bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Soil-Transmitted Helminth Infections and Associated Risk Factors among Schoolchildren in Durbete Town, Northwestern Ethiopia
Authors: Alelign Tilahun , Degarege Abraham , Erko Berhanu
Published: June 2015

Identifying determinants of soil transmitted helminth infection is vital to design control strategy for the disease. This study assessed the prevalence of STH infections and associated factors among schoolchildren in Durbete town, northwestern Ethiopia. Data about the sociodemographic and socioeconomic status of the children were collected using a questionnaire and stool samples were diagnosed using thick Kato-Katz smear. STH infection was more common among school-age children in Durbete town. Hookworm was the most frequent helminth species detected. The prevalence of STH infection was more in children who did not practice wearing shoes and washing hands before eating and in those who were older in age. Deworming of school-age children in the study area would be important. In addition, provision of health education about helminths and the importance of wearing shoes and washing hands before eating would be important to reduce the burden of STH infection in the study area.
Regulation of Neurotrophin-3 and Interleukin-1βand Inhibition of Spinal Glial Activation Contribute to the Analgesic Effect of Electroacupuncture in Chronic Neuropathic Pain States of Rats
Authors: Tu Wenzhan , Wang Wansheng , Xi Haiyan , He Rong , Gao Liping , Jiang Songhe
Published: June 2015

Growing evidence indicates that neurotrophin-3, interleukin-1β, and spinal glia are involved in neuropathic pain derived from dorsal root ganglia to spinal cord. Electroacupuncture is widely accepted to treat chronic pain, but the precise mechanism underlying the analgesic effect of EA has not been fully demonstrated. In this study, the mechanical withdrawal threshold and thermal withdrawal latency were recorded. We used immunofluorescence and western blots methods to investigate the effect of EA on the expression of NT-3 and IL-1βin DRG and spinal cord of CCI rats; we also examined the expression of spinal GFAP and OX-42 in spinal cord. In present study, the MWT and TWL of CCI group rats were lower than those in the Sham CCI group rats, but EA treatment increased the pain thresholds. Furtherly, we found that EA upregulates the expression of NT-3 in DRG and spinal cord of CCI rats, while EA downregulates the expression of IL-1β. Additionally, immunofluorescence exhibited that CCI-induced activation of microglia and astrocytes was inhibited significantly by EA treatment. These results demonstrated that the analgesic effect of EA may be achieved through promoting the neural protection of NT-3 as well as the inhibition of IL-1βproduction and spinal glial activity.
Flexible Framework for Real-Time Embedded Systems Based on Mobile Cloud Computing Paradigm
Authors: Mora Mora Higinio , Gil David , Colom López José Francisco , Signes Pont María Teresa
Published: June 2015

The development of applications as well as the services for mobile systems faces a varied range of devices with very heterogeneous capabilities whose response times are difficult to predict. The research described in this work aims to respond to this issue by developing a computational model that formalizes the problem and that defines adjusting computing methods. The described proposal combines imprecise computing strategies with cloud computing paradigms in order to provide flexible implementation frameworks for embedded or mobile devices. As a result, the imprecise computation scheduling method on the workload of the embedded system is the solution to move computing to the cloud according to the priority and response time of the tasks to be executed and hereby be able to meet productivity and quality of desired services. A technique to estimate network delays and to schedule more accurately tasks is illustrated in this paper. An application example in which this technique is experimented in running contexts with heterogeneous work loading for checking the validity of the proposed model is described.
Analysis and Thoughts about the Negative Results of International Clinical Trials on Acupuncture
Authors: Liu Wei-hong , Hao Yang , Han Yan-jing , Wang Xiao-hong , Li Chen , Liu Wan-ning
Published: June 2015

An increasing number of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of acupuncture have proved the clinical benefits of acupuncture; however, there are some results that have shown negative results or placebo effects. The paper carried out an in-depth analysis on 33 RCTs in the 2011 SCI database, the quality of the reports was judged according to Jadad scores, and the “Necessary Information Included in Reporting Interventions in Clinical Trials of Acupuncture (STRICTA 2010)” was taken as the standard to analyze the rationality of the therapeutic principle. The difference between the methodology (Jadad) scores of the two types of research reports did not constitute statistical significance (P>0.05). The studies with negative results or placebo effects showed the following deficiencies with respect to intervention details: (1) incompletely rational acupoint selection; (2) inconsistent ability of acupuncturists; (3) negligible needling response to needling; (4) acupuncture treatment frequency too low in most studies; and (5) irrational setting of placebo control. Thus, the primary basis for the negative results or placebo effects of international clinical trials on acupuncture is not in the quality of the methodology, but in noncompliance with the essential requirements proposed by acupuncture theory in terms of clinical manipulation details.
Co-Designing Ambient Assisted Living (AAL) Environments: Unravelling the Situated Context of Informal Dementia Care
Authors: Hwang Amy S. , Truong Khai N. , Cameron Jill I. , Lindqvist Eva , Nygård Louise , Mihailidis Alex
Published: June 2015

