bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Blockade of IL6 Counterparts the Osmolar Stress-Induced Apoptosis in Human Conjunctival Epithelial Cells
Authors: Ju Hee-Jung , Byun Yong-Soo , Mok Jee-Won , Joo Choun-Ki
Published: July 2016

To determine the effect of hyperosmolarity on cell survival/apoptosis of conjunctival epithelial cells and evaluate the possible role of IL6, Wong-Kilbourne derivative of Chang conjunctival cell line (WKD) was used in this study. Confluent cells were incubated under different osmolarity (290 mOsm and 500 mOsm) with or without neutralizing IL6 antibody (50 ng/mL). The expression of IL6 level was measured in the supernatant of each conditioned medium. Cell viability/apoptosis assay was performed using Annexin V/Propidium Iodide (PI) and Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8). Western blot was conducted to measure the abundance of apoptotic markers and IL6 related downstream signaling pathway. The concentration of IL6 showed time-dependent increase in cells treated with 500 mOsm. Although apoptosis of WKD cell is increased in treated 500 mOsm for 24 h, apoptosis reduced in WKD cell treated 500 mOsm with anti-IL6 for 24 h. Anti-IL6 inhibited the activation of JAK-STAT signaling pathway, which was induced by hyperosmolarity. Hyperosmolar condition induced apoptosis in conjunctival epithelial cells, along with increase of IL6 production. IL6 neutralizing antibody inhibited apoptosis and JAK-STAT signaling in hyperosmolar condition. These findings suggested that IL6 may be involved in apoptotic change and in hyperosmolarity.
Development of an Ion-Pairing Reagent and HPLC-UV Method for the Detection and Quantification of Six Water-Soluble Vitamins in Animal Feed
Authors: Kim Ho Jin
Published: July 2016

A novel and simple method for detecting six water-soluble vitamins in animal feed using high performance liquid chromatography equipped with a photodiode array detector (HPLC/PDA) and ion-pairing reagent was developed. The chromatographic peaks of the six water-soluble vitamins were successfully identified by comparing their retention times and UV spectra with reference standards. The mobile phase was composed of buffers A (5 mM PICB-6 in 0.1% CH3COOH) and B (5 mM PICB-6 in 65% methanol). All peaks were detected using a wavelength of 270 nm. Method validation was performed in terms of linearity, sensitivity, selectivity, accuracy, and precision. The limits of detection (LODs) for the instrument employed in these experiments ranged from 25 to 197 μg/kg, and the limits of quantification (LOQs) ranged from 84 to 658 μg/kg. Average recoveries of the six water-soluble vitamins ranged from 82.3% to 98.9%. Method replication resulted in intraday and interday peak area variation of <5.6%. The developed method was specific and reliable and is therefore suitable for the routine analysis of water-soluble vitamins in animal feed.
Photodegradation of Sulfadiazine in Aqueous Solution and the Affecting Factors
Authors: Bian Xuesen , Zhang Jibing
Published: July 2016

Knowledge about photochemical behavior of sulfonamides under UV light is limited. In this study, photodegradation of sulfadiazine in water by ultraviolet (UV) light was studied using a 300 W, 365 nm UV lamp. The degradation process followed well the first-order kinetics, with a half-life of 9.76 min in water with air saturation. The photodegradation was slower at acidic pH 4.52 than at pH 6.98 and pH 8.90. Addition of H2O2and nitrate enhanced the photodegradation rate, while addition of ethanol, nitrite, sulfate, and bicarbonate depressed the reaction rate. This study suggested that sulfadiazine photodegradation under UV light is generally favored by the attack of hydroxyl radicals.
National Survey of Workplaces Handling and Manufacturing Nanomaterials, Exposure to and Health Effects of Nanomaterials, and Evaluation of Nanomaterial Safety Data Sheets
Authors: Kim Jeongho , Yu Il Je
Published: July 2016

A national survey on workplace environment nanomaterial handling and manufacturing was conducted in 2014. Workplaces relevant to nanomaterials were in the order of TiO2(91), SiO2(88), carbon black (84), Ag (35), Al2O3(35), ZnO (34), Pb (33), and CeO2(31). The survey results indicated that the number of workplaces handling or manufacturing nanomaterials was 340 (0.27% of total 126,846) workplaces. The number of nanomaterials used and products was 546 (1.60 per company) and 583 (1.71 per company), respectively. For most workplaces, the results on exposure to hazardous particulate materials, including nanomaterials, were below current OELs, yet a few workplaces were above the action level. As regards the health status of workers, 9 workers were diagnosed with a suspected respiratory occupational disease, where 7 were recommended for regular follow-up health monitoring. 125 safety data sheets (SDSs) were collected from the nanomaterial-relevant workplaces and evaluated for their completeness and reliability. Only 4 CNT SDSs (3.2%) included the term nanomaterial, while most nanomaterial SDSs were not regularly updated and lacked hazard information. When taken together, the current analysis provides valuable national-level information on the exposure and health status of workers that can guide the next policy steps for nanomaterial management in the workplace.
Haematochezia from a Splenic Artery Pseudoaneurysm Communicating with Transverse Colon: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: O’Brien James , Muscara Francesca , Farghal Aser , Shaikh Irshad
Published: July 2016

