bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An approach to numerical quantification of room shape and its function in diffuse sound field model
Authors: Šumarac-Pavlović Dragana , Mijić Miomir
Published: October 2016

This paper deals with an approach to the numerical quantification of room shape and its possible role in diffuse field modeling. The normalized shape factor of the room is introduced as a function of the room volume and the room interior surface. It was shown that in real rooms the value of normalized shape factor ranges from about 0.57 to 0.9. Some simple transformations of well-known formulas by introducing the room shape factor are also discussed. Such approach seems appropriate in architectural acoustics courses as a straightforward way to explain the factors influencing the acoustic response in a room.
Finite element modelling of cochlear electrical coupling
Authors: Teal Paul D. , Ni Guangjian
Published: October 2016

The operation of each hair cell within the cochlea generates a change in electrical potential at the frequency of the vibrating basilar membrane beneath the hair cell. This electrical potential influences the operation of the cochlea at nearby locations and can also be detected as the cochlear microphonic signal. The effect of such potentials has been proposed as a mechanism for the non-local operation of the cochlear amplifier, and the interaction of such potentials has been thought to be the cause of the broadness of cochlea microphonic tuning curves. The spatial extent of influence of these potentials is an important parameter for determining the significance of their effects. Calculations of this extent have typically been based on calculating the longitudinal resistance of each of the scalae from the scala cross sectional area, and the conductivity of the lymph. In this paper, the range of influence of the electrical potential is examined using an electrical finite element model. It is found that the range of influence of the hair cell potential is much shorter than the conventional calculation, but is consistent with recent measurements.
Leveraging unique structural characteristics of WNK kinases to achieve therapeutic inhibition
Authors: Zhang Jinwei , Deng Xianming , Kahle Kristopher T.
Published: October 2016

Exploiting unique characteristics of the WNK-SPAK pathway may yield useful antihypertensive medications.
Population Pharmacokinetics and Target Attainment of Ertapenem in Plasma and Tissue Assessed via Microdialysis in Morbidly Obese Patients after Laparoscopic Visceral Surgery
Authors: Wittau Mathias , Paschke Stephan , Kurlbaum Max , Scheele Jan , Ly Neang S. , Hemper Evelyn , Kornmann Marko , Henne-Bruns Doris , Bulitta Jürgen B.
Published: October 2016

Ertapenem provides broad-spectrum activity against many pathogens, and its use is relevant for the prophylaxis and treatment of infections in morbidly obese patients undergoing surgery. However, its pharmacokinetics and tissue penetration in these patients are not well defined. We assessed the population pharmacokinetics and target attainment for ertapenem in the plasma, subcutaneous tissue, and peritoneal fluid of morbidly obese patients. Six female patients (body mass index, 43.7 to 55.9 kg/m
2
) received 1,000 mg ertapenem as 15-min infusions at 0 and 26 h. On day 2, the unbound ertapenem concentrations in plasma, subcutaneous tissue, and peritoneal fluid were measured by microdialysis; total plasma concentrations were additionally quantified. The probability of attaining a target of an unbound ertapenem concentration above the MIC for at least 40% of the dosing interval was predicted via Monte Carlo simulations. The population pharmacokinetic model contained two disposition compartments and simultaneously described all concentrations. For unbound ertapenem, total clearance was 12.3 liters/h (coefficient of variation, 21.6% for between-patient variability) and the volume of distribution at steady state was 57.8 liters in patients with a 53-kg fat-free mass. The area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) for ertapenem was 49% lower in subcutaneous tissue and 25% lower in peritoneal fluid than the unbound AUC in plasma. Tissue penetration was rapid (equilibration half-life, <15 min) and was variable in subcutaneous tissue. Short-term ertapenem infusions (1,000 mg every 24 h) achieved robust (>90%) target attainment probabilities for MICs of up to 1 mg/liter in plasma, 0.25 to 0.5 mg/liter in subcutaneous tissue, and 0.5 mg/liter in peritoneal fluid. Ertapenem presents an attractive choice for many pathogens relevant to morbidly obese patients undergoing surgery. (This study has been registered at ClinicalTrials.gov under identifier NCT01407965.)
Local Induction of B Cell Interleukin-10 Competency Alleviates Inflammation and Bone Loss in Ligature-Induced Experimental Periodontitis in Mice
Authors: Yu Pei , Hu Yang , Liu Zhiqiang , Kawai Toshihisa , Taubman Martin A. , Li Wei , Han Xiaozhe
Published: October 2016