Ambient assisted living (AAL) aims to help older persons “age-in-place” and manage everyday activities using intelligent and pervasive computing technology. AAL research, however, has yet to explore how AAL might support or collaborate with informal care partners (ICPs), such as relatives and friends, who play important roles in the lives and care of persons with dementia (PwDs). In a multiphase codesign process with six (6) ICPs, we envisioned how AAL could be situated to complement their care. We used our codesigned “caregiver interface” artefacts astriggersto facilitate envisioning of AAL support and unpack the situated, idiosyncratic context within which AAL aims to assist. Our findings suggest that AAL should be designed to support ICPs in fashioning “do-it-yourself” solutions that complement tacitly improvised care strategies and enable them to try, observe, and adapt to solutions over time. In this way, an ICP could decide which activities to entrust to AAL support, when (i.e., scheduled or spontaneous) and how a system should provide support (i.e., using personalized prompts based on care experience), and when adaptations to system support are needed (i.e., based alerting patterns and queried reports). Future longitudinal work employing participatory, design-oriented methods with care dyads is encouraged.
Isoflavone Attenuates the Caspase-1 and Caspase-3 Level in Cell Model of Parkinsonism
Authors: Xu Jian-xin , Song Hai-ping , Bu Qing-Xia , Feng De-Peng , Xu Xiao-Fan , Sun Qian-Ru , Li Xue-Li
Published: June 2015

The study has investigated the effect of isoflavone attenuates the caspase-1 and caspase-3 level in cell model of Parkinsonism. The subjects were PC12 cells. They were randomly divided into six groups: control, MPP+(250 μmol/L), isoflavone (10 μM), isoflavone (10 μM) + MPP+(250 μmol/L), Z-YVAD-CHO (10 nM) + MPP+group, and Z-DEVD-CHO (10 nM) + MPP+group. Cell viability was measured by MTT methods; the content of tyrosine hydroxylase was measured by immunocytochemistry method of avidinbiotin peroxidase complex; apoptosis ratio was measured by flow cytometry. The results showed that cell viability in the MPP+group was lower than in all other five groups. There was no difference in cell viability between isoflavone + MPP+and control group. Optical density of TH positive cells in isoflavone group was higher than in control, isoflavone + MPP+, and MPP+only groups. The apoptosis ratio in the isoflavone + MPP+group and control group and the Z-YVAD-CHO + MPP+and Z-DEVD-CHO + MPP+group was similar, which was lower than in the MPP+group. The lowest apoptosis ratio was found in the isoflavone only group.
Modulation of Metabolic Detoxification Pathways Using Foods and Food-Derived Components: A Scientific Review with Clinical Application
Authors: Hodges Romilly E. , Minich Deanna M.
Published: June 2015

Research into human biotransformation and elimination systems continues to evolve. Various clinical andin vivostudies have been undertaken to evaluate the effects of foods and food-derived components on the activity of detoxification pathways, including phase I cytochrome P450 enzymes, phase II conjugation enzymes, Nrf2 signaling, and metallothionein. This review summarizes the research in this area to date, highlighting the potential for foods and nutrients to support and/or modulate detoxification functions. Clinical applications to alter detoxification pathway activity and improve patient outcomes are considered, drawing on the growing understanding of the relationship between detoxification functions and different disease states, genetic polymorphisms, and drug-nutrient interactions. Some caution is recommended, however, due to the limitations of current research as well as indications that many nutrients exert biphasic, dose-dependent effects and that genetic polymorphisms may alter outcomes. A whole-foods approach may, therefore, be prudent.
Nitric Oxide Protects L-Type Calcium Channel of Cardiomyocyte during Long-Term Isoproterenol Stimulation in Tail-Suspended Rats
Authors: Yue Zhi-Jie , Xu Peng-Tao , Jiao Bo , Chang Hui , Song Zhen , Xie Man-Jiang , Yu Zhi-Bin
Published: June 2015

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of nitric oxide (NO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) on L-type calcium channel (LTCC) gating properties of cardiomyocytes during long-term isoproterenol (ISO) stimulation. Expression and activity of nNOS as well asS-nitrosylation of LTCCα1C subunit significantly decreased in the myocardium of SUS rats. Long-term ISO stimulation increased ROS in cardiomyocytes of SUS rats. ISO-enhanced calcium current (ICa,L) in the SUS group was less than that in the CON group. The maximalICa,Ldecreased to about 80% or 60% of initial value at the 50th minute of ISO treatment in CON or SUS group, respectively. Specific inhibitor NAAN of nNOS reduced maximalICa,Lto 50% of initial value in the CON group; in contrast, NO donor SNAP maintained maximalICa,Lin SUS group to similar extent of CON group after 50 min of ISO treatment. Long-term ISO stimulation also changed steady-state activation (P<0.01), inactivation (P<0.01), and recovery (P<0.05) characteristics of LTCC in SUS group. In conclusion, NO-inducedS-nitrosylation of LTCCα1C subunit may competitively prevent oxidation from ROS at the same sites. Furthermore, LTCC can be protected by NO during long-term ISO stimulation.
On the Geometry of Müntz Spaces
Authors: Ludkovsky Sergey V. , Lusky Wolfgang
Published: June 2015

LetΛ={λk}k=1∞satisfy0<λ1<λ2<⋯,∑k=1∞‍1/λk<∞andinfk(λk+1-λk)>0. We investigate the Müntz spacesMpΛ=span¯{tλk:k=1,2,…}⊂Lp(0,1)for1≤p≤∞. We show that, for eachp, there is a Müntz spaceFpwhich contains isomorphic copies of all Müntz spaces as complemented subspaces.Fpis uniquely determined up to isomorphisms by this maximality property. We discuss explicit descriptions ofFp. In particularFpis isomorphic to a Müntz spaceMp(Λ^)whereΛ^consists of positive integers. Finally we show that the Banach spaces(∑n‍⊕Fn)pfor1≤p<∞and(∑n‍⊕Fn)0forp=∞are always isomorphic to suitable Müntz spacesMp(Λ)if theFnare the spans of arbitrary finitely many monomials over[0,1].
Glycosyltransferases as Markers for Early Tumorigenesis
Authors: Andergassen Ulrich , Liesche Friederike , Kölbl Alexandra C. , Ilmer Matthias , Hutter Stefan , Friese Klaus , Jeschke Udo
Published: June 2015

