bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Automotive real-time operating systems
Authors: Macher Georg , Atas Muesluem , Armengaud Eric , Kreiner Christian
Published: January 2015

Automotive embedded systems have become very complex, are strongly integrated, and the safety-criticality and real-time constraints of these systems raise new challenges. Distributed system development, short time-to-market intervals, and automotive safety standards (such as ISO 26262 [8]) require efficient and consistent product development along the entire development lifecycle. The automotive OSEK/VDX standard provides an architecture for distributed real-time units in vehicles and a language aiming in specifying the configuration of real-time OSEK operating systems. The aim of this paper is to enhance a model-driven system-engineering framework with the capability of generating OS configurations from existing high level control system information. Furthermore, to enable the possibility to update stored information from OSEK Implementation Language (OIL) files and support round-trip engineering of real-time operating system (RTOS) configurations. This enables the seamless description of automotive RTOS, from system level requirements to software implementation and therefore ensures consistency and correctness of the configuration. To that aim, a bidirectional tool bridge is proposed based on OSEK OIL exchange format files.
Network improvement for equilibrium routing
Authors: Bhaskar Umang , Ligett Katrina
Published: January 2015

Routing games are frequently used to model the behavior of traffic in large networks, such as road networks. In transportation research, the problem of adding capacity to a road network in a cost-effective manner to minimize the total delay at equilibrium is known as the
Network Design Problem
, and has received considerable attention. However, prior to our work, little was known about guarantees for polynomial-time algorithms for this problem. We obtain tight approximation guarantees for general and series-parallel networks, and present a number of open questions for future work.
Spliddit
Authors: Goldman Jonathan , Procaccia Ariel D.
Published: January 2015

Spliddit is a first-of-its-kind fair division website, which offers provably fair solutions for the division of rent, goods, and credit. In this note, we discuss Spliddit's goals, methods, and implementation.
Hepatoprotective, Antioxidant, and Anticancer Effects of theTragopogon porrifoliusMethanolic Extract
Authors: Tenkerian Clara , El-Sibai Mirvat , Daher Costantine F. , Mroueh Mohamad
Published: January 2015

Tragopogon porrifolius(Asteraceae), commonly referred to as white salsify, is an edible herb used in Lebanese folk medicine to treat cancer and liver dysfunction. In this study, we investigated the antioxidant activity ofTragopogon porrifoliusmethanolic extract, bothin vitroandin vivo, in addition to its hepatoprotective and anticancer activities. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were measured and found to be37.0±1.40 mg GAE/g and16.6±0.42 mg QE/g dry weight, respectively.In vitroantioxidant assays revealed an FRAP value of659±13.8 µmol Fe2+/g of extract and DPPH IC50value 15.2 µg/mL. In rats subjected to CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity, significant increase in CAT, SOD, and GST levels was detected. The highest dose of the extract (250 mg/kg) recorded a fold increase of 1.68 for SOD, 2.49 for GST, and 3.2 for CAT. The extract also showed substantial decrease in AST (57%), ALT (56%), and LDH (65%) levels. Additionally, the extract caused a dose-dependent decrease in cell viability and proliferation. In conclusion, the methanolic extract ofT. porrifoliusdisplayed a relatively high antioxidant activity bothin vitroandin vivoas well as hepatoprotective potential against liver toxicity in rats and anticancer effect on MDA-MB-231 and Caco-2 cells.
A Therapeutic Strategy for Spinal Cord Defect: Human Dental Follicle Cells Combined with Aligned PCL/PLGA Electrospun Material
Authors: Li Xinghan , Yang Chao , Li Lei , Xiong Jie , Xie Li , Yang Bo , Yu Mei , Feng Lian , Jiang Zongting , Guo Weihua , Tian Weidong
Published: January 2015

Stem cell implantation has been utilized for the repair of spinal cord injury; however, it shows unsatisfactory performance in repairing large scale lesion of an organ. We hypothesized that dental follicle cells (DFCs), which possess multipotential capability, could reconstruct spinal cord defect (SCD) in combination with biomaterials. In the present study, mesenchymal and neurogenic lineage characteristics of human DFCs (hDFCs) were identified. Aligned electrospun PCL/PLGA material (AEM) was fabricated and it would not lead to cytotoxic reaction; furthermore, hDFCs could stretch along the oriented fibers and proliferate efficiently on AEM. Subsequently, hDFCs seeded AEM was transplanted to restore the defect in rat spinal cord. Functional observation was performed but results showed no statistical significance. The following histologic analyses proved that AEM allowed nerve fibers to pass through, and implanted hDFCs could express oligodendrogenic lineage maker Olig2in vivowhich was able to contribute to remyelination. Therefore, we concluded that hDFCs can be a candidate resource in neural regeneration. Aligned electrospun fibers can support spinal cord structure and induce cell/tissue polarity. This strategy can be considered as alternative proposals for the SCD regeneration studies.
Salvage Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection in Recurrent Prostate Cancer: Surgical and Early Oncological Outcome
Authors: Claeys Tom , Van Praet Charles , Lumen Nicolaas , Ost Piet , Fonteyne Valérie , De Meerleer Gert , Lambert Bieke , Delrue Louke , De Visschere Pieter , Villeirs Geert , Decaestecker Karel
Published: January 2015