Splenic artery aneurysms (SAA) are the third most common intra-abdominal aneurysm. Complications include invasion into surrounding structures often in association with preexisting pancreatic disease. We describe an 88-year-old female, with no history of pancreatic disease, referred with lower gastrointestinal bleeding. CT angiography showed a splenic artery pseudoaneurysm with associated collection and fistula to the transverse colon at the level of the splenic flexure. The pseudoaneurysm was embolised endovascularly with metallic microcoils. Rectal bleeding ceased. The patient recovered well and follow-up angiography revealed no persistence of the splenic artery pseudoaneurysm. SAA rupture results in 29%–50% mortality. Experienced centres report success with the endovascular approach in haemodynamically unstable patients, as a bridge to surgery, and even on a background of pancreatic disease. This case highlights the importance of prompt CT angiography, if endoscopy fails to identify a cause of gastrointestinal bleeding. Endovascular embolisation provides a safe and effective alternative to surgery, where anatomical considerations and local expertise permit.
Microbial Production of Short Chain Fatty Acids from Lignocellulosic Biomass: Current Processes and Market
Authors: Baumann Ivan , Westermann Peter
Published: July 2016

Biological production of organic acids from conversion of biomass derivatives has received increased attention among scientists and engineers and in business because of the attractive properties such as renewability, sustainability, degradability, and versatility. The aim of the present review is to summarize recent research and development of short chain fatty acids production by anaerobic fermentation of nonfood biomass and to evaluate the status and outlook for a sustainable industrial production of such biochemicals. Volatile fatty acids (VFAs) such as acetic acid, propionic acid, and butyric acid have many industrial applications and are currently of global economic interest. The focus is mainly on the utilization of pretreated lignocellulosic plant biomass as substrate (the carbohydrate route) and development of the bacteria and processes that lead to a high and economically feasible production of VFA. The current and developing market for VFA is analyzed focusing on production, prices, and forecasts along with a presentation of the biotechnology companies operating in the market for sustainable biochemicals. Finally, perspectives on taking sustainable product of biochemicals from promise to market introduction are reviewed.
Effect of Initial Backfill Temperature on the Deformation Behavior of Early Age Cemented Paste Backfill That Contains Sodium Silicate
Authors: Wu Aixiang , Wang Yong , Zhou Bo , Shen Jiahua
Published: July 2016

Enhancing the knowledge on the deformation behavior of cemented paste backfill (CPB) in terms of stress-strain relations and modulus of elasticity is significant for economic and safety reasons. In this paper, the effect of the initial backfill temperature on the CPB’s stress-strain behavior and modulus of elasticity is investigated. Results show that the stress-strain relationship and the modulus of elasticity behavior of CPB are significantly affected by the curing time and initial temperature of CPB. Additionally, the relationship between the modulus of elasticity and unconfined compressive strength (UCS) and the degree of hydration was evaluated and discussed. The increase of UCS and hydration degree leads to an increase in the modulus of elasticity, which is not significantly affected by the initial temperature.
Effect of Subsequent Dilute Acid and Enzymatic Hydrolysis on Reducing Sugar Production from Sugarcane Bagasse and Spent Citronella Biomass
Authors: Timung Robinson , Naik Deshavath Narendra , Goud Vaibhav V. , Dasu Venkata V.
Published: July 2016

This work was aimed at investigating the effect of process parameters on dilute acid pretreatment and enzymatic hydrolysis of spent citronella biomass (after citronella oil extraction) and sugarcane bagasse on total reducing sugar (TRS) yield. In acid pretreatment, the parameters studied were acid concentration, temperature, and time. At the optimized condition (0.1 M H2SO4, 120°C, and 120 min), maximum TRS obtained was 452.27 mg·g−1and 487.50 mg·g−1for bagasse and citronella, respectively. Enzymatic hydrolysis of the pretreated biomass usingTrichoderma reesei26291 showed maximum TRS yield of 226.99 mg·g−1for citronella and 282.85 mg·g−1for bagasse at 10 FPU, 50°C, and 48 hr. The maximum crystallinity index (CI) of bagasse and citronella after acid pretreatment obtained from X-ray diffraction analysis was 64.41% and 56.18%, respectively. Decreased CI after enzymatic hydrolysis process to 37.28% and 34.16% for bagasse and citronella, respectively, revealed effective conversion of crystalline cellulose to glucose. SEM analysis of the untreated and treated biomass revealed significant hydrolysis of holocellulose and disruption of lignin.
Effect of Interferon-γon the Basal and the TNFα-Stimulated Secretion of CXCL8 in Thyroid Cancer Cell Lines Bearing Either the RET/PTC Rearrangement Or the BRAF V600e Mutation
Authors: Rotondi Mario , Coperchini Francesca , Awwad Oriana , Pignatti Patrizia , Di Buduo Christian A. , Abbonante Vittorio , Magri Flavia , Balduini Alessandra , Chiovato Luca
Published: July 2016