Interleukin-10 (IL-10)-producing B cells (B10 cells) play a critical role in the immune system balance by negatively regulating inflammatory responses. This study was conducted to determine the effect of local B10 cell induction on periodontal inflammation and bone loss in ligature-induced experimental periodontitisin vivo. Purified spleen B cells from C57BL/6J mice (8 to 10 weeks old) were cultured with CD40 ligand (CD40L) and the Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) agonist cytidine-phosphate-guanosine oligodeoxynucleotide (CpG) to determine effective IL-10 inductionin vitro. Silk ligatures (size 7-0) were tied around the mouse maxillary second molars on day 0, followed by the injection of CD40L and CpG into the palatal gingiva on days 3, 6, and 9. All the mice were sacrificed, and samples were collected on day 14. CD40L and CpG significantly increased the level of IL-10 production by B cellsin vitro, although the frequencies of CD1dhiCD5+and IL-10-producing (IL-10+) CD45+cells were decreased. IL-10 was predominantly produced by the CD1dhiCD5+subpopulation of B cells.In vivo, both IL-10 mRNA expression and the number of IL-10+CD45+cells were significantly increased after gingival injection of CD40L and CpG. Periodontal bone loss was significantly decreased and the gingival expression of IL-1β, tumor necrosis factor alpha, and RANKL was significantly reduced. The number of multinucleated tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase-positive cells along the alveolar bone surface was significantly decreased after gingival injection of CD40L and CpG. This study indicates for the first time that the local induction of B10 cell activity could inhibit periodontal inflammation and bone loss.
Filamentous Bacteriophage Produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa Alters the Inflammatory Response and Promotes Noninvasive InfectionIn Vivo
Authors: Secor Patrick R. , Michaels Lia A. , Smigiel Kate S. , Rohani Maryam G. , Jennings Laura K. , Hisert Katherine B. , Arrigoni Allison , Braun Kathleen R. , Birkland Timothy P. , Lai Ying , Hallstrand Teal S. , Bollyky Paul L. , Singh Pradeep K. , Parks William C.
Published: October 2016

Pseudomonas aeruginosais an important opportunistic human pathogen that lives in biofilm-like cell aggregates at sites of chronic infection, such as those that occur in the lungs of patients with cystic fibrosis and nonhealing ulcers. During growth in a biofilm,P. aeruginosadramatically increases the production of filamentous Pf bacteriophage (Pf phage). Previous work indicated that whenin vivoPf phage production was inhibited,P. aeruginosawas less virulent. However, it is not clear how the production of abundant quantities of Pf phage similar to those produced by biofilms underin vitroconditions affects pathogenesis. Here, using a murine pneumonia model, we show that the production of biofilm-relevant amounts of Pf phage prevents the dissemination ofP. aeruginosafrom the lung. Furthermore, filamentous phage promoted bacterial adhesion to mucin and inhibited bacterial invasion of airway epithelial cultures, suggesting that Pf phage trapsP. aeruginosawithin the lung. Thein vivoproduction of Pf phage was also associated with reduced lung injury, reduced neutrophil recruitment, and lower cytokine levels. Additionally, when producing Pf phage,P. aeruginosawas less prone to phagocytosis by macrophages than bacteria not producing Pf phage. Collectively, these data suggest that filamentous Pf phage alters the progression of the inflammatory response and promotes phenotypes typically associated with chronic infection.
Novel MicroRNA Involved in Host Response to Avian Pathogenic Escherichia coli Identified by Deep Sequencing and Integration Analysis
Authors: Jia Xinzheng , Nie Qinghua , Zhang Xiquan , Nolan Lisa K. , Lamont Susan J.
Published: October 2016

Avian pathogenic
Escherichia coli
(APEC) causes one of the most common bacterial diseases of poultry worldwide. Effective control methods are therefore desirable and will be facilitated by a better understanding of the host response to the pathogen. Currently, microRNAs (miRNAs) involved in host resistance to APEC are unknown. Here, we applied RNA sequencing to explore the changed miRNAs and deregulated genes in the spleen of three groups of broilers: nonchallenged (NC), APEC-challenged with mild pathology (CM), and APEC-challenged with severe pathology (CS). Twenty-seven differentially expressed miRNAs (fold change >1.5;
P
value <0.01) were identified, including 13 miRNAs between the NC and CM, 17 between the NC and CS, and 14 between the CM and CS groups. Through functional analysis of these miRNA targets, 12 immune-related biological processes were found to be significantly enriched. Based on combined analyses of differentially expressed miRNAs and mRNAs within each of the three groups, 43 miRNA-mRNA pairs displayed significantly negative correlations (
r
< −0.8). Notably, gga-miR-429 was greatly increased in the CS group compared to levels in both the CM and NC groups.
In vitro
, gga-miR-429 directly repressed luciferase reporter gene activity via binding to 3′ untranslated regions of TMEFF2, NTRK2, and SHISA2. Overexpression of gga-miR-429 in the HD11 macrophage cell line significantly inhibited TMEFF2 and SHISA2 expression, which are involved in the lipopolysaccharide-induced platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and Wnt signaling pathways. In summary, we provide the first report characterizing the miRNA changes during APEC infection, which may help to shed light on the roles of these recently identified genetic elements in the mechanisms of host resistance and susceptibility to APEC.
Entry of Botulinum Neurotoxin Subtypes A1 and A2 into Neurons
Authors: Kroken Abby R. , Blum Faith C. , Zuverink Madison , Barbieri Joseph T.
Published: October 2016

Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) are the most toxic proteins for humans but also are common therapies for neurological diseases. BoNTs are dichain toxins, comprising an N-terminal catalytic domain (LC) disulfide bond linked to a C-terminal heavy chain (HC) which includes a translocation domain (H
N
) and a receptor binding domain (H
C
). Recently, the BoNT serotype A (BoNT/A) subtypes A1 and A2 were reported to possess similar potencies but different rates of cellular intoxication and pathology in a mouse model of botulism. The current study measured H
C
A1 and H
C
A2 entry into rat primary neurons and cultured Neuro2A cells. We found that there were two sequential steps during the association of BoNT/A with neurons. The initial step was ganglioside dependent, while the subsequent step involved association with synaptic vesicles. H
C
A1 and H
C
A2 entered the same population of synaptic vesicles and entered cells at similar rates. The primary difference was that H
C
A2 had a higher degree of receptor occupancy for cells and neurons than HcA1. Thus, H
C
A2 and H
C
A1 share receptors and entry pathway but differ in their affinity for receptor. The initial interaction of H
C
A1 and H
C
A2 with neurons may contribute to the unique pathologies of BoNT/A1 and BoNT/A2 in mouse models.
EssE Promotes Staphylococcus aureus ESS-Dependent Protein Secretion To Modify Host Immune Responses during Infection
Authors: Anderson Mark , Ohr Ryan Jay , Aly Khaled A. , Nocadello Salvatore , Kim Hwan K. , Schneewind Chloe E. , Schneewind Olaf , Missiakas Dominique
Published: October 2016

