bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of habitat and fishing on fish assemblages in a tropical reservoir: Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe
Authors: Zengeya Tsungai A. , Marshall Brian E.
Published: January 2016

This study investigated the effects of habitat and fishing on fish communities along inshore areas of the Sanyati Basin, Lake Kariba. A one‐year experimental gillnet survey was carried out in 2007 from eight sampling sites located in two different habitats (river mouths and sheltered bays), and in areas open or closed to fishing. A total of 16 species were captured, although the numbers caught at each site varied widely, with only four species recorded at each of the eight sampling sites. The numbers of fish were higher in the fished areas, mainly because of large numbers of Synodontis zambezensis, although the differences were not significant. In contrast, there were significant differences in the abundance of all species between habitats, with the exception of Cyphomyrus discorhynchus and Marcusenius macrolepidotus. There were no significant differences in the diversity of fish in these areas, although mean diversity and evenness were slightly higher in unfished areas and in sheltered bays. Overall, 90% of the fish specimens caught were within a 10–25 cm size range, although there were no systematic differences in the mean length in relation to fishing. In contrast, most fish were generally larger in river mouth areas than in sheltered bays. These data suggest that fishing had little effect on fish communities. This is in contrast to general habitat, which had a significant effect, a finding consistent with earlier studies showing that vegetation, in particular, had a significant effect on fish stocks.
Expression of p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (p38MAPK) and pathological change in intussusception
Authors: Guo Wan‐liang , Wang Jian , Liu Chi , Yang Fu‐bin , Li Shao‐wei
Published: January 2016

Background

The aim of this study was to develop a mouse model and further assess the pathological changes associated with the expression of p38mitogen‐activated protein kinase (p38MAPK) in intussusception.

Methods

Sixty‐two adult Balb/C mice were used. A longitudinal incision was made in the middle rectus muscle in the body cavity. The ileum was intussuscepted into the colon. Measurements were taken at the onset of intussusception and at 5, 15, 30, 60, and 120 min. Mucosal impairment was assessed on microscopy. Ten of the intussuscepted mice were used as an ischemia–reperfusion (I/R) model. Immunohistochemistry was used to assess expression of p38MAPK in the I/R model and pediatric patients specimens of intussusception.

Results

The intussusception model was successfully established in 46 mice. After 15 min, vascular compromise became visible in these 46 mice. Over time, vascular function worsened. There were significant differences in microscopy injury score in the intestinal mucosa between the 15 min and 30 min groups (P = 0.0006), 30 min and 60 min groups (P = 0.0046), and the 60 min and 120 min groups (P = 0.0050). There was no significant difference between the 5 min and 15 min groups (P = 0.0597). p38MAPK was expressed strongly in pediatric specimens of intussusception. Immunostained sections of intestinal epithelium had significantly higher mean quick score for p38MAPK in the intussusception I/R model group than in the intussusception group and controls (P = 0.0130). On each two‐group comparison there was a significant difference between groups (all P < 0.01; Fig. ).

Conclusions

The present mouse model can be used to assess the dynamic pathological changes associated with intussusception. I/R is associated with upregulation of p38MAPK in intussusception.
Mullā Ṣadrā and the Project of Transcendent Philosophy
Authors: Faruque Muhammad U.
Published: January 2016

