bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human cell adhesion molecules: annotated functional subtypes and overrepresentation of addiction‐associated genes
Authors: Zhong Xiaoming , Drgonova Jana , Li Chuan‐Yun , Uhl George R.
Published: May 2015

Human cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) are essential for proper development, modulation, and maintenance of interactions between cells and cell‐to‐cell (and matrix‐to‐cell) communication about these interactions. Despite the differential functional significance of these roles, there have been surprisingly few systematic studies to enumerate the universe of CAMs and identify specific CAMs in distinct functions. In this paper, we update and review the set of human genes likely to encode CAMs with searches of databases, literature reviews, and annotations. We describe likely CAMs and functional subclasses, including CAMs that have a primary function in information exchange (iCAMs), CAMs involved in focal adhesions, CAM gene products that are preferentially involved with stereotyped and morphologically identifiable connections between cells (e.g., adherens junctions, gap junctions), and smaller numbers of CAM genes in other classes. We discuss a novel proposed mechanism involving selective anchoring of the constituents of iCAM‐containing lipid rafts in zones of close neuronal apposition to membranes expressing iCAM binding partners. We also discuss data from genetic and genomic studies of addiction in humans and mouse models to highlight the ways in which CAM variation may contribute to a specific brain‐based disorder such as addiction. Specific examples include changes in CAM mRNA splicing mediated by differences in the addiction‐associated splicing regulator RBFOX1/A2BP1 and CAM expression in dopamine neurons.
The human counterpart of mouse B‐1 cells
Authors: Rothstein Thomas L. , Quach Tam D.
Published: May 2015

B‐1 cells represent a subpopulation of B cells that has been extensively studied in mice and shown to spontaneously generate natural antibody that provides antimicrobial protection and helps dispose of cellular debris. Mouse B‐1 cells originate from distinct progenitors and express additional immune properties that include phagocytosis, antigen presentation, immune suppression, and polarization of T cell differentiation. Confusion regarding the existence of human B‐1 cells with mouse B‐1–like properties has recently been addressed by identification of a new phenotypic profile. Human B‐1 cells spontaneously secrete antibody and are distinct from other circulating B cell populations by multiple criteria. A number of laboratories have recently reported on changes to the human B‐1 cell population in human disease.
Cost implications of implementation of pathogen‐inactivated platelets
Authors: McCullough Jeffrey , Goldfinger Dennis , Gorlin Jed , Riley William J. , Sandhu Harpreet , Stowell Christopher , Ward Dawn , Clay Mary , Pulkrabek Shelley , Chrebtow Vera , Stassinopoulos Adonis
Published: May 2015

BACKGROUND

Pathogen inactivation (PI) is a new approach to blood safety that may introduce additional costs. This study identifies costs that could be eliminated, thereby mitigating the financial impact.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Cost information was obtained from five institutions on tests and procedures (e.g., irradiation) currently performed, that could be eliminated. The impact of increased platelet (PLT) availability due to fewer testing losses, earlier entry into inventory, and fewer outdates with a 7‐day shelf life were also estimated. Additional estimates include costs associated with managing 1) special requests and 2) test results, 3) quality control and proficiency testing, 4) equipment acquisition and maintenance, 5) replacement of units lost to positive tests, 6) seasonal or geographic testing, and 7) health department interactions.

RESULTS

All costs are mean values per apheresis PLT unit in USD ($/unit). The estimated test costs that could be eliminated are $71.76/unit and a decrease in transfusion reactions corresponds to $2.70/unit. Avoiding new tests (e.g., Babesia and dengue) amounts to $41.80/unit. Elimination of irradiation saves $8.50/unit, while decreased outdating with 7‐day storage can be amortized to $16.89/unit. Total potential costs saved with PI is $141.65/unit. Costs are influenced by a variety of factors specific to institutions such as testing practices and the location in which such costs are incurred and careful analysis should be performed. Additional benefits, not quantified, include retention of some currently deferred donors and scheduling flexibility due to 7‐day storage.

CONCLUSIONS

While PI implementation will result in additional costs, there are also potential offsetting cost reductions, especially after 7‐day storage licensing.
Effect of γ-Al2O3/Water Nanofluid on Heat Transfer and Pressure Drop Characteristics of Shell and Coil Heat Exchanger With Different Coil Curvatures
Authors: Salem M. R. , Ali R. K. , Sakr R. Y. , Elshazly K. M.
Published: May 2015

This study presents an experimental investigation of the characteristics of convective heat transfer in horizontal shell and coil heat exchangers in addition to the friction factor for fully developed flow through their helically coiled tube (HCT). Five heat exchangers of counterflow configuration were constructed with different HCT-curvature ratios (δ) and tested at different mass flow rates and inlet temperatures of γ-Al2O3/water nanofluid in the HCT. The tests were performed for γ-Al2O3 with average size of 40 nm and particles volume concentration (ϕ) from 0% to 2% for 0.0392≤δ≤0.1194. Totally, 750 test runs were performed from which the HCT-average Nusselt number (Nu¯t) and fanning friction factor (fc) were calculated. Results illustrated that Nu¯t and fc of nanofluids are higher than those of the pure water at same flow condition, and this increase goes up with the increase in ϕ. When ϕ increases from 0% to 2%, the average increase in Nu¯t is of 59.4–81% at lower and higher HCT-Reynolds number, respectively, and the average increase in fc is of 25.7% and 27.4% at lower and higher HCT-Reynolds number, respectively, when ϕ increases from 0% to 2% for δ=0.1194. In addition, results showed that Nu¯t and fc increase by increasing coil curvature ratio. When δ increases from 0.0392 to 0.1194 for ϕ=2%, the average increase in Nu¯t is of 130.2% and 87.2% at lower and higher HCT-Reynolds number, respectively, and a significant increase of 18.2–7.5% is obtained in the HCT-fanning friction factor at lower and higher HCT-Reynolds number, respectively. Correlations for Nu¯t and fc as a function of the investigated parameters are obtained.
Descriptive Epidemiology of Physical Activity Levels and Patterns in New Zealanders in Advanced Age
Authors: Mace Casey , Kerse Ngaire , Maddison Ralph , Olds Timothy , Jatrana Santosh , Wham Carol , Kepa Mere , Rolleston Anna , Teh Ruth , Broad Joanna
Published: May 2015

