bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Why the seahorse tail is square
Authors: Porter Michael M. , Adriaens Dominique , Hatton Ross L. , Meyers Marc A. , McKittrick Joanna
Published: July 2015

The curious tale of the square tail

Appendages in animals are typically round, but the seahorse tail has a square cross section. Porter
et al.
hypothesize that this shape provides better functionality and strength than a round cross section (see the Perspective by Ashley-Ross). Three-dimensional printed models show that square cross section shapes behave more advantageously when subjected to compressive forces. By allowing greater deformation without damage and accommodating twisting deformations, square appendages passively return to their original configurations. The added flexibility of the square cross section enhances the tail's ability to grasp objects.

Science
, this issue
10.1126/science.aaa6683
; see also p.
30
Shape-selective zeolite catalysis for bioplastics production
Authors: Dusselier Michiel , Van Wouwe Pieter , Dewaele Annelies , Jacobs Pierre A. , Sels Bert F.
Published: July 2015

Synthesizing more sustainable plastics

Zeolites can help synthesize cheaper plastic precursors from biologically sourced feedstocks. Producing sustainable plastics must compete with more cost-effective petrochemical-based synthesis routes. Dusselier
et al.
developed a zeolite-based strategy to catalyze the transformation of microbially produced lactic acid into lactide, a difficult-to-synthesize precursor of biodegradable polylactic acid plastics. The selectivity of nearly 80% is based on active site spatial confinement in the zeolite micropores. This step substantially simplifies current high-cost synthesis routes and generates nearly zero waste using current reactor technologies.

Science
, this issue p.
78
Gas phase observation and microwave spectroscopic characterization of formic sulfuric anhydride
Authors: Mackenzie Rebecca B. , Dewberry Christopher T. , Leopold Kenneth R.
Published: July 2015

An unexpected gaseous sulfur species

Sulfuric acid plays a central role in both industrial and atmospheric contexts. As such, the behavior of SO
3
mixtures in gas phases has been studied for over a century. In gas-phase experiments on wet SO
3
and formic acid, Mackenzie
et al.
discovered a previously unrecognized covalent adduct: formic sulfuric anhydride, or HC(O)OSO
3
H. The combination of microwave spectroscopy and theoretical calculations reveals its structural properties. The compound may play a role in the nucleation of atmospheric aerosols by serving as an intermediate to H
2
SO
4
formation.

Science
, this issue p.
58
Observation of phononic helical edge states in a mechanical topological insulator
Authors: Süsstrunk Roman , Huber Sebastian D.
Published: July 2015

Designing mechanical complexity

The quantum properties of topological insulators translate to mechanical systems governed by Newton's equations of motion. Many-body interactions and the multiple degrees of freedom available to charge carriers give electronic systems a range of exotic behaviors. Süsstrunk and Huber show that this extends to mechanical systems made up of a large lattice of coupled pendula. Mechanical excitations can be eliminated from the inner part of the lattice and confined to the edges, much like topological insulators. In addition to presenting a tractable toy system in which to study complex phenomena, the approach has potential uses in vibration isolation.

Science
, this issue p.
47
When it's hip to be square
Authors: Ashley-Ross Miriam A.
Published: July 2015

The square shape of the seahorse tail helps it resist mechanical deformation

[Also see Research Article by

Porter
et al.

]
Dengue subgenomic RNA binds TRIM25 to inhibit interferon expression for epidemiological fitness
Authors: Manokaran Gayathri , Finol Esteban , Wang Chunling , Gunaratne Jayantha , Bahl Justin , Ong Eugenia Z. , Tan Hwee Cheng , Sessions October M. , Ward Alex M. , Gubler Duane J. , Harris Eva , Garcia-Blanco Mariano A. , Ooi Eng Eong
Published: July 2015

Orchestrating a viral takeover

For some pathogenic viruses, outbreaks occur when a new viral strain emerges and displaces the endemic strain. How such a takeover occurs at a molecular level, however, remains an open question. Manokaran
et al.
examined one example, the emergence of a new clade of dengue virus (DENV) that caused an outbreak in Puerto Rico in 1994. The epidemic strain produced elevated amounts of subgenomic flavivirus RNA (sfRNA), a viral noncoding RNA, relative to amounts of genomic viral RNA. sfRNA bound to and inhibited TRIM25, a protein important for activating the host's antiviral response, and so by reducing host immunity was able to increase its own fitness.

Science
, this issue p.
217
Draft Genome Sequence of Picalivirus D Recovered from San Francisco Wastewater
Authors: Greninger Alexander L. , DeRisi Joseph L.
Published: July 2015

We report here the draft genome sequence of picalivirus D, a member of picalivirus, a picorna-like superfamily, and likely member of the order
Picornavirales
, assembled from metagenomic sequencing of organisms in San Francisco wastewater. This virus likely constitutes a novel genus within the picalivirus family.
Complete Genomic Sequence of Issyk-Kul Virus
Authors: Atkinson Barry , Marston Denise A. , Ellis Richard J. , Fooks Anthony R. , Hewson Roger
Published: July 2015

Issyk-Kul virus (ISKV) is an ungrouped virus tentatively assigned to the
Bunyaviridae
family and is associated with an acute febrile illness in several central Asian countries. Using next-generation sequencing technologies, we report here the full-genome sequence for this novel unclassified arboviral pathogen circulating in central Asia.
Complete Genome Sequence of Bacillus thuringiensis Serovar Tolworthi Strain Pasteur Institute Standard
Authors: Kanda Kohzo , Nakashima Kaede , Nagano Yukio
Published: July 2015

