bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression of Interferon Effector Gene SART1 Correlates with Interferon Treatment Response against Hepatitis B Infection
Authors: Li Yong , Zhu Chuanlong , Wang Faxi , Zhu Tiantian , Li Jun , Liu Shufeng , Xiao Fei
Published: December 2016

Interferon-α (IFN-α) has limited response rate in the treatment of chronic hepatitis B (CHB). The underlying mechanism of differential responsiveness to IFN remains elusive. It has been recently reported that SART1 mediates antiviral effects of IFN-α in the hepatitis C virus (HCV) cell culture model. In this study, we investigated the role of SART1 in antiviral activity of IFN-α against hepatitis B virus (HBV) using blood and liver biopsy samples from chronic hepatitis B patients treated with pegylated IFN-α and HepG2 cells transfected with cloned HBV DNA. We observed that the basal SART1 expression in liver and PBMCs before IFN treatment was significantly higher in responders than in nonresponders. Furthermore, baseline SART1 expression level positively correlated with the degree of HBV DNA and HBeAg decline after IFN treatment. Mechanistically, silencing SART1 abrogated the antiviral activity of IFN-α, reduced the expression of IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs) Mx, OAS, and PKR, and attenuated JAK-STAT signaling in HepG2 cells, suggesting that SART1 regulates IFN-mediated antiviral activity through JAK-STAT signaling and ISG expression. Our study elucidates the important role of SART1 in IFN-mediated anti-HBV response and provides new insights into understanding variation of IFN treatment response in CHB patients.
Hybrid Multicast Transmission for Public Safety Network in 5G
Authors: Qi Fei , Zhu Xuetian , Zhang Xinran , Sun Songlin
Published: December 2016

We investigate the application of wireless multicast technology in public safety network (PSN) in future wireless communication system. The hybrid unicast/multicast transmission system is proposed and analyzed in 3D massive multi-input multioutput (MIMO) channel. The mutual coupling channel model is adopted under the different antenna array configuration scenarios. The proposed hybrid system adopts multicast beamforming in the multicast groups as well as multiuser-MIMO (MU-MIMO) linear precoding in the unicast group to increase system throughput. The null space method based interference cancellation is further performed between each group to eliminate signal leakage generated from each group. Comparisons between two types of antenna array configurations, different channel models, linear precoding as well as multicast beamforming, and user grouping strategies for multicast services are presented and analyzed by simulation.
Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion of Carbon Steel Exposed to Biodiesel
Authors: Malarvizhi S. , Krishnamurthy Shyamala R.
Published: December 2016

Environmental concerns over worsening air pollution problems caused by emissions from vehicles and depletion of fossil fuels have forced us to seek fuels such as biodiesel which can supplement petrofuels. Biodiesels have the ability to retain water and provide a conducive environment for microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC) which may cause difficulties during transportation, storage, and their use. This paper analyses the influence of bacteria on the corrosivity of biodiesel obtained from Jatropha curcas on carbon steel using mass loss method. Carbon steel showed the highest corrosion rates in B100 (100% biodiesel) both in the presence and in absence of bacteria. The surface analysis of the metal was carried out using SEM.
Synthesis of Poly(styrene-acrylates-acrylic acid) Microspheres and Their Chemical Composition towards Colloidal Crystal Films
Authors: Ríos-Osuna Luis A. , Licea-Claverie Angel , Paraguay-Delgado F. , Cortez-Lemus Norma A.
Published: December 2016

In this paper, polystyrene colloidal microspheres have been prepared using hexyl acrylate (HA), ethylhexyl acrylate (EHA), isooctyl acrylate (IOA), butyl acrylate (BA), or isobutyl acrylate (IBA) as comonomers. Microspheres with diameters from 212 to 332 nm and with a polystyrene content of 65–78% were prepared. The particles prepared in this work do not present the typical core-shell structure; as a consequence, DSC analysis showed that the microspheres exhibited only one Tg. TEM images show that the particles with comonomer content below ~30% were spherical and regular. Microspheres containing comonomer between 21 to 25% produced the less brittle films showing very iridescent colors. The films prepared from microspheres containing hexyl, ethylhexyl, and isooctyl acrylate as comonomers are firmly attached to the substrate due to their adhesive properties. The large decrease of the fragility observed in these films makes them much more attractive materials in sensing applications.
Regional Odontodysplasia with Generalised Enamel Defect
Authors: Al-Mullahi A. M. , Toumba K. J.
Published: December 2016

Regional odontodysplasia (ROD) is uncommon developmental anomaly, which tends to be localised and involves the ectodermal and mesodermal tooth components. A five-year-old female was referred to Department of Child Dental Health at the Leeds Dental Institute regarding malformed primary teeth. On examination 64, 74, and 72 had localised hypomineralized enamel defect. The crown of 55 was broken down with only the root remaining below the gingival level. 54 has a yellowish brown discolouration with rough irregular surface. The upper anterior teeth show mild enamel opacity. Radiographically, 55 and 54 had thin radioopaque contour, showing poor distinction between the enamel and dentine and the classic feature of a wide pulp chamber. 15, 16, and 17 were developmentally delayed and were displaying the characteristic “ghost appearance.” Comprehensive dental care was done under local anaesthesia and it included extraction of the primary molars affected by ROD, stainless steel crown on 64, and caries prevention program. Fifteen months following the initial assessment the patient’s oral condition remains stable and she is under regular follow-up at the department. Paediatric dentists should be aware of this anomaly as it involves both dentitions and usually requires multidisciplinary care.
Methicillin-ResistantStaphylococcus aureusBiofilms and Their Influence on Bacterial Adhesion and Cohesion
Authors: Dakheel Khulood Hamid , Abdul Rahim Raha , Neela Vasantha Kumari , Al-Obaidi Jameel R. , Hun Tan Geok , Yusoff Khatijah
Published: December 2016

