attribute Based Multisignature Scheme for Wireless Communications
Authors: Liu Ximeng , Zhu Hui , Ma Jianfeng , Li Qi , Xiong Jinbo
Published: February 2015

With rapidly development of wireless communication, more mobile devices are used in our daily life. Although the need for accessing a wireless network is evident, new problems, such as keeping and preserving user identity’s privacy, should be greatly concerned. Attribute based signature scheme is an important cryptographic primitive which provides a powerful way for user to control their privacy. In wireless environment, the capacity of wireless channel is also valuable resources which is limited. More information can be transmitted through the wireless channel when the cost of using signature to verify the message becomes less. In order to reduce the bandwidth needed to transmit attribute based signatures and keep signer’s privacy, attribute based multisignature scheme (ABMS) was proposed in this paper. Moreover, we formalize and construct the ABMS. Our scheme is existentially unforgeable against chosen message attack on Computational Diffie-Hellman (CDH) assumption in the standard model. The simulation shows that our ABMS scheme is more appropriate for wireless communication to guarantee integrity of the data.
In vivo Scanning Electron Microscope Assessment of Enamel Permeability in Primary Teeth with and without Early Childhood Caries
Authors: Narrenthran J.S. , Muthu M.S. , Renugalakshmi A.
Published: February 2015

Background: Over the years, certain primary teeth have been shown to be highly sensitive to dental caries, while others have remained caries-free. It has been hypothesized that this may be attributed to differences in the permeability of the enamel surface. Aim: The aim of the study was to evaluate the hypothesized differences in the permeability of primary tooth enamel in children with and those without Severe Early Childhood Caries (S-ECC) using scanning electron microscopy. Materials and Methods: Sixteen children between 3 and 6 years of age were randomly selected and divided into two groups: Group 1, children without S-ECC (n = 8), and Group 2, children with S-ECC (n = 8). In each child, 4 teeth (the maxillary right and left central and lateral incisors) were subjected to evaluation. An impression was made with polyvinylsiloxane impression material, and scanning electron microscopy was used to inspect the negative replicas for droplets. Results: The results indicated higher significance when individual regions (cervical, middle, and incisal thirds) in the two groups were evaluated and compared. Similarly, the overall results showed high statistical significance between S-ECC and non-S-ECC teeth. Conclusion: There could be a positive relationship between the permeability of tooth enamel and the development of caries, which needs further research.
Yttrium-90 Ibritumomab Tiuxetan Followed by Rituximab Maintenance as Treatment for Patients with Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma Are Not Candidates for Autologous Stem Cell Transplant
Authors: Arnason Jon E. , Luptakova Katarina , Rosenblatt Jacalyn , Tzachanis Dimitrios , Avigan David , Zwicker Jeffrey I. , Levine James , Kim Michelle , Parker J. Anthony , Grant Barbara , Joyce Robin M.
Published: February 2015

Background: Not all patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) are candidates for aggressive regimens. 90Y ibritumomab tiuxetan (90Y-IT), an anti-CD20 radionuclide-conjugated antibody, has demonstrated clinical efficacy in DLBCL with a favorable toxicity profile. Methods: This phase II trial investigated the overall response rate (ORR), event-free survival (EFS), overall survival (OS) and toxicity of treatment with 90Y-IT (0.4 or 0.3 mCi 90Y/kg based on platelets) followed by rituximab maintenance therapy in patients with DLBCL not candidates for transplant. Results: 25 patients were enrolled. At best response 8 patients obtained a complete response (CR) and 1 a partial response (ORR 36%). Median EFS was 2.5 months and OS 8.1 months. No patient who obtained CR later relapsed systemically. Two patients were free of disease at the 61- and 100-month follow-ups; 65% had grade 3/4 thrombocytopenia, but no significant bleeding was observed. Grade 3 nonhematologic toxicity occurred in 36%. Patients who had progressed through a rituximab-containing regimen responded poorly. Conclusion: The ORR of 36% with 90Y-IT as salvage therapy for DLBCL while inferior to more aggressive regimens is significant with acceptable toxicity. For a subset of patients not candidates for salvage with autologous transplant, this treatment strategy can produce a durable, long-lasting remission.
Relative and Absolute Changes in Urinary Neutrophil Gelatinase-Associated Lipocalin and Correlation with Small Increases in Serum Creatinine Levels after Coronary Angiography: An Observational Study
Authors: Souza Denis F. , Reis Samir S.A. , Botelho Roberto V. , Ferreira-Filho Sebastião R.
Published: February 2015

