bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular Diagnosis of Invasive Aspergillosis and Detection of Azole Resistance by a Newly Commercialized PCR Kit
Authors: Dannaoui Eric , Gabriel Frédéric , Gaboyard Manuel , Lagardere Gaëlle , Audebert Lucile , Quesne Gilles , Godichaud Sandrine , Verweij Paul E. , Accoceberry Isabelle , Bougnoux Marie-Elisabeth
Published: August 2017

Aspergillus fumigatus
is the main species responsible for aspergillosis in humans. The diagnosis of aspergillosis remains difficult, and the rapid emergence of azole resistance in
A. fumigatus
is worrisome. The aim of this study was to validate the new MycoGENIE
A. fumigatus
real-time PCR kit and to evaluate its performance on clinical samples for the detection of
A. fumigatus
and its azole resistance. This multiplex assay detects DNA from the
A. fumigatus
species complex by targeting the multicopy 28S rRNA gene and specific TR
34
and L98H mutations in the single-copy-number
cyp51A
gene of
A. fumigatus
. The specificity of
cyp51A
mutation detection was assessed by testing DNA samples from 25 wild-type or mutated clinical
A. fumigatus
isolates. Clinical validation was performed on 88 respiratory samples obtained from 62 patients and on 69 serum samples obtained from 16 patients with proven or probable aspergillosis and 13 patients without aspergillosis. The limit of detection was <1 copy for the
Aspergillus
28S rRNA gene and 6 copies for the
cyp51A
gene harboring the TR
34
and L98H alterations. No cross-reactivity was detected with various fungi and bacteria. All isolates harboring the TR
34
and L98H mutations were accurately detected by quantitative PCR (qPCR) analysis. With respiratory samples, qPCR results showed a sensitivity and specificity of 92.9% and 90.1%, respectively, while with serum samples, the sensitivity and specificity were 100% and 84.6%, respectively. Our study demonstrated that this new real-time PCR kit enables sensitive and rapid detection of
A. fumigatus
DNA and azole resistance due to TR
34
and L98H mutations in clinical samples.
The impact of urban speed reduction programmes on health system cost and utilities
Authors: Mohit Babak , Rosen Zohn , Muennig Peter A
Published: August 2017

Background

Vehicle speed changes impact the probability of injuring a pedestrian in ways that differ from the way that it impacts the probability of a collision or of death. Therefore, return on investment in speed reduction programmes has complex and unpredictable manifests. The objective of this study is to analyse the impact of motor vehicle speed reduction on the collision-related morbidity and mortality rates of urban pedestrians.

Methods and Findings

We created a simple way to estimate the public health impacts of traffic speed changes using a Markov model. Our outcome measures include the cost of injury, quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) gained and probability of death and injury due to a road traffic collision. Our two-way sensitivity analysis of speed, both before the implementation of a speed reduction programme and after, shows that, due to key differences in the probability of injury compared with the probability of death, speed reduction programmes may decrease the probability of death while leaving the probability of injury unchanged. The net result of this difference may lead to an increase in injury costs due to the implementation of a speed reduction programme. We find that even small investments in speed reductions have the potential to produce gains in QALYs.

Conclusions

Our reported costs, effects and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios may assist urban governments and stakeholders to rethink the value of local traffic calming programmes and to implement speed limits that would shift the trade-off to become between minor injuries and no injuries, rather than severe injuries and fatalities.
MicroRNA-15b Deteriorates Hypoxia/Reoxygenation-Induced Cardiomyocyte Apoptosis by Downregulating Bcl-2 and MAPK3
Authors: Liu Yaling , Yang Liqun , Yin Jiemin , Su Diansan , Pan Zhiying , Li Peiying , Wang Xiaodong
Published: August 2017

To investigate the role of miRNA-15b in cardiomyocyte apoptosis after ischemia reperfusion injury in acute myocardial infarction (AMI), we conducted the AMI rat model by using left anterior descending ligation and performed hypoxia/reoxygenation experiments in H9c2 cells. MiRNA-15b was measured by quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR). Cardiomyocyte apoptosis was determined by terminal deoxynucleotide transferase dUTP nick end labeling staining. Synthesized miRNA-15b mimic and inhibitor were transfected into H9c2 cells by Lipofectamine regent. RNA expression of B cell lymphoma/leukemia-2 (Bcl-2) and mitogen-activated protein kinase 3 (MAPK3) was examined by qRT-PCR and their protein expression was determined by western blot. Ischemia reperfusion increased miRNA-15b expression in the ischemic rat heart and resulted more severe cardiomyocytes apoptosis. In H9c2 cells, hypoxia/reoxygenation induced increased miRNA-15b expression and augmented cardiomyocyte apoptosis observed at 24 hours after 24-hour hypoxia. Compared with the vehicle group, miRNA-15b mimic further raised miRNA-15b level and increased cardiomyocyte apoptosis, whereas miRNA-15b inhibitor suppressed miRNA-15b expression and protected cardiomyocytes from apoptosis. Although the mRNA expression of the target genes Bcl-2 and MAPK3 was not changed significantly, the protein expression of these two genes were markedly reduced after miRNA-15b mimic treatment and significantly increased after transfected with miRNA-15b inhibitors. In conclusion, miRNA-15b deteriorates cardiomyocyte apoptosis by post-transcriptionally downregulating the expression of Bcl-2 and MAPK3.
Physician training protocol within the WEB Intrasaccular Therapy (WEB-IT) study
Authors: Arthur Adam , Hoit Daniel , Coon Alexander , Delgado Almandoz Josser E , Elijovich Lucas , Cekirge Saruhan , Fiorella David
Published: August 2017