Methodology. Seventeen patients with prostate-specific antigen (PSA) rise following local treatment for prostate cancer with curative intent underwent open or minimally invasive salvage pelvic lymph node dissection (SLND) for oligometastatic disease (<4 synchronous metastases) or as staging prior to salvage radiotherapy. Biochemical recurrence after complete biochemical response (cBR) was defined as 2 consecutive PSA increases >0,2 ng/mL; and after incomplete biochemical response as 2 consecutive PSA rises. Newly found metastasis on imaging defined clinical progression (CP). Palliative androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) was initiated if >3 metastases were detected or if patients became symptomatic. Kaplan-Meier statistics were applied.Results. Clavien-Dindo grade 1, 2, 3a, and 3b complications were seen in 6, 1, 1, and 2 patients, respectively. Median follow-up time was 22 months. Among 13 patients treated for oligometastatic disease, 8 (67%) had a PSA decline, with 3 patients showing cBR. Median PSA progression-free survival (FS) was 4.1 months and median CP-FS 7 months. Three patients started ADT, resulting in a 2-year ADT-FS rate of 79.5%.Conclusion. SLND is feasible, but postoperative complication rate seems higher than that for primary LND. Biochemical and clinical response duration is limited, but as part of an oligometastatic treatment regime it can defer palliative ADT.
A Complex Genome-MicroRNA Interplay in Human Mitochondria
Authors: Shinde Santosh , Bhadra Utpal
Published: January 2015

Small noncoding regulatory RNA exist in wide spectrum of organisms ranging from prokaryote bacteria to humans. In human, a systematic search for noncoding RNA is mainly limited to the nuclear and cytosolic compartments. To investigate whether endogenous small regulatory RNA are present in cell organelles, human mitochondrial genome was also explored for prediction of precursor microRNA (pre-miRNA) and mature miRNA (miRNA) sequences. Six novel miRNA were predicted from the organelle genome by bioinformatics analysis. The structures are conserved in other five mammals including chimp, orangutan, mouse, rat, and rhesus genome. Experimentally, six human miRNA are well accumulated or deposited in human mitochondria. Three of them are expressed less prominently in Northern analysis. To ascertain their presence in human skeletal muscles, total RNA was extracted from enriched mitochondria by an immunomagnetic method. The expression of six novel pre-miRNA and miRNA was confirmed by Northern blot analysis; however, low level of remaining miRNA was found by sensitive Northern analysis. Their presence is further confirmed by real time RT-PCR. The six miRNA find their multiple targets throughout the human genome in three different types of software. The luciferase assay was used to confirm that MT-RNR2 gene was the potential target of hsa-miR-mit3 and hsa-miR-mit4.
A Study on the Relationship between English Reading Comprehension and English Vocabulary Knowledge
Authors: Ma Yu-han , Lin Wen-ying
Published: January 2015

The present study aimed to investigate the overall and relative contribution of four subcomponents of vocabulary knowledge to reading comprehension. The four vocabulary subcomponents were vocabulary size, word association knowledge, collocation knowledge, and morphological knowledge. The participants were 124 college students from a university in Taipei, Taiwan. Six instruments were employed: (1) a reading comprehension test, (2) a vocabulary size test, (3) a test on word association knowledge and collocation knowledge, (4) a test of morphological knowledge, (5) motivation attitude scale, and (6) a self-efficacy scale. The results can be summarized as follows. First, after the effects of motivation and self-efficacy have been controlled, the four vocabulary subcomponents altogether contributed significantly (20%) to reading comprehension performance. Moreover, depth of vocabulary knowledge (including word association knowledge, collocation knowledge, and morphological knowledge) provided an additional explained variance (6%) in reading comprehension performance over and above vocabulary size. Finally, among the three subcomponents of depth of vocabulary knowledge, collocation knowledge explained the most proportion of variance (5.6%) in contributing to performance on reading comprehension. Based on these findings, some implications and suggestions for future research were provided.
Nonlinear Integral Sliding Mode Control for a Second Order Nonlinear System
Authors: Zheng Xie , Jian Xie , Wenzheng Du , Hongjie Cheng
Published: January 2015

A nonlinear integral sliding-mode control (NISMC) scheme is proposed for second order nonlinear systems. The new control scheme is characterized by a nonlinear integral sliding manifold which inherits the desired properties of the integral sliding manifold, such as robustness to system external disturbance. In particular, compared with four kinds of sliding mode control (SMC), the proposed control scheme is able to provide better transient performances. Furthermore, the proposed scheme ensures the zero steady-state error in the presence of a constant disturbance or an asymptotically constant disturbance is proved by Lyapunov stability theory and LaSalle invariance principle. Finally, both the theoretical analysis and simulation examples demonstrate the validity of the proposed scheme.
Comparison and Efficacy of LigaSure and Rubber Band Ligature in Closing the Inflamed Cecal Stump in a Rat Model of Acute Appendicitis
Authors: Yeh Chun-Chieh , Jan Chia-Ing , Yang Horng-Ren , Huang Po-Han , Jeng Long-Bin , Su Wen-Pang , Chen Hui-Chen
Published: January 2015