CXCL8 displays several tumor-promoting effects. Targeting and/or lowering CXCL8 concentrations within the tumor microenvironment would produce a therapeutic benefit. Aim of this study was to test the effect of IFNγon the basal and TNFα-stimulated secretion of CXCL8 in TCP-1 and BCPAP thyroid cancer cell lines (harboring RET/PTC rearrangement and BRAF V600e mutation, resp.). Cells were incubated with IFNγ(1, 10, 100, and 1000 U/mL) alone or in combination with TNF-α(10 ng/mL) for 24 hours. CXCL8 and CXCL10 concentrations were measured in the cell supernatants. IFNγinhibited in a dose-dependent and significant manner both the basal (ANOVAF: 22.759;p<0.00001) and the TNFα-stimulated (ANOVAF: 15.309;p<0.00001) CXCL8 secretions in BCPAP but not in TPC-1 cells (NS). On the other hand, IFNγand IFNγ+ TNF-αinduced a significant secretion of CXCL10 in both BCPAP (p<0.05) and TPC-1 (p<0.05) cells. Transwell migration assay showed that (i) CXCL8 increased cell migration in both TPC-1 and BCPAP cells; (ii) IFNγsignificantly reduced the migration only of BCPAP cells; and (iii) CXCL8 reverted the effect of IFNγ. These results constitute the first demonstration that IFNγinhibits CXCL8 secretion and in turn the migration of a BRAF V600e mutated thyroid cell line.
Heat and Mass Transfer in a Thin Liquid Film over an Unsteady Stretching Surface in the Presence of Thermosolutal Capillarity and Variable Magnetic Field
Authors: Zhang Yan , Zhang Min , Qi Shujuan
Published: July 2016

The heat and mass transfer characteristics of a liquid film which contain thermosolutal capillarity and a variable magnetic field over an unsteady stretching sheet have been investigated. The governing equations for momentum, energy, and concentration are established and transformed to a set of coupled ordinary equations with the aid of similarity transformation. The analytical solutions are obtained using the double-parameter transformation perturbation expansion method. The effects of various relevant parameters such as unsteady parameter, Prandtl number, Schmidt number, thermocapillary number, and solutal capillary number on the velocity, temperature, and concentration fields are discussed and presented graphically. Results show that increasing values of thermocapillary number and solutal capillary number both lead to a decrease in the temperature and concentration fields. Furthermore, the influences of thermocapillary number on various fields are more remarkable in comparison to the solutal capillary number.
A Unique Presentation of Anti-RNA Polymerase III Positive Systemic Sclerosis Sine Scleroderma
Authors: Lee Cody M. , Girnita Diana , Sharma Arundhati , Khanna Surabhi , Elwing Jean M.
Published: July 2016

Systemic sclerosis is a rare autoimmune disorder with a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations and a multitude of autoantibodies that are associated with it. In the past several years, advances in serologic testing have led to research indicating important prognostic and phenotypic associations with certain subsets of autoantibodies. In particular, anti-RNA polymerase III (anti-RNAP III) has been associated with diffuse cutaneous disease, scleroderma renal crisis, a temporal relationship with malignancy, myositis, synovitis, joint contractures, and gastric antral vascular ectasia. However, anti-RNAP III has not been associated with systemic sclerosis sine scleroderma. We describe a patient with an atypical presentation of anti-RNAP III positive systemic sclerosis sine scleroderma who presented without the typical features of anti-RNAP III disease. Instead, she presented with critical digital ischemia, pulmonary arterial hypertension, gastroesophageal reflux disease, interstitial lung disease, and no clinically detectable sclerodactyly.
Recommending Ads from Trustworthy Relationships in Pervasive Environments
Authors: Martinez-Pabon Francisco , Ospina-Quintero Juan Camilo , Ramirez-Gonzalez Gustavo , Munoz-Organero Mario
Published: July 2016

The use of pervasive computing technologies for advertising purposes is an interesting emergent field for large, medium, and small companies. Although recommender systems have been a traditional solution to decrease users’ cognitive effort to find good and personalized items, the classic collaborative filtering needs to include contextual information to be more effective. The inclusion of users’ social context information in the recommendation algorithm, specifically trust in other users, may be a mechanism for obtaining ads’ influence from other users in their closest social circle. However, there is no consensus about the variables to use during the trust inference process, and its integration into a classic collaborative filtering recommender system deserves a deeper research. On the other hand, the pervasive advertising domain demands a recommender system evaluation from a novelty/precision perspective. The improvement of the precision/novelty balance is not only a matter related to the recommendation algorithm itself but also a better recommendations’ display strategy. In this paper, we propose a novel approach for a collaborative filtering recommender system based on trust, which was tested throughout a digital signage prototype using a multiscreen scheme for recommendations delivery to evaluate our proposal using a novelty/precision approach.
A Framework for Constrained Optimization Problems Based on a Modified Particle Swarm Optimization
Authors: Tang Biwei , Zhu Zhanxia , Luo Jianjun
Published: July 2016

This paper develops a particle swarm optimization (PSO) based framework for constrained optimization problems (COPs). Aiming at enhancing the performance of PSO, a modified PSO algorithm, named SASPSO 2011, is proposed by adding a newly developed self-adaptive strategy to the standard particle swarm optimization 2011 (SPSO 2011) algorithm. Since the convergence of PSO is of great importance and significantly influences the performance of PSO, this paper first theoretically investigates the convergence of SASPSO 2011. Then, a parameter selection principle guaranteeing the convergence of SASPSO 2011 is provided. Subsequently, a SASPSO 2011-based framework is established to solve COPs. Attempting to increase the diversity of solutions and decrease optimization difficulties, the adaptive relaxation method, which is combined with the feasibility-based rule, is applied to handle constraints of COPs and evaluate candidate solutions in the developed framework. Finally, the proposed method is verified through 4 benchmark test functions and 2 real-world engineering problems against six PSO variants and some well-known methods proposed in the literature. Simulation results confirm that the proposed method is highly competitive in terms of the solution quality and can be considered as a vital alternative to solve COPs.
Stochastic Analysis of Gaussian Processes via Fredholm Representation
Authors: Sottinen Tommi , Viitasaari Lauri
Published: July 2016