Staphylococcus aureus
, an invasive pathogen of humans and animals, requires a specialized ESS pathway to secrete proteins (EsxA, EsxB, EsxC, and EsxD) during infection. Expression of
ess
genes is required for
S. aureus
establishment of persistent abscess lesions following bloodstream infection; however, the mechanisms whereby effectors of the ESS pathway implement their virulence strategies were heretofore not known. Here, we show that EssE forms a complex with other members of the ESS secretion pathway and its substrates, promoting the secretion of EsxA, EsxB, EsxC, EsxD, and EssD. During bloodstream infection of mice, the
S. aureus
essE
mutant displays defects in host cytokine responses, specifically in the production of interleukin-12 (IL-12) (p40/p70) and the suppression of RANTES (CCL5), activators of T
H
1 T cell responses and immune cell chemotaxis, respectively. Thus,
essE
-mediated secretion of protein effectors via the ESS pathway may enable
S. aureus
to manipulate host immune responses by modifying the production of cytokines.

IMPORTANCE
Staphylococcus aureus
and other firmicutes evolved a specialized ESS (
E
sxA/ESAT-6-like
s
ecretion
s
ystem) pathway for the secretion of small subsets of proteins lacking canonical signal peptides. The molecular mechanisms for ESS-dependent secretion and their functional purpose are still unknown. We demonstrate here that
S. aureus
EssE functions as a membrane assembly platform for elements of the secretion machinery and their substrates. Furthermore,
S. aureus
EssE-mediated secretion contributes to the production or the suppression of specific cytokines during host infection, thereby modifying immune responses toward this pathogen.
Functional Characterization of EscK (Orf4), a Sorting Platform Component of the Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli Injectisome
Authors: Soto Eduardo , Espinosa Norma , Díaz-Guerrero Miguel , Gaytán Meztlli O. , Puente José L. , González-Pedrajo Bertha
Published: October 2016

The type III secretion system (T3SS) is a supramolecular machine used by many bacterial pathogens to translocate effector proteins directly into the eukaryotic host cell cytoplasm. Enteropathogenic
Escherichia coli
(EPEC) is an important cause of infantile diarrheal disease in underdeveloped countries. EPEC virulence relies on a T3SS encoded within a chromosomal pathogenicity island known as the locus of enterocyte effacement (LEE). In this work, we pursued the functional characterization of the LEE-encoded protein EscK (previously known as Orf4). We provide evidence indicating that EscK is crucial for efficient T3S and belongs to the SctK (OrgA/YscK/MxiK) protein family, whose members have been implicated in the formation of a sorting platform for secretion of T3S substrates. Bacterial fractionation studies showed that EscK localizes to the inner membrane independently of the presence of any other T3SS component. Combining yeast two-hybrid screening and pulldown assays, we identified an interaction between EscK and the C-ring/sorting platform component EscQ. Site-directed mutagenesis of conserved residues revealed amino acids that are critical for EscK function and for its interaction with EscQ. In addition, we found that T3S substrate overproduction is capable of compensating for the absence of EscK. Overall, our data suggest that EscK is a structural component of the EPEC T3SS sorting platform, playing a central role in the recruitment of T3S substrates for boosting the efficiency of the protein translocation process.

IMPORTANCE
The type III secretion system (T3SS) is an essential virulence determinant for enteropathogenic
Escherichia coli
(EPEC) colonization of intestinal epithelial cells. Multiple EPEC effector proteins are injected via the T3SS into enterocyte cells, leading to diarrheal disease. The T3SS is encoded within a genomic pathogenicity island termed the locus of enterocyte effacement (LEE). Here we unravel the function of EscK, a previously uncharacterized LEE-encoded protein. We show that EscK is central for T3SS biogenesis and function. EscK forms a protein complex with EscQ, the main component of the cytoplasmic sorting platform, serving as a docking site for T3S substrates. Our results provide a comprehensive functional analysis of an understudied component of T3SSs.
Aqueous outflow facility after phacoemulsification with or without goniosynechialysis in primary angle closure: a randomised controlled study
Authors: Rodrigues Ian A , Alaghband Pouya , Beltran Agullo Laura , Galvis Elizabeth , Jones Stephanie , Husain Rahat , Lim K Sheng
Published: October 2016

Background

Goniosynechialysis (GSL) to remove peripheral anterior synechiae (PAS) alongside standard cataract surgery has potential theoretical advantages, Published randomised trials, however, have not shown conclusive functional benefits and aqueous outflow changes following GSL are unknown. This study aimed to compare electronic Shiøtz tonographic aqueous outflow facility (TOF) following phacoemulsification with or without GSL in patients with primary angle closure (PAC) and PAC glaucoma. Secondary outcomes were changes in intraocular pressure (IOP) and use of glaucoma medications.