The genome sequence of
Bacillus thuringiensis
serovar tolworthi strain Pasteur Institute Standard was determined. The genome consists of a 5.9-Mb chromosome and eight plasmids, one of which is linear. The second largest plasmid (293 kb) carries the genes encoding insecticidal proteins.
Whole-Genome Sequence of Multidrug-Resistant Staphylococcus caprae Strain 9557, Isolated from Cerebrospinal Fluid
Authors: Zheng Beiwen , Jiang Xiawei , Li Ang , Yao Jian , Zhang Jing , Hu Xinjun , Li Lanjuan
Published: July 2015

Staphylococcus caprae
strain 9557 was isolated from a cerebrospinal fluid sample. The assembled genome contained 2,747,651-bp nucleotides with 33.34% GC content. Consistent with its phenotypic characteristics, the genome harbors a varying repertoire of putative virulence factors involved in invasion, survival, and growth in the host cells.
Draft Genome Sequence of Jiangella alkaliphila KCTC 19222
T
, Isolated from Cave Soil in Jeju, Republic of Korea
Authors: Jiao Jian-Yu , Liu Lan , Park Dong-Jin , Kim Chang-Jin , Xiao Min , Chen Jing , Li Li , Zhong Jing-Mei , Zhao Jiao , Li Wen-Jun
Published: July 2015

We report the draft genome sequence of
Jiangella alkaliphila
KCTC 19222
T
, isolated from cave soil in Jeju, Republic of Korea. This genome sequence, together with the previously sequenced
J. gansuensis
strain DSM 44835
T
, identified from a desert environmental source, will give us a better understanding of the school of “evolutionary taxonomy.”
Draft Genome Sequences of Vibrio alginolyticus Strains V1 and V2, Opportunistic Marine Pathogens
Authors: Castillo Daniel , D’Alvise Paul , Kalatzis Panos G. , Kokkari Constantina , Middelboe Mathias , Gram Lone , Liu Siyang , Katharios Pantelis
Published: July 2015

We announce the draft genome sequences of
Vibrio alginolyticus
strains V1 and V2, isolated from juvenile
Sparus aurata
and
Dentex dentex
, respectively, during outbreaks of vibriosis. The genome sequences are 5,257,950 bp with a G+C content of 44.5% for
V. alginolyticus
V1 and 5,068,299 bp with a G+C content of 44.8% for strain V2. These genomes provide further insights into the putative virulence factors, prophage carriage, and evolution of this opportunistic marine pathogen.
Warfarin-related recurrent knee haemarthrosis treated with arterial embolisation and intra-articular injection of tranexamic acid
Authors: Kunugiza Yasuo , Nakamura Yoshiharu , Mikami Koji , Suzuki Shozo
Published: July 2015

Haemarthrosis is an uncommon complication of anticoagulation therapy. Tranexamic acid (TXA) has a high clinical value for the treatment of bleeding due to fibrinolysis. We describe a case of a 61-year-old woman with a mechanical heart valve who presented with warfarin-related recurrent haemarthrosis of her right knee, which recurred after transarterial embolisation. Intra-articular injection of TXA led to a cessation of haemarthrosis without any adverse event for 1 year. Intra-articular injection of TXA may be an effective treatment for warfarin-related haemarthrosis.
Giant acrochordon of the axilla
Authors: Alkhalili Eyas , Prapasiri Surasri , Russell John
Published: July 2015

Acrochordons or fibroepithelial polyps, are very common skin lesions. However, giant acrochordons are extremely rare. We present a case of a morbidly obese diabetic man who was treated with primary excision of a giant 18 cm acrochordon of the left axilla.
Using simplified peer review processes to fund research: a prospective study
Authors: Herbert Danielle L , Graves Nicholas , Clarke Philip , Barnett Adrian G
Published: July 2015

Objective

To prospectively test two simplified peer review processes, estimate the agreement between the simplified and official processes, and compare the costs of peer review.

Design, participants and setting

A prospective parallel study of Project Grant proposals submitted in 2013 to the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) of Australia. The official funding outcomes were compared with two simplified processes using proposals in Public Health and Basic Science. The two simplified processes were: panels of 7 reviewers who met face-to-face and reviewed only the nine-page research proposal and track record (simplified panel); and 2 reviewers who independently reviewed only the nine-page research proposal (journal panel). The official process used panels of 12 reviewers who met face-to-face and reviewed longer proposals of around 100 pages. We compared the funding outcomes of 72 proposals that were peer reviewed by the simplified and official processes.

Main outcome measures

Agreement in funding outcomes; costs of peer review based on reviewers’ time and travel costs.

Results

The agreement between the simplified and official panels (72%, 95% CI 61% to 82%), and the journal and official panels (74%, 62% to 83%), was just below the acceptable threshold of 75%. Using the simplified processes would save $A2.1–$A4.9 million per year in peer review costs.