Twenty-five methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus(MRSA) isolates were characterized by staphylococcal protein A gene typing and the ability to form biofilms. The presence of exopolysaccharides, proteins, and extracellular DNA and RNA in biofilms was assessed by a dispersal assay. In addition, cell adhesion to surfaces and cell cohesion were evaluated using the packed-bead method and mechanical disruption, respectively. The predominant genotype wasspatype t127 (22 out of 25 isolates); the majority of isolates were categorized as moderate biofilm producers. Twelve isolates displayed PIA-independent biofilm formation, while the remaining 13 isolates were PIA-dependent. Both groups showed strong dispersal in response to RNase and DNase digestion followed by proteinase K treatment. PIA-dependent biofilms showed variable dispersal after sodium metaperiodate treatment, whereas PIA-independent biofilms showed enhanced biofilm formation. There was no correlation between the extent of biofilm formation or biofilm components and the adhesion or cohesion abilities of the bacteria, but the efficiency of adherence to glass beads increased after biofilm depletion. In conclusion, nucleic acids and proteins formed the main components of the MRSA clone t127 biofilm matrix, and there seems to be an association between adhesion and cohesion in the biofilms tested.
Correlation of Serum Cystatin C with Glomerular Filtration Rate in Patients Receiving Platinum-Based Chemotherapy
Authors: Cavalcanti Ernesta , Barchiesi Vittoria , Cerasuolo Dionigio , Di Paola Flaviano , Cantile Monica , Cecere Sabrina Chiara , Pignata Sandro , Morabito Alessandro , Costanzo Raffaele , Di Maio Massimo , Perrone Francesco
Published: December 2016

Objectives. Serum cystatin C seems to be an accurate marker of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) compared to serum creatinine. The aim of this work was to explore the possibility of using serum cystatin C instead of serum creatinine to early predict renal failure in cancer patients who received platinum based chemotherapy.Design and Methods. Serum creatinine, serum cystatin C concentrations, and GFR were determined simultaneously in 52 cancer patients received carboplatin-based or cisplatin-based chemotherapy. Serum creatinine was assayed on Cobas C6000-Roche, serum cystatin C assay was performed on AIA 360-Tosoh, and GFR was determined in all patients, before the first cycle of chemotherapy and before the subsequent administrations.Results. In the overall series, for the prediction of a fall of GFR < 80 mL/min/1.73 m2, the AUC of the ROC curve for cystatin C was 0,667 and the best threshold was 1.135 mg/L (sensitivity 90.5%, specificity 61.1%). For a GFR fall < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2, the AUC of ROC curve for cystatin C was 74.3% and the best threshold was 1.415 mg/L (sensitivity 66.7%, specificity 73.2%).Conclusions. Baseline cystatin C values were not able to predict renal failure during subsequent treatment. In conclusion, serum cystatin C is not a reliable early marker to efficiently predict renal failure in patients receiving chemotherapy.
A Case-Control Association Study ofRANTES (-28C>G)Polymorphism as a Risk Factor for Parkinson’s Disease in Isparta, Turkey
Authors: Sahin-Calapoglu Nilufer , Demirci Serpil , Calapoglu Mustafa , Yasar Baris
Published: December 2016

Background. Recent studies have revealed that inflammatory processes are involved in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Multiple lines of evidence have suggested that chemokines and their receptors are involved in several neurodegenerative disorders. We have examined whether genetic polymorphisms at the genes encoding chemokinesIL-8 (-251A>T), MCP-1 (-2518A/G), andRANTES (-28C>G)and chemokine receptorsCCR2 (V64I) andCCR5 (-Δ32)were associated with sporadic PD risk in Isparta, Turkey.Method. The pilot case-control association study included 30 PD patients and 60 control subjects, who were all genotyped with PCR-RFLP for the five polymorphisms. Their genotype and haplotype frequencies were compared statistically.Results. One SNP(-28C>G)inRANTESrevealed a significant association with PD (P(allele) < 0.0001,p-trend = 0.0007). The risk allele(G)in the homozygous and dominant models (OR = 17.29 and 32.10, 95% CI = 0.86–347.24 and 1.74–591.937, resp.) suggests additional PD risk. The haplotypeTGCANfrom theIL-8 (-251A>T), MCP-1 (-2518A>G), RANTES (-28C>G), CCR-2 (V64I), andCCR-5 (-Δ32)has protective effect (OR = 0.08 [CI = 0.01–0.63],p=0.019).Conclusions. Our data are the first indication of the role ofRANTES (-28C>G)in PD risk.
Fermented Chinese Formula Shuan‐Tong‐Ling Protects Brain Microvascular Endothelial Cells against Oxidative Stress Injury
Authors: Tan Lingjing , Zhang Xiang , Mei Zhigang , Wang Jinfeng , Li Xiaoli , Huang Weifeng , Yang Songbai
Published: December 2016