Introduction/Aims: The Acute Kidney Injury Network classification is based on small increases in serum creatinine (sCr) for stage 1. This study investigated whether changes in the urinary concentration of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (uNGAL) could predict small increases in sCr in patients undergoing coronary angiography. Methods: The uNGAL was measured before contrast infusion and 2 and 4 h afterwards. Patients were divided into 2 subgroups: G1 (n = 103), where sCr increased by <0.3 mg/dl, and G2 (n = 22), where sCr increased by ≥0.3 mg/dl 48 h after the angiography. To determine the sensitivity and specificity for the absolute and relative variations of uNGAL, a receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was performed. Results: In G2, the uNGAL concentration increased over baseline values (15.9 vs. 9.2 ng/dl; p < 0.05), and it was also 2-fold higher in G2 versus G1 (15.9 vs. 8.0 ng/dl; p < 0.001). The uNGAL remains an independent predictor of the small increases in sCr, and, for an increase of 50% over baseline levels, it showed 60% sensitivity and 81% specificity. Conclusion: Changes in uNGAL concentration 2 h after the infusion of contrast media showed marginal sensitivity to predict small increases in sCr.
Ultrasonographic versus Fluoroscopic Access for Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wang Kun , Zhang Peijin , Xu Xianlin , Fan Min
Published: February 2015

Objective: To assess the safety and efficacy of ultrasonographic vs. fluoroscopic access for percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). Methods: Medline (PubMed), Embase, Ovid, Cochrane, and the Chinese Biomedical Literature databases were searched to identify clinically controlled trials (CCTs) and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared ultrasonographic access with fluoroscopic access for PCNL. RevMan 5.1 software and Stat Manager V4.1 software were used for the meta-analysis. Results: Five RCTs and nine CCTs were included in our study, which contained a total of 3,019 patients. Of these, 1,574 (52%) had undergone ultrasonographic access, and 1,445 (48%) had undergone fluoroscopic access. The pooled results revealed that the ultrasonographic access patients had shorter duration of access (min) by 2.56 min (weighted mean difference (WMD) = −2.56, 95% confidence interval (CI): −4.40 to −0.72, p = 0.006). There was a higher stone-free rate in the ultrasonographic access group (odds ratio (OR) = 1.26, 95% CI: 1.02-1.55, p = 0.03), as well as a lower rate of operative complications (OR = 0.72, 95% CI: 0.56-0.93, p = 0.01), reduced intraoperative blood loss (ml) (WMD = −14.55 ml, 95% CI: −27.65 to −1.46, p = 0.03), and a lower rate of blood transfusion requirement (OR = 0.39, 95% CI: 0.24-0.63, p = 0.0001). Sensitivity and subgroup analyses were also performed. Conclusion: Except for no radiation exposure, our meta-analysis revealed that ultrasonographic access had many advantages, such as a shorter access time, reduced intraoperative blood loss, a lower rate of operative complications, a lower rate of blood transfusion, and a higher stone-free rate. Because of these significant advantages, we recommend the use of ultrasonographic access for PCNL.
Effects of Electrode Array Length on Frequency-Place Mismatch and Speech Perception with Cochlear Implants
Authors: Venail Frederic , Mathiolon Caroline , Menjot de Champfleur Sophie , Piron Jean Pierre , Sicard Marielle , Villemus Françoise , Vessigaud Marie Aude , Sterkers-Artieres Françoise , Mondain Michel , Uziel Alain
Published: February 2015

Frequency-place mismatch often occurs after cochlear implantation, yet its effect on speech perception outcome remains unclear. In this article, we propose a method, based on cochlea imaging, to determine the cochlear place-frequency map. We evaluated the effect of frequency-place mismatch on speech perception outcome in subjects implanted with 3 different lengths of electrode arrays. A deeper insertion was responsible for a larger frequency-place mismatch and a decreased and delayed speech perception improvement by comparison with a shallower insertion, for which a similar but slighter effect was noticed. Our results support the notion that selecting an electrode array length adapted to each individual's cochlear anatomy may reduce frequency-place mismatch and thus improve speech perception outcome.
Incidence of High Infertility Risk among Unilateral Cryptorchid Boys
Authors: Bilius Vytautas , Verkauskas Gilvydas , Dasevicius Darius , Kazlauskas Vytis , Malcius Dalius , Hadziselimovic Faruk
Published: February 2015

