bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Probing for Binding Regions of the FtsZ Protein Surface through Site-Directed Insertions: Discovery of Fully Functional FtsZ-Fluorescent Proteins
Authors: Moore Desmond A. , Whatley Zakiya N. , Joshi Chandra P. , Osawa Masaki , Erickson Harold P.
Published: October 2016

FtsZ, a bacterial tubulin homologue, is a cytoskeletal protein that assembles into protofilaments that are one subunit thick. These protofilaments assemble further to form a “Z ring” at the center of prokaryotic cells. The Z ring generates a constriction force on the inner membrane and also serves as a scaffold to recruit cell wall remodeling proteins for complete cell division
in vivo
. One model of the Z ring proposes that protofilaments associate via lateral bonds to form ribbons; however, lateral bonds are still only hypothetical. To explore potential lateral bonding sites, we probed the surface of
Escherichia coli
FtsZ by inserting either small peptides or whole fluorescent proteins (FPs). Among the four lateral surfaces on FtsZ protofilaments, we obtained inserts on the front and back surfaces that were functional for cell division. We concluded that these faces are not sites of essential interactions. Inserts at two sites, G124 and R174, located on the left and right surfaces, completely blocked function, and these sites were identified as possible sites for essential lateral interactions. However, the insert at R174 did not interfere with association of protofilaments into sheets and bundles
in vitro
. Another goal was to find a location within FtsZ that supported insertion of FP reporter proteins while allowing the FtsZ-FPs to function as the sole source of FtsZ. We discovered one internal site, G55-Q56, where several different FPs could be inserted without impairing function. These FtsZ-FPs may provide advances for imaging Z-ring structure by superresolution techniques.

IMPORTANCE
One model for the Z-ring structure proposes that protofilaments are assembled into ribbons by lateral bonds between FtsZ subunits. Our study excluded the involvement of the front and back faces of the protofilament in essential interactions
in vivo
but pointed to two potential lateral bond sites, on the right and left sides. We also identified an FtsZ loop where various fluorescent proteins could be inserted without blocking function; these FtsZ-FPs functioned as the sole source of FtsZ. This advance provides improved tools for all fluorescence imaging of the Z ring and may be especially important for superresolution imaging.
Native valveProteus mirabilisendocarditis: successful treatment of a rare entity formulated by in vitro synergy antibiotic testing
Authors: Brotzki Caroline R , Mergenhagen Kari A , Bulman Zackery P , Tsuji Brian T , Berenson Charles S
Published: October 2016

Infective endocarditis caused byProteus mirabilisis a rare and poorly reported disease, with no well-defined effective antibiotic regimen. Here, we present a case ofP. mirabilisaortic valve endocarditis. We reviewed prior cases and treatment regimens, and devised effective treatment, which was guided by in vitro sensitivity and synergy testing on the pathogen. Our patient survived without complications or the need for a surgical intervention.
Coexisting pulmonary haemorrhage and venous thrombosis: a tricky but novel case
Authors: Fielding Alexandra , Pecheva Mira , Farghal Aser , Phillips Russell
Published: October 2016

We present a case of Lemierre's disease complicated by pulmonary artery pseudoaneurysm. A previously well woman aged 43 years presented with a history of a sore throat and worsening dyspnoea. She was diagnosed with a severe cavitating bilateral pneumonia complicated by internal jugular vein thrombosis consistent with a diagnosis of Lemierre's disease. She had an episode of massive haemoptysis which was confirmed to be due to a pulmonary artery pseudoaneurysm which required radiologically guided embolisation. She then required surgical decortication for bilateral empyemata. Blood cultures revealed growth ofSlackia exigua, an organism yet to be linked with both of these complications concurrently. We believe this to be a novel case of this bacterium causing thrombosis and haemorrhage.
Serum sickness-like reaction after the treatment of cellulitis with amoxicillin/clavulanate
Authors: Patterson-Fortin Jeffrey , Harris Che Mathew , Niranjan-Azadi Ashwini , Melia Michael
Published: October 2016

Serum sickness-like reaction is a rare disease presentation. We describe a case of a man aged 58 years who presented with acute-onset polyarthralgia, intense pruritus of hands and feet, fever to 39.5°C and leucocytosis to 17.2×103/mm35 days after completing a 10-day course of amoxicillin/clavulanate for the treatment of finger cellulitis. With history, symptoms, physical examination findings and reported cases in the literature of serum sickness-like reactions to amoxicillin, a clinical diagnosis of serum sickness-like reaction was made. The patient was treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatories with improvement in symptoms by the time of discharge.
The role of specific visual subfields in collisions with oncoming cars during simulated driving in patients with advanced glaucoma
Authors: Kunimatsu-Sanuki Shiho , Iwase Aiko , Araie Makoto , Aoki Yuki , Hara Takeshi , Fukuchi Takeo , Udagawa Sachiko , Ohkubo Shinji , Sugiyama Kazuhisa , Matsumoto Chota , Nakazawa Toru , Yamaguchi Takuhiro , Ono Hiroshi
Published: October 2016

Background/aims

To assess the role of specific visual subfields in collisions with oncoming cars during simulated driving in patients with advanced glaucoma.