Background. Glycosylation is the most frequent posttranslational modification of proteins and lipids influencing inter- and intracellular communication and cell adhesion. Altered glycosylation patterns are characteristically observed in tumour cells. Normal and altered carbohydrate chains are transferred to their acceptor structures via glycosyltransferases. Here, we present the correlation between the presence of three different glycosyltransferases and tumour characteristics.Methods. 235 breast cancer tissue samples were stained immunohistochemically for the glycosyltransferases N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase 6 (GALNT6),β-1,6-N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase 2 (GCNT2), and ST6 (α-N-acetyl-neuraminyl-2,3-β-galactosyl-1,3)-N-acetylgalactosamineα-2,6-sialyltransferase 1 (ST6GALNac1). Staining was evaluated by light microscopy and was correlated to different tumour characteristics by statistical analysis.Results. We found a statistically significant correlation for the presence of glycosyltransferases and tumour size and grading. Specifically smaller tumours with low grading revealed the highest incidences of glycosyltransferases. Additionally, Her4-expression but not pHer4-expression is correlated with the presence of glycosyltransferases. All other investigated parameters could not uncover any statistically significant reciprocity.Conclusion. Here we show, that glycosyltransferases can identify small tumours with well-differentiated cells; hence, glycosylation patterns could be used as a marker for early tumourigenesis. This assumption is supported by the fact that Her4 is also correlated to glycosylation, whereas the activated form of Her4 does not show such a connection with glycosylation.
Multilevel Bloom Filters for P2P Flows Identification Based on Cluster Analysis in Wireless Mesh Network
Authors: Bi Xia-an , Wang Xiaohui , Xu Luyun , Chen Sheng , Liu Hong
Published: June 2015

With the development of wireless mesh networks and distributed computing, lots of new P2P services have been deployed and enrich the Internet contents and applications. The rapid growth of P2P flows brings great pressure to the regular network operation. So the effective flow identification and management of P2P applications become increasingly urgent. In this paper, we build a multilevel bloom filters data structure to identify the P2P flows through researches on the locality characteristics of P2P flows. Different level structure stores different numbers of P2P flow rules. According to the characteristics values of the P2P flows, we adjust the parameters of the data structure of bloom filters. The searching steps of the scheme traverse from the first level to the last level. Compared with the traditional algorithms, our method solves the drawbacks of previous schemes. The simulation results demonstrate that our algorithm effectively enhances the performance of P2P flows identification. Then we deploy our flow identification algorithm in the traffic monitoring sensors which belong to the network traffic monitoring system at the export link in the campus network. In the real environment, the experiment results demonstrate that our algorithm has a fast speed and high accuracy to identify the P2P flows; therefore, it is suitable for actual deployment.
Concealed Handgun Licensing and Crime in Four States
Authors: Phillips Charles D. , Nwaiwu Obioma , Lin Szu-hsuan , Edwards Rachel , Imanpour Sara , Ohsfeldt Robert
Published: June 2015

Firearm policy in the United States has long been a serious policy issue. Much of the previous research on crime and firearms focused on the effects of states’ passage of concealed handgun licensing (CHL) legislation. Today, given the proliferation of CHL legislation and growing strength of the “pro-gun” movement, the primary policy focus has changed. State legislators now face issues concerning whether and how to increase access to CHLs. Because of this transformation, this research moves away from the research tradition focused on the effect of a legislative change allowing CHLs. Instead, we consider two issues more policy relevant in the current era: What are the dynamics behind CHL licensing? Do increases in concealed handgun licensing affect crime rates? Using county-level data, we found that the density of gun dealers and other contextual variables, rather than changing crime rates, had a significant effect on increases of the rates at which CHLs were issued. We also found no significant effect of CHL increases on changes in crime rates. This research suggests that the rate at which CHLs are issued and crime rates are independent of one another—crime does not drive CHLs; CHLs do not drive crime.
Assessment of Movement Patterns during Intubation between Novice and Experienced Providers Using Mobile Sensors: A Preliminary, Proof of Concept Study
Authors: Carlson Jestin N. , Das Samarjit , Spring Stephanie , Frisch Adam , De la Torre Fernando , Hodgins Jessica
Published: June 2015

Background.There are likely marked differences in endotracheal intubation (ETI) techniques between novice and experienced providers. We performed a proof of concept study to determine if portable motion technology could identify the motion components of ETI between novice and experienced providers.Methods.We recruited a sample of novice and experienced providers to perform ETIs on a cadaver. Their movements during ETI were recorded with inertial measurement units (IMUs) on the left wrist. The signals were assessed visually between novice and experienced providers to identify areas of differences at key steps during ETI. We then calculated spectral smoothness (SS), a quantitative measure inversely related to movement variability, for all ETI attempts.Results.We enrolled five novice and five experienced providers. When visually inspecting the data, we noted maximum variability when inserting the blade of the laryngoscope into the mouth and while visualizing the glottic opening. Novice providers also had greater overall variability in their movement patterns (SS novice 6.4 versus SS experienced 26.6).Conclusion.Portable IMUs can be used to detect differences in movement patterns between novice and experienced providers in cadavers. Future ETI educational efforts may utilize portable IMUs to help accelerate the learning curve of novice providers.
Variations in Hormones and Antioxidant Status in Relation to Flowering in Early, Mid, and Late Varieties of Date Palm (Phoenix dactylifera) of United Arab Emirates
Authors: Cheruth Abdul J. , Kurup Shyam S. , Subramaniam Sreeramanan
Published: June 2015