Background: Increasing evidence of progressive damage to germ cell development in boys with cryptorchidism suggests recommending surgery until one year of age. However, despite early and successful orchidopexy, cryptorchid boys with impaired mini-puberty will suffer from infertility. We reviewed changes in the timing of surgery during the past decade and the incidence of unilateral cryptorchid boys with defective mini-puberty. Methods: Medical registries were reviewed for all patients who were operated on for cryptorchidism at the main pediatric urological center of the country. The ages of surgery in cases of unilateral cryptorchidism were compared between the years 2000-2001 and 2012-2013. A high risk of infertility was considered when no Ad spermatogonia were found. Two groups were compared: group I - operated on until the age of 1.5 years and group II - older than 1.5 years. Results: The average age at operation decreased from 5.3 to 4.1 years. Forty-six biopsies in boys with unilateral cryptorchidism were made during orchidopexy on undescended testicles. Overall, 44% in group I and 50 % in group II (p > 0.05) had no Ad spermatogonia. Conclusions: The average age of operation for cryptorchidism has decreased, but remains far above the recommended age. The high prevalence of histologically proven risk of infertility underscores the necessity of more education regarding the importance of earlier surgery and the research on hormonal prevention of infertility.
MiR-144 Inhibits Proliferation and Induces Apoptosis and Autophagy in Lung Cancer Cells by Targeting TIGAR
Authors: Chen Shanshan , Li Ping , Li Juan , Wang Yuanyuan , Du Yuwen , Chen Xiaonan , Zang Wenqiao , Wang Huaqi , Chu Heying , Zhao Guoqiang , Zhang Guojun
Published: February 2015

Background: MiRNAs are noncoding RNAs of 20-24 nucleotides that function as post-transcriptional negative regulators of gene expression. MiRNA genes are usually transcribed by RNA polymerase II in the nucleus. Their initial products are pre-miRNAs which have cap sequences and polyA tails. The p53-induced glycolysis and apoptosis regulator (TIGAR) was discovered through microarray analysis of gene expression following activation of p53. However, little is known about the effect of miR-144 on cell proliferation and apoptosis and how it interacts with TIGAR. Methods: We performed real-time PCR, western blotting, CCK8, colony formation, tumor growth, flow cytometry, Caspase3/7 activity, Hoechst 33342 staining, MDC staining of autophagic cells and luciferase reporter assays to detect the influence of miR-144 to lung cancer cells. Results: miR-144 targeted TIGAR, inhibited proliferation, enhanced apoptosis, and increased autophagy in A549 and H460 cells. Conclusions: Our study improves our understanding of the mechanisms underlying lung cancer pathogenesis and may promote the development of novel targeted therapies.
Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor 1 as a Target for the Therapy of Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Tsimafeyeu Ilya , Bratslavsky Gennady
Published: February 2015

Dysregulation of fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling in renal cell carcinoma is now well understood, and it is becoming increasingly likely that certain tumors become dependent on an activation of this pathway for their growth and survival. Dissecting the FGF/FGF receptor (FGFR) pathway offers the hope of developing new therapeutic approaches that selectively target the FGF/FGFR axis in patients whose tumors are known to harbor FGF/FGFR dysregulation. In this review, we summarize the existing data on the role of FGFR1 in the pathogenesis of renal cell carcinoma and discuss methodological issues for drug investigation in this setting.
Resin Infiltration of Non-Cavitated Caries Lesions: A Systematic Review
Authors: Doméjean Sophie , Ducamp Raphaël , Léger Stéphanie , Holmgren Christopher
Published: February 2015

Objective: The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the in vivo scientific evidence of the ability of resin infiltration (RI) to arrest non-cavitated caries lesions. Materials and Methods: The PubMed database was searched for randomized controlled trials that evaluated the in vivo effect of RI versus placebo or other preventive treatment on the progression of caries lesions. The keywords used were ‘resin infiltration, dental caries', ‘resin infiltration, carious lesions', ‘resin infiltration, caries lesions', ‘caries infiltration' and ‘Icon DMG' with the ‘clinical trial' filter activated. Among the 14 articles originally identified with these keywords, only 4 (related to 3 different in vivo studies) were included for this review. Results: All 4 articles reported on proximal caries lesions. One study had been conducted on 48 high-caries-risk children while the other 3 (n = 22, 22 and 39, respectively) concerned moderate- and low-caries-risk adolescents and adults. The quality of the studies was assessed to be high with respect to randomization, split-mouth design and blinding. All the included studies showed significant differences in caries progression between test and control/placebo groups, indicating that RI may inhibit the carious process. Conclusion: This systematic review revealed that RI appeared to be an effective method to arrest the progression of non-cavitated caries lesions. Additional, long-term studies are required.
High Glucose Promotes Tumor Invasion and Increases Metastasis-Associated Protein Expression in Human Lung Epithelial Cells by Upregulating Heme Oxygenase-1 via Reactive Oxygen Species or the TGF-β1/PI3K/Akt Signaling Pathway
Authors: Kang Xiaowen , Kong Fanwu , Wu Xiaomei , Ren Yeping , Wu Shijie , Wu Kaiming , Jiang Zhe , Zhang Wei
Published: February 2015