In this study, we have endeavored to elucidate the ‘project’ of Mullā Ṣadrā's transcendent philosophy (al‐ḥikma al‐mutaʿāliya), an expression that Ṣadrā himself saw fit to describe his philosophical works. The meaning and method of Ṣadrā's transcendent philosophy, which inform his unique philosophical positions, can be better understood when it is placed against the backdrop of discursive philosophy (ḥikma baḥthiyya) of the Muslim peripatetics (al‐mashshāʾīn). In explaining the project of transcendent philosophy, Ṣadrā suggests that the mutaʿllih (deiform one) like any other ordinary philosopher builds theoretical models to describe the nature of reality and its diverse phenomena. However, what sets him/her apart from the latter is that he/she believes that through spiritual practices his/her soul can be transformed to the extent that he/she can attain presential knowledge (al‐ʿilm al‐ḥuḍūrī) of the reality of being (ḥaqīqat al‐wujūd). That is, he/she can well penetrate the true essences (al‐dhawāt) of things insofar as this is a possibility.
Strength Training Using Elastic Bands: Improvement of Muscle Power and Throwing Performance in Young Female Handball Players
Authors: Mascarin Naryana Cristina , de Lira Claudio Andre Barbosa , Vancini Rodrigo Luiz , de Castro Pochini Alberto , da Silva Antonio Carlos , dos Santos Andrade Marilia
Published: January 2016

Context:

Imbalance in shoulder-rotator muscles has been considered a risk factor for injuries in handball. Strength training programs (STPs) may play an important preventive role.

Objective:

To verify the effects of an STP using elastic bands on shoulder muscles and ball-throwing speed.

Design:

Randomized and prospective controlled trial.

Setting:

Exercise physiology laboratory.

Participants:

Thirty-nine female handball players were randomly assigned to an experimental (EG, n = 21, 15.3 ± 1.1 y) or a control (CG, n = 18, 15.0 ± 0.8 y) group.

Intervention:

The EG performed the STP with elastic-band progressive exercises for 6 wk before regular handball training, and the CG underwent only their regular training.

Main Outcome Measures:

Before and after the STP, both groups underwent a ball-throwing-speed test and isokinetic test to assess shoulder internal- (IR) and external-rotator muscle performance.

Results:

Average power values for IR muscles presented a significant group-vs-time interaction effect (F = 3.9, P = .05); EG presented significantly higher values after the STP (P = .03). Ball speed presented higher values in EG after the STP in standing (P = .04) and jumping (P = .03) throws. IR peak-torque values and balance in shoulder-rotator muscles presented no group-vs-time interaction effect.

Conclusions:

STP using elastic bands performed for 6 wk was effective to improve muscle power and ball speed for young female handball players.
Digitoxin improves cardiovascular autonomic control in rats with heart failure
Authors: Fardin Núbia Mantovan , Antonio Ednei Luiz , Montemor Jairo Augusto Silva , da Veiga Glaucia Luciano , Tucci Paulo José Ferreira , Campos Ruy R.
Published: January 2016

The effects of chronic treatment with digitoxin on arterial baroreceptor sensitivity for heart rate (HR) and renal sympathetic nerve activity (rSNA) control, cardiopulmonary reflex, and autonomic HR control in an animal model of heart failure (HF) were evaluated. Wistar rats were treated with digitoxin, which was administered in their daily feed (1 mg/kg per day) for 60 days. The following 3 experimental groups were evaluated: sham, HF, and HF treated with digitoxin (HF + DIG). We observed an increase in rSNA in the HF group (190 ± 29 pps, n = 5) compared with the sham group (98 ± 14 pps, n = 5). Digitoxin treatment prevented an increase in rSNA (98 ± 14 pps, n = 7). Therefore, arterial baroreceptor sensitivity was decreased in the HF group (−1.24 ± 0.07 bpm/mm Hg, n = 8) compared with the sham group (−2.27 ± 0.23 bpm/mm Hg, n = 6). Digitoxin did not alter arterial baroreceptor sensitivity in the HF + DIG group. Finally, the HF group showed an increased low frequency band (LFb: 23 ± 5 ms2, n = 8) and a decreased high frequency band (HFb: 77 ± 5 ms2, n = 8) compared with the sham group (LFb: 14 ± 3 ms2; HFb: 86 ± 3 ms2, n = 9); the HF+DIG group exhibited normalized parameters (LFb: 15 ± 3 ms2; HFb: 85 ± 3 ms2, n = 9). In conclusion, the benefits of decreasing rSNA are not directly related to improvements in peripheral cardiovascular reflexes; such occurrences are due in part to changes in the central nuclei of the brain responsible for autonomic cardiovascular control.
The hypolipidemic action of a diet supplemented withp,p’-methoxyl-diphenyl diselenide is not directly related to its antioxidant property
Authors: Sartori Oliveira Carla Elena , Pinton Simone , da Rocha Juliana Trevisan , Gai Bibiana Mozzaquatro , Nogueira Cristina Wayne
Published: January 2016