Introduction

The WEB Intra-saccular Therapy (WEB-IT) trial is an investigational device exemption study to demonstrate the safety and effectiveness of the WEB device for the treatment of wide-neck bifurcation aneurysms. The neurovascular replicator (Vascular Simulations, Stony Brook, New York, USA) creates a physical environment that replicates patient-specific neurovascular anatomy and hemodynamic physiology, and allows devices to be implanted under fluoroscopic guidance.

Objective

To report the results of a unique neurovascular replicator-based training program, which was incorporated into the WEB-IT study to optimize technical performance and patient safety.

Methods

US investigators participated in a new training program that incorporated full surgical rehearsals on a neurovascular replicator. No roll-in cases were permitted within the trial. Custom replicas of patient-specific neurovascular anatomy were created for the initial cases treated at each center, as well as for cases expected to be challenging. On-site surgical rehearsals were performed before these procedures.

Results

A total of 48 participating investigators at 25 US centers trained using the replicator. Sessions included centralized introductory training, on-site training, and patient-specific full surgical rehearsal. Fluoroscopy and procedure times in the WEB-IT study were not significantly different from those seen in two European trials where participating physicians had significant WEB procedure experience before study initiation.

Conclusions

A new program of neurovascular-replicator-based physician training was employed within the WEB-IT study. This represents a new methodology for education and training that may be an effective means to optimize technical success and patient safety during the introduction of a new technology.
Air pollution as a catalyst for supporting tobacco control policies? Evidence from a nationwide study on Chinese medical students
Authors: Yang Xiaozhao Yousef , Yang Tingzhong , Nie Fanhao
Published: August 2017

Purpose

Few studies have discussed how the increasing ambient air pollution may affect policy-related attitudes. Medical professionals constitute an important interest group who analyse and solve public issues within a medicalised framework. The current study investigates whether ambient air pollution is associated with a greater likelihood of supporting tobacco control measures among medical students.

Methods

We conducted multistage sampling among the medical students from 42 cities in China. We employed propensity-score matching to eliminate the selection bias and used multilevel logistic regressions for the main analysis (n1=9458, n2=42).

Results

we found that city-level air particulate matter is consistently associated with the support for tobacco control among medical students, net of other individual-level and city-level covariates. For one standard increase in air particulate matter, people are 1.21 times more likely to fully support tobacco control measures (p<0.05). This association is significantly stronger among medical students who are financially worse-off and are ethnic majority.

Conclusions

Environmental pollution has a significant correlation with people’s attitudes towards health policies, even when such policies are not directly concerned with the natural environment. Policy makers may use this opportunity to implement tobacco control measures against the backdrop of China’s pollution crisis.
Hydrogen peroxide regulates angiogenesis-related factors in tumor cells
Authors: Jerónimo Ana , Rodrigues Gonçalo , Vilas-Boas Filipe , Martins Gabriel G. , Bagulho Ana , Real Carla
Published: August 2017

Tumor angiogenesis is required for tumor development and growth, and is regulated by several factors including ROS. H2O2is a ROS with an important role in cell signaling, but how H2O2regulates tumor angiogenesis is still poorly understood. We have xenografted tumor cells with altered levels of H2O2by catalase overexpression into zebrafish embryos to study redox-induced tumor neovascularization. We found that vascular recruitment and invasion were impaired if catalase was overexpressed. In addition, the overexpression of catalase altered the transcriptional levels of several angiogenesis-related factors in tumor cells, including TIMP-3 and THBS1. These two anti-angiogenic factors were found to be H2O2-regulated by two different mechanisms: TIMP-3 expression in a cell-autonomous manner; and, THBS1 expression that was non-cell-autonomous. Our work shows that intracellular H2O2regulates the expression of angiogenic factors and the formation of a vessel network. Understanding the molecular mechanisms that govern this multifunctional effect of H2O2on tumor angiogenesis could be important for the development of more efficient anti-angiogenic therapies.
Diving into the world of alcohol teratogenesis: a review of zebrafish models of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder
Authors: Fernandes Yohaan , Buckley Desire M. , Eberhart Johann K.
Published: August 2017

The term fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) refers to the entire suite of deleterious outcomes resulting from embryonic exposure to alcohol. Along with other reviews in this special issue, we provide insight into how animal models, specifically the zebrafish, have informed our understanding of FASD. We first provide a brief introduction to FASD. We discuss the zebrafish as a model organism and its strengths for alcohol research. We detail how zebrafish has been used to model some of the major defects present in FASD. These include behavioral defects, such as social behavior as well as learning and memory, and structural defects, disrupting organs such as the brain, sensory organs, heart, and craniofacial skeleton. We provide insights into how zebrafish research has aided in our understanding of the mechanisms of ethanol teratogenesis. We end by providing some relatively recent advances that zebrafish has provided in characterizing gene-ethanol interactions that may underlie FASD.
Theoretical investigations of an information geometric approach to complexity
Authors: Ali Sean Alan , Cafaro Carlo
Published: August 2017