Methods

Normal subjects and patients with glaucoma with mean deviation <–12 dB in both eyes (Humphrey Field Analyzer 24-2 SITA-S program) used a driving simulator (DS; Honda Motor, Tokyo). Two scenarios in which oncoming cars turned right crossing the driver's path were chosen. We compared the binocular integrated visual field (IVF) in the patients who were involved in collisions and those who were not. We performed a multivariate logistic regression analysis; the dependent parameter was collision involvement, and the independent parameters were age, visual acuity and mean sensitivity of the IVF subfields.

Results

The study included 43 normal subjects and 100 patients with advanced glaucoma. And, 5 of the 100 patients with advanced glaucoma experienced simulator sickness during the main test and were thus excluded. In total, 95 patients with advanced glaucoma and 43 normal subjects completed the main test of DS. Advanced glaucoma patients had significantly more collisions than normal patients in one or both DS scenarios (p<0.001). The patients with advanced glaucoma who were involved in collisions were older (p=0.050) and had worse visual acuity in the better eye (p<0.001) and had lower mean IVF sensitivity in the inferior hemifield, both 0°–12° and 13°–24° in comparison with who were not involved in collisions (p=0.012 and p=0.034). A logistic regression analysis revealed that collision involvement was significantly associated with decreased inferior IVF mean sensitivity from 13° to 24° (p=0.041), in addition to older age and lower visual acuity (p=0.018 and p<0.001).

Conclusions

Our data suggest that the inferior hemifield was associated with the incidence of motor vehicle collisions with oncoming cars in patients with advanced glaucoma.
Effectiveness of after-school interventions at increasing moderate-to-vigorous physical activity levels in 5- to 18-year olds: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Mears Ruth , Jago Russell
Published: October 2016

Aim

Physical activity in children improves cardiovascular, mental, metabolic and skeletal health. Many children fail to meet the national recommendation of at least 60 min per day of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA). After-school programmes provide an opportunity to engage children in physical activity. This systematic review and meta-analysis examine the effectiveness of after-school interventions at increasing MVPA levels in children and adolescents.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analyses.

Data sources

A literature search was conducted using MEDLINE, EMBASE and PsychINFO databases from January 1950 to April 2015.

Eligibility criteria for selecting studies

Inclusion criteria—Population: participants aged 5–18 years. Intervention: an after-school programme in a school-based setting as the main component of an intervention to increase physical activity levels. Outcomes: individual-level measure of time spent in MVPA. Study design: quasi-experimental, pilot, non-randomised or randomised trials. Exclusion criteria: conference abstracts, unpublished articles, dissertations and non-English language papers.

Results

1387 records were identified through database searching. After removal of duplicates, there were 748 records. 15 articles met the inclusion criteria for the systematic review. 6 studies were eligible for meta-analysis and the pooled intervention effect at end point follow-up was 4.84 min/day of MVPA (95% CI −0.94 to 10.61). The effectiveness of after-school interventions varied considerably and comparisons between studies limited by different methodological study designs. Subgroup analyses within a small minority of studies revealed significant benefits in overweight/obese children and boys. There was a lack of convincing evidence that interventions based on theories of behaviour change were more effective than those with no underlying theory.

Conclusions

After-school physical activity interventions to date have had mixed effectiveness on increasing MVPA levels. More robust evaluations of extracurricular physical activity interventions are required, particularly studies that use objective assessment of physical activity.
DOES A ‘PREVENT INJURY AND ENHANCE PERFORMANCE’ PROGRAMME (PEP) CHANGE THE NEUROMUSCULAR CONTROL IN YOUNG FEMALE ACROBATIC GYMNASTS?
Authors: Ross EC , Thawley P
Published: October 2016

Aims

The primary aim of this interventional study was to identify if a PEP1 is an effective neuromuscular training intervention to change neuromuscular control (NMC) of the lower limb in young female acrobatic gymnasts. Secondary aims were to identify if the gymnast's perceived a change in their own strength, physical sporting ability (PSA), self-esteem or physical self-worth (PSW) following this neuromuscular training method.

Methods

Fifty-four female acrobatic gymnasts, mean age 11.43 years (±2.96 range 7–18 years), height 1.44 (±0.16 SD) metres, mean weight 37.4 kg (±13.35 SD), were recruited. All participants were assessed through 2-dimensional video analysis using the Qualitative Analysis of Single Leg Squat Scoring tool2 (QASLS) and The Children and Youth Self-Perception Questionnaire3 (CY-PSPP). Outcome measures were completed pre- and post- an eight week PEP intervention. The PEP was completed up to three times a week, prior to standard acrobatic training, within the competitive season.

Results

Post-interventional analysis observed a significant improvement in the QASLS score on both the right (p=0.001) and left lower limb (p=0.001) of female gymnasts. The CY-PSPP questionnaire showed significant improvement in gymnast's perception of theirstrength(p=0.013),PSA(p=0.002) andself-esteem(p=0.013). No significance was observed inPSW(p=0.164).

Conclusions

An 8-week PEP showed a significant effect in increasing young female acrobatic gymnasts NMC whilst performing a single leg squat. The PEP, as a method of neuromuscular training, demonstrated significant improvement in gymnast's self-perception of strength, PSA and self-esteem. Gymnastics is a sport dominated by childhood and adolescent age groups. Effective injury prevention strategies are vital to protect the health of young gymnasts. These results demonstrate that a PEP incorporating neuromuscular training interventions during childhood and pre-adolescence can positively improve young female gymnasts' NMC.
Views of patients and professionals about electronic multicompartment medication devices: a qualitative study
Authors: Hall Jill , Bond Christine , Kinnear Moira , McKinstry Brian
Published: October 2016

Objectives

To explore the perceived acceptability, advantages and disadvantages of electronic multicompartment medication devices.