Background:

Little is known about the physical activity levels and behaviors of advanced age New Zealanders.

Methods:

A cross-sectional analysis of data from Life and Living in Advanced Age: A Cohort Study in New Zealand (LiLACS NZ), Te Puāwaitanga O Nga Tapuwae Kia ora Tonu, measures of physical activity (PASE) (n = 664, aged 80–90 [n = 254, Māori, aged 82.5(2), n = 410 non-Māori, aged 85(.5)]) was conducted to determine physical activity level (PAL). A substudy (n = 45) was conducted to attain detailed information about PAL and behaviors via the Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adults (MARCA) and accelerometry. The main study was analyzed by sex for Māori and non-Māori.

Results:

Men consistently had higher levels of physical activity than women for all physical activity measures. Sex was significant for different domains of activity.
Muscular Strength and Power in 3- to 7-Year-Old Children
Authors: Fry Andrew C. , Irwin Carol C. , Nicoll Justin X. , Ferebee David E.
Published: May 2015

To determine absolute and relative (adjusted for body mass) strength, mean power, and mean velocity for upper and lower body resistance exercises, forty-seven young boys and girls participated in maximal strength testing. Healthy young boys and girls, ages 3- to 7-years old, were tested for one-repetition maximum (1-RM) strength, and 70% of 1-RM to determine mean power and mean velocity on the chest press and leg press exercises. Adult weight machines were modified to accommodate the smaller size and lower strength levels of the children. A 2 × 4 (sex × age) ANOVA was used to determine age and sex differences in performance. No interaction or sex differences were observed for any variable at any age. 1-RM strength, mean power, and mean velocity significantly increased across ages (p ≤ .05). When adjusted for body mass, the changes were insignificant, with one exception. Relative mean power for the bench press increased with age. Data indicated children from 3-7 years of age are capable of performing strength and power tests, but may require more attempts at maximal loads compared with adults. It appears that muscular strength and velocity during this stage of development are primarily dependent on increasing body mass, whereas power is influenced by additional variable(s).
Gene of the month:MET
Authors: Skead Garret , Govender Dhirendra
Published: May 2015

The MET receptor tyrosine kinase and its ligand hepatocyte growth factor/scatter factor (HGF/SF) are potential therapeutic targets in many human malignancies, making this pathway an important focus of molecular and cancer research.METmutations have been detected in various tumours. In addition, many tumour types demonstrate MET and HGF/SF overexpression and amplification. The MET signal transduction cascade is complex, and manifests in a broad spectrum of mitogenic and morphogenic functions, affecting cell proliferation, migration, differentiation, morphology and survival. Cancer cells commandeer the physiological functions of this signalling axis to facilitate invasion and metastasis. Significant progress has been made in the development of agents that inhibit MET-HGF/SF signalling. In this article, we outline the key features of theMETgene, its protein product and the ligand HGF/SF, to provide an overview of this important signalling pathway and offer a summary of the relevant pathological and clinical directions of research.
Electrically charged finite energy solutions of an SO(5) and an SU(3) Higgs–Chern–Simons-Yang–Mills–Higgs system in 3+1 dimensions
Authors: Navarro-Lérida Francisco , Tchrakian D. H.
Published: May 2015

We study spherically symmetric finite energy solutions of two Higgs–Chern–Simons-Yang–Mills–Higgs (HCS-YMH) models in 3+1 dimensions, one with gauge group SO(5) and the other with SU(3). The Chern–Simons (CS) densities are defined in terms of both the Yang–Mills (YM) and Higgs fields and the choice of the two gauge groups is made so that they do not vanish. The solutions of the SO(5) model carry only electric charge and zero magnetic charge, while the solutions of the SU(3) model are dyons carrying both electric and magnetic charges like the Julia–Zee (JZ) dyon. Unlike the latter, however, the electric charge in both models receives an important contribution from the CS dynamics. We pay special attention to the relation between the energies and charges of these solutions. In contrast with the electrically charged JZ dyon of the Yang–Mills–Higgs (YMH) system, whose mass is larger than that of the electrically neutral (magnetic monopole) solutions, the masses of the electrically charged solutions of our HCS-YMH models can be smaller than their electrically neutral counterparts in some parts of the parameter space. To establish this is the main task of this work, which is performed by constructing the HCS-YMH solutions numerically. In the case of the SU(3) HCS-YMH, we have considered the question of angular momentum and it turns out that it vanishes.
Improving the extinction ratio by a novel sandwiched two-layer grating polarizer
Authors: Wang Bo , Li Hongtao , Shu Wenhao , Chen Li , Lei Liang , Zhou Jinyun
Published: May 2015