It is known that statistical model selection as well as identification of dynamical equations from available data are both very challenging tasks. Physical systems behave according to their underlying dynamical equations which, in turn, can be identified from experimental data. Explaining data requires selecting mathematical models that best capture the data regularities. The existence of fundamental links among physical systems, dynamical equations, experimental data and statistical modeling motivate us to present in this paper our theoretical modeling scheme which combines information geometry and inductive inference methods to provide a probabilistic description of complex systems in the presence of limited information. Special focus is devoted to describe the role of our entropic information geometric complexity measure. In particular, we provide several illustrative examples wherein our modeling scheme is used to infer macroscopic predictions when only partial knowledge of the microscopic nature of a given system is available. Finally, limitations, possible improvements, and future investigations are discussed.
Normal canonical surfaces in projective 3-space
Authors: Konno Kazuhiro
Published: August 2017

Canonical surfaces with geometric genus four are studied assuming that the image of the canonical map is a normal surface in projective 3-space. It is shown that the degree of the image does not exceed [Formula: see text]. Furthermore, normal canonical sextics surfaces are explicitly constructed, extending a former example due to Zariski.
Assembly-line flash synthesis of ZnO nanobelts on metal Zn
Authors: Zou Qiang , Mo Shentong , Wang Yanan , Dang Mengjiao , Qin Guoxuan , Fu Xing , Wang Hui , Tao Xue
Published: August 2017

In this study, ZnO nanobelts were successfully fabricated by flash synthesis without any expensive catalyst at a relatively low temperature (600[Formula: see text]C). The whole process took just [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]30 min. Introducing a solution tank containing a mixture of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and Zn(AC)2, was an auxiliary process to elevate the quality of the products. The morphology of the ZnO nanobelts was systematically investigated by means of field emission scanning electron microscopy (FRSEM) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). The products had an average width of 200[Formula: see text]nm and a length of more than 10[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]. X-ray diffraction analysis indicated that the ZnO nanobelts had a typical wurtzite structure. Finally, the growth mechanism of the unique morphology of the ZnO nanobelts is discussed. An assembly-line production method is also proposed based on the results.
Detecting Whitney disks for link maps in the four-sphere
Authors: Lightfoot Ash
Published: August 2017

It is an open problem whether Kirk’s [Formula: see text]-invariant is the complete obstruction to a link map [Formula: see text] being link homotopic to the trivial link. The link homotopy invariant associates to such a link map [Formula: see text] a pair [Formula: see text], and we write [Formula: see text]. With the objective of constructing counterexamples, Li proposed a link homotopy invariant [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text] is defined on the kernel of [Formula: see text] and which also obstructs link null-homotopy. We show that, when defined, the invariant [Formula: see text] is determined by [Formula: see text], and is strictly weaker. In particular, this implies that if a link map [Formula: see text] has [Formula: see text], then after a link homotopy the self-intersections of [Formula: see text] may be equipped with framed, immersed Whitney disks in [Formula: see text] whose interiors are disjoint from [Formula: see text].
Differential identities on prime rings with involution
Authors: Mamouni A. , Nejjar B. , Oukhtite L.
Published: August 2017

In this paper, we investigate commutativity of prime rings [Formula: see text] with involution ∗ of the second kind in which generalized derivations satisfy certain algebraic identities. Some well-known results characterizing commutativity of prime rings have been generalized. Furthermore, we provide an example to show that the restriction imposed on the involution is not superfluous.
Design and Modeling of a Quadcopter with Double Axis Tilting Rotors
Authors: De Martini Daniele , Gramazio Giuseppe Valerio , Bertini Alessandro , Rottenbacher Carlo , Facchinetti Tullio
Published: August 2017

Multirotors are well suited for application tasks such as surveillance and exploration of otherwise inaccessible areas. Standard quadrotors have limitations in their possible configurations due to their underactuation. For this reason, some spatial configurations are not possible, such as hovering while maintaining a nonhorizontal orientation. This paper presents an overactuated quadrotor platform with double axes tilting propellers. The peculiarity of the proposed platform is that, beside the usual control on the four propellers, it allows to tilt each arm where motors are mounted along two independent axis. The resulting number of control inputs is 12, allowing a higher number of stable configurations with respect to traditional quadrotors. As a result, it can assume spatial orientations that are not possible for traditional quadcopters, enabling the possibility to deal with obstacles that would generally impede the motion of normal quadcopters. This feature allows to potentially explore a larger space. This paper presents the design and modeling of the quadrotor. Numerical simulations are carried out to show the effectiveness of the proposed solution.
An Overview of Lipid Droplets in Cancer and Cancer Stem Cells
Authors: Tirinato L. , Pagliari F. , Limongi T. , Marini M. , Falqui A. , Seco J. , Candeloro P. , Liberale C. , Di Fabrizio E.
Published: August 2017

For decades, lipid droplets have been considered as the main cellular organelles involved in the fat storage, because of their lipid composition. However, in recent years, some new and totally unexpected roles have been discovered for them: (i) they are active sites for synthesis and storage of inflammatory mediators, and (ii) they are key players in cancer cells and tissues, especially in cancer stem cells. In this review, we summarize the main concepts related to the lipid droplet structure and function and their involvement in inflammatory and cancer processes.
Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester Reduces Ischemia‐Induced Kidney Mitochondrial Injury in Rats
Authors: Trumbeckaite Sonata , Pauziene Neringa , Trumbeckas Darius , Jievaltas Mindaugas , Baniene Rasa
Published: August 2017