Design

Qualitative study using 8 focus groups and 10 individual semistructured interviews. Recordings were transcribed and analysed thematically. Strategies were employed to ensure the findings were credible and trustworthy.

Participants and setting

Community pharmacists (n=11), general practitioners (n=9), community nurses (n=12) and social care managers (n=8) were recruited from the National Health Service (NHS) and local authority services. Patients (n=15) who were current conventional or electronic multicompartment medication device users or had medication adherence problems were recruited from community pharmacies. 3 informal carers participated.

Results

Electronic multicompartment medication devices which prompt the patient to take medication may be beneficial for selected individuals, particularly those with cognitive impairment, but who are not seriously impaired, provided they have a good level of dexterity. They may also assist individuals where it is important that medication is taken at fixed time intervals. These are likely to be people who are being supported to live alone. No single device suited everybody; smaller/lighter devices were preferred but their usefulness was limited by the small number/size of storage compartments. Removing medications was often challenging. Transportability was an important factor for patients and carers. A carer's alert if medication is not taken was problematic with multiple barriers to implementation and no consensus as to who should receive the alert. There was a lack of enthusiasm among professionals, particularly among pharmacists, due to concerns about responsibility and funding for devices as well as ensuring devices met regulatory standards for storage and labelling.

Conclusions

This study provides indicators of which patients might benefit from an electronic multicompartment medication device as well as the kinds of features to consider when matching a patient with a device. It also highlights other considerations for successful implementation including issues of responsibility, regulation and funding.
Functional disability and social participation restriction associated with chronic conditions in middle-aged and older adults
Authors: Griffith Lauren E , Raina Parminder , Levasseur Mélanie , Sohel Nazmul , Payette Hélène , Tuokko Holly , van den Heuvel Edwin , Wister Andrew , Gilsing Anne , Patterson Christopher
Published: October 2016

Background

We examine the population impact on functional disability and social participation of physical and mental chronic conditions individually and in combination.

Methods

Cross-sectional, population-based data from community-dwelling people aged 45 years and over living in the 10 Canadian provinces in 2008–2009 were used to estimate the population attributable risk (PAR) for functional disability in basic (ADL) and instrumental (IADL) activities of daily living and social participation restrictions for individual and combinations of chronic conditions, stratified by age and gender, after adjusting for confounding variables.

Results

Five chronic conditions (arthritis, depression, diabetes, heart disease and eye disease) made the largest contributions to ADL-related and IADL-related functional disability and social participation restrictions, with variation in magnitude and ranking by age and gender. While arthritis was consistently associated with higher PARs across gender and most age groups, depression, alone and in combination with the physical chronic conditions, was associated with ADL and IADL disability as well as social participation restrictions in the younger age groups, especially among women. Compared to women, the combinations of conditions associated with higher PARs in men more often included heart disease and diabetes.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that in community-dwelling middle-aged and older adults, the impact of combinations of mental and physical chronic conditions on functional disability and social participation restriction is substantial and differed by gender and age. Recognising the differences in the drivers of PAR by gender and age group will ultimately increase the efficiency of clinical and public health interventions.
No evidence of hyperphagia during prehibernation in a northern population of little brown bats (Myotis lucifugus)
Authors: McGuire L.P. , Muise K.A. , Shrivastav A. , Willis C.K.R.
Published: October 2016

During autumn, temperate bats must deposit fat stores for hibernation. Populations at high latitudes face four challenges: a shorter active season and shorter nights during the active season (less time to accumulate fat), a longer hibernation period (larger fat store needed), and colder nights (reduced prey availability). Mating also occurs during the prehibernation period, placing time constraints for mating and fattening on northern populations. We tested the hypothesis that these factors constrain prehibernation foraging in northern populations of little brown bats (Myotis lucifugus (Le Conte, 1831)). We measured plasma triglyceride concentration to study prehibernation fueling rates of a population near the northern range limit of the species and compared our results with previously published results from a more southern population. In contrast to bats at the lower latitude, we found consistently low concentrations of plasma triglycerides, indicating a low fuelling rate throughout the prehibernation period. However, despite an apparently low fuelling rate, bats achieved a substantially greater body mass. The discrepancy between populations suggests that environmental constraints lead northern populations to employ different behavioural or physiological strategies to prepare for hibernation.
Study of the coordination of quinuclidine to a chiral zinc phthalocyanine dimer
Authors: Giménez-Agulló Nelson , Aragay Gemma , Galán-Mascarós José Ramón , Ballester Pablo
Published: October 2016