Conclusions

Using shorter applications and simpler peer review processes gave reasonable agreement with the more complex official process. Simplified processes save time and money that could be reallocated to actual research. Funding agencies should consider streamlining their application processes.
Republished: Initial experience of coiling cerebral aneurysms using the new Comaneci device
Authors: Lawson Aimee Louise Deborah , Chandran Arun , Puthuran Mani , Goddard Tony , Nahser Hans , Patankar Tufail
Published: July 2015

We present our initial patient experience with an innovative temporary bridging device, the Comaneci (Rapid Medical, Israel), to assist in the coiling of cerebral aneurysms. The Comaneci device confers the same benefits as balloon remodeling but without the risks of parent artery occlusion. This alleviates time pressure on the clinician, and could reduce the risk of parent artery thrombosis. Three patients were treated with the Comaneci device. Two patients had acute ruptured posterior communicating aneurysms and one patient was treated electively for a carotico-ophthalmic aneurysm. Excellent occlusion of all three aneurysms was obtained. One patient developed a distal middle cerebral artery clot, that was treated with intravenous aspirin, with minor neurological consequences. These early results show that the Comaneci device can be used to achieve good cerebral aneurysm occlusion. Vessel patency is maintained throughout the procedure with potential advantages over conventional balloon assisted coiling.
Prophylactic use of antimicrobials in surgical pig models; a literature review (2012‐2014)
Authors: Bradbury A. G. , Argyle S. , Eddleston M. , Clutton R. E.
Published: July 2015

There are no guidelines for antimicrobial use in experimental animals even though appropriate selection is required to reduce risk of surgical site infection (SSI) and resistance development. Pigs are used extensively as experimental surgical models for people. This review compares reported antimicrobial prescription in recently published pig surgical studies (retrieved by PubMed, Web of Knowledge and Google Scholar) with human guidelines for prophylactic antimicrobial use (National Institute of Clinical Excellence and the American Society of Health‐System Pharmacists). A five‐point appropriate antimicrobial use index (AAUI), based on aforementioned guidelines, was used to grade 233 studies. Use of World Health Organization‐designated critically important antimicrobials (CIA) was recorded. Antimicrobial use was described in 111 of 233 (48 per cent) papers. AAUI scores of 5 (maximal compliance) and 0 (no compliance) were awarded to 34 (15 per cent) and 101 (43 per cent) articles. Where reported, prophylactic antimicrobials were mostly administered after surgery (62/95, 65 per cent) and intramuscularly (36/72, 50 per cent). CIAs were described in 21 of 111 (19 per cent) papers and SSIs in 21 of 233 (9 per cent). Reported antimicrobial prophylaxis in experimental pig surgery deviates from human clinical guidelines. This has implications for antimicrobial resistance, study quality and animal welfare. Until species‐specific guidelines are formulated, experimental surgical studies involving animals would probably benefit from adherence to human guidelines.
On general (α, β)-metrics with vanishing Douglas curvature
Authors: Zhu Hongmei
Published: July 2015

In this paper, we study a class of Finsler metrics called general (α, β)-metrics, which are defined by a Riemannian metric α and a 1-form β. We find an equation which is necessary and sufficient condition for such Finsler metric to be a Douglas metric. By solving this equation, we obtain all of general (α, β)-metrics with vanishing Douglas curvature under certain condition. Many new non-trivial examples are explicitly constructed.
Remanufacturer–Manufacturer Collaboration in a Supply Chain: The Manufacturer Plays the Leader Role
Authors: Wang Kai , Xiong Zhongkai , Xiong Yu , Yan Wei
Published: July 2015

This paper adds to the growing remanufacturing literature by investigating a collaborative model in which the manufacturer serves as the remanufacturer's distributor while selling its own product. The paper extends the collaborative model that we have studied previously by characterizing it as a channel power structure under which the manufacturer plays the leader role in the collaboration. Furthermore, the paper compares this collaborative model with a competitive model in which the manufacturer competes with the remanufacturer in the market on pricing, sales volume and profit and finds that even if the manufacturer chooses to collaborate with the remanufacturer, it does not give up its market position; the manufacturer keeps the price of its product unchanged as the remanufactured product becomes increasingly acceptable to the consumer, and its product's sales volume remains unchanged in both models. Finally, this paper observes that the collaborative model benefits the manufacturer more than the competitive model, whereas the competitive model benefits the remanufacturer more than the collaborative model. Obviously, if collaboration benefits both of the manufacturer and remanufacturer, they will choose to collaborate, and the manufacturer will transfer part of its profit to the remanufacturer, but if competition brings them more profit, they will choose to compete in the market, and the remanufacturer will transfer part of its profit to the manufacturer.
Triage Scheduling Optimization for Mass Casualty and Disaster Response
Authors: Chu Xiang , Zhong Qiu-Yan , Khokhar Shahid G.
Published: July 2015

This paper discusses casualty and medical group scheduling for disaster response in order to reduce casualities. First, triage levels and their stochastic transition, Markov Chain, are introduced to establish a function from treated time to probability of death. Then, job shop scheduling model and a genetic algorithm are designed. Finally, we performed a simulation experiment, partially using real data of 5.12 Wenchuan earthquakes for reference. The results show that the algorithm reduces number of mortalities stably and efficiently while considering disturbance events.
Spectral properties of the Möbius function and a random Möbius model
Authors: El Abdalaoui E. H. , Disertori M.
Published: July 2015

Assuming Sarnak’s conjecture is true for any singular dynamical process, we prove that the spectral measure of the Möbius function is equivalent to Lebesgue measure. Conversely, under Elliott’s conjecture, we establish that the Möbius function is orthogonal to any uniquely ergodic dynamical system with singular spectrum. Furthermore, using Mirsky’s theorem, we find a new simple proof of Cellarosi–Sinai’s theorem on the orthogonality of the square of the Möbius function with respect to any weakly mixing dynamical system. Finally, we establish Sarnak’s conjecture for a particular random model.
Ehrenfest scheme of higher dimensional AdS black holes in the third-order Lovelock–Born–Infeld gravity
Authors: Belhaj A. , Chabab M. , Moumni H. EL , Masmar K. , Sedra M. B.
Published: July 2015