During partial nephrectomy, the avoidance of ischemic renal damage is extremely important as duration of renal artery clamping (i.e., ischemia) influences postoperative kidney function. Mitochondria (main producer of ATP in the cell) are very sensitive to ischemia and undergo damage during oxidative stress. Finding of a compound which diminishes ischemic injury to kidney is of great importance. Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), biologically active compound of propolis, might be one of the promising therapeutic agents against ischemia‐caused damage. Despite wide range of biological activities of CAPE, detailed biochemical mechanisms of its action at the level of mitochondria during ischemia are poorly described and need to be investigated. We investigated if CAPE (22 mg/kg and 34 mg/kg, injected intraperitoneally) has protective effects against short (20 min) and longer time (40 min) rat kidney ischemia in an in vitro ischemia model. CAPE ameliorates in part ischemia‐induced renal mitochondrial injury, improves oxidative phosphorylation with complex I‐dependent substrate glutamate/malate, increases Ca2+ uptake by mitochondria, blocks ischemia‐induced caspase‐3 activation, and protects kidney cells from ischemia‐induced necrosis. The protective effects on mitochondrial respiration rates were seen after shorter (20 min) time of ischemia whereas reduction of apotosis and necrosis and increase in Ca2+ uptake were revealed after both, shorter and longer time of ischemia.
The Role of Adenosine A2AReceptor, CYP450s, and PPARs in the Regulation of Vascular Tone
Authors: Khayat Maan T. , Nayeem Mohammed A.
Published: August 2017

Adenosine is an endogenous mediator involved in a myriad of physiologic functions, including vascular tone regulation. It is also implicated in some pathologic conditions. Four distinct receptor subtypes mediate the effects of adenosine, such as its role in the regulation of the vascular tone. Vascular tone regulation is a complex and continuous process which involves many mechanisms and mediators that are not fully disclosed. The vascular endothelium plays a pivotal role in regulating blood flow to and from all body organs. Also, the vascular endothelium is not merely a physical barrier; it is a complex tissue with numerous functions. Among adenosine receptors,A2Areceptor subtype (A2AAR) stands out as the primary receptor responsible for the vasodilatory effects of adenosine. This review focuses on important effectors of the vascular endothelium, including adenosine, adenosine receptors, EETs (epoxyeicosatrienoic acids), HETEs (hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acids), PPARs (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors), andKATPchannels. Given the impact of vascular tone regulation in cardiovascular physiology and pathophysiology, better understanding of the mechanisms affecting it could have a significant potential for developing therapeutic agents for cardiovascular diseases.
Effects of Combined Far‐Infrared Radiation and Acupuncture at ST36 on Peripheral Blood Perfusion and Autonomic Activities
Authors: Yang Cheng-Chan , Lin Gen-Min , Wang Jen-Hung , Chu Hsiao-Chiang , Wu Hsien-Tsai , Chen Jian-Jung , Sun Cheuk-Kwan
Published: August 2017

Using four‐channel photoplethysmography (PPG) for acquiring peripheral arterial waveforms, this study investigated vascular and autonomic impacts of combined acupuncture‐far infrared radiation (FIR) in improving peripheral circulation. Twenty healthy young adults aged 25.5 ± 4.6 were enrolled for 30‐minute measurement. Each subject underwent four treatment strategies, including acupuncture at ST36 (Zusanli), pseudoacupuncture, FIR, and combined acupuncture‐FIR at different time points. Response was assessed at 5‐minute intervals. Area under arterial waveform at baseline was defined as AreaBaseline, whereas AreaStim referred to area at each 5‐minute substage during and after treatment. AreaStim/AreaBaseline was compared at different stages and among different strategies. Autonomic activity at different stages was assessed using low‐to‐high frequency power ratio (LHR). The results demonstrated increased perfusion for each therapeutic strategy from stage 1 to stage 2 (all p < 0.02). Elevated perfusion was noted for all treatment strategies at stage 3 compared to stage 1 except pseudoacupuncture. Increased LHR was noted only in subjects undergoing pseudoacupuncture at stage 3 compared to stage 1 (p = 0.045). Reduced LHR at stage 2 compared to stage 1 was found only in combined treatment group (p = 0.041). In conclusion, the results support clinical benefits of combined acupuncture‐FIR treatment in enhancing peripheral perfusion and parasympathetic activity.
Design and Analysis of Fused Deposition Modeling 3D Printer Nozzle for Color Mixing
Authors: Han Shanling , Xiao Yu , Qi Tao , Li Zhiyong , Zeng Qingliang
Published: August 2017