We show that every separable Gaussian process with integrable variance function admits a Fredholm representation with respect to a Brownian motion. We extend the Fredholm representation to a transfer principle and develop stochastic analysis by using it. We show the convenience of the Fredholm representation by giving applications to equivalence in law, bridges, series expansions, stochastic differential equations, and maximum likelihood estimations.
Unified Treatment of a Class of Spherically Symmetric Potentials: Quasi-Exact Solution
Authors: Panahi H. , Baradaran M.
Published: July 2016

We investigate the Schrödinger equation for a class of spherically symmetric potentials in a simple and unified manner using the Lie algebraic approach within the framework of quasi-exact solvability. We illustrate that all models give rise to the same basic differential equation, which is expressible as an element of the universal enveloping algebra ofsl(2). Then, we obtain the general exact solutions of the problem by employing the representation theory ofsl(2)Lie algebra.
Extraction Efficiency of Different Solvents and LC-UV Determination of Biogenic Amines in Tea Leaves and Infusions
Authors: Spizzirri U. Gianfranco , Picci Nevio , Restuccia Donatella
Published: July 2016

Biogenic amines (BAs), that is, spermine, spermidine, putrescine, histamine, tyramine,β-phenylethylamine, cadaverine, and serotonin, have been determined in several samples of tea leaves, tea infusions, and tea drinks by LC-UV method after derivatization with dansyl chloride. Different extraction solvents have been tested and TCA 5% showed better analytical performances in terms of linearity, recovery percentages, LOD, LOQ, and repeatability than HCl 0.1 M and HClO40.1 M and was finally exploited for the quantitative determination of BAs in all samples. In tea leaves total BAs concentration ranged from 2.23 μg g−1to 11.24 μg g−1and PUT (1.05–2.25 μg g−1) and SPD (1.01–1.95 μg g−1) were always present, while SER (nd–1.56 μg g−1), HIS (nd–2.44 μg g−1), and SPM (nd–1.64 μg g−1) were detected more rarely. CAD and PHE were determined in few samples at much lower concentrations while none of the samples contained TYR. Tea infusions showed the same trend with total BAs concentrations never exceeding 80.7 μg L−1. Black teas showed higher amounts of BAs than green teas and organic and decaffeinated samples always contained much lower BAs levels than their conventional counterparts.
HDAC Inhibitors as Epigenetic Regulators of the Immune System: Impacts on Cancer Therapy and Inflammatory Diseases
Authors: Hull Elizabeth E. , Montgomery McKale R. , Leyva Kathryn J.
Published: July 2016

Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors are powerful epigenetic regulators that have enormous therapeutic potential and have pleiotropic effects at the cellular and systemic levels. To date, HDAC inhibitors are used clinically for a wide variety of disorders ranging from hematopoietic malignancies to psychiatric disorders, are known to have anti-inflammatory properties, and are in clinical trials for several other diseases. In addition to influencing gene expression, HDAC enzymes also function as part of large, multisubunit complexes which have many nonhistone targets, alter signaling at the cellular and systemic levels, and result in divergent and cell-type specific effects. Thus, the effects of HDAC inhibitor treatment are too intricate to completely understand with current knowledge but the ability of HDAC inhibitors to modulate the immune system presents intriguing therapeutic possibilities. This review will explore the complexity of HDAC inhibitor treatment at the cellular and systemic levels and suggest strategies for effective use of HDAC inhibitors in biomedical research, focusing on the ability of HDAC inhibitors to modulate the immune system. The possibility of combining the documented anticancer effects and newly emerging immunomodulatory effects of HDAC inhibitors represents a promising new combinatorial therapeutic approach for HDAC inhibitor treatments.
An Overview of Systematic Reviews of Danhong Injection for Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Wang Hui , Ren Shutian , Liu Chunxiang , Zhang Xiaoxia
Published: July 2016

Objective. This overview is to evaluate the current evidence from systematic reviews (SRs) of Danhong injection (DHI) for ischemic stroke (IS). Methods. SRs of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) concerning DHI and IS were searched in six databases without language restrictions until September 2015. Assessment of multiple systematic reviews (AMSTAR) was used to evaluate the methodological quality of all included SRs. Result. A total of 8 articles were included. After the administration of DHI, clinical efficiency and neurological deficits score have marked advantages over those of the control group. However, the overall poor quality of meta‐analysis and original studies affected the reliability of the results. Evaluation of methodological quality found that no one paper meets the requirements of all 11 items. The main flaws of the methodology quality included the following: not providing “a priori” design and reasonable objectives, duplicate study selection not given enough attention, performing an incomprehensive literature search, not paying attention to publication bias and other bias reports, characteristics of included studies not provided in detail, and ignoring clinical heterogeneity when performing meta‐analyses. Conclusion. The current published SRs suggest DHI appears to be a safe and effective way for IS treatment in general. However, it lacks a high quality systematic evaluation and analysis. The quality of SRs should be improved. Further large sample‐size and well‐designed RCTs are needed.
SEC Based Method for Size Determination of Immune Complexes of Therapeutic Antibodies in Animal Matrix
Authors: Boysen Marta , Schlicksupp Laura , Dreher Ingeborg , Loebbert Ralf , Richter Mario
Published: July 2016