The present study was carried out to assess the status of various hormones responsible for the flower induction of Nagal, Lulu, and Khalas date palm varieties in UAE. The nonenzymatic antioxidant compounds and the antioxidant enzymatic activities at preflowering, flowering, and postflowering stages of the date palm varieties were quantified. The ABA and zeatin concentrations were found to be significantly higher during the preflowering stage but gradually decreased during the flowering period and then increased after the flowering stage. Gibberellic acid (GA) concentrations were significantly higher in the early flowering varieties and higher levels of ABA may contribute to the delayed flowering in mid and late varieties. The results on hormone profiling displayed a significant variation between seasons (preflowering, flowering, and postflowering) and also between the three date palms (early, mid, and late flowering varieties). Ascorbic acid (AA) concentration was low at the preflowering stage in the early flowering Nagal (0.694 mg/g dw), which is similar with the late flowering Lulu variety (0.862 mg/g dw). However, Khalas variety showed significantly higher amount of AA content (7.494 mg/g dw) at the preflowering stage when compared to other varieties. In flowering stage, Nagal (0.814 mg/g dw) and Lulu (0.963 mg/g dw) were similar with respect to the production of AA, while the mid flowering variety showed significantly higher amount of AA (9.358 mg/g dw). The Khalas variety produced the highest tocopherol at 4.78 mg/g dw compared to Nagal and Lulu, at 1.997 and 1.908 mg/g dw, respectively, during the preflowering stage. In Nagal variety, the content of reduced glutathione (GSH) at the preflowering stage was 0.507 mg/g dw, which was not significantly different from the flowering and postflowering stages at 0.4 and 0.45 mg/g dw, respectively. The GSH was significantly higher in Khalas compared to Nagal and Lulu varieties, at 1.321 mg/g dw in the preflowering phase followed by 3.347 mg/g dw and 2.349 mg/g dw at the flowering and postflowering phases, respectively. Catalase activity increased with different stages of growth. The lowest catalase activity was observed at the preflowering stage in Khalas (0.116), with similar observations noted during flowering (0.110) and postflowering stage. This study provides an insight into the possible roles of endogenous hormones and antioxidants and in the activities of antioxidant enzymes in the regulation of flower development in date palm varieties.
Comparison of Features for Movement Prediction from Single-Trial Movement-Related Cortical Potentials in Healthy Subjects and Stroke Patients
Authors: Kamavuako Ernest Nlandu , Jochumsen Mads , Niazi Imran Khan , Dremstrup Kim
Published: June 2015

Detection of movement intention from the movement-related cortical potential (MRCP) derived from the electroencephalogram (EEG) signals has shown to be important in combination with assistive devices for effective neurofeedback in rehabilitation. In this study, we compare time and frequency domain features to detect movement intention from EEG signals prior to movement execution. Data were recoded from 24 able-bodied subjects, 12 performing real movements, and 12 performing imaginary movements. Furthermore, six stroke patients with lower limb paresis were included. Temporal and spectral features were investigated in combination with linear discriminant analysis and compared with template matching. The results showed that spectral features were best suited for differentiating between movement intention and noise across different tasks. The ensemble average across tasks when using spectral features was (error = 3.4 ± 0.8%, sensitivity = 97.2 ± 0.9%, and specificity = 97 ± 1%) significantly better (P<0.01) than temporal features (error = 15 ± 1.4%, sensitivity: 85 ± 1.3%, and specificity: 84 ± 2%). The proposed approach also (error = 3.4 ± 0.8%) outperformed template matching (error = 26.9 ± 2.3%) significantly (P>0.001). Results imply that frequency information is important for detecting movement intention, which is promising for the application of this approach to provide patient-driven real-time neurofeedback.
Eye Acupuncture Treatment for Stroke: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Bai Zeng-Hua , Zhang Zhi-Xing , Li Chun-Ri , Wang Mei , Kim Meong-Ju , Guo Hui , Wang Chun-Yan , Xiao Tong-Wu , Chi Yuan , Ren Lu , Gu Zhong-Yue , Xu Ran
Published: June 2015