Fermented Chinese formula Shuan-Tong-Ling (STL), composed of fourteen medicinal herbs, was an experiential formula by Dr. Zhigang Mei for treating vascular encephalopathy, but the underlying mechanisms remained unknown. In this study, we aimed to investigate the protective effects of fermented STL on hydrogen peroxide‐ (H2O2‐) induced injury in rat brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs) and the possible mechanisms. Cultured BMECs were treated with H2O2, STL, or nicotinamide (NAM, a SIRT1 inhibitor). Then, 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl‐2H‐tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was employed to detect cell proliferation and senescence‐associated beta‐galactosidase (SA‐β‐gal) was used to examine cell senescence. Cell nuclei were observed by 4′,6‐diamidino‐2‐phenylindole. Additionally, changes in reactive oxygen species (ROS), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione (GSH) levels were measured. Expression of SIRT1, p21, and PGC‐1α was determined by western blot. Cell proliferation significantly increased with STL treatment in a dose‐dependent manner. H2O2 treatment could intensify cell senescence and nuclei splitting or pyknosis. With STL treatment, the reduced ROS level was accompanied by increased SOD and GSH activity. Further assays showed upregulation of SIRT1 and PGC‐1α and downregulation of p21 after STL treatment. The results revealed that STL could protect BMECs against oxidative stress injury at least partially through the SIRT1 pathway.
Duodenal Rare Neuroendocrine Tumor: Clinicopathological Characteristics of Patients with Gangliocytic Paraganglioma
Authors: Okubo Yoichiro , Yokose Tomoyuki , Motohashi Osamu , Miyagi Yohei , Yoshioka Emi , Suzuki Masaki , Washimi Kota , Kawachi Kae , Nito Madoka , Nemoto Tetsuo , Shibuya Kazutoshi , Kameda Yoichi
Published: December 2016

Gangliocytic paraganglioma (GP) has been regarded as a rare benign tumor that commonly arises from the second part of the duodenum. As GP does not exhibit either prominent mitotic activity or Ki-67 immunoreactivity, it is often misdiagnosed as neuroendocrine tumor (NET) G1. However, the prognosis might be better in patients with GP than in those with NET G1. Therefore, it is important to differentiate GP from NET G1. Moreover, our previous study indicated that GP accounts for a substantial, constant percentage of duodenal NETs. In the present article, we describe up-to-date data on the clinicopathological characteristics of GP and on the immunohistochemical findings that can help differentiate GP from NET G1, as largely revealed in our new and larger literature survey and recent multi-institutional retrospective study. Furthermore, we would like to refer to differential diagnosis and clinical management of this tumor and provide intriguing information about the risk factors for lymph node metastasis on GP.
How Safe Are Common Analgesics for the Treatment of Acute Pain for Children? A Systematic Review
Authors: Hartling Lisa , Ali Samina , Dryden Donna M. , Chordiya Pritam , Johnson David W. , Plint Amy C. , Stang Antonia , McGrath Patrick J. , Drendel Amy L.
Published: December 2016

Background. Fear of adverse events and occurrence of side effects are commonly cited by families and physicians as obstructive to appropriate use of pain medication in children. We examined evidence comparing the safety profiles of three groups of oral medications, acetaminophen, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and opioids, to manage acute nonsurgical pain in children (<18 years) treated in ambulatory settings.Methods. A comprehensive search was performed to July 2015, including review of national data registries. Two reviewers screened articles for inclusion, assessed methodological quality, and extracted data. Risks (incidence rates) were pooled using a random effects model.Results. Forty-four studies were included; 23 reported on adverse events. Based on limited current evidence, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and opioids have similar nausea and vomiting profiles. Opioids have the greatest risk of central nervous system adverse events. Dual therapy with a nonopioid/opioid combination resulted in a lower risk of adverse events than opioids alone.Conclusions. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen have similar reported adverse effects and notably less adverse events than opioids. Dual therapy with a nonopioid/opioid combination confers a protective effect for adverse events over opioids alone. This research highlights challenges in assessing medication safety, including lack of more detailed information in registry data, and inconsistent reporting in trials.
Natalizumab Treatment Modulates Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors Expression in Women with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Ferret-Sena Véronique , Maia e Silva Alexandra , Sena Armando , Cavaleiro Inês , Vale José , Derudas Bruno , Chinetti-Gbaguidi Giulia , Staels Bart
Published: December 2016

Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors (PPAR) are transcription factors suggested to be involved in inflammatory lesions of autoimmune encephalomyelitis and multiple sclerosis (MS). Our objective was to assess whether Natalizumab (NTZ) therapy is associated with alterations of PPAR expression in MS patients. We analyzed gene expression of PPAR in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) as well as blood inflammatory markers in women with MS previously medicated with first-line immunomodulators (baseline) and after NTZ therapy. No differences in PPARα, PPARβ/δ, PPARγ, and CD36 mRNA expression were found in PBMC between patients under baseline and healthy controls. At three months, NTZ increased PPARβ/δmRNA (p=0.009) in comparison to baseline, while mRNA expression of PPARγand CD36 (a well-known PPAR target gene) was lower in comparison to healthy controls (p=0.026andp=0.028, resp.). Although these trends of alterations remain after six months of therapy, the results were not statistically significant. Osteopontin levels were elevated in patients (p=0.002) and did not change during the follow-up period of NTZ treatment. These results suggest that PPAR-mediated processes may contribute to the mechanisms of action of NTZ therapy.
Activation of p53/miR‐34a Tumor Suppressor Axis by Chinese Herbal Formula JP‐1 in A549 Lung Adenocarcinoma Cells
Authors: Yao Chih-Jung , Chow Jyh-Ming , Lin Pei-Chun , Hu Tsai-Shu , Kuo Hui-Ching , Huang Jhy-Shrian , Bai Kuan-Jen , Lai Gi-Ming
Published: December 2016