The present study investigated whether a p,p’-methoxyl-diphenyl diselenide (MeOPhSe)2-supplemented diet causes toxicity in rats. A second aim of this study was to determine whether a 10 ppm (MeOPhSe)2-supplemented diet has hypolipidemic effect on Triton WR-1339-induced hyperlipidemia in rats. To rule out the antioxidant property of (MeOPhSe)2in its hypolipidemic action, parameters of oxidative stress were carried out. Wistar rats were fed with 3, 10, or 30 ppm of (MeOPhSe)2-supplemented diet for 30 days. None of (MeOPhSe)2-supplemented diets caused alteration in general parameters of toxicity and lipid profile of rats. The hypolipidemic effect of 10 ppm of (MeOPhSe)2-supplemented diet on rats treated with Triton WR-1339 (400 mg/kg, intraperitoneal) was investigated. The (MeOPhSe)2-supplemented diet partially protected against the levels of total cholesterol (TC) and non-HDL-C and reduced the atherogenic index (AI) increased by Triton WR-1339 in rats. A positive correlation between TC and triglyceride levels (r = 0.679) and non-HDL-C levels (r = 0.929) and AI (r = 0.889) was demonstrated. Triton WR-1339 altered parameters of oxidative stress in livers of rats but (MeOPhSe)2-supplemented diet did not protect against these alterations. The results demonstrated that the hypolipidemic action of (MeOPhSe)2-supplemented diet is not directly related to its antioxidant property and devoid of systemic toxicity in rats at the parameters analyzed.
Genome-wide DNA polymorphism in the indica rice varieties RGD-7S and Taifeng B as revealed by whole genome re-sequencing
Authors: Fu Chong-Yun , Liu Wu-Ge , Liu Di-Lin , Li Ji-Hua , Zhu Man-Shan , Liao Yi-Long , Liu Zhen-Rong , Zeng Xue-Qin , Wang Feng
Published: January 2016

Next-generation sequencing technologies provide opportunities to further understand genetic variation, even within closely related cultivars. We performed whole genome resequencing of two elite indica rice varieties, RGD-7S and Taifeng B, whose F1 progeny showed hybrid weakness and hybrid vigor when grown in the early- and late-cropping seasons, respectively. Approximately 150 million 100-bp pair-end reads were generated, which covered ∼86% of the rice (Oryza sativa L. japonica ‘Nipponbare’) reference genome. A total of 2 758 740 polymorphic sites including 2 408 845 SNPs and 349 895 InDels were detected in RGD-7S and Taifeng B, respectively. Applying stringent parameters, we identified 961 791 SNPs and 46 640 InDels between RGD-7S and Taifeng B (RGD-7S/Taifeng B). The density of DNA polymorphisms was 256.8 SNPs and 12.5 InDels per 100 kb for RGD-7S/Taifeng B. Copy number variations (CNVs) were also investigated. In RGD-7S, 1989 of 2727 CNVs were overlapped in 218 genes, and 1231 of 2010 CNVs were annotated in 175 genes in Taifeng B. In addition, we verified a subset of InDels in the interval of hybrid weakness genes, Hw3 and Hw4, and obtained some polymorphic InDel markers, which will provide a sound foundation for cloning hybrid weakness genes. Analysis of genomic variations will also contribute to understanding the genetic basis of hybrid weakness and heterosis.
YFCC100M
Authors: Thomee Bart , Shamma David A. , Friedland Gerald , Elizalde Benjamin , Ni Karl , Poland Douglas , Borth Damian , Li Li-Jia
Published: January 2016