We attempted the calculation of an accurate equilibrium constant for the dimerization process of enantiomerically pure Zn-1 using UV-vis dilution experiments. At millimolar concentration Zn-1 is involved in a chemical exchange process between its monomeric and dimeric state that is slow on the1H NMR timescale. We performed variable-temperature1H NMR experiments in CDCl3solution to determine the dimerization constant value at different temperatures and performed a van’t Hoff plot to derive the thermodynamic parameters of the process. The calculated thermodynamic data revealed that the dimerization process is entropy-driven and enthalpically opposed. We also probed the coordination of quinuclidine, 1-azabicyclo[2.2.2]octane, 2, to the Zn-1 using UV-vis and1H NMR titrations in CDCl3solution. At micromolar concentration the Zn-1 exclusively exists in solution as a monomer and forms a simple 1:1, [Formula: see text], complex with quinuclidine having a stability constant of [Formula: see text]([Formula: see text]) [Formula: see text] 106M[Formula: see text]. On the other hand, the1H NMR titrations carried out at 298 K and at millimolar concentration showed that Zn-1 was present in solution as the dimer and formed 1:2, [Formula: see text], and 2:2, [Formula: see text] complexes by coordination to 2. In addition, the 1:1 complex, [Formula: see text] showed a reduced dimerization constant compared to the uncoordinated parent monomer Zn-1. At high quinuclidine concentration, the 1:1 complex, [Formula: see text], derived from the coordinated dimer dissociation was also detected. The1H NMR spectra of the titrations displayed separate signals for some hydrogen atoms of the Zn-phthalocyanine in each one of the four species. Remarkably, the chemical exchange processes involving free and bound quinuclidine in the monomeric and dimeric complexes showed different kinetics on the NMR timescale.
Teach or Design? How Older Adults’ Use of Ticket Vending Machines Could Be More Effective
Authors: Sengpiel Michael
Published: October 2016

The dominance of computer technology in work and leisure poses challenges for older people. Their lack of computer experience and computer literacy impedes their ability to explore and use new interactive systems. This is particularly challenging for the design of public access systems, such as ticket vending machines (TVM). This article describes a conflict relevant for many designers considering age-related differences in technology use: should the user be taught to use the existing design or should the design be changed to accommodate older users? An experiment was conducted to directly compare these alternative approaches with each other and with a simulation of an existing TVM. It compares three TVM designs regarding the usability criteria of effectiveness, efficiency and satisfaction, controlling for age, and cognitive and motivational characteristics. 62 older (M = 68 years) and 62 younger (M = 25 years) participants were split into three groups: The control group solved 11 tasks using a simulation of the TVM, the video group watched a brief instructional video before solving the same tasks with the same TVM, and the wizard group used a redesigned wizard interface instead. Results indicate that young and old participants’ performance improved after watching the video, but older participants improved more, reaching the effectiveness of the young control group. In the wizard condition, age differences in effectiveness and satisfaction were eliminated; however, speed differences remained in all conditions. The results suggest that the simple integration of minimal video instruction or a task-oriented wizard design can make public access systems truly universally usable, and that the wizard TVM was a true “walk-up-and-use system.”
Differential effects of bisphenol A diglicydyl ether on bone quality and marrow adiposity in ovary-intact and ovariectomized rats
Authors: Li Guanwu , Xu Zheng , Hou Lingmi , Li Xuefeng , Li Xin , Yuan Wei , Polat Maki , Chang Shixin
Published: October 2016

Bisphenol A diglycidyl ether (BADGE), a PPARγ2 antagonist, has been shown to inhibit marrow adipogenesis and promote bone formation in intact animals. We investigated the impact of BADGE on a new and more clinically relevant physiological model, the ovariectomized (OVX) rat model. Forty female Wistar rats were divided into four treatment groups for 12 wk ( n = 10/group): sham+vehicle, sham+BADGE, OVX+vehicle, and OVX+BADGE. Postmortem analyses included MRI, micro-CT, serological test, histomorphometry, biomechanical tests, RT-PCR, and Western blot. Overall, OVX induced a sequential marrow fat expansion accompanied by bone deterioration. Compared with OVX controls, BADGE reduced fat fraction of the distal femur by 36.3%, adipocyte density by 33.0%, adipocyte size by 28.6%, adipocyte volume percentage by 57.8%, and adipogenic markers PPARγ2 and C/EBPα by ∼50% in OVX rats. Similar results were observed in sham rats vs. vehicle. BADGE could promote bone quality in sham rats; however, BADGE did not significantly improve trabecular microarchitecture, biomechanical strength, and dynamic histomorphometric parameters except for trabecular separation in OVX rats. We concluded that early BADGE treatment at a dose of 30 mg/kg attenuates marrow adiposity in ovary-intact and OVX rats and stimulates bone formation in ovary-intact rats but does not significantly rescue bone quality in OVX rats.
The Efficacy of Thai Herbal Prasaplai Formula for Treatment of Primary Dysmenorrhea: A Short‐Term Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Vannabhum Manmas , Poopong Sirikan , Wongwananuruk Thanyarat , Nimmannit Akarin , Suwannatrai Ueamphon , Dangrat Chongdee , Apichartvorakit Angkana , Booranasubkajorn Suksalin , Laohapand Tawee , Akaraserenont Pravit
Published: October 2016

This study aims to compare the efficacy of pain relief between a specific Thai herbal Prasaplai formula (PPF) and placebo in patients with primary dysmenorrhea. Forty women with primary dysmenorrhea symptoms were randomized into two groups. The experimental group received PPF capsules 1000 mg orally three times per day before meals for three days starting from the first day of menstruation. The placebo group received placebo as the same dose and time. Average pain intensity from the first day to the third day of cycle significantly decreased in both groups (p < 0.001), but with no statistically significant difference between groups. Using a pre‐ and posttreatment difference in NRS of at least 2, a greater proportion of patients in PPF group experienced pain relief compared to placebo during the first and second day of period. A greater proportion of PPF group also experienced no pain compared to the placebo group on day 1 and day 3 by using multidimensional scoring. The PPF demonstrates pain relief activity when used during menstruation in primary dysmenorrhea patients, with no adverse effects. However, further studies are needed in order to assess the value of PPF as a long‐term prophylaxis for primary dysmenorrhea.
Hemorrhage from Extra-Antral Gastric Antral Vascular Ectasia in a Patient with Duodenal Heterotopic Gastric Mucosa
Authors: Gubatan John , Raines Nathan , Khosravi Hasan , Challies Tracy L. , Berzin Tyler M.
Published: October 2016