Methods

Prospective randomised pilot study of 26 patients on glaucoma medication, with ≥90° PAS and significant lens opacity. Patients were randomised 1:1 to receive phacoemulsification with intraocular lens (IOL) implantation only (phaco) or phacoemulsification with IOL plus GSL (phaco-GSL).

Results

Fourteen patients were randomised to phaco-GSL and 12 to phaco alone. TOF increased with phaco-GSL from 0.099±0.07 μL/min/mm Hg to 0.194±0.07, μL/min/mm Hg, p=0.0006, while the phaco group showed no significant change. IOP reduced in both groups, but reduced significantly more following phaco-GSL (46.0%) compared with phaco alone (27.6%, p=0.04). Medication use and extent of PAS only reduced with phaco-GSL, from 0.923±0.86 to 0.384±0.18 medications, p=0.0279, and from 249.2±83.4 to 110.8±53.9° PAS, 6 months postoperatively. No serious adverse events occurred in either group.

Conclusions

Eyes randomised to both surgical groups had similar and good outcomes at 6 months in this pilot study. However, only eyes undergoing GSL combined with standard phacoemulsification had significantly increased TOF, reduced glaucoma medication dependence and PAS postoperatively. GSL should therefore be considered in such patients.

Trial registration number:

NCT00719290, Results.
THE COST EFFECTIVENESS OF EXERCISE-BASED CARDIAC REHABILITATION: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Authors: Edwards K , Jones N , Newton J , Foster C , Judge A , Jackson K , Arden NK , Pinedo-Villanueva R
Published: October 2016

Aims

Economic evaluations provide a useful comparative approach for considering costs and consequences on patient outcomes, thus providing a foundation for effective policy and decision making.1 2 This descriptive review aims to better understand how economic evaluations of cardiac rehabilitation (CR) services are conducted to inform future research addressing the impact of a physical exercise component on cost-effectiveness.

Methods

Electronic databases were searched for economic evaluations of exercise-based CR programs published in English between 2000 and 2014. The methodological quality of included economic evaluations was reviewed using criteria taken from the Consolidated Health Economic Evaluation Reporting Standards (CHEERS) statement.3

Results

Fifteen economic studies met the eligibility criteria but exhibited wide variability in study perspective, time horizon, setting, comparators and included costs, with significant heterogeneity for exercise dose between interventions. Ten evaluations were based on randomised controlled trials (RCTs) with time horizons between 6–24 months, but which largely produced weak or inconclusive results. Excluding two modelling studies, only three studies utilised longer time horizons (3.5–5 years), and findings suggest exercise-based CR leads to lowered costs, reduced rehospitalisation's and longer cumulative lifetime in the long-term.

Conclusions

Variability in CR program delivery and exercise dose along with weak consistency between study perspective and included costs makes it difficult to compare cost and health outcomes between studies and accumulate evidence in support of a particular exercise regime. The dominance of RCTs with their extensive patient selectivity process and exclusion of comorbid patients questions whether cost-effectiveness findings would translate to a real-world setting. The use of longer time horizons would be more compatible with a chronic condition and allow the long-term effects of exercise-based CR to be evaluated.
Cachexia in cancer: what is in the definition?
Authors: Vanhoutte Greetje , van de Wiel Mick , Wouters Kristin , Sels Michaël , Bartolomeeussen Linda , De Keersmaecker Sven , Verschueren Caroline , De Vroey Veronique , De Wilde Annemieke , Smits Elke , Cheung Kin Jip , De Clerck Liesbeth , Aerts Petra , Baert Didier , Vandoninck Caroline , Kindt Sofie , Schelfhaut Sofie , Vankerkhoven Marc , Troch Annelies , Ceulemans Lore , Vandenbergh Hanne , Leys Sven , Rondou Tim , Dewitte Elke , Maes Kristel , Pauwels Patrick , De Winter Benedicte , Van Gaal Luc , Ysebaert Dirk , Peeters Marc
Published: October 2016

Objective

This study aimed to provide evidence-based results on differences in overall survival (OS) rate to guide the diagnosis of cancer cachexia.

Design

Data collection and clinical assessment was performed every 3 months (5 visits): baseline data, muscle strength, nutritional and psychosocial status. 2 definitions on cachexia using different diagnostic criteria were applied for the same patient population. Fearonet al's definition is based on weight loss, body mass index (BMI) and sarcopenia. Evanset alnuances the contribution of sarcopenia and attaches additional attention to abnormal biochemistry parameters, fatigue and anorexia. The mean OS rates were compared between patients with and without cachexia for both definitions.

Results

Based on the population of 167 patients who enrolled, 70% developed cachexia according to Fearonet al's definition and 40% according to Evanset al's definition. The OS in the cachectic population is 0.97 and 0.55 years, respectively. The difference in OS between patients with and without cachexia is more significant using the diagnostic criteria of Evanset al. The focus of Fearonet alon weight loss and sarcopenia over-rates the assignment of patients to the cachectic group and OS rates have less prognostic value.

Conclusion

This study presents a correlation with prognosis in favour of Evanset al’ definition as a tool for cachexia diagnosis. This means that weight loss and BMI decline are both key factors in patients with cancer leading to cachexia but less decisive as stated by Fearonet al. Instead, extra factors gain importance in order to predict survival, such as chronic inflammation, anaemia, protein depletion, reduced food intake, fatigue, decreased muscle strength and lean tissue depletion.