There were applications of eye acupuncture for stroke patients. Unfortunately, similar to many other Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatments, it lacks comprehensive evaluation and system review for its effect and safety.Objective. This study is a systematic review to appraise the safety and effectiveness of eye acupuncture for stroke.Methods. “Eye acupuncture therapy” in eleven databases was searched by randomized controlled trials and quasi-randomized controlled trials. The search activity was ended in April 2014. The data were extracted and assessed by three independent authors. Rev Man 5.0 software was used for data analysis with effect estimate presented as relative risk (RR) and mean difference (MD) with a 95% confidence interval.Results. Sixteen trials (1120 patients) were involved with generally poor methodological quality. The study indicated that when eye acupuncture was combined with western medicine compared to western medicine, there was a significant difference in the areas of mental state, swallow function, and NDS. When eye acupuncture was combined with western medicine and rehabilitation compared to western medicine and rehabilitation, there was significant difference in the changes of SSS, FMA, and constipation symptoms evaluation. No adverse events or side effects have been reported.Conclusions. The current evidence is insufficient and the rigorously designed trials are warranted.
The Protective Effects of Salidroside from Exhaustive Exercise-Induced Heart Injury by Enhancing thePGC-1α–NRF1/NRF2Pathway and Mitochondrial Respiratory Function in Rats
Authors: Ping Zheng , Zhang Long-fei , Cui Yu-juan , Chang Yu-mei , Jiang Cai-wu , Meng Zhen-zhi , Xu Peng , Liu Hai-yan , Wang Dong-ying , Cao Xue-bin
Published: June 2015

Objective. To test the hypothesis that salidroside (SAL) can protect heart from exhaustive exercise-induced injury by enhancing mitochondrial respiratory function and mitochondrial biogenesis key signaling pathwayPGC-1α–NRF1/NRF2in rats.Methods. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 4 groups: sedentary (C), exhaustive exercise (EE), low-dose SAL (LS), and high-dose SAL (HS). After one-time exhaustive swimming exercise, we measured the changes in cardiomyocyte ultrastructure and cardiac marker enzymes and mitochondrial electron transport system (ETS) complexes activitiesin situ. We also measured mitochondrial biogenesis master regulatorPGC-1αand its downstream transcription factors,NRF1andNRF2, expression at gene and protein levels.Results. Compared to C group, the EE group showed marked myocardium ultrastructure injury and decrease of mitochondrial respiratory functionP<0.05and protein levels ofPGC-1α,NRF1, andNRF2 P<0.05but a significant increase ofPGC-1α,NRF1, andNRF2genes levelsP<0.05; compared to EE group, SAL ameliorated myocardium injury, increased mitochondrial respiratory functionP<0.05, and elevated both gene and protein levels ofPGC-1α,NRF-1, andNRF-2.Conclusion. Salidroside can protect the heart from exhaustive exercise-induced injury. It might act by improving myocardial mitochondrial respiratory function by stimulating the expression ofPGC-1α–NRF1/NRF2pathway.
Classification and Processing Optimization of Barley Milk Production Using NIR Spectroscopy, Particle Size, and Total Dissolved Solids Analysis
Authors: Gajdoš Kljusurić Jasenka , Benković Maja , Bauman Ingrid
Published: June 2015

Barley is a grain whose consumption has a significant nutritional benefit for human health as a very good source of dietary fibre, minerals, vitamins, and phenolic and phytic acids. Nowadays, it is more and more often used in the production of plant milk, which is used to replace cow milk in the diet by an increasing number of consumers. The aim of the study was to classify barley milk and determine the optimal processing conditions in barley milk production based on NIR spectra, particle size, and total dissolved solids analysis. Standard recipe for barley milk was used without added additives. Barley grain was ground and mixed in a blender for 15, 30, 45, and 60 seconds. The samples were filtered and particle size of the grains was determined by laser diffraction particle sizing. The plant milk was also analysed using near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), in the range from 904 to 1699 nm. Furthermore, conductivity of each sample was determined and microphotographs were taken in order to identify the structure of fat globules and particles in the barley milk. NIR spectra, particle size distribution, and conductivity results all point to 45 seconds as the optimal blending time, since further blending results in the saturation of the samples.
The Comparison of Users Activity on the Example of Polish and American Blogosphere
Authors: Zygmunt Anna , Gliwa Bogdan
Published: June 2015

Blogs are popular way to express opinions on the Internet. Due to their popularity and their public character blogs attract attention of many researchers. In this paper we compare two national blogospheres (Polish and American) from different angles such as characteristics of messages and interactions, structure of social groups, topics discussed in them, and the influence of real-world events on the behavior of such groups. In our approach we try to combine in advanced manner users activity on both the individual and community level. The comparison reveals some differences and various characters of both portals. Methods for analysis of groups dynamics, users roles, and topics in groups are presented.
The Effects of Aquatic Exercises on Physical Fitness and Muscle Function in Dialysis Patients
Authors: Dziubek Wioletta , Bulińska Katarzyna , Rogowski Łukasz , Gołębiowski Tomasz , Kusztal Mariusz , Grochola Monika , Markowska Dominika , Zembroń-Łacny Agnieszka , Weyde Wacław , Klinger Marian , Woźniewski Marek
Published: June 2015

Purpose. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of a 3-month physical training program, conducted in an aquatic environment with end-stage renal disease patients (ESRD), on the physical fitness and functional parameters of the knee joint muscles.Patients and Methods. The study included 20 ESDR patients with mean age64.2±13.1 y. treated with hemodialysis in Dialysis Center of the University Hospital in Wroclaw. Before and 3 months after the physical training in water, a test was performed to evaluate the physical fitness of each patient; additionally, a measurement was taken of force-velocity parameters. The 3-month training program took place on nonhemodialysis days, in the recreational pool of the University of Physical Education in Wroclaw.Results. After aquatic training cycle, an improvement was observed in all parameters measured using the Fullerton test. The value of peak torque and its relation to body mass increased in the movement of flexors and extensors of left and right lower extremities in all tested velocities.Conclusions. In assessing the physical fitness of studied women, the biggest improvement was achieved in tests assessing the strength of upper and lower extremities as well as lower body flexibility. Higher values of force-velocity parameters are conducive to women achieving better physical fitness test results.
A Flexible Multidose GnRH Antagonist versus a Microdose Flare-Up GnRH Agonist Combined with a Flexible Multidose GnRH Antagonist Protocol in Poor Responders to IVF
Authors: Turgay Çelik Gayem İnayet , Sütçü Havva Kömür , Akpak Yaşam Kemal , Akar Münire Erman
Published: June 2015