Safety of either LigaSure or rubber band in closing inflamed appendiceal stump in acute appendicitis has been less investigated. In this study, cecal ligation followed by resecting inflamed cecum was performed to mimic appendectomy in a rat model of acute appendicitis. Rats were sacrificed immediately (Group A) and 7 days (Group B) after cecal resection, respectively. The cecal stumps were closed by silk ligature (S), 5 mm LigaSure (L), or rubber band (R). Seven days after cecal resection, the LigaSure (BL) and silk subgroups (BS) had significantly less intra-abdominal adhesion and better laparotomy wound healing than rubber band subgroup (BR). The initial bursting pressure at cecal stump was comparable among the three methods; along with tissue healing process, both BL and BS provided a higher bursting pressure than BR 7 days after appendectomy. BL subgroup had more abundant hydroxyproline deposition than BS and BR subgroup. Furthermore, serum TNF-αin BR group kept persistently increasing along with time after cecal resection. Thus, the finding that LigaSure but not rubber band is safe in sealing off the inflamed cecal stump in rat model of acute appendicitis suggests the possibility of applying LigaSure for appendectomy via single port procedure or natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES).
Short-Term Changes in Light Distortion in Orthokeratology Subjects
Authors: Santolaria Sanz Elena , Cerviño Alejandro , Queiros Antonio , Villa-Collar Cesar , Lopes-Ferreira Daniela , González-Méijome Jose Manuel
Published: January 2015

Purpose. Quantifying adaptation to light distortion of subjects undergoing orthokeratology (OK) for myopia during the first month of treatment.Methods. Twenty-nine healthy volunteers (age: 22.34 ± 8.08 years) with mean spherical equivalent refractive error −2.10 ± 0.93D were evaluated at baseline and days 1, 7, 15, and 30 of OK treatment. Light distortion was determined using an experimental prototype. Corneal aberrations were derived from corneal topography for different pupil sizes. Contrast sensitivity function (CSF) was analyzed for frequencies of 1.50, 2.12, 3.00, 4.24, 6.00, 8.49, 12.00, 16.97, and 24.00 cpd under photopic conditions.Results. Average monocular values of all light distortion parameters measured increased significantly on day 1, returning to baseline after 1 week (P<0.05in all cases). Spherical-like aberration stabilized on day 7 for all pupil diameters, while coma-like for smaller pupils only. CSF was significantly reduced on day 1 for all spatial frequencies except for 1.5 cpd, returning to baseline afterwards. Significant correlation was found between light distortion and contrast sensitivity for middle and high frequencies (P<0.05) after 15 days.Conclusion. Despite consistently increased levels of corneal aberrations, light distortion tends to return to baseline after one week of treatment, suggesting that neural adaptation is capable of overcoming optical quality degradation.
In Silico Conformational Analysis of the Short-Sequence Hypomurocin A Peptides
Authors: Násztor Zoltán , Horváth János , Leitgeb Balázs
Published: January 2015

In this theoretical study, a conformational analysis was performed on short-sequence hypomurocin A peptides, in order to identify their characteristic structural properties. For each hypomurocin A molecule, not only the backbone conformations, but also the side-chain conformations were examined. The results indicated that certain tetrapeptide units could be characterized by types I and III β-turn structures, and considering the helical conformations, it could be concluded that the hypomurocin A peptides showed a preference for the 310-helical structure over the α-helical structure. Beside the backbone conformations, the side-chain conformations were investigated, and the preferred rotamer states of the side-chains of amino acids were determined. Furthermore, the occurrence of i←i+3 and i←i+4 intramolecular H-bonds was studied, which could play a role in the structural stabilization of β-turns and helical conformations. On the whole, our theoretical study supplied a comprehensive characterization of the three-dimensional structure of short-sequence hypomurocin A peptides.
Phylogeny and Taxonomical Investigation ofTrichodermaspp. from Indian Region of Indo-Burma Biodiversity Hot Spot Region with Special Reference to Manipur
Authors: Kamala Th. , Devi S. Indira , Sharma K. Chandradev , Kennedy K.
Published: January 2015

Towards assessing the genetic diversity and occurrence ofTrichodermaspecies from the Indian region of Indo-Burma Biodiversity hotspot, a total of 193Trichodermastrains were isolated from cultivated soils of nine different districts of Manipur comprising 4 different agroclimatic zones. The isolates were grouped based on the morphological characteristics. ITS-RFLP of the rDNA region using three restriction digestion enzymes: Mob1, Taq1, and Hinf1, showed interspecific variations among 65 isolates ofTrichoderma. Based on ITS sequence data, a total of 22 different types of representativeTrichodermaspecies were reported and phylogenetic analysis showed 4 well-separated main clades in whichT. harzianumwas found to be the most prevalent spp. among all theTrichodermaspp. Combined molecular and phenotypic data leads to the development of a taxonomy of all the 22 differentTrichodermaspp., which was reported for the first time from this unique region. All these species were found to produce different extrolites and enzymes responsible for the biocontrol activities against the harmful fungal phytopathogens that hamper in food production. This potential indigenousTrichodermaspp. can be targeted for the development of suitable bioformulation against soil and seedborne pathogens in sustainable agricultural practice.
Low Mutational Burden of Eight Genes Involved in the MAPK/ERK, PI3K/AKT, and GNAQ/11 Pathways in Female Genital Tract Primary Melanomas
Authors: Pappa Kalliopi I. , Vlachos George D. , Roubelakis Maria , Vlachos Dimitrios-Efthymios G. , Kalafati Theodora G. , Loutradis Dimitrios , Anagnou Nicholas P.
Published: January 2015