Therapeutic monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) represent a milestone in pharmacological development. Their superiority is based on the combination of high specificity, low toxicity, and long half-life that characterizes biologics. If biologics have Achilles’ heel, it is their potential immunogenicity. To better understand the impact of the size of immune complexes of mAbs on anti-drug antibody (ADA) dependent adverse reactions inMacaca fascicularis, we developed an efficient high-throughput size exclusion chromatography- (SEC-) based methodology that enables analysis of the size, size distribution, and ratio of free and ADA-complexed mAb in serum allowing for assessment of formation and clearance of circulating ADA-mAb immune complexes (CIC).
Synergistic Effects of Salinity and Temperature on the Survival of Two Nonnative Bivalve Molluscs,Perna viridis(Linnaeus 1758) andMytella charruana(d’Orbigny 1846)
Authors: Yuan Wei S. , Walters Linda J. , Brodsky Sasha A. , Schneider Kimberly R. , Hoffman Eric A.
Published: July 2016

This study examined the combined salinity and temperature tolerance of two marine bivalve molluscs,Perna viridisandMytella charruana, which have recently invaded the southeastern United States. It is essential to understand the role that these abiotic variables play in invasions and establishment of nonnative species. We simultaneously explored survival at three salinity ranges (5–9, 20–22.5, and 35–40 ppt) in both cold and warm water for juveniles and adults of both species. We determined thatPerna viridiscan survive at a wide range of temperatures (9–35°C) when the salinity is 35–37 ppt; however, as salinity decreased, the thermal survival range forP. viridisbecame narrower. WithM. charruana, our data suggest that juvenile and adult individuals can survive at a wide range of salinities (5–40 ppt) at 20°C, but the salinity tolerance range narrowed as the temperature decreased or increased. Additionally, we observed that temperature rapidly impacted survival ofP. viridisandM. charruana(within hours), while salinity impacts were more gradual (days to weeks). These data can be used to help predict successful introductions and future expansions ofP. viridisandM. charruanain introduced habitats.
Degraded Impairment of Emotion Recognition in Parkinson’s Disease Extends from Negative to Positive Emotions
Authors: Lin Chia-Yao , Tien Yi-Min , Huang Jong-Tsun , Tsai Chon-Haw , Hsu Li-Chuan
Published: July 2016

Because of dopaminergic neurodegeneration, patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) show impairment in the recognition of negative facial expressions. In the present study, we aimed to determine whether PD patients with more advanced motor problems would show a much greater deficit in recognition of emotional facial expressions than a control group and whether impairment of emotion recognition would extend to positive emotions. Twenty-nine PD patients and 29 age-matched healthy controls were recruited. Participants were asked to discriminate emotions in Experiment  1 and identify gender in Experiment  2. In Experiment  1, PD patients demonstrated a recognition deficit for negative (sadness and anger) and positive faces. Further analysis showed that only PD patients with high motor dysfunction performed poorly in recognition of happy faces. In Experiment  2, PD patients showed an intact ability for gender identification, and the results eliminated possible abilities in the functions measured in Experiment  2 as alternative explanations for the results of Experiment  1. We concluded that patients’ ability to recognize emotions deteriorated as the disease progressed. Recognition of negative emotions was impaired first, and then the impairment extended to positive emotions.
Thermal Stability Investigation in a Reactive Sphere of Combustible Material
Authors: Lebelo R. S.
Published: July 2016

An investigation of thermal stability in a stockpile of combustible material is considered. The combustible material is any carbon containing material that can react with oxygen trapped in a stockpile due to exothermic chemical reaction. The complicated process is modelled in a sphere and one-dimensional energy equation is used to solve the problem. The semi-implicit finite difference method (FDM) is applied to tackle the nonlinear differential equation governing the problem. Graphical solutions are displayed to describe effects of embedded kinetic parameters on the temperature of the system.
[18F]-Fluoro-Deoxy-Glucose Positron Emission Tomography Scan Should Be Obtained Early in Cases of Autoimmune Encephalitis
Authors: Newey C. R. , Sarwal A. , Hantus S.
Published: July 2016

Introduction. Autoimmune encephalitis (AE) is a clinically challenging diagnosis with nonspecific neurological symptoms. Prompt diagnosis is important and often relies on neuroimaging. We present a case series of AE highlighting the importance of an early [18F]-fluoro-deoxy-glucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) scan.Methods. Retrospective review of seven consecutive cases of autoimmune encephalitis.Results. All patients had both magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and FDG-PET scans. Initial clinical presentations included altered mental status and/or new onset seizures. Six cases had serum voltage-gated potassium channel (VGKC) antibody and one had serum N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) antibody. MRI of brain showed mesial temporal lobe hyperintensity in five cases of VGKC. The other two patients with VGKC or NMDA AE had restiform body hyperintensity on MRI brain or a normal MRI, respectively. Mesial temporal lobe hypermetabolism was noted in three cases on FDG-PET, despite initial unremarkable MRI. Malignancy workup was negative in all patients.Conclusion. A high index of suspicion for AE should be maintained in patients presenting with cognitive symptoms, seizures, and limbic changes on neuroimaging. In cases with normal initial brain MRI, FDG-PET can be positive. Additionally, extralimbic hyperintensity on MRI may also be observed.
Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Biliary Drainage Using a Fully Covered Metallic Stent after Failed Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography
Authors: Guo Jintao , Sun Siyu , Liu Xiang , Wang Sheng , Ge Nan , Wang Guoxin
Published: July 2016