Gastric antral vascular ectasias (GAVE) have been increasingly recognized as an uncommon cause of chronic gastrointestinal bleeding and anemia, although their underlying pathogenesis is not completely well understood. Heterotopic gastric mucosa (HGM) has been reported to occur at various sites along the gastrointestinal tract and although relatively common, it is often asymptomatic. We report a case of a 60-year-old woman with a prior history of GAVE who developed melena and symptomatic anemia during her hospitalization following cardiac catheterization. Initial EGD demonstrated nonbleeding antral GAVE and a newly discovered duodenal mass. Duodenal mass biopsies were ultimately notable for HGM along with histologic features of extra-antral GAVE. The patient required blood transfusions and consequently had a small bowel endoscopy notable for fresh blood in the proximal small bowel. The patient underwent a small bowel push enteroscopy which demonstrated active bleeding of the duodenal mass and overlying oozing GAVE, which was cauterized with Argon-Plasma Coagulation with adequate hemostasis. We present for the first time a novel association between GAVE and HGM. Our case illustrates that extra-antral GAVE may occur with HGM in the duodenum. We explore potential mechanisms by which HGM may be involved in the pathogenesis of GAVE.
Improvement of Electroacupuncture on APP/PS1 Transgenic Mice in Spatial Learning and Memory Probably due to Expression of Aβ and LRP1 in Hippocampus
Authors: Wang Xin , Miao Yanhuan , Abulizi Jiawula , Li Fu , Mo Yuping , Xue Weiguo , Li Zhigang
Published: October 2016

Objectives. To explore the alterations of β‐amyloid (Aβ) and low density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein‐1 (LRP1) in APP/PS1 mice after electroacupuncture (EA) treatment and further to explore the mechanism. Methods. Forty 6‐month‐old APP/PS1 mice were randomly divided into a model group and an EA group, with twenty wild‐type mice used as a normal control group. Mice in the EA group were treated with EA at GV 20 (băi huì) and bilateral KI 1 (yŏng quán) acupoints for 6 weeks. The Morris water maze was applied to assess the spatial memory in behavior. Immunohistochemistry (IHC), ELISA, Western blotting, and so forth were used to observe the expression of LRP1 and Aβ. Results. The Morris water maze test showed that, compared with the normal control group, the model group’s learning and memory capabilities were significantly decreased (P < 0.05; P < 0.01). The EA group was reversed (P < 0.05; P < 0.01). The hippocampal expression of Aβ in the EA group was significantly decreased compared to the model group (P < 0.01). The expression of LRP1 in the model group was significantly lower than that in the normal control group (P < 0.01); the expression in the EA group was significantly higher than that in the model group (P < 0.01). Conclusions. EA therapy can improve the learning and memory capabilities of APP/PS1 mice. The underlying mechanism may lie in the upregulation of an Aβ transport receptor and LRP1.
A New Double Sliding Mode Observer for EV Lithium Battery SOC Estimation
Authors: Chen Qiaoyan , Jiang Jiuchun , Ruan Haijun , Zhang Caiping
Published: October 2016

A new sliding mode observer is proposed in this paper; compared with the existing sliding mode observer used for SOC estimation, the new observer has the advantages of simple design and good generality. The robustness of the new observer was proved by Lyapunov stability theorem. Taking the first-order Randle circuit model of the battery as an example, the new sliding mode observer was designed. Battery test was done with the simulated FUDS condition, and the robustness of the new observer was verified by the test. Because battery internal ohmic resistance is changing in battery working process, which has a significant effect on SOC estimation, a new double sliding mode observer was designed to identify the internal resistance. The tests results show that the battery internal ohmic resistance changes greatly when the SOC is low and the double observer can accurately identify the resistance which improves the accuracy of the battery model. The results also show that the new double observer is robust and can improve the precision of SOC estimation when the battery remaining capacity is low.
Bacterial Load in Daily Urine Samples of Patients Infected withMycoplasma genitalium, Mutation Analysis, and Response to Treatment
Authors: Gossé M. , Nordbø S. A. , Pukstad B.
Published: October 2016

Objective. Increasing macrolide resistant strains ofMycoplasma genitaliumis a challenge, and to differentiate between treatment failure and reinfection a timely test of cure (TOC) is warranted. The aim of this study was to evaluate the best time for TOC after five days’ treatment ofMycoplasma genitaliuminfection with azithromycin.Methods. Nineteen patients with positive PCR forMycoplasma genitaliumin urine provided urine samples daily for 2 weeks and on days 21, 28, and 35. Samples were tested by a commercial qPCR and by sequencing of the 23S rRNA gene.Results. Eight patients with a wild type ofMycoplasma genitaliumresponded successfully within four days after treatment initiation. Eleven patients had a mutation in the 23S rRNA gene. These samples exhibited high variations in bacterial load, and some patients tested negative at several time points during the observation period.Conclusions. Day-to-day fluctuations in the mutation samples allow for false negative TOC during the first 5 weeks after start of treatment. Due to increasing macrolide resistance ofMycoplasma genitalium, pretreatment mutation analysis is recommended. When a wild type is verified, TOC performed one week after initiation of treatment is suggested.
Fabrication of Si/SiO2 Superlattice Microwire Array Solar Cells Using Microsphere Lithography
Authors: Yamada Shigeru , Miyajima Shinsuke , Konagai Makoto
Published: October 2016