Mucosal melanomas exhibit discrete genetic features compared to cutaneous melanoma. Limited studies on gynecological melanomas revealed significant heterogeneity and low mutational burden. To gain further insight into their genetics and DNA repair efficiency, we systematically investigated the status of eight genes whose products are critically involved in the MAPK/ERK, PI3K/AKT, and GNAQ/11 pathways, including BRAF, NRAS, HRAS, KRAS, c-KIT, PI3K, GNAQ, and GNA11, in a series of 16 primary gynecological melanomas, covering all anatomical locations, ranging from stages I to III. Analysis either by real-time PCR coupled with fluorescence melting curve analysis or by PCR followed by direct sequencing, along with studies for DNA mismatch repair status using immunohistochemistry, disclosed that 15 out of the 16 cases displayed wild-type genotypes, with a single case of vulvar primary melanoma, harboring the activating mutationBRAFV600E. Investigations on whether this could reflect partly an efficient mismatch repair (MMR) mechanism were confirmed by normal expression of hMLH1 and hMSH2, suggesting that the lack of mutations could be explained by the operation of alternative pathogenetic mechanisms modulating downstream effectors of the signaling pathways. Our data suggest the presence of additional genetic components and provide the impetus for systematic approaches to reveal these yet unidentified genetic parameters.
Anti-EGFR Antibody Reduces Lung Nodules by Inhibition of EGFR-Pathway in a Model of Lymphangioleiomyomatosis
Authors: Lesma Elena , Chiaramonte Eloisa , Ancona Silvia , Orpianesi Emanuela , Di Giulio Anna Maria , Gorio Alfredo
Published: January 2015

EGFR belongs to the HER/ErbB family of tyrosine kinase receptors and its activation in cancer cells has been linked with increased proliferation, angiogenesis, and metastasis. Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) is a rare, low-grade neoplasm that occurs sporadically or in association with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), a genetic, multisystem disorder characterized by hamartomas in several organs. From chylous of a LAM/TSC patient, we previously isolated smooth muscle-like LAM/TSC cells whose proliferation depends on EGF and monoclonal anti-EGFR antibodies reduced proliferation and caused cell death. We demonstrated that the dependency from EGF was caused by the absence of tuberin. To study the role of EGFR pathwayin vivo, we developed a mouse model by administration of LAM/TSC cells to female nude mice. LAM/TSC cells caused pulmonary airspace enlargement and, after 30 weeks, nodule formation which express EGFR. Anti-EGFR antibody decreased the number and dimension of lung nodules likely for the inhibition of Erk and S6 signaling, reversed the pulmonary alterations, and reduced lymphatic and blood vessels. Moreover, in pulmonary nodules anti-EGFR antibody reduced the positivity to estrogen and progesterone receptors which enhance survival of LAM cells and Snail expression. These results suggest that the inhibition of EGFR signalling has a potential in treatment of LAM/TSC lung alterations.
Cardiovascular Diseases and Women: Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behavior in the General Population in Italy
Authors: Tedesco Luisa Maria Roberta , Di Giuseppe Gabriella , Napolitano Francesco , Angelillo Italo Francesco
Published: January 2015

Background. The objectives of the study were to document knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of women regarding cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and the determinants associated.Materials and Methods. The cross-sectional survey was conducted among a random sample of 830 women older than 18 years from the general population in Italy.Results. Almost all participants reported having heard about CVDs, and among them 89.4% and 74.7% identified smoking and high cholesterol level as risk factors. Only 26.5% identified the main CVDs risk factors. Women more knowledgeable were married and better educated and self-perceived a worse health status. Only 23% knew the main CVDs preventive measures and this knowledge was significantly higher in women who are unemployed, who are more educated, who have received information about CVDs from physicians, and who know the main risk factors. Respondents with lower education, those with at least three children, those who self-perceived a worse health status, and those who need information were most likely to have a positive attitude toward the perceived risk of developing CVDs. Women with two or three children or more were at high risk profiles 49% and 56% lower than women with one child.Conclusions. Educational programs are needed among women as support to improve knowledge and appropriate behavior about CVDs.
Oxidative Stress Control by Apicomplexan Parasites
Authors: Bosch Soraya S. , Kronenberger Thales , Meissner Kamila A. , Zimbres Flávia M. , Stegehake Dirk , Izui Natália M. , Schettert Isolmar , Liebau Eva , Wrenger Carsten
Published: January 2015

Apicomplexan parasites cause infectious diseases that are either a severe public health problem or an economic burden. In this paper we will shed light on how oxidative stress can influence the host-pathogen relationship by focusing on three major diseases: babesiosis, coccidiosis, and toxoplasmosis.
Androgen Receptor, EGFR, and BRCA1 as Biomarkers in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhang Li , Fang Cheng , Xu Xianqun , Li Anling , Cai Qing , Long Xinghua
Published: January 2015

Objective. More and more evidences demonstrate that androgen receptor (AR), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), and breast cancer susceptibility gene 1 (BRCA1) have unique clinical implications for targeted therapy or prognosis in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Therefore, we conducted a meta-analysis to summarize the possible associations.Methods. We retrieved published articles about AR, EGFR, and BRCA1 in TNBC from PubMed and EMBASE. The analysis was performed with Rev-Man 5.2 software.Results. A total of 38 articles were eligible for the meta-analysis. Our study showed that the expression level of EGFR (OR=6.88,P<0.00001) and the prevalence of BRCA1 mutation (RR=5.26,P<0.00001) were higher in TNBC than non-TNBC. In contrast, the expression level of AR was lower in TNBC than non-TNBC (OR=0.07,P<0.00001). In the subgroup related to EGFR expression, the level of EGFR expression was significantly increased in Asians (OR=9.60) compared with Caucasians (OR=5.53) for TNBC patients. Additionally, the prevalence of BRCA1 mutation in Asians (RR=5.43,P<0.00001) was higher than that in Caucasians (RR=5.16,P<0.00001).Conclusions. The distinct expression of AR and EGFR and the prevalence of BRCA1 mutation indicated that AR, EGFR, and BRCA1 might be unique biomarkers for targeted therapy and prognosis in TNBC.
Beyond Standard Model Searches in the MiniBooNE Experiment
Authors: Katori Teppei , Conrad Janet M.
Published: January 2015