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death worldwide; the most common pathologic type is lung adenocarcinoma (LADC). In spite of the recent progress in targeted therapy, most LADC patients eventually expired due to the inevitable recurrence and drug resistance. New complementary agent with evidence‐based molecular mechanism is urgently needed. MiR‐34a is an important p53 downstream tumor suppressor, which regulates apoptosis, cell‐cycle, EMT (epithelial mesenchymal transition), and so forth. Its expression is deficient in many types of cancers including LADC. Here, we show that a Chinese herbal formula JP‐1 activates p53/miR‐34a axis in A549 human LADC cells (p53 wild‐type). Treatment with JP‐1 induces p53 and its downstream p21 and BAX proteins as well as the miR‐34a, resulting in growth inhibition, colony formation reduction, migration repression, and apoptosis induction. Accordingly, the decreases of miR‐34a downstream targets such as CDK6, SIRT1, c‐Myc, survivin, Snail, and AXL were observed. Moreover, JP‐1 activates AMPKα and reduces mTOR activity, implying its inhibitory effect on the energy‐sensitive protein synthesis and cell proliferation signaling. Our results show that JP‐1 activates p53/miR‐34a tumor suppressor axis and decreases proteins related to proliferation, apoptosis resistance, and metastasis, suggesting its potential as a complementary medicine for LADC treatment.
Primary Mucinous Adenocarcinoma of the Urinary Bladder with Signet-Ring Cells: Description of an Uncommon Case and Critical Points in Its Management
Authors: Di Maida Fabrizio , Amorim Aita Giuliano , Amorim Aita Daniele
Published: December 2016

We present an uncommon case of mucinous adenocarcinoma of the bladder (MAB) with signet-ring cells extensively infiltrating prostate gland and pelvic/retroperitoneal lymph node stations and not responsive to usual systemic chemotherapy regimens. This case highlights the important features of MAB including the pattern of tumor spread, the tendency for initial misdiagnosis, and the importance of immunohistochemical study in order to define its primary origin from the bladder and choose the most appropriate treatment since the beginning.
Thai Fruits Exhibit Antioxidant Activity and Induction of Antioxidant Enzymes in HEK‐293 Cells
Authors: Anantachoke Natthinee , Lomarat Pattamapan , Praserttirachai Wasin , Khammanit Ruksinee , Mangmool Supachoke
Published: December 2016

The cellular antioxidant enzymes play the important role of protecting the cells and organisms from the oxidative damage. Natural antioxidants contained in fruits have attracted considerable interest because of their presumed safety and potential nutritional value. Even though antioxidant activities of many fruits have been reported, the effects of phytochemicals contained in fruits on the induction of antioxidant enzymes in the cells have not been fully defined. In this study, we showed that extracts from Antidesma ghaesembilla, Averrhoa bilimbi, Malpighia glabra, Mangifera indica, Sandoricum koetjape, Syzygium malaccense, and Ziziphus jujuba inhibited H2O2‐induced intracellular reactive oxygen species production in HEK‐293 cells. Additionally, these Thai fruit extracts increased the mRNA and protein expressions of antioxidant enzymes, catalase, glutathione peroxidase‐1, and manganese superoxide dismutase. The consumption of Thai fruits rich in phenolic compounds may reduce the risk of oxidative stress.
TULAA: A Minimally Invasive Appendicectomy Technique for the Paediatric Patient
Authors: Perin Giordano , Scarpa Maria Grazia
Published: December 2016

TULAA or Transumbilical Laparoscopic Assisted Appendicectomy is a minimally invasive technique described by Pelosi in 1992 for the removal of the inflamed appendix. Its main advantage is the possibility of exploring the peritoneal cavity and performing a simple and safe extracorporeal appendicectomy. Since its first description, different authors reported their experience with such technique. The aim of this review is to summarise the surgical outcomes currently reported in the literature for this minimally invasive surgical approach and compare it with standard open and laparoscopic appendicectomy.
Disturbed Expression of EphB4, but Not EphrinB2, Inhibited Bone Regeneration in an In Vivo Inflammatory Microenvironment
Authors: Shen Li-Li , Zhang Li-Xia , Wang Li-Mei , Zhou Rong-Jing , Yang Cheng-Zhe , Zhang Jin , Yang Pi-Shan
Published: December 2016

The important role of ephrinB2-EphB4 signaling pathway in bone remodeling has been well established. However, it is still unclear whether this bidirectional signaling also has effects on the regenerative processes of bone defects created in an inflammatory microenvironment. In this study, an experimental animal model of bone defects treated with lentiviruses was prepared and an inflammatory microenvironment was established. Expression levels of bone marker genes were monitored in the newly formed bone tissue using quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction and western blot. Immunohistochemical (IHC) staining and histomorphometric analysis were also performed to evaluate bone healing processes. Compared with the pLenti6.3-ctrl group, the pLenti6.3-ephb4siRNA group exhibited lower expression levels of bone formation marker genes and a higher level of NFATc1 in the new bone tissue. In addition, the newly formed bone was thinner and the number of giant osteoclasts was higher in the pLenti6.3-ephb4siRNA group than that in the pLenti6.3-ctrl group. In contrast, there was no significant difference between the pLenti6.3-efnb2siRNA group and the pLenti6.3-ctrl group. In conclusion, EphB4 plays an irreplaceable role in bone regeneration in an inflammatory microenvironment, whereas the functional loss of ephrinB2 can be effectively compensated, most possibly by other ephrins with similar chemical structures.
Green Biodiesel Synthesis Using Waste Shells as Sustainable Catalysts withCamelina sativaOil
Authors: Hangun-Balkir Yelda
Published: December 2016