Background and Study Aims.Endoscopic ultrasound- (EUS-) guided biliary drainage (EUS-BD) is an alternative treatment for biliary obstruction after failed endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). In this study, we present the outcomes of inpatients with obstructive jaundice treated with EUS-BD using a fully covered metallic stent after failed ERCP.Patients and Methods.A total of 21 patients with biliary obstruction due to malignant tumors and prior unsuccessful ERCP underwent EUS via an intra- or extrahepatic approach with fully covered metallic stent between March 2014 and October 2015. A single endoscopist performed all procedures.Results.Seven patients underwent hepatogastrostomy (HGS) and 14 underwent choledochoduodenostomy (CDS). The technical and clinical success rates were both 100%. There was no difference in efficacy between HGS and CDS. Adverse events occurred in three patients, including two in the HGS group (1 bile leakage and 1 sepsis) and one in the CDS group (sepsis). Four patients died as a result of their primary tumors during a median follow-up period of 13 months (range: 3–21 months). No patient presented with stent migration.Conclusion.EUS-BD using a fully covered metallic stent appears to be a safe and effective method for the treatment of obstructive jaundice.
Tide Management in the Elbe River and Changes in Ecosystem Services
Authors: Mangi H. O.
Published: August 2016

Flood currents (tidal pumping) have led to the increase of transportation of sediments to the river’s upper estuary. In the tidal section of the Elbe River, more sediment is transported to the upper estuary with flood currents (tidal pumping) related to tidal asymmetry. This process contributes, amongst others, to dredging in order to obtain the water depth required for navigation safety. Cognizant of the above problems, construction of shallow water area is planned in order to reduce tidal asymmetry while improving ecological integrity at the tidal Elbe areas. The study on which this paper is based was conducted to assess ecological integrity and ecosystem services before and after the shallow water creation. Habitat identification and quality ranking were conducted for current habitat, while model habitats representing future state (after shallow water creation) were designed using HEC-RAS model simulation. The assessment matrix was used to assess ecological integrity and ecosystem services provisioning of the study area’s habitats before and after the shallow water creation, using potential indicators. Results indicate that there is increase in the ecological integrity after the project implementation. Based on the above explanation, it can be concluded that the measure will increase the flow of ecosystem services after its implementation.
The Expression of Osteopontin and Wnt5a in Articular Cartilage of Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis and Its Correlation with Disease Severity
Authors: Li Yusheng , Xiao Wenfeng , Sun Minghua , Deng Zhenhan , Zeng Chao , Li Hui , Yang Tuo , Li Liangjun , Luo Wei , Lei Guanghua
Published: July 2016

Objectives. This study is undertaken to investigate the relation between osteopontin (OPN) and Wnt5a expression in the progression and pathogenesis of osteoarthritis (OA).Methods. 50 cartilage tissues from knee OA patients and normal controls were divided into four groups of severe, moderate, minor, and normal lesions based on the modified grading system of Mankin. Immunohistochemistry and real-time PCR were utilized to analyze the OPN and Wnt5a expression in articular cartilage. Besides, the relations between OPN and Wnt5a expression and the severity of OA were explored.Results. OPN and Wnt5a could be identified in four groups’ tissues. Amongst the groups, the intercomparisons of OPN expression levels showed statistical differences (P<0.01). Besides, the intercomparisons of Wnt5a expression degrees showed statistical differences (P<0.05), except that between the minor and normal groups (P>0.05). The scores of Mankin were demonstrated to relate to OPN expression (r=-0.847,P<0.01) and Wnt5a expression in every group (r=-0.843,P<0.01). Also, a positive correlation can be observed between the OPN and Wnt5a expression (r=0.769,P<0.01).Conclusion. In articular cartilage, the expressions of OPN and Wnt5a are positively related to progressive damage of knee OA joint. The correlation between Wnt5a and OPN might be important to the progression and pathogenesis of knee OA.
Replacement of Anterior Composite Resin Restorations Using Conservative Ceramics for Occlusal and Periodontal Rehabilitation: An 18-Month Clinical Follow-Up
Authors: da Cunha Leonardo Fernandes , Prochnow Rayane Alexandra , Costacurta Adriana Osten , Gonzaga Carla Castiglia , Correr Gisele Maria
Published: July 2016

This case report describes a patient with discolored and fractured composite resin restorations on the anterior teeth in whom substitution was indicated. After wax-up and mock-up, the composite was removed and replaced with minimally invasive ceramic laminates. An established and predictable protocol was performed using resin cement. Minimally invasive ceramic restorations are increasingly being used to replace composite restorations. This treatment improves the occlusal and periodontal aspects during the planning and restorative phases, such as anterior guides, and laterality can be restored easily with ceramic laminates. In addition, the surface smoothness and contour of ceramic restorations do not affect the health of the surrounding periodontal tissues. Here we present the outcome after 18 months of clinical follow-up in a patient in whom composite resin restorations in the anterior teeth were replaced with minimally invasive ceramic laminates.
Zebrafish: A Versatile Animal Model for Fertility Research
Authors: Hoo Jing Ying , Kumari Yatinesh , Shaikh Mohd Farooq , Hue Seow Mun , Goh Bey Hing
Published: July 2016