The high efficiency and the wideband properties are not easy to be obtained by the conventional binary grating-based polarizer. Although the grating polarizer was demonstrated in experiments, the performance should be improved further to meet the practical applications. A novel sandwiched two-layer grating polarizer is presented to improve the efficiency and the bandwidth. Such a polarizer can have advantages of high efficiency of the sandwiched grating and wide bandwidth of the two-layer grating. The grating depths of two layers are optimized for the special duty cycle of 0.3 and the given period. The diffraction efficiency and the incident bandwidth of the novel grating polarizer are improved greatly compared with the conventional simple grating and the sandwiched single-layer grating. Moreover, high extinction ratio can be shown in both two orders and the moderate fabrication tolerance should be good guideline for practical applications.
Ab initio study of the structures and hydrogen storage capacity of (H2)nCH4 compound
Authors: Wang Minghui , Cheng Xinlu , Ren Dahua , Zhang Hong , Tang Yongjian
Published: May 2015

The hydrogen-rich compound ( H 2)n CH 4 (for n = 1, 2, 3, 4) or for short ( H 2)n M is one of the most promising hydrogen storage materials. The ( H 2)4 M molecule is the best hydrogen-rich compound among the ( H 2)n M structures and it can reach the hydrogen storage capacity of 50.2 wt.%. However, the ( H 2)n M always requires a certain pressure to remain stable. In this work, we first investigated the binding energy of the different structures in ( H 2)n M and energy barrier of H 2 rotation under different pressures at ambient temperature, applying ab initio methods based on van der Waals density functional (vdW-DF). It was found that at 0 GPa, the ( H 2)n M is not stable, while at 5.8 GPa, the stability of ( H 2)n M strongly depends on its structure. We further investigate the Raman spectra of ( H 2)n M structures at 5.8 GPa and found the results were consistent with experiments. Excitingly, we found that boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) and graphite and hexagonal boron nitride ( h - BN ) can be used to store ( H 2)4 M , which give insights into hydrogen storage practical applications.
New solutions for two integrable cases of a generalized fifth-order nonlinear equation
Authors: Wazwaz Abdul-Majid
Published: May 2015

Multiple-complexiton solutions for a new generalized fifth-order nonlinear integrable equation are constructed with the help of the Hirota's method and the simplified Hirota's method. By extending the real parameters into complex parameters, nonsingular complexiton solutions are obtained for two specific coefficients of the new generalized equation.
Induced vacuum bosonic current by magnetic flux in a higher dimensional compactified cosmic string spacetime
Authors: Bragança E. A. F. , Mota H. F. Santana , de Mello E. R. Bezerra
Published: May 2015

In this paper, we analyze the bosonic current densities induced by a magnetic flux running along an idealized cosmic string in a high-dimensional spacetime, admitting that the coordinate along the string's axis is compactified. Additionally we admit the presence of a magnetic flux enclosed by the compactification axis. In order to develop this analysis we calculate the complete set of normalized bosonic wave functions obeying a quasiperiodicity condition, with arbitrary phase β, along the compactified dimension. In this context, only azimuthal and axial currents densities take place. As to the azimuthal current, two contributions appear. The first contribution corresponds to the standard azimuthal current in a cosmic string spacetime without compactification, while the second contribution is a new one, induced by the compactification itself. The latter is an even function of the magnetic flux enclosed by the string axis and is an odd function of the magnetic flux along its core with period equal to quantum flux, Φ0 = 2π/e. On the other hand, the nonzero axial current density is an even function of the magnetic flux along the core of the string and an odd function of the magnetic flux enclosed by it. We also find that the axial current density vanishes for untwisted and twisted bosonic fields in the absence of the magnetic flux enclosed by the string axis. Some asymptotic expressions for the current density are provided for specific limiting cases of the physical parameter of the model.
NETWORK HETEROGENEITY AND NODE CAPACITY LEAD TO HETEROGENEOUS SCALING OF FLUCTUATIONS IN RANDOM WALKS ON GRAPHS
Authors: KOSMIDIS KOSMAS , BEBER MORITZ , HÜTT MARC-THORSTEN
Published: May 2015

Random walks are one of the best investigated dynamical processes on graphs. A particularly fascinating phenomenon is the scaling relationship of fluctuations σ with the average flux 〈f〉. Here we analyze how network topology and nodes with finite capacity lead to deviations from a simple scaling law σ ~ 〈f〉α. Sources of randomness are the random walk itself (internal noise) and the fluctuation of the number of walkers (external noise). We obtained exact results for the extreme case of a star network which are indicative of the behavior of large scale systems with a broad degree distribution. The latter are subsequently studied using Monte Carlo simulations. We find that the network heterogeneity amplifies the effects of external noise. By computing the "effective" scaling of each node we show that multiple scaling relationships can coexist in a graph with a heterogeneous degree distribution at an intermediate level of external noise. Finally, we analyze the effect of a finite capacity of nodes for random walkers and find that this also can lead to a heterogeneous scaling of fluctuations.
Electrochemical and energetic characteristics of new dye-sensitizers for photovoltaic cells
Authors: Kobasa Igor , Odosiy Lyubomyra , Kurdyukova Iryna , Ishchenko Olexandr , Kurek Stefan
Published: May 2015