Interpreting the cosmological constant as a thermodynamic pressure and its conjugate quantity as a thermodynamic volume, we reconsider the investigation of P–V critical behaviors of (1 + n)-dimensional AdS black holes in Lovelock–Born–Infeld gravity. In particular, we derive an explicit expression of the universal number [Formula: see text] in terms of the space dimension n. Then, we examine the phase transitions at the critical points of such black holes for 6 ≤ n < 11 as required by the physical condition of the thermodynamical quantities including criticality behaviors. More precisely, the Ehrenfest equations have been checked and they reveal that the black hole system undergoes a second phase transition at the critical points.
Improved bounds for arithmetic progressions in product sets
Authors: Zhelezov Dmitrii
Published: July 2015

Let B be a set of natural numbers of size n. We prove that the length of the longest arithmetic progression contained in the product set B.B = {bb′|b, b′ ∈ B} cannot be greater than O(n log n) which matches the lower bound provided in an earlier paper up to a multiplicative constant. For sets of complex numbers, we improve the bound to Oϵ(n1 + ϵ) for arbitrary ϵ > 0 assuming the GRH.
Size-Dependent Thermodynamic Properties of the Reaction of Nano-ZnO with Benzoic Acid
Authors: Wang Shuting , Cui Zixiang , Xue Yongqiang
Published: July 2015

Studying the thermodynamic properties of the reaction of nanoparticle with organic substance is significant for the application of nanomaterial in organic fields. In this work, by using the reaction of nano- ZnO with different particle sizes with benzoic acid as a research system, the size-dependent standard equilibrium constant and reaction thermodynamic properties were analyzed theoretically, and the influence regularities of the particle size on the standard equilibrium constant and the reaction thermodynamic properties were studied. The excellent agreement between the experimental results and theoretical analysis shows that the particle size has remarkable influence on the standard equilibrium constant and the thermodynamic properties of the reaction; with the decrease of the particle size, the standard equilibrium constant increases, while the standard molar reaction Gibbs energy, the standard molar reaction enthalpy and the standard molar reaction entropy decrease. Furthermore, the logarithm of the standard equilibrium constant and the thermodynamic properties present linear relations with the reciprocal of the particle diameter, respectively. The theory and the influence regularities will provide useful tools to lead better and broader application of nanomaterial in organic fields.
Correlated color temperature tunability and energy transfer phenomenon in the NaBaBO3:Dy3+/Eu3+ phosphor for white light application
Authors: Zheng Jianghui , Cheng Qijin , Zheng Cheng , Chen Guo , Shi Feng , Chen Chao
Published: July 2015

NaBa 0.97-x BO 3 0.03 Dy 3+, x Eu 3+(0 ≤ x ≤ 0.09) single-phase white phosphors with tunable correlated color temperature (CCT) were synthesized using a conventional solid state reaction method. The phase structure and luminescence properties of the as-prepared samples were investigated. The Dy 3+, Eu 3+ doped and Dy 3+/ Eu 3+ co-doped NaBaBO 3 phosphors excited by 361 nm show two blue and yellow emissions corresponding to the 4 F 9/2 → 6 H 15/2 and 4 F 9/2 → 6 H 13/2 transitions of Dy 3+ ions and two red emissions due to the 5 D 0 → 4 F J (J = 1, 2) transitions of Eu 3+ ions. Under 361-nm light excitation, the NaBa 0.97-x BO 3 0.03 Dy 3+, x Eu 3+(0 ≤ x ≤ 0.09) phosphors feature a white light emitting property. Through the Commission Internationale de L'Eclairage (CIE) chromaticity analysis and CCT calculation, the CIE chromaticity coordinates of the emission light are all located in the white region and can be tuned from bluish white light to reddish white light when the Eu 3+ concentration increases, and the CCT values of the obtained samples can vary from 5514.31 K to 8269.42 K. Furthermore, the energy transfer phenomenon from Dy 3+ ions to Eu 3+ ions in Dy 3+/ Eu 3+ co-doped samples was also investigated. The results indicated that, through tuning the Eu 3+ concentration of the NaBaBO 3: Dy 3+/ Eu 3+ phosphors, the NaBaBO 3-based phosphor can act as a potential single-phase white emitting phosphor for the application in the near-ultraviolet (NUV) white light emitting diodes.
Intestinal scavenger receptor class B type I as a novel regulator of chylomicron production in healthy and diet-induced obese states
Authors: Lino Marsel , Farr Sarah , Baker Chris , Fuller Mark , Trigatti Bernardo , Adeli Khosrow
Published: July 2015