Background: Growing evidence indicates that heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is up-regulated in malignancies and subsequently alters tumor aggressiveness and various cancer-related factors, such as high glucose (HG) levels. HO-1 expression can be induced when glucose concentrations are above 25 mM; however, the role of HO-1 in lung cancer patients with diabetes remains unknown. Therefore, in this study we investigated the promotion of tumor cell invasion and the expression of metastasis-associated proteins by inducing the up-regulation of HO-1 expression by HG treatment in A549 human lung epithelial cells. Methods: The expression of HO-1and metastasis-associated protein expression was explored by western blot analysis. HO-1 enzymatic activity, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and TGF-β1 production were examined by ELISA. Invasiveness was analyzed using a Transwell chamber. Results: HG treatment of A549 cells induced an increase in HO-1 expression, which was mediated by the HG-induced generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. Following the increase in HO-1 expression, the enzymatic activity of HO-1 also increased in HG-treated cells. Pretreatment with N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) or with phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt inhibitors attenuated the HG-induced increase in HO-1 expression. HG treatment of A549 cells enhanced the invasion potential of these cells, as shown with a Transwell assay, and increased metastasis-associated protein expression. However, HO-1 siRNA transfection significantly decreased these capabilities. Conclusion: this study is the first to demonstrate that HG treatment of A549 human lung epithelial cells promotes tumor cell invasion and increases metastasis-associated protein expression by up-regulating HO-1 expression via ROS or the TGF-β1/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.
LXR Agonist T0901317-Induced Hyperlipidemia Does Not Lead to Lipid Accumulation in the Rat Heart
Authors: Harasiuk Dorota , Baranowski Marcin , Zabielski Piotr , Chabowski Adrian , Górski Jan
Published: February 2015

Background/Aims: Liver X receptors (LXRα and LXRβ) are ligand-activated transcription factors that regulate expression of genes involved in lipid and cholesterol metabolism. LXR expression has been identified in human and rodent cardiac tissue, however, its role in this tissue remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate effects of in vivo LXR activation on lipid metabolism in the rat myocardium under the conditions of low and high lipid intake. Methods: The experiments were performed on male Wistar rats fed for 5 weeks on either low fat diet (LFD) or high fat diet (HFD). Next, the animals were randomly divided into two groups receiving either LXR agonist - T0901317 (10mg/kg/d) or vehicle for the last week of the experiment. After anesthesia samples of the left ventricle and blood were taken. Results: It was found that LXRβ is the dominant isoform in the rat myocardium and the expression of both LXR isoforms did not change after administration of T0901317. Agonist treatment induced hyperlipidemia in low fat fed rats and this effect was amplified in high fat fed rats. LXR agonist elevated content of myocardial triacylglycerols in animals fed on LFD and content of phospholipids in animals fed on HFD. Levels of the remaining examined lipid classes (nonesterified fatty acids, diacylglycerol, free cholesterol, cholesterol esters, ceramide) was decreased or unchaged after LXR activation. Conclusion: We conclude that administration of T0901317 does not lead to severe myocardial lipid accumulation in rats despite of its high plasma availability.
Variability and Predictability of West African Droughts: A Review on the Role of Sea Surface Temperature Anomalies
Authors: Rodríguez-Fonseca Belen , Mohino Elsa , Mechoso Carlos R. , Caminade Cyril , Biasutti Michela , Gaetani Marco , Garcia-Serrano J. , Vizy Edward K. , Cook Kerry , Xue Yongkang , Polo Irene , Losada Teresa , Druyan Leonard , Fontaine Bernard , Bader Juergen , Doblas-Reyes Francisco J. , Goddard Lisa , Janicot Serge , Arribas Alberto , Lau William , Colman Andrew , Vellinga M. , Rowell David P. , Kucharski Fred , Voldoire Aurore
Published: February 2015