Objective. To compare the effectiveness of a flexible multidose gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist against the effectiveness of a microdose flare-up GnRH agonist combined with a flexible multidose GnRH antagonist protocol in poor responders to in vitro fertilization (IVF).Study Design. A retrospective study in Akdeniz University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IVF Center, for 131 poor responders in the intracytoplasmic sperm injection-embryo transfer (ICSI-ET) program between January 2006 and November 2012. The groups were compared to the patients’ characteristics, controlled ovarian stimulation (COH) results, and laboratory results.Results. Combination protocol was applied to 46 patients (group 1), and a single protocol was applied to 85 patients (group 2). In group 1, the duration of the treatment was longer and the dose of FSH was higher. The cycle cancellation rate was significantly higher in group 2 (26.1% versus 38.8%). A significant difference was not observed with respect to the number and quality of oocytes and embryos or to the number of embryos transferred. There were no statistically significant differences in the hCG positivity (9.5% versus 9.4%) or the clinical pregnancy rates (7.1% versus 10.6%).Conclusion. The combination protocol does not provide additional efficacy.
Comparisons of the Pentax-AWS, Glidescope, and Macintosh Laryngoscopes for Intubation Performance during Mechanical Chest Compressions in Left Lateral Tilt: A Randomized Simulation Study of Maternal Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
Authors: Lee Sanghyun , Kim Wonhee , Kang Hyunggoo , Oh Jaehoon , Lim Tae Ho , Lee Yoonjae , Kim Changsun , Cho Jun Hwi
Published: June 2015

Purpose. Rapid advanced airway management is important in maternal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). This study aimed to compare intubation performances among Pentax-AWS (AWS), Glidescope (GVL), and Macintosh laryngoscope (MCL) during mechanical chest compression in 15° and 30° left lateral tilt.Methods. In 19 emergency physicians, a prospective randomized crossover study was conducted to examine the three laryngoscopes. Primary outcomes were the intubation time and the success rate for intubation.Results. The median intubation time using AWS was shorter than that of GVL and MCL in both tilt degrees. The time to visualize the glottic view in GVL and AWS was significantly lower than that of MCL (allP<0.05), whereas there was no significant difference between the two video laryngoscopes (in 15° tilt,P=1; in 30° tilt,P=0.71). The progression of tracheal tube using AWS was faster than that of MCL and GVL in both degrees (allP<0.001). Intubations using AWS and GVL showed higher success rate than that of Macintosh laryngoscopes.Conclusions. The AWS could be an appropriate laryngoscope for airway management of pregnant women in tilt CPR considering intubation time and success rate.
A Substructural Damage Identification Approach for Shear Structure Based on Changes in the First AR Model Coefficient Matrix
Authors: Mei Liu , Mita Akira , Zhou Jin
Published: June 2015

A substructural damage identification approach based on changes in the first AR model coefficient matrix is proposed in this paper to identify structural damage including its location and severity. Firstly, a substructure approach is adopted in the procedure to divide a complete structure into several substructures in order to significantly reduce the number of unknown parameters for each substructure so that damage identification processes can be independently conducted on each substructure. To establish a relation between changes in AR model coefficients and structural damage for each substructure, a theoretical derivation is presented. Thus the accelerations are fed into ARMAX models to determine the AR model coefficients for each substructure under undamaged and various damaged conditions, based on which changes in the first AR model coefficient matrix (CFAR) is obtained and adopted as the damage indicator for the proposed substructure damage identification approach. To better assess the performance of the proposed procedure, a numerical simulation and an experimental verification of the proposed approach are then carried out and the results show that the proposed procedure can successfully locate and quantify the damage in both simulation and laboratory experiment.
Keap1–Nrf2 Interaction Suppresses Cell Motility in Lung Adenocarcinomas by Targeting the S100P Protein
Authors: Chien Ming-Hsien , Lee Wei-Jiunn , Hsieh Feng-Koo , Li Chia-Feng , Cheng Tsu-Yao , Wang Ming-Yang , Chen Jin-Shing , Chow Jyh-Ming , Jan Yi-Hua , Hsiao Michael , Hua Kuo-Tai , Kuo Min-Liang
Published: June 2015

Purpose: Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) is an E3 ligase participated in the cellular defense response against oxidative stress through nuclear factor erythroid-2–related factor 2 (Nrf2). However, the role of Keap1 in regulating cancer motility is still controversial. We investigated the contribution of the Keap1–Nrf2 axis in the progression of non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Experimental Design: The expression of Keap1 and Nrf2 was examined via immunohistochemistry, real-time PCR, and Western blot analysis in a cohort of NSCLC tissues and cells. A series of in vivo and in vitro assays was performed to elucidate the contribution of the Keap1–Nrf2 axis in lung cancer mobility and progression.