The small intestine contributes to diabetic dyslipidemia through the overproduction of apolipoprotein B48 (apoB48)-containing chylomicron particles. An important regulator of chylomicron generation is dietary lipid absorption, underlining the potential involvement of intestinal lipid transporters for developing dyslipidemia. Intestinal expression of scavenger receptor class B type I (SR-BI) has been found to be upregulated in animal models of insulin resistance. Here we characterized the potential importance of SR-BI in contributing to chylomicron production and postprandial hypertriglyceridemia in vivo. Postprandial triglyceride (TG)-rich lipoprotein (TRL) production was characterized in hamsters treated with the SR-BI inhibitor to block lipid transport-1 (BLT-1) under healthy conditions or conditions of diet-induced obesity and dyslipidemia. BLT-1 (1 mg/kg) or vehicle was administered acutely in chow-fed hamsters or gavaged twice daily over 10 days during high-fructose, high-fat, high-cholesterol (FFC) feeding. Effects of acute SR-BI inhibition by BLT-1 were confirmed in healthy fat-loaded rats. Finally, plasma lipid levels were compared between SR-BI−/−mice and their wild-type counterparts fed either chow or a 12-wk high-fat diet. Acute BLT-1 treatment reduced postprandial plasma and TRL TG levels in healthy hamsters and rats. Chronic BLT-1 treatment of FFC-fed hamsters blunted diet-induced weight gain and fasting hypertriglyceridemia, and lowered postprandial TRL-TG, -cholesterol, and -apoB48 levels. Finally, SR-BI−/−mice displayed lower plasma and TRL TG levels relative to wild type, and diet-induced weight gain and postprandial hypertriglyceridemia were hindered in SR-BI−/−mice. We conclude that intestinal SR-BI is a critical regulator of postprandial lipoprotein production, emphasizing its potential as a target for preventing diabetic dyslipidemia.
Fibroblast growth factor signaling in myofibroblasts differs from lipofibroblasts during alveolar septation in mice
Authors: McGowan Stephen E. , McCoy Diann M.
Published: July 2015

Pulmonary alveolar fibroblasts produce extracellular matrix in a temporally and spatially regulated pattern to yield a durable yet pliable gas-exchange surface. Proliferation ensures a sufficient complement of cells, but they must differentiate into functionally distinct subtypes: contractile myofibroblasts (MF), which generate elastin and regulate air-flow at the alveolar ducts, and, in mice and rats, lipofibroblasts (LF), which store neutral lipids. PDGF-A is required but acts in conjunction with other differentiation factors arising from adjacent epithelia or within fibroblasts. We hypothesized that FGF receptor (FGFR) expression and function vary for MF and LF and contributes to their divergent differentiation. Whereas approximately half of the FGFR3 was extracellular in MF, FGFR2 and FGFR4 were primarily intracellular. Intracellular FGFR3 localized to the multivesicular body, and its abundance may be modified by Sprouty and interaction with heat shock protein-90. FGF18 mRNA is more abundant in MF, whereas FGF10 mRNA predominated in LF, which also express FGFR1 IIIb, a receptor for FGF10. FGF18 diminished fibroblast proliferation and was chemotactic for cultured fibroblasts. Although PDGF receptor-α (PDGFR-α) primarily signals through phosphoinositide 3-kinase and Akt, p42/p44 MAP kinase (Erk1/2), a major signaling pathway for FGFRs, influenced the abundance of cell-surface PDGFR-α. Observing different FGFR and ligand profiles in MF and LF is consistent with their divergent differentiation although both subpopulations express PDGFR-α. These studies also emphasize the importance of particular cellular locations of FGFR3 and PDGFR-α, which may modify their effects during alveolar development or repair.
The influence of central arterial compliance on cerebrovascular hemodynamics: insights from endurance training intervention
Authors: Tomoto Tsubasa , Sugawara Jun , Nogami Yoshie , Aonuma Kazutaka , Maeda Seiji
Published: July 2015

Normally, central elastic arteries (e.g., aorta and common carotid artery) effectively buffer cardiac pulsation-induced flow/pressure fluctuations. With advancing age, arterial stiffening deteriorates this function and produces the greater cerebral hemodynamic pulsatility that impacts vulnerable brain tissue. It is well known that the buffering function of the central artery is improved by regular aerobic exercise, but the influence of endurance training on the pulsatile component of cerebral hemodynamics remains poorly understood. To characterize the functional role of the central artery at the heart-brain hemodynamic connection comprehensively, we assessed relations among the endurance training-induced changes in the left ventricle (LV), carotid arterial compliance, and cerebral hemodynamics. Thirteen collegiate tennis players (20 ± 1 yr) underwent a 16-wk endurance training intervention designed for improving cardiovascular function. Expectedly, maximal oxygen uptake (V̇o2peak), LV ejection velocity (via Doppler ultrasound), and the maximal rate of pressure increase of estimated aortic pressure waveform (via general transfer function) improved after the training intervention, whereas middle cerebral arterial (MCA) hemodynamics (via transcranial Doppler), such as mean and pulsatile flow velocities, remained unchanged. Carotid arterial compliance (via ultrasound and applanation tonometry) increased after the training intervention, and a larger increase in carotid arterial compliance was significantly associated with the greater attenuations of pulsatile MCA velocity ( r = −0.621) normalized by mean MCA velocity. These results suggest that the training-induced improvement of carotid artery Windkessel function might offset the expected increase in the pulsatile component of cerebral perfusion induced by the enhanced LV systolic function.
Association of microparticles and neutrophil activation with decompression sickness
Authors: Thom Stephen R. , Bennett Michael , Banham Neil D. , Chin Walter , Blake Denise F. , Rosen Anders , Pollock Neal W. , Madden Dennis , Barak Otto , Marroni Alessandro , Balestra Costantino , Germonpre Peter , Pieri Massimo , Cialoni Danilo , Le Phi-Nga Jeannie , Logue Christopher , Lambert David , Hardy Kevin R. , Sward Douglas , Yang Ming , Bhopale Veena B. , Dujic Zeljko
Published: July 2015