Fused deposition modeling (FDM) has been one of the most widely used rapid prototyping (RP) technologies leading to the increase in market attention. Obviously it is desirable to print 3D objects; however, existing FDM printers are restricted to printing only monochrome objects because of the entry-level nozzle structure, and literature on the topic is also sparse. In this paper, the CAD model of the nozzle is established first by UG (Unigraphics NX) software to show the structure of fused deposition modeling 3D printer nozzle for color mixing. Second, the flow channel model of the nozzle is extracted and simplified. Then, the CAD and finite element model are established by UG and ICEM CFD software, respectively, to prepare for the simulation. The flow field is simulated by Fluent software. The nozzle’s suitable temperature at different extrusion speeds is obtained, and the reason for the blockage at the intersection of the heating block is revealed. Finally, test verification of the nozzle is performed, which can produce mixed-color artifacts stably.
Experimental Analysis of the Potential Induced Degradation Effect on Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Akcaoğlu S. C. , Martinopoulos G. , Zafer C.
Published: August 2017

Renewable energy applications are increasing daily, and solar electricity, in the form of photovoltaics, is getting more and more important worldwide. As photovoltaics are connected both in series and in parallel, the panels are exposed to high potentials compared to the ground; thus, high voltage stress (HVS) occurs. The scope of this paper is to analyze experimentally the potential induced degradation (PID) in organic solar cells. To that end, organic solar cells are manufactured and are then undergone a series of voltage-dependent degradation and time-dependent voltage degradation tests. In addition to that, they are also exposed to gaseous oxygen, oxygen plasma, air degradation, and annealing, and the degradation effects are compared with PID results. From the analysis, it is apparent that annealing, air, gaseous oxygen, and oxygen plasma degradation have similar effects with PID, while due to simple diode characteristics, organic cells proved to be relatively durable to potential induced degradation. At low voltages (10 V), the organic cells withstood degradation adequately, with a drop of 23% in their initial efficiency. As voltage increased, the degradation rate increased considerably reaching a 93% efficiency drop when 30 V was applied for 20 minutes.
Antioxidant and Anti‐Inflammatory Properties of Anacardium occidentale Leaf Extract
Authors: Souza Natália Cabral , de Oliveira Juliana Medeiros , Morrone Maurílio da Silva , Albanus Ricardo D’Oliveira , Amarante Maria do Socorro Medeiros , Camillo Christina da Silva , Langassner Silvana Maria Zucolotto , Gelain Daniel Pens , Moreira José Cláudio Fonseca , Dalmolin Rodrigo Juliani Siqueira , Pasquali Matheus Augusto de Bittencourt
Published: August 2017

In tropical America, principally in Northeastern Brazil, the leaf extract of Anacardium occidentale is traditionally used for treatment of different diseases. However, chemical and biological properties and activities of Anacardium occidentale are poorly investigated and known. Here, we evaluated the antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory activities “in vitro” of leaf extract from Anacardium occidentale. Our results show that leaf extract exhibits antioxidant activity when used to treat RAW 264.7 macrophage cells. Antioxidant effects were observed by decrease in oxidative damage in macrophage cells treated with 0.5 µg/mL and 5 µg/mL of leaf extract. Moreover, leaf extract reversed oxidative damage and inflammatory parameters induced in LPS‐stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophage cells. Leaf extract at 0.5 µg/mL and 5 µg/mL was able to inhibit release of TNF‐α and IL‐1β in LPS‐stimulated cells. Taken together, our results indicate antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory effects of leaf extract from Anacardium occidentale and reveal the positive effects that intake of these products can mediate in biological system.
Cooccurrence of Chorea-Acanthocytosis and Mesial Temporal Sclerosis: A Possible Role of Caudate Nucleus
Authors: Salari Mehri , Lehn Alexander C. , Etemadifar Masoud , Hejazi Seyed Amir
Published: August 2017

Chorea-acanthocytosis (ChAc) is an orphan disease, caused by mutations on chromosome 9. Epileptic seizures of mesial temporal origin can be a predominant symptom. We report on a 29-year-old woman with ChAc and bilateral MTS. Previously, few patients with coexisting ChAc and MTS were reported. The underlying pathophysiology is unknown, and further studies are needed.
Preparation and Characterisation of Nobiletin-Loaded Nanostructured Lipid Carriers
Authors: Huang Wei , Dou Huating , Wu Houjiu , Sun Zhigao , Wang Hua , Huang Linhua
Published: August 2017

The objective of this manuscript was to investigate and optimise the potential of nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) as a carrier system for nobiletin (NOB), which was prepared by high-pressure homogenisation method. Additionally, this study was focused on the application of NOB-loaded NLC (NOB-NLC) in functional food. Response surface method with a three-level Box–Behnken design was validated through analysis of variance, and the robustness of the design was confirmed through the correspondence between the values measured in the experiments and the predicted ones. Properties of the prepared NOB-NLC, such as Z-average, polydispersity, entrapment efficiency, zeta potential, morphology, and crystallinity, were investigated. NOB-NLC exhibited a spherical shape with a diameter of 112.27 ± 5.33 nm, zeta potential of −35.1 ± 2.94 mV, a polydispersity index of 0.251 ± 0.058, and an EE of 81.06%  ±  6.02%. Results from X-ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry of NOB-NLC reviewed that the NOB crystal might be converted to an amorphous state. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic analysis demonstrated that chemical interaction was absent between the compound and lipid mixture in NOB-NLC.
Increased Mitochondrial Mass and Cytosolic Redox Imbalance in Hippocampal Astrocytes of a Mouse Model of Rett Syndrome: Subcellular Changes Revealed by Ratiometric Imaging of JC‐1 and roGFP1 Fluorescence
Authors: Bebensee Dörthe F. , Can Karolina , Müller Michael
Published: August 2017