The MiniBooNE experiment has contributed substantially to beyond standard model searches in the neutrino sector. The experiment was originally designed to test theΔm2~1 eV2region of the sterile neutrino hypothesis by observingνe(ν-e) charged current quasielastic signals from aνμ(ν-μ) beam. MiniBooNE observed excesses ofνeandν-ecandidate events in neutrino and antineutrino mode, respectively. To date, these excesses have not been explained within the neutrino standard model (νSM); the standard model extended for three massive neutrinos. Confirmation is required by future experiments such as MicroBooNE. MiniBooNE also provided an opportunity for precision studies of Lorentz violation. The results set strict limits for the first time on several parameters of the standard-model extension, the generic formalism for considering Lorentz violation. Most recently, an extension to MiniBooNE running, with a beam tuned in beam-dump mode, is being performed to search for dark sector particles. This review describes these studies, demonstrating that short baseline neutrino experiments are rich environments in new physics searches.
Methods for Obtaining and Determination of Squalene from Natural Sources
Authors: Popa Ovidiu , Băbeanu Narcisa Elena , Popa Ioana , Niță Sultana , Dinu-Pârvu Cristina Elena
Published: January 2015

Squalene is a natural dehydrotriterpenic hydrocarbon (C30H50) with six double bonds, known as an intermediate in the biosynthesis of phytosterol or cholesterol in plants or animals. We have briefly reviewed the natural sources for squalene and focused on the main methods and techniques to obtain and to determine it. Some of its applications in different fields of human activity are also mentioned.
Third-Degree Hindpaw Burn Injury Induced Apoptosis of Lumbar Spinal Cord Ventral Horn Motor Neurons and Sciatic Nerve and Muscle Atrophy in Rats
Authors: Wu Sheng-Hua , Huang Shu-Hung , Cheng Kuang-I , Chai Chee-Yin , Yeh Jwu-Lai , Wu Tai-Cheng , Hsu Yi-Chiang , Kwan Aij-Lie
Published: January 2015

Background. Severe burns result in hypercatabolic state and concomitant muscle atrophy that persists for several months, thereby limiting patient recovery. However, the effects of burns on the corresponding spinal dermatome remain unknown. This study aimed to investigate whether burns induce apoptosis of spinal cord ventral horn motor neurons (VHMNs) and consequently cause skeletal muscle wasting.Methods. Third-degree hindpaw burn injury with 1% total body surface area (TBSA) rats were euthanized 4 and 8 weeks after burn injury. The apoptosis profiles in the ventral horns of the lumbar spinal cords, sciatic nerves, and gastrocnemius muscles were examined. The Schwann cells in the sciatic nerve were marked with S100. The gastrocnemius muscles were harvested to measure the denervation atrophy.Result. The VHMNs apoptosis in the spinal cord was observed after inducing third-degree burns in the hindpaw. The S100 and TUNEL double-positive cells in the sciatic nerve increased significantly after the burn injury. Gastrocnemius muscle apoptosis and denervation atrophy area increased significantly after the burn injury.Conclusion. Local hindpaw burn induces apoptosis in VHMNs and Schwann cells in sciatic nerve, which causes corresponding gastrocnemius muscle denervation atrophy. Our results provided an animal model to evaluate burn-induced muscle wasting, and elucidate the underlying mechanisms.
Clinical Epidemiology and Paraclinical Findings in Tuberculosis Patients in North of Iran
Authors: Babamahmoodi Farhang , Alikhani Ahmad , Yazdani Charati Jamshid , Ghovvati Amir , Ahangarkani Fatemeh , Delavarian Leila , Babamahmoodi Abdolreza
Published: January 2015

Background. Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.TB) causes a wide spectrum of clinical diseases. The prevalence of TB is different in various parts of Iran and throughout the world. The present study aimed to determine the clinical epidemiology and paraclinical findings of TB. Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted from 2008 to 2013. Patient demographic, clinical, and radiologic characteristics, picked up from the TB patient’s files, were collected using a standard questionnaire format. Data was entered and analyzed using the SPSS version 16 statistical software and P value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results. Out of 212 patients enrolled in this study 62% were male and the mean age was about 50 years old. 98.6% were Iranian, and 46.2% were rural. Prevalence of smear-positive TB was 66.4%. Prevalence of positive PPD was 50.7% with no significant difference between HIV-positive and -negative patients (P = 0.8). Prevalence of diabetes mellitus was 17%. 36% of the patients had history of smoking and about 29.3% were addicted to narcotics. Cough was the most common symptom (94.5%) and 84% had sputum. 15 cases (7%) had extrapulmonary TB. The mean time between the onset of symptoms and admission was 46.5 days. The delay for admission between urban and rural populations was not significantly different (P = 0.68); but for those who were in prison, the delay was significant (P = 0.02). About 46% of the patients had cavitary lesions in CXRs. Conclusion. Timely diagnosis of TB especially in prisoners by understanding its most important epidemiologic characteristics and clinical features can help to make an early treatment and prevent spread of mycobacteria and their complications.
Managing Hypercapnia in Patients with Severe ARDS and Low Respiratory System Compliance: The Role of Esophageal Pressure Monitoring—A Case Cohort Study
Authors: Soroksky Arie , Kheifets Julia , Girsh Solomonovich Zehava , Tayem Emad , Gingy Ronen Balmor , Rozhavsky Boris
Published: January 2015