Decompression sickness (DCS) is a systemic disorder, assumed due to gas bubbles, but additional factors are likely to play a role. Circulating microparticles (MPs)—vesicular structures with diameters of 0.1-1.0 μm—have been implicated, but data in human divers have been lacking. We hypothesized that the number of blood-borne, Annexin V-positive MPs and neutrophil activation, assessed as surface MPO staining, would differ between self-contained underwater breathing-apparatus divers suffering from DCS vs. asymptomatic divers. Blood was analyzed from 280 divers who had been exposed to maximum depths from 7 to 105 meters; 185 were control/asymptomatic divers, and 90 were diagnosed with DCS. Elevations of MPs and neutrophil activation occurred in all divers but normalized within 24 h in those who were asymptomatic. MPs, bearing the following proteins: CD66b, CD41, CD31, CD142, CD235, and von Willebrand factor, were between 2.4- and 11.7-fold higher in blood from divers with DCS vs. asymptomatic divers, matched for time of sample acquisition, maximum diving depth, and breathing gas. Multiple logistic regression analysis documented significant associations ( P < 0.001) between DCS and MPs and for neutrophil MPO staining. Effect estimates were not altered by gender, body mass index, use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents, or emergency oxygen treatment and were modestly influenced by divers' age, choice of breathing gas during diving, maximum diving depth, and whether repetitive diving had been performed. There were no significant associations between DCS and number of MPs without surface proteins listed above. We conclude that MP production and neutrophil activation exhibit strong associations with DCS.
A strategy for oxygen conditioning at high altitude: comparison with air conditioning
Authors: West John B.
Published: July 2015

Large numbers of people live or work at high altitude, and many visit to trek or ski. The inevitable hypoxia impairs physical working capacity, and at higher altitudes there is also cognitive impairment. Twenty years ago oxygen enrichment of room air was introduced to reduce the hypoxia, and this is now used in dormitories, hotels, mines, and telescopes. However, recent advances in technology now allow large amounts of oxygen to be obtained from air or cryogenic oxygen sources. As a result it is now feasible to oxygenate large buildings and even institutions such as hospitals. An analogy can be drawn between air conditioning that has improved the living and working conditions of millions of people who live in hot climates and oxygen conditioning that can do the same at high altitude. Oxygen conditioning is similar to air conditioning except that instead of cooling the air, the oxygen concentration is raised, thus reducing the equivalent altitude. Oxygen conditioning on a large scale could transform living and working conditions at high altitude, where it could be valuable in homes, hospitals, schools, dormitories, company headquarters, banks, and legislative settings.
Stimulation of Suicidal Erythrocyte Death by the Antimalarial Drug Mefloquine
Authors: Bissinger Rosi , Barking Susanne , Alzoubi Kousi , Liu Guilai , Liu Guoxing , Lang Florian
Published: July 2015

Background: The antimalarial drug mefloquine has previously been shown to stimulate apoptosis of nucleated cells. Similar to apoptosis, erythrocytes may enter suicidal death or eryptosis, which is characterized by cell shrinkage and phospholipid scrambling of the erythrocyte cell membrane with phosphatidylserine translocation to the erythrocyte surface. Stimulators of eryptosis include oxidative stress, increase of cytosolic Ca2+-activity ([Ca2+]i), and ceramide. Methods: Phosphatidylserine abundance at the cell surface was estimated from annexin V binding, cell volume from forward scatter, reactive oxidant species (ROS) from 2′,7′-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (DCFDA) fluorescence, [Ca2+]i from Fluo3-fluorescence, and ceramide abundance from specific antibody binding. Results: A 48 h treatment of human erythrocytes with mefloquine significantly increased the percentage of annexin-V-binding cells (≥5 µg/ml), significantly decreased forward scatter (≥5 µg/ml), significantly increased ROS abundance (5 µg/ml), significantly increased [Ca2+]i (7.5 µg/ml) and significantly increased ceramide abundance (10 µg/ml). The up-regulation of annexin-V-binding following mefloquine treatment was significantly blunted but not abolished by removal of extracellular Ca2+. Even in the absence of extracellular Ca2+, mefloquine significantly increased annexin-V-binding. Conclusions: Mefloquine treatment leads to erythrocyte shrinkage and erythrocyte membrane scrambling, effects at least partially due to induction of oxidative stress, increase of [Ca2+]i and up-regulation of ceramide abundance.
MiR-495 is a Predictive Biomarker that Downregulates GFI1 Expression in Medulloblastoma
Authors: Wang Ce , Yun Zhiyuan , Zhao Tianshu , Liu Xian , Ma Xueling
Published: July 2015

Background: Alterations in the expression level of miR-495 were recently observed in various tumours. Medulloblastoma is the most common malignant brain tumour in children. However, the clinical significance of miR-495 in medulloblastomas remains unclear. Methods: The expression levels of miR-495 was examined in 62 archival formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) medulloblastoma specimens using TaqMan Real-time Quantitative PCR arrays. Immunohistochemistry was used to determine the expression of Gfi1 in medulloblastoma tissues, and a luciferase reporter assay was carried out to confirm whether Gfi1 is a direct target of miR-495. Results: MiR-495 expression is repressed in medulloblastoma samples compared with normal cerebellum tissues. Furthermore, patients with a low level of miR-495 showed significantly poorer survival, as determined by the log-rank test (P = 0.033). The multivariate analysis results showed that the miR-495 expression levels were an independent predictor of overall survival in medulloblastoma patients (P = 0.027; hazard ratio = 0.267). Our study provides the first demonstration that miR-495 directly interacts with the Gfi1 3'UTR to regulate Gfi1 at a post-transcriptional level and that the expression level of miR-495 is inversely correlated with the Gfi1 protein level in medulloblastoma specimens. Conclusion: Our results suggest that miR-495 may be a prognostic predictor in medulloblastoma and that Gfi1 is a potential functional target of miR-495.
Early Spironolactone Treatment Attenuates Heart Failure Development by Improving Myocardial Function and Reducing Fibrosis in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Cezar Marcelo D.M. , Damatto Ricardo L. , Pagan Luana U. , Lima Aline R.R. , Martinez Paula F. , Bonomo Camila , Rosa Camila M. , Campos Dijon H.S. , Cicogna Antonio C. , Gomes Mariana J. , Oliveira-Jr Silvio A. , Blotta Daniella A. , Okoshi Marina P. , Okoshi Katashi
Published: July 2015