Rett syndrome (RTT) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with mutations in the MECP2 gene. Mostly girls are affected, and an apparently normal development is followed by cognitive impairment, motor dysfunction, epilepsy, and irregular breathing. Various indications suggest mitochondrial dysfunction. In Rett mice, brain ATP levels are reduced, mitochondria are leaking protons, and respiratory complexes are dysregulated. Furthermore, we found in MeCP2‐deficient mouse (Mecp2−/y) hippocampus an intensified mitochondrial metabolism and ROS generation. We now used emission ratiometric 2‐photon imaging to assess mitochondrial morphology, mass, and membrane potential (ΔΨm) in Mecp2−/y hippocampal astrocytes. Cultured astrocytes were labeled with the ΔΨm marker JC‐1, and semiautomated analyses yielded the number of mitochondria per cell, their morphology, and ΔΨm. Mecp2−/y astrocytes contained more mitochondria than wild‐type (WT) cells and were more oxidized. Mitochondrial size, ΔΨm, and vulnerability to pharmacological challenge did not differ. The antioxidant Trolox opposed the oxidative burden and decreased the mitochondrial mass, thereby dampening the differences among WT and Mecp2−/y astrocytes; mitochondrial size and ΔΨm were not markedly affected. In conclusion, mitochondrial alterations and redox imbalance in RTT also involve astrocytes. Mitochondria are more numerous in Mecp2−/y than in WT astrocytes. As this genotypic difference is abolished by Trolox, it seems linked to the oxidative stress in RTT.
Experimental PorcineToxoplasma gondiiInfection as a Representative Model for Human Toxoplasmosis
Authors: Nau Julia , Eller Silvia Kathrin , Wenning Johannes , Spekker-Bosker Katrin Henrike , Schroten Horst , Schwerk Christian , Hotop Andrea , Groß Uwe , Däubener Walter
Published: August 2017

Porcine infections are currently not the state-of-the-art model to study human diseases. Nevertheless, the course of human and porcine toxoplasmosis is much more comparable than that of human and murine toxoplasmosis. For example, severity of infection, transplacental transmission, and interferon-gamma-induced antiparasitic effector mechanisms are similar in pigs and humans. In addition, the severe immunosuppression during acute infection described in mice does not occur in the experimentally infected ones. Thus, we hypothesise that porcineToxoplasma gondiiinfection data are more representative for human toxoplasmosis. We therefore suggest that the animal model chosen must be critically evaluated for its assignability to human diseases.
Clinical Features and Visual Acuity Outcomes in Culture-Positive Endogenous Fungal Endophthalmitis in Southern China
Authors: Duan Fang , Yang Yao , Yuan Zhaohui , Zheng Yongxin , Cheng Zhixing , Lin Xiaofeng
Published: August 2017

Purpose. To report the causative organisms, management strategies, and visual outcomes of culture-proven endogenous fungal endophthalmitis in a case series from southern China. Methods. We reviewed the microbiological and medical records of patients with culture-positive endogenous fungal endophthalmitis visiting the Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Guangzhou, China, between January 1, 2006, and March 31, 2016. Results. The inclusion criteria were met in 32 eyes of 29 patients. Molds were a common causative organism in 15 patients (51.7%), while yeasts appeared in 14 patients (48.3%). Initial visual acuity (VA) at the level of finger counting or better was significantly related to a good visual outcome (P=0.002). Molds as a causative agent were significantly associated with worse visual outcome than yeasts (P=0.020). Conclusion. Molds were a common cause of culture-proven fungal endophthalmitis. Endogenous fungal endophthalmitis is generally associated with poor VA outcomes, especially if caused by molds and if the patient’s initial VA is too low to permit finger counting.
Novel Passive Two-Stage Magnetic Targeting Devices for Distal Locking of Interlocking Nails
Authors: Wong Tze-Hong , Lee Meng-Shiue , Wu Sung-Yueh , Hsu Wensyang , Chung Tien-Kan , Wu Chia-Pei , Hsu Pei-Jung , Yang Yuh-Shyong
Published: August 2017

Interlocking nailing is a common surgical operation to stabilize fractures in long bones. One of the difficult parts of the surgery is how to locate the position and direction of a screw hole on the interlocking nail, which is invisible to the naked eye after insertion of the nail into the medullary canal. Here, we propose a novel two-stage targeting process using two passive magnetic devices to locate the position and direction of the screw hole without radiation for the locking screw procedure. This involves a ring-shape positioning magnet inside the nail to generate a magnetic field for targeting. From the accuracy test results of these two-stage targeting devices, the search region can be identified in less than 20 seconds by the 1st-stage targeting device, while the total targeting time to locate the drilling position and direction takes less than 4 minutes, with 100% successful rate in 50 attempts. The drilling test further combines the two-stage targeting process and drilling process on the swine tibia, and it is shown that a 100% successful rate is achieved in all 10 attempts, where the total time needed is less than 5 minutes.
Age-Related Variations of Rabbit Corneal Geometrical and Clinical Biomechanical Parameters
Authors: Zhang Haixia , Qin Xiao , Cao Xiaomeng , Zhang Di , Li Lin
Published: August 2017