Purpose. Patients with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and hypercapnia present a formidable treatment challenge. We examined the use of esophageal balloon for assessment of transpulmonary pressures to guide mechanical ventilation for successful management of severe hypercapnia.Materials and Methods. Patients with severe ARDS and hypercapnia were studied. Esophageal balloon was inserted and mechanical ventilation was guided by assessment of transpulmonary pressures. Positive end expiratory pressure (PEEP) and inspiratory driving pressures were adjusted with the aim of achieving tidal volume of 6 to 8 mL/kg based on ideal body weight (IBW), while not exceeding end inspiratory transpulmonary (EITP) pressure of 25 cm H2O.Results. Six patients with severe ARDS and hypercapnia were studied. Mean PaCO2on enrollment was108.33±25.65 mmHg. One hour after adjustment of PEEP and inspiratory driving pressure guided by transpulmonary pressure, PaCO2decreased to64.5±16.89 mmHg (P<0.01). Tidal volume was3.96±0.92 mL/kg IBW before and increased to7.07±1.21 mL/kg IBW after intervention(P<0.01). EITP pressure before intervention was low with a mean of13.68±8.69 cm H2O and remained low at16.76±4.76 cm H2O (P=0.18) after intervention. Adjustment of PEEP and inspiratory driving pressures did not worsen oxygenation and did not affect cardiac output significantly.Conclusion. The use of esophageal balloon as a guide to mechanical ventilation was able to treat severe hypercapnia in ARDS patients.
Hematopoietic Stem and Progenitor Cells Can Be Enriched by Implanting Biomaterial into Spatium Intermusculare
Authors: Tong Jia-Bei , Wu Xiao-Yun , Jia Ge-Liuchang , Zhao Kui-Jun , Wang Shi-Li , Ma Zhi-Jie
Published: January 2015

Hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) have been used successfully to treat patients with cancer and disorders of the blood and immune systems. In this study, we tried to enrich HSPCs by implanting biomaterials into the spatium intermusculare of mice hind limbs. Gelatine sponges were implanted into the spatium intermusculare of mice and then retrieved after 12 days. The presence of HSPCs in the migrating cells (MCs) was detected by phenotypically probing with CD34+Sca-1+and functionally confirming the presence of using colony-forming cell assay and assessing the long-term reconstitution ability. The frequency of CD34+, Sca-1+, and CD34+Sca-1+cells and colony formation unit in the MCs was much higher than that in the bone marrow (BM). Moreover, transplanted MCs were able to home to BM, muscle, and spleen, which induced an efficient long-term hematopoietic reconstitution in vivo. In addition, HSPCs within the MCs originated from the BM. Furthermore, the administration of G-CSF greatly reduced the time of implantation, and increased the number of MCs and frequency of HSPCs in the MCs. These data provide compelling evidence that HSPCs can be enriched by implanting biomaterial into spatium intermusculare. Implantation of biomaterial may be seen as the first step to a proof of their applicability to clinical practice in enriching HSPCs.
Context-Aware Community Construction in Proximity-Based Mobile Networks
Authors: Yu Na , Han Qi
Published: January 2015

Sensor-equipped mobile devices have allowed users to participate in various social networking services. We focus on proximity-based mobile social networking environments where users can share information obtained from different places via their mobile devices when they are in proximity. Since people are more likely to share information if they can benefit from the sharing or if they think the information is of interest to others, there might exist community structures where users who share information more often are grouped together. Communities in proximity-based mobile networks represent social groups where connections are built when people are in proximity. We consider information influence (i.e., specify who shares information with whom) as the connection and the space and time related to the shared information as the contexts. To model the potential information influences, we construct an influence graph by integrating the space and time contexts into the proximity-based contacts of mobile users. Further, we propose a two-phase strategy to detect and track context-aware communities based on the influence graph and show how the context-aware community structure improves the performance of two types of mobile social applications.
Current‐Voltage Characteristics of the Composites Based on Epoxy Resin and Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Pełech Iwona , Kaczmarek Agnieszka , Pełech Robert
Published: January 2015

Polymer composites based on epoxy resin were prepared. Multiwalled carbon nanotubes synthesized on iron‐cobalt catalyst were applied as a filler in a polymer matrix. Chlorine or hydroxyl groups were incorporated on the carbon nanotubes surface via chlorination or chlorination followed by hydroxylation. The effect of functionalized carbon nanotubes on the epoxy resin matrix is discussed in terms of the state of CNTs dispersion in composites as well as electrical properties. For the obtained materials current‐voltage characteristics were determined. They had a nonlinear character and were well described by an exponential‐type equation. For all the obtained materials the percolation threshold occurred at a concentration of about 1 wt%. At a higher filler concentration >2 wt%, better conductivity was demonstrated by polymer composites with raw carbon nanotubes. At a lower filler concentration <2 wt%, higher values of electrical conductivity were obtained for polymer composites with modified carbon nanotubes.
Insufflation with Humidified and Heated Carbon Dioxide in Short-Term Laparoscopy: A Double-Blinded Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Herrmann Anja , De Wilde Rudy Leon
Published: January 2015