The influence of the dye structure on the spectral and electrochemical characteristics has been investigated for a series of the anionic and intraionic polymethine dyes (PDs) of the tetranitrofluorene family. The reduction and oxidation potentials were determined by cyclic voltammetry (CVA), and HOMO and LUMO energy levels were calculated in order to predict the applicability of the dyes as TiO 2 sensitizing agents. Some types of the PD / TiO 2 heterostructures (HSs) were built and their photocatalytic activity (PA) was determined using the model reaction of iodide anion oxidation.
Anandamide, Acting viaCB2Receptors, Alleviates LPS-Induced Neuroinflammation in Rat Primary Microglial Cultures
Authors: Malek Natalia , Popiolek-Barczyk Katarzyna , Mika Joanna , Przewlocka Barbara , Starowicz Katarzyna
Published: May 2015

Microglial activation is a polarized process divided into potentially neuroprotective phenotype M2 and neurotoxic phenotype M1, predominant during chronic neuroinflammation. Endocannabinoid system provides an attractive target to control the balance between microglial phenotypes. Anandamide as an immune modulator in the central nervous system acts via not only cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) but also other targets (e.g., GPR18/GPR55). We studied the effect of anandamide on lipopolysaccharide-induced changes in rat primary microglial cultures. Microglial activation was assessed based on nitric oxide (NO) production. Analysis of mRNA was conducted for M1 and M2 phenotype markers possibly affected by the treatment. Our results showed that lipopolysaccharide-induced NO release in microglia was significantly attenuated, with concomitant downregulation of M1 phenotypic markers, after pretreatment with anandamide. This effect was not sensitive to CB1 or GPR18/GPR55 antagonism. Administration of CB2 antagonist partially abolished the effects of anandamide on microglia. Interestingly, administration of a GPR18/GPR55 antagonist by itself suppressed NO release. In summary, we showed that the endocannabinoid system plays a crucial role in the management of neuroinflammation by dampening the activation of an M1 phenotype. This effect was primarily controlled by the CB2 receptor, although functional cross talk with GPR18/GPR55 may occur.
Umbilical Cord-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Inhibit Cadherin-11 Expression by Fibroblast-Like Synoviocytes in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Zhao Cheng , Zhang Lu , Kong Wei , Liang Jun , Xu Xinyun , Wu Hongyan , Feng Xuebing , Hua Bingzhu , Wang Hong , Sun Lingyun
Published: May 2015

This study aimed to determine whether umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UCMSC) regulate Cadherin-11 (CDH11) expression by fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). FLS were isolated from the synovium of RA and osteoarthritis (OA) patients. FLS from RA patients were cocultured with UCMSC in a transwell system. CDH11 mRNA levels in FLS were tested, and levels of soluble factors expressed by UCMSC, such as indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), and interleukin- (IL-) 10, were determined. IDO, HGF, and IL-10 were upregulated in cocultures, so that appropriate inhibitors were added before determination of CDH11 expression. The effects of UCMSC on arthritis were investigated in the collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) model in Wistar rats. FLS from RA patients expressed higher CDH11 levels than those from OA patients, and this effect was suppressed by UCMSC. The inhibitory effect of UCMSC on CDH11 expression by FLS was abolished by suppression of IL-10 activity. CDH11 expression in synovial tissues was higher in the context of CIA than under basal conditions, and this effect was prevented by UCMSC administration. IL-10 mediates the inhibitory effect of UCMSC on CDH11 expression by FLS, and this mechanism might be targeted to ameliorate arthritis.
Study of the Plasmon Energy Transfer Processes in Dye Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Chien Tzu-ming , Pavaskar Prathamesh , Hung Wei Hsuan , Cronin Stephen , Chiu Sheing-Hui , Lai Sz-Nian
Published: May 2015

We report plasmon enhanced absorption in dye sensitized solar cells (DSSC) over a broad wavelength range. 45% enhancement in the power conversion efficiency is observed with the inclusion of plasmonic gold nanoparticles (NPs). Photocurrent spectra show enhancement over the entire dye absorption range from 450 nm to 700 nm, as well as in the near infrared (NIR) region above 700 nm due to the strong plasmon‐induced electric fields produced by the gold NPs. The plasmon‐induced electric field distribution of the island‐like gold film is also investigated using finite‐difference‐time‐domain (FDTD) calculations. Furthermore, photoluminescence spectra are performed in order to rule out the mechanism of plasmon energy transfer through Forster resonance energy transfer.
Endothelin Receptors Expressed by Immune Cells Are Involved in Modulation of Inflammation and in Fibrosis: Relevance to the Pathogenesis of Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Elisa Tinazzi , Antonio Puccetti , Giuseppe Patuzzo , Alessandro Barbieri , Giuseppe Argentino , Federico Confente , Marzia Dolcino , Ruggero Beri , Giacomo Marchi , Andrea Ottria , Daniela Righetti , Mariaelisa Rampudda , Claudio Lunardi
Published: May 2015