Waste utilization is an essential component of sustainable development and waste shells are rarely used to generate practical products and processes. Most waste shells are CaCO3rich, which are converted to CaO once calcined and can be employed as inexpensive and green catalysts for the synthesis of biodiesel. Herein, we utilized lobster and eggshells as green catalysts for the transesterification ofCamelina sativaoil as feedstock into biodiesel.Camelina sativaoil is an appealing crop option as feedstock for biodiesel production because it has high tolerance of cold weather, drought, and low-quality soils and contains approximately 40% oil content. The catalysts from waste shells were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, and Scanning Electron Microscope. The product, biodiesel, was studied by1H NMR and FTIR spectroscopy. The effects of methanol to oil ratio, reaction time, reaction temperature, and catalyst concentration were investigated. Optimum biodiesel yields were attained at a 12 : 1 (alcohol : oil) molar ratio with 1 wt.% heterogeneous catalysts in 3 hours at 65°C. The experimental results exhibited a first-order kinetics and rate constants and activation energy were calculated for the transesterification reaction at different temperatures. The fuel properties of the biodiesel produced fromCamelina sativaoil and waste shells were compared with those of the petroleum-based diesel by using American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards.
Versatility of Approximating Single-Particle Electron Microscopy Density Maps Using Pseudoatoms and Approximation-Accuracy Control
Authors: Jonić Slavica , Sorzano Carlos Oscar S.
Published: December 2016

Three-dimensional Gaussian functions have been shown useful in representing electron microscopy (EM) density maps for studying macromolecular structure and dynamics. Methods that require setting a desired number of Gaussian functions or a maximum number of iterations may result in suboptimal representations of the structure. An alternative is to set a desired error of approximation of the given EM map and then optimize the number of Gaussian functions to achieve this approximation error. In this article, we review different applications of such an approach that uses spherical Gaussian functions of fixed standard deviation, referred to as pseudoatoms. Some of these applications use EM-map normal mode analysis (NMA) with elastic network model (ENM) (applications such as predicting conformational changes of macromolecular complexes or exploring actual conformational changes by normal-mode-based analysis of experimental data) while some other do not use NMA (denoising of EM density maps). In applications based on NMA and ENM, the advantage of using pseudoatoms in EM-map coarse-grain models is that the ENM springs are easily assigned among neighboring grains thanks to their spherical shape and uniformed size. EM-map denoising based on the map coarse-graining was so far only shown using pseudoatoms as grains.
Human Cord Blood‐Derived CD133+/C‐Kit+/Lin− Cells Have Bipotential Ability to Differentiate into Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Outgrowth Endothelial Cells
Authors: Cardenas Carlos , Kwon Ja-Young , Maeng Yong-Sun
Published: December 2016

Recent evidence suggests that mononuclear cells (MNCs) derived from bone marrow and cord blood can differentiate into mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) or outgrowth endothelial cells (OECs). However, controversy exists as to whether MNCs have the pluripotent capacity to differentiate into MSCs or OECs or are a mixture of cell lineage‐determined progenitors of MSCs or OECs. Here, using CD133+/C‐kit+/Lin− mononuclear cells (CKL− cells) isolated from human umbilical cord blood using magnetic cell sorting, we characterized the potency of MNC differentiation. We first found that CKL− cells cultured with conditioned medium of OECs or MSCs differentiated into OECs or MSCs and this differentiation was also induced by cell‐to‐cell contact. When we cultured single CKL− cells on OEC‐ or MSC‐conditioned medium, the cells differentiated morphologically and genetically into OEC‐ or MSC‐like cells, respectively. Moreover, we confirmed that OECs or MSCs differentiated from CKL− cells had the ability to form capillary‐like structures in Matrigel and differentiate into osteoblasts, chondrocytes, and adipocytes. Finally, using microarray analysis, we identified specific factors of OECs or MSCs that could potentially be involved in the differentiation fate of CKL− cells. Together, these results suggest that cord blood‐derived CKL− cells possess at least bipotential differentiation capacity toward MSCs or OECs.
Millimeter-Wave Microstrip Antenna Array Design and an Adaptive Algorithm for Future 5G Wireless Communication Systems
Authors: Hu Cheng-Nan , Chang Dau-Chyrh , Yu Chung-Hang , Hsaio Tsai-Wen , Lin Der-Phone
Published: December 2016

This paper presents a high gain millimeter-wave (mmW) low-temperature cofired ceramic (LTCC) microstrip antenna array with a compact, simple, and low-profile structure. Incorporating minimum mean square error (MMSE) adaptive algorithms with the proposed 64-element microstrip antenna array, the numerical investigation reveals substantial improvements in interference reduction. A prototype is presented with a simple design for mass production. As an experiment, HFSS was used to simulate an antenna with a width of 1 mm and a length of 1.23 mm, resonating at 38 GHz. Two identical mmW LTCC microstrip antenna arrays were built for measurement, and the center element was excited. The results demonstrated a return loss better than 15 dB and a peak gain higher than 6.5 dBi at frequencies of interest, which verified the feasibility of the design concept.
Fabrication of Cubic p-n Heterojunction-Like NiO/In2O3 Composite Microparticles and Their Enhanced Gas Sensing Characteristics
Authors: Xuemei Hou , Yukun Sun , Bo Bai
Published: December 2016