A fabrication process for silicon/silicon dioxide (Si/SiO2) superlattice microwire array solar cells was developed. The Si/SiO2 superlattice microwire array was fabricated using a microsphere lithography process with polystyrene particles. The solar cell shows a photovoltaic effect and an open-circuit voltage of 128 mV was obtained. The limiting factors of the solar cell performance were investigated from the careful observations of the solar cell structures. We also investigated the influence of the microwire array structure on light trapping in the solar cells.
Influence of Surface Treatment and Annealing Temperature on the Recombination Processes of the Quantum Dots Solar Cells
Authors: Thanh Tung Ha , Quang Vinh Lam , Dat Huynh Thanh
Published: October 2016

We have studied the effect of the surface treatment of the CdS/CdSe quantum dots (QDs) by passivation ZnS layers and annealing temperature on the recombination resistance of the quantum dots solar cells (QDSSCs) based on TiO2/CdS/CdSe/ZnS photoanodes. The recombination resistance at TiO2/QDs contact and in TiO2film decreased when the QDs were added to the passivation ZnS layers. Furthermore, we used the F−ions linker and found the best annealing temperature conditions to reduce the recombination resistance of the QDSSCs. As a result, the current density increased from 7.85 mA/cm2to 14 mA/cm2.
The Prosthetic Workflow in the Digital Era
Authors: Tordiglione Lidia , De Franco Michele , Bosetti Giovanni
Published: October 2016

The purpose of this retrospective study was to clinically evaluate the benefits of adopting a full digital workflow for the implementation of fixed prosthetic restorations on natural teeth. To evaluate the effectiveness of these protocols, treatment plans were drawn up for 15 patients requiring rehabilitation of one or more natural teeth. All the dental impressions were taken using a Planmeca PlanScan® (Planmeca OY, Helsinki, Finland) intraoral scanner, which provided digital casts on which the restorations were digitally designed using Exocad® (Exocad GmbH, Germany, 2010) software and fabricated by CAM processing on 5-axis milling machines. A total of 28 single crowns were made from monolithic zirconia, 12 vestibular veneers from lithium disilicate, and 4 three-quarter vestibular veneers with palatal extension. While the restorations were applied, the authors could clinically appreciate the excellent match between the digitally produced prosthetic design and the cemented prostheses, which never required any occlusal or proximal adjustment. Out of all the restorations applied, only one exhibited premature failure and was replaced with no other complications or need for further scanning. From the clinical experience gained using a full digital workflow, the authors can confirm that these work processes enable the fabrication of clinically reliable restorations, with all the benefits that digital methods bring to the dentist, the dental laboratory, and the patient.
Big Data–Led Cancer Research, Application, and Insights
Authors: Brown James A.L. , Ni Chonghaile Triona , Matchett Kyle B. , Lynam-Lennon Niamh , Kiely Patrick A.
Published: October 2016

Insights distilled from integrating multiple big-data or “omic” datasets have revealed functional hierarchies of molecular networks driving tumorigenesis and modifiers of treatment response. Identifying these novel key regulatory and dysregulated elements is now informing personalized medicine. Crucially, although there are many advantages to this approach, there are several key considerations to address. Here, we examine how this big data–led approach is impacting many diverse areas of cancer research, through review of the key presentations given at the Irish Association for Cancer Research Meeting and importantly how the results may be applied to positively affect patient outcomes. Cancer Res; 76(21); 6167–70. ©2016 AACR.
Prognostic Significance of MiRNA in Patients with Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma: a Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zheng Zhuojun , Li Xiaodong , Zhu Yuandong , Gu Weiying , Xie Xiaobao , Jiang Jingting
Published: October 2016

Introduction: This pooled analysis study aimed to reveal the prognostic relevance of microRNAs (miRNAs) in patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Materials and Methods: We examined the impact of miRNAs on clinical outcome. Eligible studies were identified and quality assessed using multiple search strategies. Data were extracted from included studies which correlated survival with expression of miRNAs (serum or tissue). Results: We pooled proper studies, and combined the hazard ratios with 95% confidence intervals to estimate strength of the correlations. There were 18 studies including 1950 patients with DLBCL eligible for pooled analysis. We found significant combined HRs for poor overall survival for high expression of miR-21 and low expression of miR-224 in tumor tissue, but for favorable relapse free survival for high expression of miR-21 in serum. Progression free survival was shortened in patients with low expression of miR-199a/b, miR-146b-5p, miR-224 and high expression of miR-222. Conclusion: MiRNAs may act as independent prognostic factors in patients with DLBCL, and useful in risk stratification.
Spatiotemporal Development of the Orexinergic (Hypocretinergic) System in the Central Nervous System of Xenopus laevis
Authors: López Jesús M. , Morales Lorena , González Agustín
Published: October 2016