The Sahel experienced a severe drought during the 1970s and 1980s after wet periods in the 1950s and 1960s. Although rainfall partially recovered since the 1990s, the drought had devastating impacts on society. Most studies agree that this dry period resulted primarily from remote effects of sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies amplified by local land surface–atmosphere interactions. This paper reviews advances made during the last decade to better understand the impact of global SST variability on West African rainfall at interannual to decadal time scales. At interannual time scales, a warming of the equatorial Atlantic and Pacific/Indian Oceans results in rainfall reduction over the Sahel, and positive SST anomalies over the Mediterranean Sea tend to be associated with increased rainfall. At decadal time scales, warming over the tropics leads to drought over the Sahel, whereas warming over the North Atlantic promotes increased rainfall. Prediction systems have evolved from seasonal to decadal forecasting. The agreement among future projections has improved from CMIP3 to CMIP5, with a general tendency for slightly wetter conditions over the central part of the Sahel, drier conditions over the western part, and a delay in the monsoon onset. The role of the Indian Ocean, the stationarity of teleconnections, the determination of the leader ocean basin in driving decadal variability, the anthropogenic role, the reduction of the model rainfall spread, and the improvement of some model components are among the most important remaining questions that continue to be the focus of current international projects.
Mass Footprints of the North Pacific Atmospheric Blocking Highs
Authors: Park Tae-Won , Deng Yi , Li Wenhong , Yang Song , Cai Ming
Published: February 2015

The mass footprints associated with atmospheric blocks over the North Pacific are evaluated by constructing daily tendencies of total mass over the blocking domain from three-dimensional mass fluxes throughout the life cycle of a composite blocking event. The results highlight the major role of mass convergence driven by low-frequency (with periods >1 week) atmospheric disturbances during both the development and decay stage of a block. Specifically, low-frequency eddies are responsible for the accelerated mass buildup 4 days prior to the peak intensity of a block, and they also account for the rapid mass loss afterward. High-frequency, subweekly scale disturbances have statistically significant positive contributions to the mass loss during the decay stage, and also show weak negative contributions to the development of the blocking high prior to the peak of the high. The majority of the mass convergence (divergence) responsible for the intensification (decay) of the blocking high occurs in the middle-to-lower troposphere and is largely attributed to mass flux driven by low-frequency meridional (zonal) winds. Also discussed are the implications of this new mass perspective of atmospheric blocks for understanding dynamics of blocking highs and for model bias detection and attribution.
Red States, Blue States, and Brain States
Authors: Shen Francis X. , Gromet Dena M.
Published: February 2015

Advances in neuroscience are beginning to shape law and public policy, giving rise to the field of “neurolaw.” The impact of neuroscientific evidence on how laws are written and interpreted in practice will depend in part on how neurolaw is understood by the public. Drawing on a nationally representative telephone survey experiment, this article presents the first evidence on public approval of neurolaw. We find that the public is generally neutral in its support for neuroscience-based legal reforms. However, how neurolaw is framed affects support based on partisanship: Republicans’ approval of neurolaw decreases when neuroscience is seen as primarily serving to reduce offender culpability, whereas Democrats’ approval is unaffected by how neurolaw is framed. These results suggest that both framing and partisanship may shape the future of neuroscience-based reforms in law and policy.
Enablers of Doubt
Authors: Berkman Michael B. , Plutzer Eric
Published: February 2015

Evolution deniers do not need to establish their own scientific position but merely cast doubt on some aspect of evolution or obtain a small amount of legitimacy for creationism or intelligent design to sow sufficient doubt in the mainstream. This doubt is one of three pillars, along with demands for equal time and the incompatibility of science and religion, that Eugenie Scott has argued define contemporary anti-evolution efforts. High school biology teachers play a crucial role in whether a high school biology course reinforces the scientific consensus or whether it confers legitimacy on creationist perspectives with pedagogical strategies consistent with the three pillars. As we have shown elsewhere, many public school teachers do contribute to public opinion on evolution. But where do these norms come from? This article begins to answer this question, using data from our 2007 National Survey of High School Biology Teachers and new data from a series of focus groups with preservice teachers. We find that, as early as in the preservice college years, teachers develop attitudes and pedagogical coping mechanisms that lead to support for the anti-evolution movement.
Characteristics of Programs That Maximize Psychology Major Success
Authors: Stoloff Michael L. , Good Megan Rodgers , Smith Kristen L. , Brewster JoAnne
Published: February 2015