Oxide semiconductor In2O3 has been extensively used as a gas sensing material for the detection of various toxic gases. However, the pure In2O3 sensor is always suffering from its low sensitivity. In the present study, a dramatic enhancement of sensing characteristic of cubic In2O3 was achieved by deliberately fabricating p-n heterojunction-like NiO/In2O3 composite microparticles as sensor material. The NiO-decorated In2O3 p-n heterojunction-like sensors were prepared through the hydrothermal transformation method. The as-synthesized products were characterized using SEM-EDS, XRD, and FT-IR, and their gas sensing characteristics were investigated by detecting the gas response. The experimental results showed that the response of the NiO/In2O3 sensors to 600 ppm methanal was 85.5 at 260°C, revealing a dramatic enhancement over the pure In2O3 cubes (21.1 at 260°C). Further, a selective detection of methanol with inappreciable cross-response to other gases, like formaldehyde, benzene, methylbenzene, trichloromethane, ethanol, and ammonia, was achieved. The cause for the enhanced gas response was discussed in detailed. In view of the facile method of fabrication of such composite sensors and the superior gas response performance of samples, the cubic p-n heterojunction-like NiO/In2O3 sensors present to be a promising and viable strategy for the detection of indoor air pollution.
Agreement among Four Prevalence Metrics for Urogenital Schistosomiasis in the Eastern Region of Ghana
Authors: Kosinski Karen Claire , Kulinkina Alexandra V. , Tybor David , Osabutey Dickson , Bosompem Kwabena M. , Naumova Elena N.
Published: December 2016

Few studies assess agreement amongSchistosoma haematobiumeggs, measured hematuria, and self-reported metrics. We assessed agreement among four metrics at a single time point and analyzed the stability of infection across two time points with a single metric. We used data from the Eastern Region of Ghana and constructed logistic regression models. Girls reporting macrohematuria were 4.1 times more likely to have measured hematuria than girls not reporting macrohematuria (CI95%: 2.1–7.9); girls who swim were 3.6 times more likely to have measured hematuria than nonswimmers (CI95%: 1.6–7.9). For boys, neither self-reported metric was predictive. Girls with measured hematuria in 2010 were 3.3 times more likely to be positive in 2012 (CI95%: 1.01–10.5), but boys showed no association. Boys with measured hematuria in 2008 were 6.0 times more likely to have measured hematuria in 2009 (CI95%: 1.5–23.9) and those with eggs in urine in 2008 were 4.8 times more likely to have eggs in urine in 2009 (CI95%: 1.2–18.8). For girls, measured hematuria in 2008 predicted a positive test in 2009 (OR = 2.8; CI95%: 1.1–6.8), but egg status did not. Agreement between dipstick results and eggs suggests continued dipstick used is appropriate. Self-reported swimming should be further examined. For effective disease monitoring, we recommend annual dipstick testing.
Dynamic Clustering Algorithm for Tracking Targets with High and Variable Celerity (ATHVC)
Authors: Toumi Mohamed , Maizate Abderrahim , Ouzzif Mohammed , Said Salah Med
Published: December 2016

Target tracking with the wireless sensors networks is to detect and locate a target on its entire path through a region of interest. This application arouses interest in the world of research for its many fields of use. Wireless sensor networks, thanks to their versatility, can be used in many hostile and inaccessible to humans environments. However, with a limited energy, they cannot remain permanently active, which can significantly reduce their lifetime. The formation of a cluster network seems an effective mechanism to increase network lifetime. We propose to build optimal dynamic clusters on the target trajectory. For increasing energy efficiency, our algorithm integrates for the first time, to our knowledge, strategies to avoid overlapping clusters and a model to wake up the sensors, adapting to the context of targets with large and variable speed.
A Delayed Postoperative C5 Palsy due to Spinal Cord Lesion: A Typical Clinical Presentation but Unusual Imaging Findings
Authors: Tadokoro Nobuaki , Kasai Yusuke , Kiyasu Katsuhito , Kawasaki Motohiro , Takemasa Ryuichi , Ikeuchi Masahiko
Published: December 2016

Postoperative C5 palsy (C5 palsy) is a troublesome complication after cervical spine surgery and its etiology is still unclear. We experienced a case of C5 palsy after anterior decompression with fusion for cervical ossification of posterior longitudinal ligament with the typical clinical presentation of left deltoid and bicep weakness and left-arm pain without deterioration of myelopathy symptoms, albeit with the unusual imaging findings not shown preoperatively of a swelling in the spinal cord, and intramedullary high intensity change on T2-weighed MRI. The additional posterior surgery was carried out to decompress the swollen spinal cord. The abnormal findings disappear on MRI taken three weeks following the second surgery and the weakness improved fully within three months after the second surgery. This case report highlights the possibility of spinal cord lesion due to circulatory impairment as a cause of C5 palsy.
The Essential Oils of Rhaponticum carthamoides Hairy Roots and Roots of Soil‐Grown Plants: Chemical Composition and Antimicrobial, Anti‐Inflammatory, and Antioxidant Activities
Authors: Skała Ewa , Rijo Patrícia , Garcia Catarina , Sitarek Przemysław , Kalemba Danuta , Toma Monika , Szemraj Janusz , Pytel Dariusz , Wysokińska Halina , Śliwiński Tomasz
Published: December 2016