The utilization of zebrafish in biomedical research is very common in the research world nowadays. Today, it has emerged as a favored vertebrate organism for the research in science of reproduction. There is a significant growth in amount numbers of scientific literature pertaining to research discoveries in reproductive sciences in zebrafish. It has implied the importance of zebrafish in this particular field of research. In essence, the current available literature has covered from the very specific brain region or neurons of zebrafish, which are responsible for reproductive regulation, until the gonadal level of the animal. The discoveries and findings have proven that this small animal is sharing a very close/similar reproductive system with mammals. More interestingly, the behavioral characteristics and along with the establishment of animal courtship behavior categorization in zebrafish have laid an even stronger foundation and firmer reason on the suitability of zebrafish utilization in research of reproductive sciences. In view of the immense importance of this small animal for the development of reproductive sciences, this review aimed at compiling and describing the proximate close similarity of reproductive regulation on zebrafish and human along with factors contributing to the infertility, showing its versatility and its potential usage for fertility research.
The Roll of NaPSS Surfactant on the Ceria Nanoparticles Embedding in Polypyrrole Films
Authors: Popescu Simona , Mîndroiu Mihaela , Cabuzu Daniela , Pîrvu Cristian
Published: July 2016

Cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO2NPs) in crystalline form have been synthesized by a coprecipitation method. CeO2nanoparticles were then embedded in polypyrrole (PPy) films during the electropolymerization of pyrrole (Py) on titanium substrate. The influence of poly(sodium 4-styrenesulfonate) (NaPSS) surfactant used during polymerization on the embedding of CeO2NPs in polypyrrole films was investigated. The new films were characterized in terms of surface analysis, wettability, electrochemical behaviour, and antibacterial effect. The surface and electrochemical characterization revealed the role of surfactant on PPy doping process cerium oxide incorporation. In the presence of surfactant, CeO2NPs are preferentially embedded in the polymeric film while, without surfactant, the ceria nanoparticles are quasiuniformly spread as agglomerates onto polymeric films. The antibacterial effect of studied PPy films was substantially improved in the presence of cerium oxide and depends by the polymerization conditions.
Sodium Tanshinone IIA Sulfonate Attenuates Scopolamine-Induced Cognitive Dysfunctions via Improving Cholinergic System
Authors: Xu Qing-Qing , Xu Yi-Jun , Yang Cong , Tang Ying , Li Lin , Cai Hao-Bin , Hou Bo-Nan , Chen Hui-Fang , Wang Qi , Shi Xu-Guang , Zhang Shi-Jie
Published: July 2016

Sodium Tanshinone IIA sulfonate (STS) is a derivative of Tanshinone IIA (Tan IIA). Tan IIA has been reported to possess neuroprotective effects against Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, whether STS possesses effect on AD remains unclear. This study aims to estimate whether STS could protect against scopolamine- (SCOP-) induced learning and memory deficit in Kunming mice. Morris water maze results showed that oral administration of STS (10 mg/kg and 20 mg/kg) and Donepezil shortened escape latency, increased crossing times of the original position of the platform, and increased the time spent in the target quadrant. STS decreased the activity of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and increased the activity of choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) in the hippocampus and cortex of SCOP-treated mice. Oxidative stress results showed that STS increased the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and decreased the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in hippocampus and cortex. In addition, western blot was carried out to detect the expression of apoptosis related proteins (Bcl-2, Bax, and Caspase-3). STS upregulated the protein expression of Bcl-2 and downregulated the proteins expression of Bax and Caspase-3. These results indicated that STS might become a promising therapeutic candidate for attenuating AD-like pathological dysfunction.
Pain Intensity and Pain Interference in Older Adults: Role of Gender, Obesity and High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein
Authors: Eslami Vahid , Katz Mindy J. , White Robert S. , Sundermann Erin , Jiang Julie M. , Ezzati Ali , Lipton Richard B.
Published: August 2016

Background: Among older adults, pain intensity and pain interference are more common in women than men and associated with obesity and inflammatory markers. Objective: We examined whether the obesity and pain relationship is mediated by the high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), a nonspecific marker of systemic inflammation, and whether this relationship differs by sex. Methods: Items from Medical Outcomes Study Short Form-36 were used to measure pain intensity and pain interference in daily life. Ordinal logistic regression was used to assess the cross-sectional association among body mass index (BMI), hsCRP levels, pain intensity and pain interference using gender-stratified models adjusted for demographic variables. Results: Participants included 667 community-residing adults over the age of 70 years, free of dementia, enrolled in the Einstein Aging Study (EAS). In women (n = 410), pain intensity was associated with obesity [BMI ≥30 vs. normal, odds ratio (OR) = 2.29, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.43-3.68] and higher hsCRP (OR = 1.28, 95% CI 1.08-1.51). In a model with obesity and hsCRP, both remained significant, but the association between hsCRP and pain intensity was somewhat attenuated. Obesity (OR = 3.04, 95% CI 1.81-5.11) and higher hsCRP levels (OR = 1.30, 95% CI 1.08-1.56) were also independently associated with greater pain interference in women. After adjustment for pain intensity and BMI, hsCRP was no longer associated with pain interference in women. Greater pain intensity and being overweight or obese continued to be significantly associated with pain interference in women. In men (n = 257), obesity and hsCRP were not associated with pain intensity or pain interference. Conclusions: In women, the relationship between obesity and higher levels of pain intensity or interference may be accounted for by factors related to hsCRP.
Homozygous
ALDH2*2
Is an Independent Risk Factor for Ischemic Stroke in Taiwanese Men
Authors: Sung Yueh-Feng , Lu Chun-Chung , Lee Jiunn-Tay , Hung Yi-Jen , Hu Chaur-Jong , Jeng Jiann-Shing , Chiou Hung-Yi , Peng Giia-Sheun
Published: August 2016