Endothelin-1 (ET-1) plays a pivotal role in vasoconstriction, fibrosis, and inflammation, the key features of systemic sclerosis (SSc). ET-1 receptors (ETAandETB) are expressed on endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, and fibroblasts, but their presence on immune cells has not been deeply investigated so far. Endothelin receptors antagonists such as bosentan have beneficial effects on vasoconstriction and fibrosis, but less is known about their potential anti-inflammatory effects. We studied the expression of ET-1 receptors on immune cells (T and B lymphocytes, monocytes, and neutrophils) and the link between ET-1 and inflammation in patients with SSc. We show here that ET-1 exerts a proinflammatory effect in CD4+ T cells, since it induces an increased IFN-γproduction; preincubation with antagonists of both receptors reduces IFN-γproduction. Moreover, following ET-1 stimulation, neutrophils produce proinflammatory mediators, thus amplifying the effects of activated CD4+ T cells. Our data indicate that ET-1 system is involved in the pathogenesis of inflammation and fibrosis typical of SSc, through the activation of T lymphocytes and neutrophils and the consequent release of proinflammatory and profibrotic cytokines. These findings suggest that dual ET-1 receptors antagonist therapy, besides its effect on vasculopathy, has a profound impact on the immune system favouring antiinflammatory and antifibrogenic effects.
Treatment of Bullous Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Duan Lihua , Chen Liying , Zhong Shan , Wang Ying , Huang Yan , He Yan , Chen Jie , Shi Guixiu
Published: May 2015

Bullous systemic lupus erythematosus (BSLE) is an autoantibody-mediated vesiculobullous disease in patients with SLE. Autoimmunity in BSLE is characterized by the presence of circulating anti-type VII collagen antibodies. BSLE patients often present with multiple, tense, clear fluid-filled vesicles and bullae overlying erythematous edematous plaques. Skin biopsy from BSLE patients shows subepidermal bullae with numerous neutrophils and only occasional eosinophils. Furthermore, immunofluorescence examination showed linear deposition of lgG, lgA, C3, and C1q along the basement membrane zone. BSLE patients with corticosteroids treatment constantly do not receive a marked improvement, while dapsone generally dramatically improved the skin condition. Recently, it has been reported that quite a few cases of BSLE were successfully treated with other immune suppressive drugs. Therefore, a comprehensive review of the treatment of BSLE would be beneficial to cure the disease.
CK2 Secreted byLeishmania braziliensisMediates Macrophage Association Invasion: A Comparative Study between Virulent and Avirulent Promastigotes
Authors: Zylbersztejn Ana Madeira Brito , de Morais Carlos Gustavo Vieira , Lima Ana Karina Castro , Souza Joyce Eliza de Oliveira , Lopes Angela Hampshire , Da-Silva Sílvia Amaral Gonçalves , Silva-Neto Mário Alberto Cardoso , Dutra Patrícia Maria Lourenço
Published: May 2015

CK2 is a protein kinase distributed in different compartments ofLeishmania braziliensis:an externally oriented ecto-CK2, an intracellular CK2, and a secreted CK2. This latter form is constitutively secreted from the parasite (CsCK2), but such secretion may be highly enhanced by the association of specific molecules, including enzyme substrates, which lead to a higher enzymatic activity, called inductively secreted CK2 (IsCK2). Here, we examined the influence of secreted CK2 (sCK2) activity on the infectivity of a virulentL. braziliensisstrain. The virulent strain presented 121-fold higher total CK2 activity than those found in an avirulent strain. The use of specific CK2 inhibitors (TBB, DRB, or heparin) inhibited virulent parasite growth, whereas no effect was observed in the avirulent parasites. When these inhibitors were added to the interaction assays between the virulentL. braziliensisstrain and macrophages, association index was drastically inhibited. Polyamines enhanced sCK2 activity and increased the association index between parasites and macrophages. Finally, sCK2 and the supernatant of the virulent strain increased the association index between the avirulent strain and macrophages, which was inhibited by TBB. Thus, the kinase enzyme CK2 seems to be important to invasion mechanisms ofL. braziliensis.
Estimation of Sensitive Proportion by Randomized Response Data in Successive Sampling
Authors: Yu Bo , Jin Zongda , Tian Jiayong , Gao Ge
Published: May 2015

This paper considers the problem of estimation for binomial proportions of sensitive or stigmatizing attributes in the population of interest. Randomized response techniques are suggested for protecting the privacy of respondents and reducing the response bias while eliciting information on sensitive attributes. In many sensitive question surveys, the same population is often sampled repeatedly on each occasion. In this paper, we apply successive sampling scheme to improve the estimation of the sensitive proportion on current occasion.
Measuring Agarwood Formation Ratio Quantitatively by Fluorescence Spectral Imaging Technique
Authors: Huang Botao , Nguyen Duykien , Liu Tianyi , Jiang Kaibin , Tan Jinfen , Liu Chunxin , Zhao Jing , Huang Shaowei
Published: May 2015

Agarwood is a kind of important and precious traditional Chinese medicine. With the decreasing of natural agarwood, artificial cultivation has become more and more important in recent years. Quantifying the formation of agarwood is an essential work which could provide information for guiding cultivation and controlling quality. But people only can judge the amount of agarwood qualitatively by experience before. Fluorescence multispectral imaging method is presented to measure the agarwood quantitatively in this paper. A spectral cube from 450 nm to 800 nm was captured under the 365 nm excitation sources. The nonagarwood, agarwood, and rotten wood in the same sample were distinguished based on analyzing the spectral cube. Then the area ratio of agarwood to the whole sample was worked out, which is the quantitative information of agarwood area percentage. To our knowledge, this is the first time that the formation of agarwood was quantified accurately and nondestructively.
Assigning Robust Default Values in Building Performance Simulation Software for Improved Decision‐Making in the Initial Stages of Building Design
Authors: Hiyama Kyosuke
Published: May 2015