Trial registration number

B300201112334.
Development of a viscoelastoplastic model for a bedded argillaceous rock from laboratory triaxial tests
Authors: Li Zhenze , Nguyen Thanh Son , Su Grant , Labrie Denis , Barnichon Jean Dominique
Published: October 2016

Argillaceous rocks are candidate host and (or) cap formations for the geological disposal of nuclear wastes in many countries, including Canada, France, and Switzerland. The understanding of the long-term mechanical behaviour of such rocks is an essential requirement for the assessment of their performance as a barrier against radionuclide migration. The French Institute for Radiological Protection and Nuclear Safety (IRSN) operates an Underground Research Laboratory (URL) in Tournemire, France, in a rock formation known as the Tournemire shale. Many types of experiments are conducted at the Tournemire URL to better understand the physical and chemical behaviour of this shale and its interaction with seal materials intended to be used in the geological disposal of radioactive wastes. The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) collaborates with the IRSN and CanmetMINING laboratories to perform experimental and theoretical research on the mechanical behaviour of the Tournemire shale. Using data from creep tests, and monotonic and cyclic triaxial tests performed at CanmetMINING Laboratories, we developed constitutive relationships for the mechanical behaviour of the Tournemire shale. The model is based on the theory of plasticity, and takes into consideration the inherent anisotropy due to the existence of bedding planes, hardening behaviour before the peak strength, and viscosity.
Conformational-dependent reaction mechanism: case of acid hydrolysis ofN-benzoyl-9-azabicyclo[6.1.0]non-4-ene
Authors: Missaoui Djallila , Rahmouni Ali , Bensaid Okkacha , Besbes Néji
Published: October 2016

Quantum chemical studies of the acid hydrolysis of cis-cis-N-benzoyl-9-azabicyclo[6.1.0]non-4-ene in gas phase and sulfuric acid solution have been carried out. Conformational analysis of reactant and intermediates were done at DFT level of calculations, using different basis sets. Transition states were identified and IRC calculations were done at the same level. In the first step of the reaction, the protonation occurs preferentially on the nitrogen atom. Three products are obtained. The type of mechanism, stepwise or concerted, depends on the stable conformers and the cleaved N–C bond. The main conclusion is that the products of the reaction depend on the nature of the stable conformer of the reactant.
Computational study of the anticancer drug cisplatin
Authors: Chong Delano P.
Published: October 2016

Systems containing platinum (Pt) are more challenging for reliable computations, because Pt has 78 electrons and requires relativistic treatment. However, to reduce computational demands, most previous researchers used effective core potentials. In this investigation, we perform numerous computations on the cisplatin molecule with ab initio methods and density functional theory, some of which involve all electron and zero-order relativistic approximation. Tentative conclusions on the reliability of various methods are drawn from comparison of our results with previous calculations and available experimental data. Vibrational and electronic spectra are calculated and compared with previous studies and available experimental data.
The thermal structure of the central Nova Scotia Slope (eastern Canada): seafloor heat flow and thermal maturation models
Authors: Negulic Eric , Louden Keith E.
Published: October 2016

The thermal history and maturation potential of the central Scotian Slope is constrained using a combination of 47 recently acquired seafloor heat flow measurements, two-dimensional (2D) seismic reflection data, available well data, simple lithospheric rift models, and thermal and petroleum systems modelling. Consistent heat flow values of 41–46 mW·m−2 were measured seaward of the salt diapiric province and across the slope away from the influence of salt structures. Significant but highly variable increases in heat flow were measured for stations overlying salt diapiric structures, reaching values upwards of 72 mW·m−2. Simple models of conductive heat transfer with static salt geometries constrained from reflection profiles indicate that two of the four models fit the data, whereas two indicate much higher values suggestive of additional, convective effects. Dynamic 2D thermal models were developed to incorporate the effects of lithospheric rifting, crustal stretching, and radiogenic heat production in the sediment and basement. These models help constrain the hydrocarbon maturation potential of the central Scotian Slope, where deep borehole data are lacking. Our results suggest that a potential Late Jurassic source rock interval rests primarily within the late oil window and that salt structures act primarily to reduce maturation in the adjacent deep sediment layers.
Harbour seals target juvenile salmon of conservation concern
Authors: Thomas Austen C. , Nelson Benjamin W. , Lance Monique M. , Deagle Bruce E. , Trites Andrew W.
Published: October 2016

Knowing the species and life stages of prey that predators consume is important for understanding the impacts that predation may have on prey populations, but traditional methods for determining diets often cannot provide sufficient detail. We combined data from two methods of scat analysis (DNA metabarcoding and morphological prey ID) to quantify the species and life stages of salmon (Oncorhynchus spp.) consumed by harbour seals (Phoca vitulina) in the Strait of Georgia, Canada, where juvenile Chinook (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) and coho (Oncorhynchus kisutch) salmon survival is poor. Harbour seals primarily consumed adult salmon of lesser conservation concern in the fall (August–November): chum (Oncorhynchus keta: 18.4%), pink (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha: 12.6%), sockeye (Oncorhynchus nerka: 7.4%), Chinook (7.1%), and coho (1.8%). However, the opposite species trend occurred during the spring when seals preferred juvenile salmon of greater conservation concern (April–July): coho (2.9%), Chinook (2.9%), sockeye (2.5%), pink (1.4%), and chum (0.8%) — percentages that can equate to many individuals consumed. Our data suggest that harbour seals select juveniles of salmon species that out-migrate at ages >1 year and provide evidence of a potential causal relationship between harbour seal predation and juvenile salmon survival trends.
Density dependence of nuclear symmetry energy
Authors: Behera B. , Routray T. R. , Tripathy S. K.
Published: October 2016