Background and Purpose—

The *
2
allele of the aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 gene
(ALDH2
) is the most common variant in Asian populations. The variant resulting in enzyme dysfunction was highly related to coronary artery disease. Recently, genome-wide association studies also discovered that the 12q24 locus near
ALDH2
gene was associated with hypertension and ischemic stroke. This study intended to further investigate whether the above variant of
ALDH2
increases the risk for ischemic stroke in Taiwanese.

Methods—

A case–control study was conducted on 914 patients with acute ischemic stroke and 746 nonstroke controls. Polymerase chain reaction and sequencing were used to identify the
ALDH2
genotype. Vascular risk factors, stroke subtypes, vascular stenosis, and stroke outcomes were analyzed.

Results—

ALDH2
genotypes differed significantly between male controls (*
1/*1
versus *
1/*2
versus *
2/*2
=53.8% versus 39.9% versus 6.4%) and male patients with ischemic stroke (*
1/*1
versus *
1/*2
versus *
2/*2
=51.5% versus 37.3% versus 11.2%;
P
=0.048). No significant difference was found between groups for female patients (
P
=0.228). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the
ALDH2*2/*2
genotype was an independent risk factor for ischemic stroke in male patients (odds ratio, 1.93 [95% confidence interval, 1.07–3.46];
P
=0.028). Further analysis of men with ischemic stroke demonstrated that the polymorphism of
ALDH2
was not related to vascular risk factors, severity of vascular atherosclerosis, stroke subtypes, and stroke functional outcomes.

Conclusions—

The study demonstrated that
ALDH2*2/*2
may be an independent risk factor for ischemic stroke in Taiwanese men, but not in Taiwanese women.
Temperature–Salinity Structure of the North Atlantic Circulation and Associated Heat and Freshwater Transports
Authors: Xu Xiaobiao , Rhines Peter B. , Chassignet Eric P.
Published: August 2016

This study investigates the circulation structure and relative contribution of circulation components to the time-mean meridional heat and freshwater transports in the North Atlantic, using numerical results of a high-resolution ocean model that are shown to be in excellent agreement with the observations. The North Atlantic circulation can be separated into the large-scale Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (AMOC) that is diapycnal and the subtropical and subpolar gyres that largely flow along isopycnal surfaces but also include prominent gyre-scale diapycnal overturning in the Subtropical Mode Water and Labrador Sea Water. Integrals of the meridional volume transport as a function of potential temperature θ and salinity S yield streamfunctions with respect to θ and to S, and heat functions. These argue for a significant contribution to the heat transport by the southward circulation of North Atlantic Deep Water. At 26.5°N, the isopycnic component of the subtropical gyre is colder and fresher in the northward-flowing western boundary currents than the southward return flows, and it carries heat southward and freshwater northward, opposite of that of the diapycnal component. When combined, the subtropical gyre contributes virtually zero to the heat transport and the AMOC is responsible for all the heat transport across this latitude. The subtropical gyre however significantly contributes to the freshwater transport, reducing the 0.5-Sv (1 Sv ≡ 106 m3 s–1) southward AMOC freshwater transport by 0.13 Sv. In the subpolar North Atlantic near 58°N, the diapycnal component of the circulation, or the transformation of warm saline upper Atlantic water into colder fresher deep waters, is responsible for essentially all of the heat and freshwater transports.
Ultrasound-Assisted Catheter-Directed Thrombolysis in High-Risk and Intermediate-High-Risk Pulmonary Embolism: Results From a Single-Center Cohort
Authors: Kaymaz Cihangir , Öztürk Selçuk , Akbal Özgür , Tanboğa Ibrahim Halil , Yılmaz Fatih , Poçi Nertila , Türkday Sevim , Hakgör Aykun , Yildiz Canan , Aktemur Tugba , Özdemir Nihal , Konstantinides Stavros
Published: August 2016

We present our single-center results on ultrasound-assisted thrombolysis (USAT) in patients with pulmonary embolism (PE) at intermediate high risk (IHR) and high risk (HR). Our study consisted of 75 patients with PE who underwent USAT (60 at IHR and 15 at HR). The median time delay from symptoms to USAT was 5 days. Ultrasound-assisted thrombolysis resulted in improvements in tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion; pulmonary artery (PA) systolic and mean pressures; Qanadli score; right to left ventricle diameter ratio and right to left atrial diameter ratio; and diameters of main, right, and left PA regardless of the baseline risk status ( P < .0001 for all). Death was documented in 4 patients, and major and minor bleeding were noted in 2 and 5 of the patients, respectively. No PE-related event was noted during postdischarge follow-up period of median 310 days. Our study revealed that USAT facilitates the resolution of PA thrombotic burden, recovery of pulmonary hemodynamics, and right heart functions with acceptable rates of procedure-related complications in patients with PE, irrespective of the IHR or HR status.