The essential oils were isolated by hydrodistillation from the hairy roots (HR) and roots of soil‐grown plants (SGR) of Rhaponticum carthamoides and were analyzed by GC‐MS method. In the both essential oils 62 compounds were identified. The root essential oils showed the differences in the qualitative and quantitative composition. The sesquiterpene hydrocarbons (55–62%) dominated in both essential oils. The major compounds of HR essential oil were cyperene, 13‐norcypera‐1(5),11(12)‐diene, and cadalene while aplotaxene, nardosina‐1(10),11‐diene, and dauca‐4(11),8‐diene dominated in SGR essential oil. Both essential oils showed antibacterial activity especially against Enterococcus faecalis (ATCC 29212) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 27853) (MIC value = 125 µg/mL). HR and SGR essential oils also decreased the expression of IL‐1β, IL‐6, and TNF‐α and the ROS level in LPS‐treatment astrocytes. This is the first report to describe the chemical composition of R. carthamoides essential oil from hairy roots, its protective effect against LPS‐induced inflammation and ROS production in astrocytes, and its antimicrobial potential. The results show that R. carthamoides hairy roots may be a valuable source of the essential oil and may be an alternative to the roots of soil‐grown plants.
A Rare Case of Pheohyphomycotic Lumbar Spondylodiscitis Mistreated as Koch’s Spine
Authors: Goel Shakti A. , Modi Hitesh N. , Desai Yatin J. , Thaker Harshal P.
Published: December 2016

Pheohyphomycosis is an uncommon infection and its association in spondylodiscitis has not yet been reported. The purpose of this case report is to describe a rare case of Pheohyphomycotic spondylodiscitis and methods to diagnose and manage the patient with less invasive techniques. A 29-year-old male patient presented to the outpatient department with complaints of gradually increasing low back pain with bilateral lower limbs radicular pain since one and a half years. He had associated fever, weight loss, voice changes, and dry, scaly, erythematous skin with elevated ESR. The patient had been taking anti-Koch’s therapy since 1 year with little relief in pain and no radiological improvement. Percutaneous pedicle biopsy of L4 vertebra was taken under local anaesthesia and confirmed Pheohyphomycosis which was treated with antifungal medications. The patient showed sequential improvement with long term antifungal treatment. He was eventually able to walk independently without support.
Use of Action Research in Nursing Education
Authors: Moch Susan D. , Vandenbark R. Todd , Pehler Shelley-Rae , Stombaugh Angela
Published: December 2016

Purpose.The purpose of this article is to describe action research in nursing education and to propose a definition of action research for providing guidelines for research proposals and criteria for assessing potential publications for nursing higher education.Methods.The first part of this project involved a search of the literature on action research in nursing higher education from 1994 to 2013. Searches were conducted in the CINAHL and MEDLINE databases. Applying the criteria identified, 80 publications were reviewed. The second part of the project involved a literature review of action research methodology from several disciplines to assist in assessing articles in this review.Results.This article summarizes the nursing higher education literature reviewed and provides processes and content related to four topic areas in nursing higher education. The descriptions assist researchers in learning more about the complexity of both the action research process and the varied outcomes. The literature review of action research in many disciplines along with the review of action research in higher education provided a framework for developing a nursing-education-centric definition of action research.Conclusions.Although guidelines for developing action research and criteria for publication are suggested, continued development of methods for synthesizing action research is recommended.
Identification of Potential Key lncRNAs and Genes Associated with Aging Based on Microarray Data of Adipocytes from Mice
Authors: Yang Yi , Teng Zongyan , Meng Songyan , Yu Weigang
Published: December 2016

Objective. This study aimed to screen potential crucial lncRNAs and genes involved in aging.Methods. The data of 9 peripheral white adipocytes, respectively, taken from male C57BL/6J mice (6 months, 14 months, and 18 months of age) in GSE25905 were used in this study. Differentially time series expressed lncRNA genes (DE-lncRNAs) and mRNA genes (DEGs) were identified. After cluster analysis of lncRNAs expression pattern, target genes of DE-lncRNAs were predicted from the DEGs, and functional analysis for target genes was conducted.Results. A total of 8301 time series-related DEGs and 43 time series-related DE-lncRNAs were identified. Among them, 41 DE-lncRNAs targeted 1880 DEGs. The DEGs positively regulated by DE-lncRNAs were mainly related to the development of blood vessel and the pathways of cholesterol biosynthesis and elastic fibre formation. Furthermore, the DEGs negatively regulated by DE-lncRNAs were correlated with protein metabolism.Conclusion. These DE-lncRNAs and DEGs are potentially involved in the process of aging.
Optimum Operating Conditions of (PbxX1−x)(ZryTizY1−y−z) Piezoelectric Transducer for Vibrational Energy Harvesting Applications
Authors: Demir Funda , Anutgan Mustafa
Published: December 2016

The electrical energy production capability of bimorph (PbxX1-x)(ZryTizY1-y-z) fiber composite piezoelectric transducer has been investigated for energy harvesting applications. The material has been analyzed under different frequencies, bending amounts, and temperatures. The operating conditions for maximum electrical energy outcome have been determined. The natural frequencies of oscillations in the macro dimensions have been found to be inversely proportional to the length of the material. On the other hand, the voltage output with respect to the oscillation frequency exhibits an interesting behavior such that the characteristic curve shifts to higher frequencies as the bending radius is decreased. This behavior has been interpreted as a result of possible overtone transitions of the oscillations to a stiffer mode. The increasing temperature has been observed to have a negative effect on the piezoelectric energy harvesting property. When the determined optimum conditions were utilized, the amount of electrical energy stored in 6300 s by an energy harvester circuitry has been found to be 0.8 J.
Cortical Actin Alteration at the Matrix-Side Cytoplasm in Lung Adenocarcinoma Cells and Its Significance in Invasion
Authors: Tomii Shohei , Akashi Takumi , Ando Noboru , Tamura Tomoki , Sakurai Akira , Terada Asami , Furukawa Asuka , Suzuki Yoshimi , Kayamori Kou , Sakamoto Kei , Ishibashi Hironori , Eishi Yoshinobu
Published: December 2016