High density behavior of nuclear symmetry energy is studied on the basis of the stiffest density dependence of asymmetric contribution to energy per nucleon in charge neutral n + p + e + [Formula: see text] matter under beta equilibrium. The density dependence of nuclear symmetry energy obtained in this way is neither very stiff nor soft at high densities and is found to be in conformity with recent observations of neutron stars.
Switching dynamics of single and coupled VO2-based oscillators as elements of neural networks
Authors: Velichko Andrey , Belyaev Maksim , Putrolaynen Vadim , Pergament Alexander , Perminov Valentin
Published: October 2016

In the present paper, we report on the switching dynamics of both single and coupled VO2-based oscillators, with resistive and capacitive coupling, and explore the capability of their application in oscillatory neural networks. Based on these results, we further select an adequate SPICE model to describe the modes of operation of coupled oscillator circuits. Physical mechanisms influencing the time of forward and reverse electrical switching, that determine the applicability limits of the proposed model, are identified. For the resistive coupling, it is shown that synchronization takes place at a certain value of the coupling resistance, though it is unstable and a synchronization failure occurs periodically. For the capacitive coupling, two synchronization modes, with weak and strong coupling, are found. The transition between these modes is accompanied by chaotic oscillations. A decrease in the width of the spectrum harmonics in the weak-coupling mode, and its increase in the strong-coupling one, is detected. The dependences of frequencies and phase differences of the coupled oscillatory circuits on the coupling capacitance are found. Examples of operation of coupled VO2 oscillators as a central pattern generator are demonstrated.
Efficient and universal quantum key distribution based on chaos and middleware
Authors: Jiang Dong , Chen Yuanyuan , Gu Xuemei , Xie Ling , Chen Lijun
Published: October 2016

Quantum key distribution (QKD) promises unconditionally secure communications, however, the low bit rate of QKD cannot meet the requirements of high-speed applications. Despite the many solutions that have been proposed in recent years, they are neither efficient to generate the secret keys nor compatible with other QKD systems. This paper, based on chaotic cryptography and middleware technology, proposes an efficient and universal QKD protocol that can be directly deployed on top of any existing QKD system without modifying the underlying QKD protocol and optical platform. It initially takes the bit string generated by the QKD system as input, periodically updates the chaotic system, and efficiently outputs the bit sequences. Theoretical analysis and simulation results demonstrate that our protocol can efficiently increase the bit rate of the QKD system as well as securely generate bit sequences with perfect statistical properties. Compared with the existing methods, our protocol is more efficient and universal, it can be rapidly deployed on the QKD system to increase the bit rate when the QKD system becomes the bottleneck of its communication system.
Experimental Study on the Performance and Microstructure of Cementitious Materials Made with Dune Sand
Authors: Jiang Chaohua , Zhou Xiaobin , Tao Guilan , Chen Da
Published: October 2016

This paper presents the results of an investigation on the utilization of dune sand from waterway regulation engineering as the main raw materials to produce cementitious materials. The mechanical and durability properties of the cementitious materials were studied. Furthermore, a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and mercury intrusion porosimeter (MIP) were used to identify the microstructure of the specimens. The results show that the compressive and splitting tensile strength of cementitious materials can be improved due to the addition of ground granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBS) which mainly attributes to a better grain size distribution and pozzolanic effect compared to the specimen added cement alone. The specimen with the addition of suitable cement, GGBS, and gypsum shows low dry shrinkage and excellent abrasion resistance. Correspondingly the specimens present a lower porosity and total volume of pores at different curing ages. The SEM observation indicates that there are quite a lot of hydrate products such as calcium silicate hydrate gel in the matrix which verifies the formation of cementitious compounds. The results obtained suggest that there is potential in manufacturing cementitious material with dune sand in substitution of ordinary concrete to use in hydraulic engineering.
iTRAQ‐Based Proteomic Analysis of Ginsenoside F2 on Human Gastric Carcinoma Cells SGC7901
Authors: Mao Qian , Zhang Pin-Hu , Yang Jie , Xu Jin-Di , Kong Ming , Shen Hong , Zhu He , Bai Min , Zhou Li , Li Guang-Fu , Wang Qiang , Li Song-Lin
Published: October 2016

Ginsenoside F2 (F2), a protopanaxdiol type of saponin, was reported to inhibit human gastric cancer cells SGC7901. To better understand the molecular mechanisms of F2, an iTRAQ‐based proteomics approach was applied to define protein expression profiles in SGC7901 cells in response to lower dose (20 μM) and shorter duration (12 hour) of F2 treatment, compared with previous study. 205 proteins were screened in terms of the change in their expression level which met our predefined criteria. Further bioinformatics and experiments demonstrated that F2 treatment downregulated PRR5 and RPS15 and upregulated RPL26, which are implicated in ribosomal protein‐p53 signaling pathway. F2 also inhibited CISD2, Bcl‐xl, and NLRX1, which are associated with autophagic pathway. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that F2 treatment increased Atg5, Atg7, Atg10, and PUMA, the critical downstream effectors of ribosomal protein‐p53 signaling pathway, and Beclin‐1, UVRAG, and AMBRA‐1, the important molecules in Bcl‐xl/Beclin‐1 pathway. The 6 differentially abundant proteins, PRR5, CISD2, Bcl‐xl, NLRX1, RPS15, and RPL26, were confirmed by western blot. Taken together, ribosomal protein‐p53 signaling pathway and Bcl‐xl/Beclin‐1 pathway might be the most significantly regulated biological process by F2 treatment in SGC7901 cells, which provided valuable insights into the deep understanding of the molecular mechanisms of F2 for gastric cancer treatment.
Visual, Musculoskeletal, and Balance Complaints in AMD: A Follow-Up Study
Authors: Zetterlund Christina , Richter Hans Olof , Lundqvist Lars-Olov
Published: October 2016