The present immunohistochemical study represents a detailed spatiotemporal analysis of the localization of orexin-immunoreactive (OX-ir) cells and fibers throughout development in the brain of the anuran amphibian Xenopus laevis, a model frequently used in developmental studies. Anurans undergo remarkable physiological changes during the early life stages, and very little is known about the ontogeny and the localization of the centers that control functions such as appetite and feed ingestion in the developing brain. We examined the onset of the orexinergic system, demonstrated to be involved in appetite regulation, using antibodies against mammalian orexin-A and orexin-B peptides. Simultaneous detection of orexins with other territorial markers was used to assess the precise location of the orexinergic cells in the hypothalamus, analyzed within a segmental paradigm. Double staining of orexins and tyrosine hydroxylase served to evaluate possible interactions with the catecholaminergic systems. At early embryonic stages, the first OX-ir cells were detected in the hypothalamus and, soon after, long descending projections were observed through the brainstem to the spinal cord. As brain development proceeded, the double-staining techniques demonstrated that this OX-ir cell group was located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus within the alar hypothalamus. Throughout larval development, the number of OX-ir cells increased notably and a widespread fiber network that innervated the main areas of the forebrain and brainstem was progressively formed, including innervation in the posterior tubercle and mesencephalon, the locus coeruleus, and the nucleus of the solitary tract where catecholaminergic cells are present. In addition, orexinergic cells were detected in the preoptic area and the tuberal hypothalamus only at late prometamorphic stages. The final distribution pattern, largely similar to that of the adult, was achieved through metamorphic climax. The early expression of orexins in Xenopus suggests important roles in brain development in the embryonic period before feeding, and the progression of the temporal and spatial complexity of the orexinergic system might be correlated to the maturation of appetite control regulation, among other functions.
Effects of Allyl Isothiocyanate, Acetaminophen, and Dipyrone in the Guinea-Pig Ileum
Authors: Donnerer Josef , Liebmann Ingrid
Published: October 2016

Allyl isothiocyanate (AITC, mustard oil, 50-200 µmol/l), depending on specific dosages, inhibited the cholinergic twitch response in the longitudinal muscle-myenteric plexus (LMMP) strip of the guinea-pig ileum. AITC also induced short-lasting contractile responses, and decreases of the basal tone of the LMMP strip at low concentrations and increases at high concentrations. Hexamethonium, a blocker of nicotinic ganglionic transmission, was able to prevent the AITC-evoked inhibitory effect, an effect that was also observed with the opioid antagonist naloxone. The P2 purinoceptor antagonist pyridoxalphosphate-6-azophenyl-2'-4'-disulphonic acid and guanethidine had no significant influence on the inhibitory effect of AITC. Since AITC also reduced the electrical stimulation-induced myogenic smooth muscle contractions in the LMMP preparation, its contractile and relaxant actions can be regarded as neurogenic and myogenic in nature. The analgesics, acetaminophen (paracetamol, 100-500 µmol/l) and dipyrone (metamizole, 100-500 µmol/l), reduced both the cholinergic twitch and the myogenic contractions in the LMMP strip to the same extent; therefore, their action in the intestinal smooth muscle can be regarded as myogenic spasmolytic in nature.
A importância da estratigrafia mecânica no desenvolvimento de falhas e juntas em contexto de bacias sedimentares: contribuição de modelos experimentais
Authors: Oliveira Magda Estrela , Silva Fernando César Alves da
Published: October 2016

A modelagem física analógica é atualmente uma ferramenta cada vez mais utilizada para melhorar o entendimento da formação e desenvolvimento das estruturas geológicas. O impulso dado na utilização dessa ferramenta deve-se, principalmente (mas não exclusivamente), à indústria do petróleo, onde a análise estrutural é importante para a definição da geometria das estruturas que possam constituir armadilhas para o hidrocarboneto. O presente trabalho analisa a nucleação de falhas e juntas, em função do contraste reológico de materiais analógicos, durante um evento distensional em bacias sedimentares. Influência de outros fatores, como espessura das camadas e seu posicionamento na estratigrafia, também foram analisados. Os materiais utilizados para simular uma estratigrafia mecânica foram pó de gesso (sulfato de cálcio semi-hidratado), microesferas de vidro e areia quartzosa. O monitoramento dos experimentos foi feito utilizando-se o PIV (Particle Image Velocimetry), instrumento que mostra a movimentação das partículas a cada instante deformacional. Como resultados, observaram-se diferenças na nucleação e desenvolvimento das falhas nas camadas de diferente comportamento reológico. As camadas de pó de gesso comportam-se de modo mais competente, permitindo a geração de um número maior de juntas, e as falhas apresentam mergulho mais elevado do que quando atravessam as camadas menos competentes de areia quartzosa. De forma geral, os experimentos podem ser interpretados como análogos da deformação frágil em rochas carbonáticas intercaladas em sequências siliciclásticas ou ricas em argilominerais, gerando armadilhas estruturais capazes de influenciar na migração e/ou armazenamento de fluidos, tais como hidrocarbonetos ou mesmo água subterrânea.
Catheter Ablation of Atypical Atrioventricular Nodal Reentrant Tachycardia
Authors: Katritsis Demosthenes G. , Marine Joseph E. , Contreras Fernando M. , Fujii Akira , Latchamsetty Rakesh , Siontis Konstantinos C. , Katritsis George D. , Zografos Theodoros , John Roy M. , Epstein Lawrence M. , Michaud Gregory F. , Anter Elad , Sepahpour Ali , Rowland Edward , Buxton Alfred E. , Calkins Hugh , Morady Fred , Stevenson William G. , Josephson Mark E.
Published: October 2016

Background:

Because of its low prevalence, data on atypical atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT) are scarce, and the optimal ablation method has not been established. Our study aimed at assessing the efficacy and safety of conventional slow pathway ablation, as applied for typical cases, in atypical AVNRT.