Background.We tested the hypothesis that warm-humidified carbon dioxide (CO2) insufflation would reduce postoperative pain and morphine requirement compared to cold-dry CO2insufflation.Methods.A double-blinded, randomized, controlled trial was conducted to compare warm, humidified CO2and cold-dry CO2. Patients with benign uterine diseases were randomized to either treatment (n=48) or control (n=49) group during laparoscopically assisted vaginal hysterectomy. Primary endpoints of the study were rest pain, movement pain, shoulder-tip pain, and cough pain at 2, 4, 6, 24, and 48 hours postoperatively, measured by visual analogue scale. Secondary outcomes were morphine consumption, rejected boli, temperature change, recovery room stay, and length of hospital stay.Results.There were no significant differences in all baseline characteristics. Shoulder-tip pain at 6 h postoperatively was significantly reduced in the intervention group. Pain at rest, movement pain, and cough pain did not differ. Total morphine consumption and rejected boli at 24 h postoperatively were significantly higher in the control group. Temperature change, recovery room stay, and length of hospital were similar.Conclusions.Warm, humidified insufflation gas significantly reduces postoperative shoulder-tip pain as well as morphine demand. This trial is registered withClinical Trial Registration Number  DRKS00003853(German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS)).
Tricorns and Multicorns ofS-Iteration Scheme
Authors: Kang Shin Min , Rafiq Arif , Latif Abdul , Shahid Abdul Aziz , Kwun Young Chel
Published: January 2015

Complex graphics of dynamical system have striking features of fractals and become a wide area of research due to their beauty and complexity of their nature. The aim of this paper is to study dynamics of relative superior tricorns and multicorns usingS-iteration schemes. Several examples are presented to explore the geometry of relative superior tricorns and multicorns for antipolynomialz→z¯n+cof complex polynomialzn+cforn≥2.
Relationship between Sum of the Four Limbs’ Pulse Pressure and Brachial-Ankle Pulse Wave Velocity and Atherosclerosis Risk Factors in Chinese Adults
Authors: Zheng Yansong , Li Zongbin , Shu Hua , Liu Minyan , Chen Zhilai , Huang Jianhua
Published: January 2015

The aim of the present study was to analyze the relationship between the sum of the four limbs’ pulse pressure (Sum-PP) and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) and atherosclerosis risk factors and evaluate the feasibility of Sum-PP in diagnosing atherosclerosis systemically. For the purpose, a cross-sectional study was conducted on the basis of medical information of 20748 adults who had a health examination in our hospital. Both Sum-PP and baPWV exhibited significant variations among different human populations grouped by gender, smoking, drinking, and age. Interestingly, Sum-PP had similar varying tendency with baPWV in different populations. And further study in different populations showed that Sum-PP was significantly positively related to baPWV. We also investigated the relationship between Sum-PP, baPWV, and cardiovascular risk factors, respectively. We found that both Sum-PP and baPWV had significant positive correlation with atherosclerosis risk factors while both of them were negatively related to HDL-c. In addition, there was a significant close correlation between Sum-PP and baPWV in the whole population (r=0.4616,P<0.0001). Thus, Sum-PP is closely related to baPWV and is of important value for clinical diagnosis of atherosclerosis.
Modifications in Bone Matrix of Estrogen-Deficient Rats Treated with Intermittent PTH
Authors: Pacheco-Costa Rafael , Campos Jenifer Freitas , Katchburian Eduardo , de Medeiros Valquíria Pereira , Nader Helena Bonciani , Nonaka Keico Okino , Plotkin Lilian Irene , Reginato Rejane Daniele
Published: January 2015

Bone matrix dictates strength, elasticity, and stiffness to the bone. Intermittent parathyroid hormone (iPTH), a bone-forming treatment, is widely used as a therapy for osteoporosis. We investigate whether low doses of intermittent PTH (1-34) change the profile of organic components in the bone matrix after 30 days of treatment. Forty 6-month-old femaleWistarrats underwent ovariectomy and after 3 months received low doses of iPTH administered for 30 days: daily at 0.3 µg/kg/day (PTH03) or 5 µg/kg/day (PTH5); or 3 times per week at 0.25 µg/kg/day (PTH025). After euthanasia, distal femora were processed for bone histomorphometry, histochemistry for collagen and glycosaminoglycans, biochemical quantification of sulfated glycosaminoglycans, and hyaluronan by ELISA and TUNEL staining. Whole tibiae were used to estimate the bone mineral density (BMD). Histomorphometric analysis showed that PTH5 increased cancellous bone volume by 6% over vehicle-treated rats. In addition, PTH5 and PTH03 increased cortical thickness by 21% and 20%, respectively. Tibial BMD increased in PTH5-treated rats and this group exhibited lower levels of chondroitin sulfate; on the other hand, hyaluronan expression was increased. Hormonal administration in the PTH5 group led to decreased collagen maturity. Further, TUNEL-positive osteocytes were decreased in the cortical compartment of PTH5 whereas administration of PTH025 increased the osteocyte death. Our findings suggest that daily injections of PTH at low doses alter the pattern of organic components from the bone matrix, favoring the increase of bone mass.
Prediction of Local Ultimate Strain and Toughness of Trabecular Bone Tissue by Raman Material Composition Analysis
Authors: Carretta Roberto , Stüssi Edgar , Müller Ralph , Lorenzetti Silvio
Published: January 2015