We conducted a national survey of psychology department chairs, and, based on their responses, we concluded that psychology programs differ in the number of students enrolled in various types of classes; the degree of focus on each of the goals recommended by the American Psychological Association (APA) Guidelines for an Undergraduate Psychology Education; the frequency of student participation in research, study abroad, and field placement; and the frequency of student–faculty interactions. We describe the percentage of psychology majors who have these program-relevant experiences. We also demonstrate that there are relationships between key high-impact activities and graduate school attendance, assessment test scores, and program completion rate. Based on the findings, we suggest how psychology programs may be able to help students to maximize their success.
Developments in Oral Antiplatelet Agents for the Treatment of Acute Coronary Syndromes
Authors: Roffman David S.
Published: February 2015

A review of the literature was conducted for clinical trials evaluating the antiplatelet P2Y12 receptor antagonists, clopidogrel, prasugrel, and ticagrelor, as well as the guidelines for the management of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) or myocardial infarction. Clinical guidelines recommend that patients with ACS be treated with dual oral antiplatelet therapy of aspirin plus clopidogrel, prasugrel, or ticagrelor. The selection of an appropriate antiplatelet agent depends on the treatment approach and a patient’s bleeding risk and clinical history. With respect to antiplatelet activity, prasugrel and ticagrelor demonstrate greater potency and less interpatient variability than clopidogrel. In phase III clinical trials, prasugrel and ticagrelor reduced the incidence of ischemic events in patients with ACS compared with clopidogrel. Ticagrelor and clopidogrel were associated with a similar risk of major bleeding, whereas patients receiving prasugrel had an increased risk of major bleeding versus those receiving clopidogrel. Pharmacists can provide guidance on the appropriate use of antiplatelet agents as well as the use of concomitant medications, while being vigilant for any potential drug interactions.
Alterations in bone mineral density and lower extremity lean mass after hip arthroscopy in a professional female Ironman triathlete: a case study
Authors: Mueller Sandro Manuel , Braendli Simone , Toigo Marco
Published: February 2015

Introduction

Femoroacetabular impingement is a pathomechanical condition of the hip, which is often treated through arthroscopic techniques. The ensuing immobilization period is associated with decreases in muscle mass and bone mass. To date, minimal knowledge is present about the development of tissue mass during the considerably short rehabilitation period before returning to competition in elite endurance athletes.

Case description

Before and after surgery, a professional female Ironman triathlete underwent dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and peripheral quantitative computed tomography measurements.

Discussion and evaluation

Areal bone mineral density (aBMD) of the proximal femur and lower extremity lean mass decreased in the surgically treated lower extremity during the two-month period of immobilization after the hip arthroscopy. These losses were compensated for after only six weeks of rehabilitation. A similar progression of aBMD values was observed in the lumbar spine. The adaptational pattern in volumetric BMD (vBMD) and volumetric bone mineral content (vBMC) of the tibiae were more complex, but attained pre-immobilization values for most variables also after six weeks of rehabilitation. All other variables attained pre-immobilization values no later than nine months after the surgical intervention.

Conclusions

The athlete showed a high plasticity of bone and lean tissue with an optimal short- and midterm outcome. Following a two months immobilization period after a hip arthroscopy, aBMD, vBMD and vBMC achieved pre-surgical levels after four months of rehabilitation in a female Ironman triathlete. A nine-month follow-up measurement confirmed the safety of the fast return to sport.
Technical Note—New Sufficient Conditions for (s, S) Policies to be Optimal in Systems with Multiple Uncertainties
Authors: Chen Lucy Gongtao , Robinson Lawrence W. , Roundy Robin O. , Zhang Rachel Q.
Published: February 2015

In today’s business environment, unpredictable economic and noneconomic forces can affect firms’ operational costs and discount factors, as well as demand. In this paper, we incorporate these uncertainties into a single-product, periodic-review, finite-horizon stochastic inventory system by modeling operational costs, discount factors, and demands as stochastic processes that evolve over time. We study three stockout protocols and establish conditions under which (s, S) inventory policies are optimal when discount factors, operational costs, and demands are stochastic and correlated both to one another and over time. Examples are provided to demonstrate nontrivial optimal policies in the absence of these sufficient conditions.