Purpose. To study the variations in corneal clinical biomechanical parameters (CCBP) and corneal geometrical parameters of rabbit in relation to age. Methods. Rabbits aged 3, 7, 12, 18, and 24 months were enrolled. Each eye of the rabbits was tested with Ocular Response Analyzer (ORA), Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), and Pachymeter to obtain the intraocular pressure (IOP): Goldmann-correlated IOP (IOPg) and Corneal Compensated Intraocular Pressure (IOPcc); CCBP: Corneal Hysteresis (CH) and Corneal Resistance Factor (CRF); corneal geometric parameters: corneal curvature radius (CCR) and central corneal thickness (CCT). Results. The IOP of the rabbits changes slightly from 3 to 7 months of age, while it significantly decreases from 7 to 18 months of age and increases from 18 to 24 months of age; CH and CRF decrease with the increase of age; CCT increases from 7 to 18 months and decreases from 3 to 7 months of age and from 18 to 24 months of age; CCR presents an upward trend from 3 to 18 months and a significant decrease between 18 and 24 months of age. Conclusion. CH and CRF are negatively correlated with age. CCT and CCR are positively correlated with age.
A Step-by-Step Conservative Approach for CAD-CAM Laminate Veneers
Authors: Durán Ojeda Gerardo , Henríquez Gutiérrez Ismael , Guzmán Marusic Álvaro , Báez Rosales Abelardo , Tisi Lanchares José Pablo
Published: August 2017

The use of CAD/CAM technology has allowed the fabrication of ceramic restorations efficiently and with predictable results. Lithium disilicate is a type of glass ceramic material that can be used for the elaboration of laminate veneers, being monolithic restorations which require characterization through a covering ceramic in order to achieve acceptable esthetic results. The next case report shows a predictable clinical protocol for the rehabilitation of the anterior teeth through the preparation of CAD/CAM veneers (e.max CAD, Ivoclar Vivadent, Liechtenstein) which have been characterized by a nanofluorapatite ceramic (e.max Ceram, Ivoclar Vivadent, Liechtenstein) through the layering technique.
Laboratory Assessment of Forest Soil Respiration Affected by Wildfires under Various Environments of Russia
Authors: Abakumov Evgeny , Maksimova Ekaterina , Tsibart Anna , Shamilishviliy George
Published: August 2017

Pyrogenic carbon emission rates were estimated in the soils of three natural zones in Russia: forest-tundra, south-taiga, and forest-steppe. Postfire soils were found to be characterized by essential losses of soil C due to the combustion fire effect. Soils lost 3 or 5 parts of initial carbon content and showed an essential decrease in the C/N ratio during the fire effect. The pH values increased due to soil enrichment by ash during the fire events. CO2 emission rates were highest in natural soil samples, because the amount of organic matter affected by mineralization in those soils was higher than in natural ones. Simultaneously, the total values of mineralized carbon were higher in postfire soils because the SOM quality and composition were altered due to the fire effect. The only exception was in forest-tundra soils, where a high portion of dissolved organic compounds was released during the surface fire. The quality of initial SOM and intensity of the wildfire play the most important roles in the fate of SOM in postfire environments. Further study of CO2 emissions is needed to better characterize postfire SOM dynamics and develop an approach to model this process.
Automated Classification of Lung Cancer Types from Cytological Images Using Deep Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Teramoto Atsushi , Tsukamoto Tetsuya , Kiriyama Yuka , Fujita Hiroshi
Published: August 2017

Lung cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. Currently, in differential diagnosis of lung cancer, accurate classification of cancer types (adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and small cell carcinoma) is required. However, improving the accuracy and stability of diagnosis is challenging. In this study, we developed an automated classification scheme for lung cancers presented in microscopic images using a deep convolutional neural network (DCNN), which is a major deep learning technique. The DCNN used for classification consists of three convolutional layers, three pooling layers, and two fully connected layers. In evaluation experiments conducted, the DCNN was trained using our original database with a graphics processing unit. Microscopic images were first cropped and resampled to obtain images with resolution of 256 × 256 pixels and, to prevent overfitting, collected images were augmented via rotation, flipping, and filtering. The probabilities of three types of cancers were estimated using the developed scheme and its classification accuracy was evaluated using threefold cross validation. In the results obtained, approximately 71% of the images were classified correctly, which is on par with the accuracy of cytotechnologists and pathologists. Thus, the developed scheme is useful for classification of lung cancers from microscopic images.
Remaining Useful Life Estimation Based on Asynchronous Multisource Monitoring Information Fusion
Authors: Hu Yanyan , Qi Shuai , Xue Xiaoling , Peng Kaixiang
Published: August 2017

An asynchronous RUL fusion estimation algorithm is presented for the hidden degradation process with multiple asynchronous monitoring sensors based on multisource information fusion. Firstly, a state-space type model is established by modeling the stochastic degradation as a Wiener process and transforming asynchronous indirectly observations in the fusion period to the fusion time. The statistical characteristics of involved noises and their correlations are analyzed. Secondly, the estimate of the hidden degradation state is obtained by applying Kalman filtering with correlated noises to the established state-space model, where the synchronized observations are fused. Also, the unknown model parameters are recursively identified based on the Expectation-Maximization (EM) algorithm with the Generic Algorithm (GA) adopted to solve the maximization problem. Finally, the probability distribution of RUL is obtained using the fused degradation state estimation and the updated identification result of the model parameters. Simulation results show that the proposed fusion method has better performance than the RUL estimation with single sensor.
Wind-Induced Response of an L-Shaped Cable Support Glass Curtain Wall
Authors: Yu Yan , Liu Tao , Zhang Qilin , Yang Bin
Published: August 2017