Applying data mining techniques on a database of BIM models could provide valuable insights in key design patterns implicitly present in these BIM models. The architectural designer would then be able to use previous data from existing building projects as default values in building performance simulation software for the early phases of building design. The author has proposed the method to minimize the magnitude of the variation in these default values in subsequent design stages. This approach maintains the accuracy of the simulation results in the initial stages of building design. In this study, a more convincing argument is presented to demonstrate the significance of the new method. The variation in the ideal default values for different building design conditions is assessed first. Next, the influence of each condition on these variations is investigated. The space depth is found to have a large impact on the ideal default value of the window to wall ratio. In addition, the presence or absence of lighting control and natural ventilation has a significant influence on the ideal default value. These effects can be used to identify the types of building conditions that should be considered to determine the ideal default values.
The Potential Use of Platelet‐Rich Plasma to Reconstruct the Microtia Chondrocyte in Human Auricular Cartilage Regeneration
Authors: Chen Wei-Hong , Liu Hen-Yu , Tsai Ching-Yu , Wu Chia-che , Wei Hong-Jian , Liu Alice , Lai Ming-Tang , Huang Chiung-Fang , Deng Win-Ping
Published: May 2015

Microtia is characterized as an incomplete auricular development and surgical reconstruction for microtia is still limited even with emerging developments. This study aimed to apply bionanomaterials (PRP/collagen scaffold) for human auricular neocartilage reconstruction by using microtia chondrocytes. The results showed that PRP (TGF‐β1 750 pg/mL and 1 ng/mL) increased cell viability of microtia chondrocytes during in vitro 9‐day cultures. Additionally, chondrogenic‐specific mRNA of Aggrecan and type II collagen (Col II) was significantly and continuously expressed with PRP treatment during the 21‐day in vitro expansion. Tissue engineering of auricular neocartilage was performed by seeding microtia chondrocytes in bionanomaterials (PRP/collagen scaffold) 3‐dimensional (3D) cultures. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) of Col II showed intensive signals between cells and matrix after 4‐week cultures. Conclusion. Our results demonstrated that PRP promotes proliferation and redifferentiation of microtia chondrocytes and provides regenerative potentials in auricular neocartilage reconstruction.
Methodology for Registration of Shrinkage Tumors in Head-and-Neck CT Studies
Authors: Wang Jianhua , Dai Jianrong , Jing Yongjie , Huo Yanan , Niu Tianye
Published: May 2015

Tumor shrinkage occurs in many patients undergoing radiotherapy for head-and-neck (H&N) cancer. However, one-to-one correspondence is not always available between voxels of two image sets. This makes intensity-based deformable registration difficult and inaccurate. In this paper, we describe a novel method to increase the performance of the registration in presence of tumor shrinkage. The method combines an image modification procedure and a fast symmetric Demons algorithm to register CT images acquired at planning and posttreatment fractions. The image modification procedure modifies the image intensities of the primary tumor by calculating tumor cell survival rate using the linear quadratic (LQ) model according to the dose delivered to the tumor. A scale operation is used to deal with uncertainties in biological parameters. The method was tested in 10 patients with nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC). Registration accuracy was improved compared with that achieved using the symmetric Demons algorithm. The average Dice similarity coefficient (DSC) increased by 21%. This novel method is suitable for H&N adaptive radiation therapy.
Oral Curcumin (Meriva) Is Effective as an Adjuvant Treatment and Is Able to Reduce IL-22 Serum Levels in Patients with Psoriasis Vulgaris
Authors: Antiga Emiliano , Bonciolini Veronica , Volpi Walter , Del Bianco Elena , Caproni Marzia
Published: May 2015

Curcumin is a complementary therapy that may be helpful for the treatment of psoriasis due to its anti-inflammatory, antiangiogenic, antioxidant, and antiproliferative effects. In the present study we performed a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial to assess the effectiveness of a bioavailable oral curcumin in the treatment of psoriasis. Sixty-three patients with mild-to-moderate psoriasis vulgaris (PASI < 10) were randomly divided into two groups treated with topical steroids and Meriva, a commercially available lecithin based delivery system of curcumin, at 2 g per day (arm 1), or with topical steroids alone (arm 2), both for 12 weeks. At the beginning (T0) and at the end of the therapy (T12), clinical assessment and immunoenzymatic analysis of the serum levels of IL-17 and IL-22 were performed. At T12, both groups achieved a significant reduction of PASI values that, however, was higher in patients treated with both topical steroids and oral curcumin than in patients treated only with topical steroids. Moreover, IL-22 serum levels were significantly reduced in patients treated with oral curcumin. In conclusion, curcumin was demonstrated to be effective as an adjuvant therapy for the treatment of psoriasis vulgaris and to significantly reduce serum levels of IL-22.
Application of Combined Two-Dimensional and Three-Dimensional Transvaginal Contrast Enhanced Ultrasound in the Diagnosis of Endometrial Carcinoma
Authors: Zhou Hui-li , Xiang Hong , Duan Li , Shahai Gulinaer , Liu Hui , Li Xiang-hong , Mou Rui-xue
Published: May 2015