Results: Keap1 expression was decreased in specimens from NSCLC patients with lymph node metastasis compared with patients without metastasis. Higher Keap1 expression levels were correlated with the survival of NSCLC patients. Moreover, manipulation of Keap1 expression affected cell migration/invasion abilities. Depletion of Nrf2 relieved the migration promotion imposed by Keap1 suppression. Mechanistic investigations found that S100P was downregulated in both Keap1-overexpressing and Nrf2-knockdown NSCLC cells. Overexpression of Keap1 and knockdown of Nrf2 both suppressed S100P expression in NSCLC cells. Knockdown of S100P inhibited cell migration in highly invasive NSCLC cells and also relieved the migration promotion imposed by Keap1 suppression in weakly invasive NSCLC cells.

Conclusions: Our findings suggest that Keap1 functions as a suppressor of tumor metastasis by targeting the Nrf2/S100P pathway in NSCLC cells. In addition, overexpression of Keap1 may be a novel NSCLC treatment strategy and/or useful biomarker for predicting NSCLC progression. Clin Cancer Res; 21(20); 4719–32. ©2015 AACR.
Selective Inhibition of SIN3 Corepressor with Avermectins as a Novel Therapeutic Strategy in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Kwon Yeon-Jin , Petrie Kevin , Leibovitch Boris A. , Zeng Lei , Mezei Mihaly , Howell Louise , Gil Veronica , Christova Rossitza , Bansal Nidhi , Yang Shuai , Sharma Rajal , Ariztia Edgardo V. , Frankum Jessica , Brough Rachel , Sbirkov Yordan , Ashworth Alan , Lord Christopher J. , Zelent Arthur , Farias Eduardo , Zhou Ming-Ming , Waxman Samuel
Published: June 2015

Triple-negative breast cancers (TNBC) lacking estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptors account for 10% to 20% of breast cancer and are indicative of poor prognosis. The development of effective treatment strategies therefore represents a pressing unmet clinical need. We previously identified a molecularly targeted approach to target aberrant epigenetics of TNBC using a peptide corresponding to the SIN3 interaction domain (SID) of MAD. SID peptide selectively blocked binding of SID-containing proteins to the paired α-helix (PAH2) domain of SIN3, resulting in epigenetic and transcriptional modulation of genes associated with epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). To find small molecule inhibitor (SMI) mimetics of SID peptide, we performed an in silico screen for PAH2 domain–binding compounds. This led to the identification of the avermectin macrocyclic lactone derivatives selamectin and ivermectin (Mectizan) as candidate compounds. Both selamectin and ivermectin phenocopied the effects of SID peptide to block SIN3–PAH2 interaction with MAD, induce expression of CDH1 and ESR1, and restore tamoxifen sensitivity in MDA-MB-231 human and MMTV-Myc mouse TNBC cells in vitro. Treatment with selamectin or ivermectin led to transcriptional modulation of genes associated with EMT and maintenance of a cancer stem cell phenotype in TNBC cells. This resulted in impairment of clonogenic self-renewal in vitro and inhibition of tumor growth and metastasis in vivo. Underlining the potential of avermectins in TNBC, pathway analysis revealed that selamectin also modulated the expression of therapeutically targetable genes. Consistent with this, an unbiased drug screen in TNBC cells identified selamectin-induced sensitization to a number of drugs, including those targeting modulated genes. Mol Cancer Ther; 14(8); 1824–36. ©2015 AACR.
Renalase Protects the Cardiomyocytes of Sprague-Dawley Rats Against Ischemia and Reperfusion Injury by Reducing Myocardial Cell Necrosis and Apoptosis
Authors: Li Xiaogang , Xie Zijian , Lin Minyuan , Huang Ruixia , Liang Zhongshu , Huang Wei , Jiang Weihong
Published: June 2015

Background/Aims: Renalase, a novel flavoprotein expressed in the kidney and heart, reduces renal tubular necrosis and apoptosis, which suggests that it might protect against necrosis and/or apoptosis in myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury (MIRI). The present study thus explored the effects of renalase on Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats subjected to MIRI. Methods: We used Lentivirus-mediated RNA interference (RNAi) to inhibit the renalase gene expression in the heart tissue via pericardial cavity injection. The MIRI animal modal was established by blocking the left anterior descending artery for 45mins followed by 4h of reperfusion. Real-time PCR and western blotting were used to detect renalase expression in the heart tissue. Double staining and TUNEL were used to detect the necrosis and apoptosis in the myocardial cells, respectively. Results: All rats subjected to MIRI exhibited lower levels of renalase in the heart tissue than did the sham-operated group (P<0.05, n=6). The (RNAi) group rats exhibited lower renalase levels than did the controls and also exhibited more serious necrosis (7.12±0.56% vs. 3.32±0.93%, P<0.05, n=6) and apoptosis (151.8±8.2% vs. 66.8±6.5%, P<0.05, n=6); however, pretreatment with the recombinant renalase significantly reduced myocardial cell necrosis (1.51±0.12% vs. 4.13±0.02%, P<0.05, n=6) and apoptosis (21.3±5.0% vs. 52.6±10.4%, P<0.05, n=6) relative to the control rats. Conclusions: Exogenous recombinant renalase protein reduced myocardial cell necrosis and apoptosis. Recombinant renalase protein might be a new cardiovascular drug for ischemia/IR injury.
Association of Visceral Fat Area with Chronic Kidney Disease and Metabolic Syndrome Risk in the General Population: Analysis Using Multi-Frequency Bioimpedance
Authors: Kang Seok Hui , Cho Kyu Hyang , Park Jong Won , Yoon Kyung Woo , Do Jun Young
Published: June 2015