Due to its flexibility, cable support glass curtain wall is sensitive to wind loads and its wind-induced dynamic response has attracted more and more attention recently. However, the wind-resistant study for this kind of structure mainly focuses on single-layer plane cable support curtain walls but is rare on irregular ones. In this paper, the wind-induced response of an L-shaped cable support glass curtain wall is analyzed. In order to truly reflect the force transmission, a finite element model of curtain wall is established to ensure collaborative deformation between glass and cable, including glass panel, cable, sealant, and claw connection. Time-domain vibration analysis of the curtain wall is carried out with the random sequence of multinode fluctuating wind velocity time history simulated by autoregressive linear filtering method based on Kaimal wind velocity spectrum. Four wind flow directions are specified, namely, 0°, 15°, 30°, and 45°, to analyze the wind-induced dynamic response of this structure with consideration of the fluid-structure interaction effect. Finally, the deflection of the glass surface is studied by statistical analysis of displacement so as to obtain the wind vibration coefficient suitable for structural design of practical projects, and the variation of cable force is investigated as well.
Safety of the Transcranial Focal Electrical Stimulation via Tripolar Concentric Ring Electrodes for Hippocampal CA3 Subregion Neurons in Rats
Authors: Mucio-Ramírez Samuel , Makeyev Oleksandr
Published: August 2017

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that affects approximately one percent of the world population. Noninvasive electrical brain stimulation via tripolar concentric ring electrodes has been proposed as an alternative/complementary therapy for seizure control. Previous results suggest its efficacy attenuating acute seizures in penicillin, pilocarpine-induced status epilepticus, and pentylenetetrazole-induced rat seizure models and its safety for the rat scalp, cortical integrity, and memory formation. In this study, neuronal counting was used to assess possible tissue damage in rats (n=36) due to the single dose or five doses (given every 24 hours) of stimulation on hippocampal CA3 subregion neurons 24 hours, one week, and one month after the last stimulation dose. Full factorial analysis of variance showed no statistically significant difference in the number of neurons between control and stimulation-treated animals (p = 0.71). Moreover, it showed no statistically significant differences due to the number of stimulation doses (p = 0.71) nor due to the delay after the last stimulation dose (p = 0.96). Obtained results suggest that stimulation at current parameters (50 mA, 200 μs, 300 Hz, biphasic, charge-balanced pulses for 2 minutes) does not induce neuronal damage in the hippocampal CA3 subregion of the brain.
The Role of Rossby-Wave Propagation in a North American Extreme Cold Event
Authors: Shi Chunhua , Xu Ting , Li Hui , Gao Yannan
Published: August 2017

The Eliassen–Palm flux and Plumb wave activity flux are calculated using the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts interim reanalysis daily dataset to determine the propagation of Rossby waves before a North American cold wave in January 2014. The results show that the upward wave activity fluxes mainly come from planetary waves 1 and 2, which provide a stable circulation background for the influence of the subplanetary-scale waves 3 and 4. The Rossby-wave propagation anomalies between the troposphere and the stratosphere are due to the modulating effects of waves 3 and 4 on waves 1 and 2. During 9–14 January 2014, the modulating effects helped strengthen upward and eastward wave activity fluxes over the Atlantic region and enhance the Pacific high in the stratosphere in its early stage. Later in 19–24 January, the downward wave activity fluxes over the east Pacific due to the modulating effects were beneficial to downward development of the stratospheric high over the Pacific and the formation of a blocking high over the west coast of North America in the troposphere accompanied by a strong adjacent cold low on the east side. These circulations benefit the southward invasion of polar cold air reaching the lower latitudes of east North America, leading to the cold wave outbreak.
Preoperative Signs and Symptoms as Prognostic Markers in Nasal Septoplasty
Authors: Shiryaeva Olga , Tarangen Magnus , Gay Caryl , Døsen Liv Kari , Haye Rolf
Published: August 2017

Identification of preoperative signs and symptoms that may predict the outcome of surgery is important, for both patient selection and the development of interventions for improving outcomes. The purpose of this study was to assess the value of some selected preoperative signs and symptoms for predicting outcomes of nasal septoplasty. Patients undergoing septoplasty with or without turbinoplasty responded to the Nasal Surgical Questionnaire (NSQ) preoperatively and six months postoperatively. The questionnaire contains visual analogue scales (VAS) for nasal obstruction during the day and at night. We compared preoperative and postoperative VAS scores in patients with unilateral versus bilateral septal deviation and patients with low versus high preoperative scores. Of 446 patients undergoing septoplasty from September 2014 to December 2015 who had responded to the preoperative NSQ, 286 (64.1%) also returned the postoperative version. There was greater improvement in obstruction in patients with preoperative unilateral compared to bilateral septal deviation (day scores, p=0.04). The grade of deviation and the presence of concomitant bony conchal hypertrophy did not influence results. Patients with lower preoperative VAS scores obtained better end results than those with higher scores (p=0.04). Type of septal deviation and preoperative VAS scores may aid in predicting outcome of nasal surgery.