Methods:

We studied 2079 patients with AVNRT subjected to slow pathway ablation. In 113 patients, mean age 48.5±18.1 years, 68 female, atypical AVNRT or coexistent atypical and typical AVNRT without other concomitant arrhythmia was diagnosed. Ablation data and outcomes were compared with a group of age- and sex-matched control patients with typical AVNRT.

Results:

Fluoroscopy and radiofrequency current delivery times were not different in the atypical and typical groups, 20.3±12.2 versus 20.8±12.9 minutes (
P
=0.730) and 5.9±5.0 versus 5.5±4.5 minutes (
P
=0.650), respectively. Slow pathway ablation was accomplished from the right septum in 110 patients, and from the left septum in 3 patients, in the atypical group. There was no need for additional ablation lesions at other anatomic sites, and no cases of atrioventricular block were encountered. Recurrence rates of the arrhythmia were 5.6% in the atypical (6/108 patients) and 1.8% in the typical (2/111 patients) groups in the next 3 months following ablation (
P
=0.167).

Conclusions:

Conventional ablation at the anatomic area of the slow pathway is the therapy of choice for symptomatic AVNRT, regardless of whether the typical or atypical form is present.
Markers of Vascular Dysfunction After Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy
Authors: Grand’Maison Sophie , Pilote Louise , Okano Marisa , Landry Tara , Dayan Natalie
Published: October 2016

Women with prior hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) are at twice the risk of cardiovascular disease compared with women with prior normotensive pregnancy, possibly because of sustained vascular dysfunction after delivery. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to summarize evidence of vascular dysfunction at least 3 months after HDP. Articles in all languages were retrieved from principal databases. Studies included were observational, with HDP as the main exposure and measurements of vascular dysfunction via imaging modalities or serum biomarkers as the main outcome, assessed at least 3 months postpartum. We pooled results of modalities reported in >3 studies using a random effects model. Of 6109 potentially relevant studies, 72 were included that evaluated 10 imaging modalities and 11 serum biomarkers in 8702 women. There was evidence of vascular dysfunction in women post HDP compared with women with prior normal pregnancy when measured by carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (0.64 m/s [0.17–1.11]), carotid intima–media thickness (0.025 mm [0.004–0.045]), and augmentation index (5.48% [1.58–9.37]), as well as mean levels of soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase (6.12 pg/mL [1.91–10.33]). Between-groups differences in measures of vascular dysfunction were more pronounced when assessments were performed in younger women (<40 years) or closer to the index pregnancy for almost all modalities. In conclusion, pooled data from studies evaluating vascular imaging suggest that some vascular dysfunction persists after HDP as compared with women with prior normal pregnancy.
Ellipsis inWh-in-Situ Languages: Deriving Apparent Sluicing in Hindi-Urdu and Uzbek
Authors: Gribanova Vera , Manetta Emily
Published: October 2016

Wh-in-situ languages have a special role to play in investigating the relation between the wh-syntax of a language and the availability of sluicing-like constructions (SLCs). Van Craenenbroeck and Lipták (2013) propose that whether a language exhibits genuine sluicing should be predictable from the syntax of the language’s wh-questions in nonelliptical contexts. We refine this formulation by considering SLCs in two contrasting wh-in-situ languages, Hindi-Urdu and Uzbek. Hindi-Urdu wh-movement occurs in the narrow syntax, but is obscured by PF processes; in Uzbek, no narrow syntax dependency is involved. Correspondingly, only Hindi-Urdu SLCs involve genuine sluicing; Uzbek SLCs are derived from reduced copular clauses. Thus, narrow syntax wh-movement may be obscured by lower-copy pronunciation in nonelliptical environments; the head of the wh-chain is then pronounced in combination with ellipsis, but not otherwise. Here, we demonstrate that the availability of genuine sluicing in Hindi-Urdu and Uzbek corresponds directly to the specific properties of their wh-systems, but not necessarily to the surface position of wh-material in a typical constituent question.
Molecular identification of Deladenus proximus Bedding, 1974 (Tylenchida: Neotylenchidae), a parasite of Sirex nigricornis (Hymenoptera: Siricidae)
Authors: Hartshorn Jessica A. , Fisher J. Ray , Riggins John J. , Stephen Fred M.
Published: October 2016

Parasitic nematodes were isolated from Sirex nigricornis (Hymenoptera: Siricidae) females collected in baited traps across pine forests of Arkansas and Mississippi, USA. We examined 650-720 bp of cytochrome c oxidase subunit I and compared Arkansas and Mississippi sequences to sequences from nematodes collected in Illinois, Louisiana and New York that were positively identified as Deladenus proximus. We propose that a single species, D. proximus, occurs across Arkansas and Mississippi. Moreover, all sequences, which spanned a large geographic area (Louisiana to New York), exhibited only minor genetic variation (mean genetic distance of 0.004). This suggests that all examined specimens are a single species and could suggest continuous gene flow across eastern North America. Additional genes should be examined to discuss more fully the prospect of continuous gene flow.