Background/Aims: Advances in bioimpedance analysis (BIA) technologies now enable visceral fat area (VFA) to be assessed using this method. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical relevance and usefulness of VFA as a predictor of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and metabolic syndrome (MS), using BIA. Methods: We identified 24,791 adults who underwent voluntary routine health checkups at Yeungnam University Hospital. In total 22,480 patients were recruited into our study. Participants were divided into 3 tertiles based on their VFA: low, middle, and high tertiles. CKD was defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 mL/min/1.73m2. Results: The higher tertile of VFA was associated with a higher prevalence of diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and male sex. Waist-to-hip ratio, body mass index, blood pressure, lean mass, body fat %, and fasting glucose, total cholesterol, triglyceride, GGT, AST, ALT, and uric acid levels all increased as the VFA tertile increased (P < 0.001 for all variables). The prevalence of CKD was 6.9% in the low tertile, 13.9% in the middle tertile, and 25.2% in the high tertile (P < 0.001). The prevalence of MS was 2.2% in the low tertile, 12.8% in the middle tertile, and 36.7% in the high tertile (P < 0.001). The AUROC values for VFA were higher than those for BMI and WHR. For VFA, the sensitivity and specificity for predicting CKD were 62.66% (95% CI, 61.0-64.3) and 64.22% (95% CI, 63.5-64.9), respectively, and 77.65% (95% CI, 76.3-79.0), and 68.81% (95% CI, 68.1-69.5), respectively for predicting MS. Conclusion: Our results demonstrated that the VFA, measured by BIA, is a simple method for predicting the risk of CKD and MS.
Pegylated Interferon (Alone or With Ribavirin) for Chronic Hepatitis C in Haemodialysis Population
Authors: Espinosa Mario , Hernàndez Jesùs , Arenas Maria Dolores , Carnicer Fernando , Caramelo Carlos , Fabrizi Fabrizio
Published: June 2015

Background/Aims: Hepatitis C virus infection remains prevalent among patients undergoing long-term haemodialysis and has a detrimental impact on survival in this population. Antiviral therapy for chronic hepatitis C in haemodialysis patients is still a challenge to clinicians. The aim of the current study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of therapy with pegylated interferon, alone or combined with ribavirin, for chronic hepatitis C among patients undergoing long-term hemodialysis. Methods: We conducted a retrospective, multicenter cohort trial with monotherapy (pegylated interferon) (n=21) or combined antiviral therapy (pegylated interferon plus ribavirin) (n=5) for chronic hepatitis C in patients undergoing long-term haemodialysis. Results: Sustained virological response was obtained in eleven (42%) patients. Seven (26.9%) patients interrupted prematurely the antiviral treatment due to serious side-effects, the most frequent cause of treatment withdrawal being hematological (n=3). HCV RNA load was lower in responder than non-responder patients, 5.44 (3.45; 6.36) vs. 5.86 (4.61; 6.46) log10 copies/mL, even if the difference was not significant (P=0.099). Blood transfusion requirement was greater in patients on combined antiviral therapy than those on pegylated interferon alone, 100% (5/5) vs. 0% (0/21), P=0.0001. No difference in sustained viral response occurred between patients on combined antiviral therapy and those on pegylated interferon monotherapy [40% (2/5) vs. 42.8% (9/21), P=0.90]. Conclusions: Results from this study showed that pegylated interferon alone or with ribavirin is unsatisfactory in terms of efficacy and safety. Prospective trials based on interferon-free regimens (i.e., sofosbuvir plus ribavirin or sofosbuvir plus daclatasvir) are under way in patients with hepatitis C receiving long-term hemodialysis.
Relationship Between Serum Uric Acid Levels and Intrarenal Hemodynamic Parameters
Authors: Uedono Hideki , Tsuda Akihiro , Ishimura Eiji , Yasumoto Mari , Ichii Mitsuru , Ochi Akinobu , Ohno Yoshiteru , Nakatani Shinya , Mori Katsuhito , Uchida Junji , Nakatani Tatsuya , Inaba Masaaki
Published: June 2015

Background/Aims: Hyperuricemia has been reported to affect renal hemodynamics in rat models. We evaluate the relationship between serum uric acid and intrarenal hemodynamic parameters in humans, utilizing the plasma clearance of para-aminohippurate (CPAH ) and inulin (Cin). Methods: Renal and glomerular hemodynamics were assessed by simultaneous measurement of CPAH and Cin in 58 subjects. Of these, 19 subjects were planned to provide a kidney for transplantation; 26 had diabetes without proteinuria; and 13 had mild proteinuria. Renal and glomerular hemodynamics were calculated using Gomez`s formulae. Results: Cin was more than 60 ml/min/1.73m2 in all subjects. Serum uric acid levels correlated significantly with vascular resistance at the afferent arteriole (Ra) (r = 0.354, p = 0.006) but not with that of the efferent arteriole (Re). Serum uric acid levels (β = 0.581, p = <0.001) were significantly and independently associated with Ra after adjustment for several confounders (R2 = 0.518, p = <0.001). Conclusions: These findings suggest, for the first time in humans, that higher serum uric acid levels are associated significantly with Ra in subjects with Cin > 60 ml/min/1.73m2. The increase in Ra in subjects with higher uric acid levels may be related to dysfunction of glomerular perfusion.