Objective. The goal of this study was to explore the clinical value of combining two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) transvaginal contrast-enhanced ultrasounds (CEUS) in diagnosis of endometrial carcinoma (EC).Methods. In this prospective diagnostic study, transvaginal 2D and 3D CEUS were performed on 68 patients with suspected EC, and the results of the obtained 2D-CEUS and 3D-CEUS images were compared with the gold standard for statistical analysis.Results. 2D-CEUS benign endometrial lesions showed the normal uterine perfusion phase while EC cases showed early arrival and early washout of the contrast agent and nonuniform enhancement. The 3D-CEUS images differed in central blood vessel manifestation, blood vessel shape, and vascular pattern between benign and malignant endometrial lesionsP<0.05. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy of transvaginal 2D-CEUS and 2D-CEUS combined with 3D-CEUS for diagnosis of benign and malignant endometrial lesions were 76.9%, 73.8%, 64.5%, 83.8%, and 75.0% and 84.6%, 83.3%, 75.9%, 89.7%, and 83.8%, respectively.Conclusion. 3D-CEUS is a useful supplement to 2D-CEUS and can clearly reveal the angioarchitecture spatial relationships between vessels and depth of myometrial invasion in EC. The combined use of 2D and 3D-CEUS can offer direct, accurate, and comprehensive diagnosis of early EC.
Design of a Compact and High Sensitivity Temperature Sensor Using Metamaterial
Authors: Zemouli Sabah , Chaabi Abdelhafid , Talbi Houcine Sofiane
Published: May 2015

The present paper aims at sensing the temperature. A sensor metamaterial consisting of two concentric metallic rings and a thin metallic wire deposited on the surface of BaTiO3 substrate is reported. The use of BaTiO3 makes the resonant frequency of the structure shift as the temperature varies and makes the sensor applicable in many fields of applications. Numerical simulations and theoretical results are presented and compared to each other; there was a good agreement between them. This sensor is smaller, easier to fabricate, and very sensitive to the changes in temperatures.
Common Fixed Point of TwoR-Weakly Commuting Mappings inb-Metric Spaces
Authors: Kumam Poom , Sintunavarat Wutiphol , Sedghi Shaban , Shobkolaei Nabi
Published: May 2015

We prove some common fixed point results for two mappings satisfying generalized contractive condition inb-metric space. Note thatb-metric of main results in this work are not necessarily continuous. So our results extend and improve several previous works. We also present one example that shows the applicability and usefulness of our results.
CT Image Reconstruction from Sparse Projections Using Adaptive TpV Regularization
Authors: Qi Hongliang , Chen Zijia , Zhou Linghong
Published: May 2015

Radiation dose reduction without losing CT image quality has been an increasing concern. Reducing the number of X-ray projections to reconstruct CT images, which is also called sparse-projection reconstruction, can potentially avoid excessive dose delivered to patients in CT examination. To overcome the disadvantages of total variation (TV) minimization method, in this work we introduce a novel adaptive TpV regularization into sparse-projection image reconstruction and use FISTA technique to accelerate iterative convergence. The numerical experiments demonstrate that the proposed method suppresses noise and artifacts more efficiently, and preserves structure information better than other existing reconstruction methods.
The Application of Minimally Invasive Devices with Nanostructured Surface Functionalization: Antisticking Behavior on Devices and Liver Tissue Interface in Rat
Authors: Lin Li-Hsiang , Hsu Ya-Ju , Chiang Hsi-Jen , Cheng Han-Yi , Wang Che-Shun , Ou Keng-Liang
Published: May 2015

This study investigated the thermal injury and adhesion property of a novel electrosurgery of liver using copper‐doped diamond‐like carbon (DLC‐Cu) surface treatment. It is necessary to reduce the thermal damage of surrounding tissues for clinical electrosurgeries. The surface morphologies of stainless steel (SS) coated with DLC (DLC‐Cu‐SS) films were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Bionic liver models were reconstructed using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to simulate electrosurgery. Cell cytotoxicity assays showed that the DLC‐Cu thin film was nontoxic. The temperature of tissue decreased significantly with use of the electrosurgical device with nanostructured DLC‐Cu films and increased with increasing thickness of the films. Thermography revealed that the surgical temperature in the DLC‐Cu‐SS electrosurgical device was significantly lower than that in the untreated device in the animal model. Moreover, compared to the SS electrosurgical device, the DLC‐Cu‐SS electrosurgical device caused a relatively small injury area and lateral thermal effect. The results indicate that the DLC‐Cu‐SS electrosurgical device decreases excessive thermal injury and ensures homogeneous temperature transformation in the tissues.
Effects of Mandibular Retrusive Deviation on Prefrontal Cortex Activation: A Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Study
Authors: Otsuka Takero , Yamasaki Ryuichi , Shimazaki Tateshi , Yoshino Fumihiko , Sasaguri Kenichi , Kawata Toshitsugu
Published: May 2015

The objective of this study was to evaluate occlusal condition by assessing brain activity in the prefrontal cortex, which is associated with emotion. Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) was used to detect changes in cerebral blood flow in the prefrontal cortex of 12 healthy volunteers. The malocclusion model was a custom-made splint that forced the mandible into retrusion. A splint with no modification was used as a control. The cortical activation during clenching was compared between the retrusive position condition and the control condition. A visual analog scale score for discomfort was also obtained during clenching and used to evaluate the interaction between fNIRS data and psychiatric changes. Activation of the prefrontal cortex was significantly greater during clenching in the mandibular retrusive condition than during clenching in the control condition. Furthermore, Spearman rank-correlation coefficient revealed a parallel relation between prefrontal cortex activation and visual analog scale score for discomfort. These results indicate that fNIRS can be used to objectively evaluate the occlusal condition by evaluating activity in the prefrontal cortex.
Striatal Injury with 6-OHDA Transiently Increases Cerebrospinal GFAP and S100B
Authors: Batassini Cristiane , Broetto Núbia , Tortorelli Lucas Silva , Borsoi Milene , Zanotto Caroline , Galland Fabiana , Souza Tadeu Mello , Leite Marina Concli , Gonçalves Carlos-Alberto
Published: May 2015