Clinical studies indicate that bone mineral density correlates with fracture risk at the population level but does not correlate with individual fracture risk well. Current research aims to better understand the failure mechanism of bone and to identify key determinants of bone quality, thus improving fracture risk prediction. To get a better understanding of bone strength, it is important to analyze tissue-level properties not influenced by macro- or microarchitectural factors. The aim of this pilot study was to identify whether and to what extent material properties are correlated with mechanical properties at the tissue level. The influence of macro- or microarchitectural factors was excluded by testing individual trabeculae. Previously reported data of mechanical parameters measured in single trabeculae under tension and bending and its compositional properties measured by Raman spectroscopy was evaluated. Linear and multivariate regressions show that bone matrix quality but not quantity was significantly and independently correlated with the tissue-level ultimate strain and postyield work(r=0.65–0.94). Principal component analysis extracted three independent components explaining 86% of the total variance, representing elastic, yield, and ultimate components according to the included mechanical parameters. Some matrix parameters were both included in the ultimate component, indicating that the variation in ultimate strain and postyield work could be largely explained by Raman-derived compositional parameters.
Cerebral Metastasis from Breast Cancer in a Male Patient with HIV
Authors: Badke Guilherme Lellis , de Aguiar Guilherme Brasileiro , Silva João Miguel de Almeida , Paiva Aline Lariessy Campos , da Silva Eduardo Urbano , Veiga José Carlos Esteves
Published: January 2015

Context. Breast cancer (BC) in men is a rare condition, corresponding to 1% of all neoplasms in this gender. Some studies show that up to 93% of BC cases in men are advanced disease. If its occurrence constitutes an uncommon fact, the appearance of a metastasis to the central nervous system (CNS) is extremely rare. The objective of the present study is to present the case of a male patient, bearer of HIV infection, who presented with BC and later metastasis to the CNS. We also include a brief review of the literature.Case Report. We describe a case of a male patient, 59 years old, with HIV infection and a history of BC treated 4 years earlier, which progressed into headache and vertigo. Neuroimaging exams showed lesions suggestive of cerebral metastasis and a stereotaxic biopsy confirmed BC metastasis.Conclusion. Breast cancer in men with metastasis to the CNS is a rare condition and similar reports were not found in the available databases. It should be pointed out that even though rare, it should be considered among the differential diagnoses for SNC metastases in men, although HIV infection favors the appearance of some types of cancer.
Small Molecule Inhibitor of Type Three Secretion Suppresses Acute and ChronicChlamydia trachomatisInfection in a Novel Urogenital Chlamydia Model
Authors: Koroleva Ekaterina A. , Kobets Natalia V. , Zayakin Egor S. , Luyksaar Sergei I. , Shabalina Ludmila A. , Zigangirova Naylia A.
Published: January 2015

Previously, we reported that a compound from a group of thiohydrazides of oxamic acids, CL-55, possessed antichlamydial activityin vitrothat was accompanied by a decreased translocation of the type three secretion effector, IncA, into the host cell. In this study, the antichlamydial activity of CL-55 was testedin vivoin DBA/2 mice infected withC. trachomatisserovar D. We found that intravaginal inoculation of DBA/2 mice with the clinically relevant strain,C. trachomatisserovar D, results in a course of infection and pathology similar to that observed in humans. The early stage of infection in this model was characterized by a shedding ofChlamydiain vaginal secretions followed by an ascending infection and inflammation in the upper genital tract. We found that CL-55 possessed antibacterial activityin vivoand was able to controlC. trachomatisvaginal shedding, ascending infection, and inflammation in the upper genital organs in DBA/2 mice. Our data provide a proof of concept for the protective effect of the thiadiazinon, CL-55, against chlamydial infectionin vivoand support the feasibility of further studies of its potential therapeutic applications.
Comparison of the Changes in Corneal Endothelial Cells after Pars Plana and Anterior Chamber Ahmed Valve Implant
Authors: Seo Ji Won , Lee Jong Yeon , Nam Dong Heun , Lee Dae Yeong
Published: January 2015

Purpose. To compare the changes in corneal endothelial cells after pars plana Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV) implantation with those after the anterior chamber AGV implantation for refractory glaucoma.Methods. The medical records of 18 eyes with pars plana implantation of AGV (ppAGV) were reviewed retrospectively and were compared with 18 eyes with the anterior chamber AGV (acAGV) implant. The preoperative and postoperative endothelial cells, intraocular pressure (IOP), and postoperative complications during the follow-up in both groups were compared.Results. The average follow-up was 18 months. The postoperative endothelial cells in the ppAGV and acAGV groups were 2044 ± 303 and 1904 ± 324, respectively(P=0.25). The average percentage decrease in the endothelial cells in the ppAGV and acAGV groups at 18 months was 12.5% and 18.4%, respectively, and showed significant difference between the 2 groups(P=0.01). No difference in IOP control and the number of postoperative glaucoma medications was observed between the 2 groups.Conclusions. Endothelial cell damage in the ppAGV group for refractory glaucoma appeared to be lower than that in the acAGV group. Therefore, pars plana implantation of AGV may be preferred as it may have lower level of endothelial cell damage while maintaining similar level of IOP control.