Purpose.To investigate whether patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) run a potentially higher risk of developing visual, musculoskeletal, and balance complaints than age-matched controls with normal vision.Methods.Visual assessments, self-rated visual function, self-rated visual, musculoskeletal, and balance complaints, and perceived general health were obtained in 37 AMD patients and 18 controls, at baseline and after an average of 3.8 years later.Results.At follow-up both groups reported decreased visual acuity (VA) and visual function, but only AMD patients reported significantly increased visual, musculoskeletal, and balance complaints. Decreased VA, need for larger font size when reading, need for larger magnification, and decreased self-rated visual function were identified as risk markers for increased complaints in AMD patients. These complaints were also identified as risk markers for decreased health. For controls, decreased VA and self-reported visual function were associated with increased visual and balance complaints.Conclusions.Visual deterioration was a risk marker for increased visual, musculoskeletal, balance, and health complaints in AMD patients. Specifically, magnifying visual aids, such as CCTV, were a risk marker for increased complaints in AMD patients. This calls for early and coordinated actions to treat and prevent visual, musculoskeletal, balance, and health complaints in AMD patients.
Assessment of Antioxidant Activity and Neuroprotective Capacity on PC12 Cell Line of Frankenia thymifolia and Related Phenolic LC‐MS/MS Identification
Authors: Ben Mansour Rim , Ksouri Wided Megdiche , Cluzet Stéphanie , Krisa Stéphanie , Richard Tristan , Ksouri Riadh
Published: October 2016

This work aimed to investigate the richness of a Tunisian xerohalophyte Frankenia thymifolia aerial and root parts on phenolics and to evaluate the antioxidant and neuroprotective properties of this medicinal species. After fractionation using increasing and different solvent polarities, results displayed five fractions, where ethyl acetate (EtOAc) shoot and root fractions possess considerable total phenolic contents (221 and 308 mg of GAE/g of E, resp.) related to their important antioxidant activities such as ORAC (918 and 713 mg of TE/g of E), DPPH (282 and 821 mg of TE/g), and ABTS (778 and 1320 mg of TE/g) tests. Then, the identification of the main compounds by HPLC‐DAD‐ESI‐MS and neuroprotective property of the most active fraction EtOAc were assessed. A total of 14 molecules were identified, which have been described for the first time in F. thymifolia. The major compounds identified were pinoresinol and kaempferol glycoside in aerial parts and gallic acid and ellagitannin in roots. Neuroprotective capacity against β‐amyloid (Aβ) peptide induced toxicity in PC12 cells of EtOAc fraction showed a significant protective activity at lower concentration (25 and 50 µM). The relevant antioxidant and neuroprotective activities of F. thymifolia EtOAc fraction corroborated their chemical compositions.
Melatoninergic System in Parkinson’s Disease: From Neuroprotection to the Management of Motor and Nonmotor Symptoms
Authors: Mack Josiel Mileno , Schamne Marissa Giovanna , Sampaio Tuane Bazanella , Pértile Renata Aparecida Nedel , Fernandes Pedro Augusto Carlos Magno , Markus Regina P. , Prediger Rui Daniel
Published: October 2016

Melatonin is synthesized by several tissues besides the pineal gland, and beyond its regulatory effects in light‐dark cycle, melatonin is a hormone with neuroprotective, anti‐inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Melatonin acts as a free‐radical scavenger, reducing reactive species and improving mitochondrial homeostasis. Melatonin also regulates the expression of neurotrophins that are involved in the survival of dopaminergic neurons and reduces α‐synuclein aggregation, thus protecting the dopaminergic system against damage. The unbalance of pineal melatonin synthesis can predispose the organism to inflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s disease (PD). The aim of this review is to summarize the knowledge about the potential role of the melatoninergic system in the pathogenesis and treatment of PD. The literature reviewed here indicates that PD is associated with impaired brain expression of melatonin and its receptors MT1 and MT2. Exogenous melatonin treatment presented an outstanding neuroprotective effect in animal models of PD induced by different toxins, such as 6‐hydroxydopamine (6‐OHDA), 1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridine (MPTP), rotenone, paraquat, and maneb. Despite the neuroprotective effects and the improvement of motor impairments, melatonin also presents the potential to improve nonmotor symptoms commonly experienced by PD patients such as sleep and anxiety disorders, depression, and memory dysfunction.
Cost Implications of Comorbidity for Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation in Elderly Patients with Multiple Myeloma Using SEER-Medicare
Authors: Shah Gunjan L. , Winn Aaron , Lin Pei-Jung , Klein Andreas , Sprague Kellie A. , Smith Hedy P. , Buchsbaum Rachel , Cohen Joshua T. , Miller Kenneth B. , Comenzo Raymond , Parsons Susan K.
Published: October 2016