Both glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and S100B have been used as markers of astroglial plasticity, particularly in brain injury; however, they do not necessarily change in the same time frame or direction. Herein, we induced a Parkinson’s disease (PD) model via a 6-OHDA intrastriatal injection in rats and investigated the changes in GFAP and S100B using ELISA in the substantia nigra (SN), striatum, and cerebrospinal fluid on the 1st, 7th, and 21st days following the injection. The model was validated using measurements of rotational behaviour induced by methylphenidate and tyrosine hydroxylase in the dopaminergic pathway. To our knowledge, this is the first measurement of cerebrospinal fluid S100B and GFAP in the 6-OHDA model of PD. Gliosis (based on a GFAP increase) was identified in the striatum, but not in the SN. We identified a transitory increment of cerebrospinal fluid S100B and GFAP on the 1st and 7th days, respectively. This initial change in cerebrospinal fluid S100B was apparently related to the mechanical lesion. However, the 6-OHDA-induced S100B secretion was confirmed in astrocyte cultures. Current data reinforce the idea that glial changes precede neuronal damage in PD; however, these findings also indicate that caution is necessary regarding the interpretation of data in this PD model.
Developing an Intelligent Automatic Appendix Extraction Method from Ultrasonography Based on Fuzzy ART and Image Processing
Authors: Kim Kwang Baek , Park Hyun Jun , Song Doo Heon , Han Sang-suk
Published: May 2015

Ultrasound examination (US) does a key role in the diagnosis and management of the patients with clinically suspected appendicitis which is the most common abdominal surgical emergency. Among the various sonographic findings of appendicitis, outer diameter of the appendix is most important. Therefore, clear delineation of the appendix on US images is essential. In this paper, we propose a new intelligent method to extract appendix automatically from abdominal sonographic images as a basic building block of developing such an intelligent tool for medical practitioners. Knowing that the appendix is located at the lower organ area below the bottom fascia line, we conduct a series of image processing techniques to find the fascia line correctly. And then we apply fuzzy ART learning algorithm to the organ area in order to extract appendix accurately. The experiment verifies that the proposed method is highly accurate (successful in 38 out of 40 cases) in extracting appendix.
Altered Daytime Fluctuation Pattern of Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor 1 in Type 2 Diabetes Patients with Coronary Artery Disease: A Strong Association with Persistently Elevated Plasma Insulin, Increased Insulin Resistance, and Abdominal Obesity
Authors: Lalić Katarina , Jotić Aleksandra , Rajković Nataša , Singh Sandra , Stošić Ljubica , Popović Ljiljana , Lukić Ljiljana , Miličić Tanja , Seferović Jelena P. , Maćešić Marija , Stanarčić Jelena , Čivčić Milorad , Kadić Iva , Lalić Nebojša M.
Published: May 2015

This study was aimed at investigating daily fluctuation of PAI-1 levels in relation to insulin resistance (IR) and daily profile of plasma insulin and glucose levels in 26 type 2 diabetic (T2D) patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) (group A), 10 T2D patients without CAD (group B), 12 nondiabetics with CAD (group C), and 12 healthy controls (group D). The percentage of PAI-1 decrease was lower in group A versus group B (4.4 ± 2.7 versus 35.0 ± 5.4%;P<0.05) and in C versus D (14.0 ± 5.8 versus 44.7 ± 3.1%;P<0.001). HOMA-IR was higher in group A versus group B (P<0.05) and in C versus D (P<0.01). Simultaneously, AUCs of PAI-1 and insulin were higher in group A versus group B (P<0.05) and in C versus D (P<0.01), while AUC of glucose did not differ between groups. In multiple regression analysis waist-to-hip ratio and AUC of insulin were independent determinants of decrease in PAI-1. The altered diurnal fluctuation of PAI-1, especially in T2D with CAD, might be strongly influenced by a prolonged exposure to hyperinsulinemia in the settings of increased IR and abdominal obesity, facilitating altogether an accelerated atherosclerosis.
IQP-VV-102, a Novel Proprietary Composition for Weight Reduction: A Double-Blind Randomized Clinical Trial for Evaluation of Efficacy and Safety
Authors: Grube Barbara , Bongartz Udo , Alt Felix
Published: May 2015

The individual ingredients in IQP-VV-102 have demonstrated promising effects in reducing sugar and starch digestion, which potentially leads to weight loss. The trial objective was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of IQP-VV-102 in reducing body weight in overweight and obese subjects. 120 overweight and obese individuals aged 18 to 60 years were randomly assigned to 2 treatment arms (IQP-VV-102 and placebo). The trial was conducted in 2 study centres in Berlin, Germany. The primary efficacy analysis was conducted on 117 subjects (IQP-VV-102:N=54; placebo:N=59), comparing the weight loss effect at baseline and 12 weeks after randomization. There was a statistically significant reduction in mean body weight of 3.29 kg (SD 2.30) in the IQP-VV-102 group compared to 0.83 kg (SD 2.00) in the placebo groupp<0.001. There were no serious or product-related adverse events that were reported over the combined period of 14 weeks. The findings suggested that IQP-VV-102 is effective and safe in body weight reduction in overweight and obese individuals in the short term. The study is registered under clinicaltrials.gov asNCT01681069.