Objectives: Cortical actin is a thin layer of filamentous (F-)actin that lies beneath the plasma membrane, and its role in pathophysiology remains unclear. We investigated the subcellular localization of cortical actin by the histopathological and experimental studies of lung adenocarcinomas. Materials and Methods: The subcellular localization of cortical actin was studied in surgically resected lung adenocarcinomas tissues and in 3-dimensionally cultured lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells. Results: In normal type II alveolar cells and the bronchiolar epithelium, cortical actin was localized to the apical-side cytoplasm. In invasive adenocarcinoma cells, cortical actin was frequently localized to the matrix side. The degree of cortical actin localized to the matrix side was associated with the loss of basement membrane and a poor prognosis. In A549 cell spheroids cultured in a type I collagen and basement membrane extract Matrigel™ mixed gel, cortical F-actin was localized to the matrix side with phosphorylated myosin light chain. Super-resolution and electron microscopy results suggest that compact wrinkling of the plasma membrane by myosin-mediated F-actin contraction is an explanation for cortical actin accumulation at the matrix side. The myosin II inhibitor blebbistatin suppressed the 3-dimensional collective migration of A549 cells induced by constitutively active Cdc42 and MT1-MMP. Conclusion: Cortical actin accumulation at the matrix-side cytoplasm of cancer cells occurs in invasive lung adenocarcinomas and it possibly participates in the migration of cancer cells through myosin-mediated contraction.
Reduced Serum Levels of Zinc and Superoxide Dismutase in Obese Individuals
Authors: Torkanlou Khadijeh , Bibak Bahram , Abbaspour Alireza , Abdi Hamid , Saleh Moghaddam Masoud , Tayefi Maryam , Mohammadzadeh Elham , Safarian Bana Hamideh , Aghasizade Maliheh , Ferns Gordon A. , Avan Amir , Ghayour Mobarhan Majid
Published: December 2016

The oxidant-stress (OS) has an essential role to play in the pathogenesis and progression of many diseases. OS is the outcome when the level of free-radical-formation is increased or protective-antioxidant-mechanisms are compromised. Its value is expected to increase, although its emerging roles have not been conclusive in different studies. The objective of this study was to explore the level of zinc, copper, and antioxidant in response to obesity-related-stress by measuring superoxide-dismutase (SOD) levels as a key antioxidant-enzyme in 706 individuals with/without obesity. Anthropometric/biochemical parameters including total-cholesterol (TC), fasting-blood-glucose, high-density-lipoprotein (HDL), low-density-lipoprotein, and triglycerides were determined. The activity of SOD was measured followed by the measurement of Cu and Zn levels. Obese subjects had a significantly higher level of body mass index (BMI) and TC, while the level of HDL was lower in the obese group, as compared to the related values in control subjects. The level of Zn was significantly decreased in the obese group, while the level of Cu and Cu/Zn ratio increased. Additionally, we observed that the SOD level was less in obese subjects when compared to that in the non-obese subjects. In addition to the complications of high BMI, low level of Zn and SOD in obesity can be considered a risk factor, resulting in a reduced antioxidant response, supporting the need for identifying a suitable treatment option for this group.
Multi Dimension of Coarse to Fine Search Method Development for Solving Economic Dispatch
Authors: Raharjo Jangkung , Soeprijanto Adi , Zein Hermagasantos
Published: December 2016

Economic dispatch problem has grown along with the development of electric power business, for example in a competitive electric power business that offers electrical energy in the form of the step function, non-differentiable function. This is not a continuous function so there is no guarantee that those methods can execute the optimization problem well, especially the Lagrange and Direct methods. There are the non-differentiable functions within the optimization will become a challenge that should be solved. This paper proposes Coarse to Fine Search method development to solve the problem. The Coarse to Fine Search is able to work for differentiable or non-differentiable functions, but is only limited maximum three dimensions. The development is done to multi dimension so that it can solve the economic dispatch problem. We named it Multi Dimension of Coarse to Fine Search. The simulation results of eight power plants show the developed method can work well, it is always convergent and fast with the execution time of 2.63 - 38.30 seconds for 25 - 200 population and 50 - 200 delta search.
Compressed Sensing Signal Processing Research
Authors: Qin Guojun , Wang Jingfang
Published: December 2016

The classical Shannon/Nyquist sampling theorem tells us that in order to not lose information when uniformly sampling a signal we must sample at least two times faster than its bandwidth. Nowadays in many applications, because of the restriction of the Nyquist rate, we end up with too many samples and it becomes a great challenge for further transmission and storage. In recent years, an emerging theory of signal acquirement, compressed sensing(CS), is a ground-breaking idea compared with the conventional framework of Nyquist sampling theorem. It considers the sampling in an novel way, and open up a brand new field for signal sampling process. It also reveals a promising future of application. In this paper, we review the background of compressed sensing development. We introduce the framework of CS and the key technique and illustrate some naïve application on image process.