Background: We evaluated the role of the aldosterone blocker spironolactone in attenuating long-term pressure overload-induced cardiac remodeling and heart failure (HF) in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Methods and Results: Thirteen month-old male SHR were assigned to control (SHR-C, n=20) or spironolactone (SHR-SPR, 20 mg/kg/day, n=24) groups for six months. Normotensive Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY, n=15) were used as controls. Systolic blood pressure was higher in SHR groups and unchanged by spironolactone. Right ventricular hypertrophy, which characterizes HF in SHR, was less frequent in SHR-SPR than SHR-C. Echocardiographic parameters did not differ between SHR groups. Myocardial function was improved in SHR-SPR compared to SHR-C [developed tension: WKY 4.85±0.68; SHR-C 5.22±1.64; SHR-SPR 6.80±1.49 g/mm2; -dT/dt: WKY 18.0 (16.0-19.0); SHR-C 20.8 (18.4-25.1); SHR-SPR 28.9 (24.2-34.6) g/mm2/s]. Cardiomyocyte cross-sectional area and total collagen concentration (WKY 1.06±0.34; SHR-C 1.85±0.63; SHR-SPR 1.28±0.39 µg/mg wet tissue) were greater in SHR-C than WKY and SHR-SPR. Type 3 collagen expression was lower in SHR-C than WKY and unchanged by spironolactone. Soluble collagen, type I collagen, and lysyl oxidase did not differ between groups. Conclusion: Early spironolactone treatment decreases heart failure development frequency by improving myocardial systolic and diastolic function and attenuating hypertrophy and fibrosis in spontaneously hypertensive rats.
Clinical Management of Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome after Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation: A Case Series and Review of the Literature
Authors: Schmidt Volker , Prell Tino , Treschl Anne , Klink Anne , Hochhaus Andreas , Sayer Herbert G.
Published: July 2015

Background: Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a rare but serious complication after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (alloHSCT). Among others, calcineurin inhibitors (CNI) for prophylaxis of graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) may promote the development of PRES, but the pathomechanism is still controversial. Discontinuation of CNI facilitates remission of symptoms but might contribute to the unfavorable prognosis of PRES due to an elevated incidence of GvHD. Methods: This is a case series of 7 patients with PRES from a retrospective analysis of 146 consecutive patients who received alloHSCT for hematologic malignancies. Results: At the onset of PRES, all patients presented a systemic infection, while no influence was seen for underlying disease, conditioning regimen, donor type, or GvHD. Discontinuation of CNI and control of the blood pressure reversed neurological symptoms in 6 patients, while 1 patient died from septic multiorgan failure. After bridging with prednisolone and/or mycophenolic acid, replacement of CNI by the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor everolimus effectively prevented severe GvHD without recurrence of PRES. Conclusions: A systemic infection/inflammation may be an important cause of PRES. Prophylaxis of GvHD by the mTOR inhibitor everolimus in case of PRES after alloHSCT demonstrated promising results but needs to be validated in larger cohorts.
Parkin Is Dispensable for Mitochondrial Function, but Its Ubiquitin Ligase Activity Is Critical for Macroautophagy and Neurotransmitters: Therapeutic Potential beyond Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Moussa Charbel E.-H.
Published: July 2015

Parkin biology has emerged as an exciting area of pharmaceutical development for several human diseases, including cancer and neurodegeneration. Parkin's role is multifaceted in human health and disease and its function affecting major cellular quality control mechanisms, including the ubiquitin-proteasome and autophagy-lysosome systems, is critical in the maintenance of cellular homeostasis. Loss of Parkin function due to aging, protein instability and gene mutations is manifest in a number of human diseases, contributing to the validation of this protein as a therapeutic target. Parkin activation to mobilize cellular quality control mechanisms and counteract dyshomeostasis is a highly desirable area for therapeutic development. The elucidation of Parkin's crystal structure and better understanding of possible posttranslational modifications (i.e. phosphorylation, ubiquitination, etc.) that regulate Parkin's enzymatic activity suggest that this protein is a therapeutic drug target in many human diseases. Here we review Parkin's role in health and disease and discuss the effects of self-ubiquitination and deubiquitination on Parkin activity. This review provides further evidence showing the longitudinal effects of Parkin deletion on mitochondrial function, oxidative stress and neurotransmitter balance in vivo using high-frequency 1H/13C NMR spectroscopy.
Expression of Programmed Death 1 Ligand in Different Compartments of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Grzywnowicz Maciej , Karczmarczyk Agnieszka , Skorka Katarzyna , Zajac Malgorzata , Zaleska Joanna , Chocholska Sylwia , Tomczak Waldemar , Giannopoulos Krzysztof
Published: July 2015