Comorbidity is more common in older patients and can increase the cost of care by increasing toxicity. Using the SEER-Medicare database from 2000 to 2007, we examined the costs and life-year benefit of Auto-HSCT for MM patients over the age of 65 by evaluating the difference over time relative to comorbidity burden. One hundred ten patients had an Auto-HSCT in the early time period (2000–2003) and 160 in the late time period (2004–2007). Patients were divided by a Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) of 0 or greater than 1 (CCI1+). Median overall survival was 53.5 months for the late time period patients compared to 40.3 months for the early time period patients (p=0.031). Median costs for CCI0 versus CCI1+ in the early period were, respectively, $70,900 versus $72,000 (100 d); $86,100 versus $98,300 (1 yr); and $139,200 versus $195,300 (3 yrs). Median costs for late period were, respectively, $58,400 versus $60,400 (100 d); $86,300 versus $77,700 (1 yr); and $124,400 versus $110,900 (3 yrs). Comorbidity had a significant impact on survival and cost among early time period patients but not among late time period patients. Therefore, older patients with some comorbidities can be considered for Auto-HSCT depending on clinical circumstances.
The Effect of Geometrical Isomerism of 3,5‐Dicaffeoylquinic Acid on Its Binding Affinity to HIV‐Integrase Enzyme: A Molecular Docking Study
Authors: Makola Mpho M. , Dubery Ian A. , Koorsen Gerrit , Steenkamp Paul A. , Kabanda Mwadham M. , du Preez Louis L. , Madala Ntakadzeni E.
Published: October 2016

A potent plant‐derived HIV‐1 inhibitor, 3,5‐dicaffeoylquinic acid (diCQA), has been shown to undergo isomerisation upon UV exposure where the naturally occurring 3trans,5trans‐diCQA isomer gives rise to the 3cis,5trans‐diCQA, 3trans,5cis‐diCQA, and 3cis,5cis‐diCQA isomers. In this study, inhibition of HIV‐1 INT by UV‐induced isomers was investigated using molecular docking methods. Here, density functional theory (DFT) models were used for geometry optimization of the 3,5‐diCQA isomers. The YASARA and Autodock VINA software packages were then used to determine the binding interactions between the HIV‐1 INT catalytic domain and the 3,5‐diCQA isomers and the Discovery Studio suite was used to visualise the interactions between the isomers and the protein. The geometrical isomers of 3,5‐diCQA were all found to bind to the catalytic core domain of the INT enzyme. Moreover, the cis geometrical isomers were found to interact with the metal cofactor of HIV‐1INT, a phenomenon which has been linked to antiviral potency. Furthermore, the 3trans,5cis‐diCQA isomer was also found to interact with both LYS156 and LYS159 which are important residues for viral DNA integration. The differences in binding modes of these naturally coexisting isomers may allow wider synergistic activity which may be beneficial in comparison to the activities of each individual isomer.
Linking High Risk Postpartum Women with a Technology Enabled Health Coaching Program to Reduce Diabetes Risk and Improve Wellbeing: Program Description, Case Studies, and Recommendations for Community Health Coaching Programs
Authors: Athavale Priyanka , Thomas Melanie , Delgadillo-Duenas Adriana T. , Leong Karen , Najmabadi Adriana , Harleman Elizabeth , Rios Christina , Quan Judy , Soria Catalina , Handley Margaret A.
Published: October 2016

Background. Low-income minority women with prior gestational diabetes mellitus (pGDM) or high BMIs have increased risk for chronic illnesses postpartum. Although the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) provides an evidence-based model for reducing diabetes risk, few community-based interventions have adapted this program for pGDM women. Methods. STAR MAMA is an ongoing randomized control trial (RCT) evaluating a hybrid HIT/Health Coaching DPP-based 20-week postpartum program for diabetes prevention compared with education from written materials at baseline. Eligibility includes women 18–39 years old, ≥32 weeks pregnant, and GDM or BMI > 25. Clinic- and community-based recruitment in San Francisco and Sonoma Counties targets 180 women. Sociodemographic and health coaching data from a preliminary sample are presented. Results. Most of the 86 women included to date (88%) have GDM, 80% were identified as Hispanic/Latina, 78% have migrant status, and most are Spanish-speaking. Women receiving the intervention indicate high engagement, with 86% answering 1+ calls. Health coaching callbacks last an average of 9 minutes with range of topics discussed. Case studies presented convey a range of emotional, instrumental, and health literacy-related supports offered by health coaches. Discussion. The DPP-adapted HIT/health coaching model highlights the possibility and challenge of delivering DPP content to postpartum women in community settings. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02240420.
Health Care Seeking Behavior of Persons with Acute Chagas Disease in Rural Argentina: A Qualitative View
Authors: Llovet Ignacio , Dinardi Graciela , Canevari Cecilia , Torabi Nahal
Published: October 2016

Chagas disease (CD) is a tropical parasitic disease largely underdiagnosed and mostly asymptomatic affecting marginalized rural populations. Argentina regularly reports acute cases of CD, mostly young individuals under 14 years old. There is a void of knowledge of health care seeking behavior in subjects experiencing a CD acute condition. Early treatment of the acute case is crucial to limit subsequent development of disease. The article explores how the health outcome of persons with acute CD may be conditioned by their health care seeking behavior. The study, with a qualitative approach, was carried out in rural areas of Santiago del Estero Province, a high risk endemic region for vector transmission of CD. Narratives of 25 in-depth interviews carried out in 2005 and 2006 are analyzed identifying patterns of health care seeking behavior followed by acute cases. Through the retrospective recall of paths for diagnoses, weaknesses of disease information, knowledge at the household level, and underperformance at the provincial health care system level are detected. The misdiagnoses were a major factor in delaying a health care response. The study results expose lost opportunities for the health care system to effectively record CD acute cases.