Background: The programmed death 1 (PD-1) receptor pathway is responsible for the negative regulation of both T and B lymphocytes upon activation of these cells. There is growing evidence that chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) cells exploit the PD-1 ligand (PD-L1) to resist antitumor immune reactions and maintain their survival by shaping their own microenvironment. Methods: We used a quantitative RT-PCR method to analyze PD-L1 gene expression in bone marrow and peripheral blood mononuclear cells, representing the proliferation and accumulation compartments of CLL. Results: PD-L1 expression was found to be significantly higher in 112 CLL patients than in controls. Levels of PD-L1 expression in bone marrow and peripheral blood were comparable and showed a positive correlation. Furthermore, expression of PD-L1 strongly correlated with expression of PD-1 receptor in mononuclear cells from the same compartment, and was not affected by incubation with immunomodulatory drug thalidomide. Conclusion: PD-L1 expression is shared between CLL cells localized in distinct disease compartments, demonstrating that PD-1/PD-L1 a universal target for therapy.
Target Hemoglobin May Be Achieved with Intravenous Iron Alone in Anemic Patients with Cardiorenal Syndrome: An Observational Study
Authors: Ben-Assa Eyal , Shacham Yacov , Shashar Moshe , Leshem-Rubinow Eran , Gal-Oz Amir , Schwartz Idit F. , Schwartz Doron , Silverberg Donald S. , Chernin Gil
Published: July 2015

Background: The treatment of anemia in patients with cardiorenal syndrome (CRS) is based mainly on intravenous (IV) iron therapy and/or erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs). There are concerns about the safety of ESAs due to a potentially higher risk for stroke and malignancy. Objective: We aimed to explore whether IV iron alone is sufficient to improve anemia in CRS patients and to define the predictors of treatment response. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed data of 81 CRS patient treated for anemia at our clinic. All patients received IV iron for 6 weeks. A subset of patients was additionally given subcutaneous ESAs. The end point was the improvement from baseline in hemoglobin (Hb) and ferritin levels at week 7. Results: We retrieved the files of 81 patients; 34 received IV iron alone and 47 were given IV iron and ESAs (the combination group). The Hb levels significantly increased in both groups (in the IV iron alone group: 10.6 ± 1.1 to 11.9 ±1.1 g/dl, p < 0.001; in the combination group: 10.2 ± 0.9 to 12.4 ± 1.3 g/dl, p < 0.001), but more pronouncedly in the combination group (2.17 vs. 1.24 g/dl; p = 0.001). The platelet count decreased significantly in the IV iron alone group but was unchanged in the combination group. Eighty percent of patients attained a Hb target of 11 g/dl, with no significant difference between the two groups (73.5 vs. 85.1%; p = 0.197). Low baseline Hb was the only predictor of a favorable outcome to treatment. Conclusion: Our observational study suggests that IV iron treatment without ESAs may substantially raise the Hb level to ≥11 g/dl in CRS patients. This treatment strategy may reduce the use of ESAs and hence its potential adverse effects.
ANCA-Negative Pauci-Immune Crescentic Glomerulonephritis Linked with Non-Small Cell Carcinoma of the Lung
Authors: Baldeo Candice , Ali Robert , Hritani Abdulwahab , Poenariu Andreea
Published: July 2015

The association between malignancy and glomerular disease has been appreciated for decades [Baschinsky et al., Am J Kidney Dis 2000;36:E24]. Several types of glomerular injury in patients with cancer have been recognized [Morikawa et al., CEN Case Rep 2013;2:158-164; Baschinsky et al., Am J Kidney Dis 2000;36:E24]. The most common association is between nephrotic syndrome and carcinoma [Baschinsky et al., Am J Kidney Dis 2000;36:E24]. We report a case of anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-negative crescentic glomerulonephritis associated with lung cancer. To the best of our knowledge, only 1 other case of ANCA-negative pauci-immune crescentic glomerulonephritis associated with lung cancer has been reported [Baschinsky et al., Am J Kidney Dis 2000;36:E24].
Chronic Kidney Disease in Patients With Lacunar Stroke
Authors: Xiao Lulu , Lan Wenya , Sun Wen , Dai Qiliang , Xiong Yunyun , Li Ling , Zhou Yan , Zheng Ping , Fan Wenping , Ma Nan , Guo Zhiliang , Chen Xin , Xie Xia , Xu Lili , Zhu Wusheng , Xu Gelin , Liu Xinfeng
Published: July 2015

Background and Purpose—

The relationship between chronic kidney disease and cerebral small vessel disease (cSVD), especially enlarged perivascular spaces (EPVS), has not been fully understood. This study aimed to investigate the association of chronic kidney disease and EPVS, as well as the total burden of cSVD on magnetic resonance imaging, expressed by the simultaneous presence of multiple markers of cSVD, among patients with first-ever lacunar stroke.

Methods—

Four hundred and thirteen consecutive patients were prospectively enrolled. Centrum semiovale and basal ganglia EPVS on T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging, as well as other imaging markers of cSVD, including lacune, white matter lesions, and cerebral microbleeds, were rated using validated scales. Chronic kidney disease was defined as either reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate or the presence of proteinuria.

Results—

After adjustments for potential confounders by logistic regression, proteinuria and impaired estimated glomerular filtration rate were correlated with the severity of EPVS in both centrum semiovale (odds ratio [OR] 2.59; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.19–5.64 and OR 2.37; 95% CI 1.19–4.73) and basal ganglia (OR 5.12; 95% CI 2.70–12.10 and OR 4.17; 95% CI 2.08–8.37). A similar association was also found between proteinuria and low estimated glomerular filtration rate levels and the comprehensive cSVD burden (OR 2.13; 95% CI 1.10–4.14 and OR 5.59; 95% CI 2.58–12.08).

Conclusions—

Proteinuria and impaired estimated glomerular filtration rate are associated with increasing EPVS severity and, furthermore, accumulated magnetic resonance imaging burden of cSVD in patients with first-ever acute lacunar stroke.