This publicly available curated dataset of almost 100 million photos and videos is free and legal for all.
Edwardsiella tardaEndocarditis Confirmed by Indium-111 White Blood Cell Scan: An Unusual Pathogen and Diagnostic Modality
Authors: Litton Kayleigh M. , Rogers Bret A.
Published: January 2016

Edwardsiella tardais a freshwater marine member of the family Enterobacteriaceae which often colonizes fish, lizards, snakes, and turtles but is an infrequent human pathogen. Indium-111- (111In-) labeled white blood cell (WBC) scintigraphy is an imaging modality which has a wide range of reported sensitivity and specificity (from 60 to 100% and from 68 to 92%, resp.) for diagnosing acute and chronic infection. We describe a case of suspectedE. tardaprosthetic aortic valve and mitral valve endocarditis with probable vegetations and new mitral regurgitation on transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiograms which was supported with the use of111In-labeled WBC scintigraphy.
Particle Size Dependent Photodynamic Anticancer Activity of Hematoporphyrin-Conjugated Fe3O4Particles
Authors: Nam Ki Chang , Choi Kyong-Hoon , Lee Kyu-Dong , Kim Jung Hyun , Jung Jin-Seung , Park Bong Joo
Published: January 2016

Nanomedicine, which involves the use of magnetic nanoparticles such as Fe3O4, has provided novel technical solutions for cancer diagnosis and treatment. Most studies in nanomedicine have focused on the use of nanoparticles with magnetic resonance imaging and hyperthermia. However, to achieve optimum anticancer effects, it is important to understand the physicochemical properties of magnetic nanoparticles and their interactions with biological entities. In this study, we synthesized Fe3O4particles of various sizes and conjugated them with hematoporphyrin (HP) molecules by using a simple surface-modification method. HP molecules were covalently bound to the surface of Fe3O4particles by a wet chemical process, resulting in Fe3O4@HPs particles that were uniform in size, were nontoxic, and exhibited strong anticancer effects on human prostate cancer (PC-3) and breast cancer (MDA-MB-231) cell lines. The Fe3O4@HPs particles showed remarkable and efficient photodynamic anticancer activity, depending on their particle size. These results indicate that all size of Fe3O4@HPs particles can be useful for photodynamic anticancer therapy, although the smaller size is better than the larger size and further studies will be needed to confirm the potential for clinical anticancer treatment.
Simultaneous Extensive Intraductal Papillary Neoplasm of the Bile Duct and Pancreas: A Very Rare Entity
Authors: Luvira Vor , Pugkhem Ake , Tipwaratorn Theerawee , Chamgramol Yaovalux , Pairojkul Chawalit , Bhudhisawasdi Vajarabhongsa
Published: January 2016

Intraductal papillary neoplasm of the bile duct (IPNB) is a specific type of bile duct tumor. It has been proposed that it could be the biliary counterpart of the intraductal papillary neoplasm of the pancreas (IPMN-P). This hypothesis is supported by the presence of simultaneous intraductal tumors of both the bile duct and pancreas. There have been five reports of patients with simultaneous IPNB and IPMN-P. In all of these cases, biliary involvement was limited to the intrahepatic and perihilar bile duct, which had characteristics similar to IPMN-P and usually had slow progression in nature. Herein, we present the first case of extensive intraductal neoplasm involving the extrahepatic bile duct, intrahepatic bile duct, and entire length of the pancreas with a poor outcome, even after being treated aggressively with radical surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy. Additionally, we summarize previous case reports of simultaneous intraductal lesions of the bile duct and pancreas.
Enhancement of Integrated Solar Collector with Spherical Capsules PCM Affected by Additive Aluminum Powder
Authors: Al Ghuol Fatah O. , Sopian K. , Abdullah Shahrir
Published: January 2016

This research aims to study, analyze, design, and construct a solar air heater combined with an appropriate phase-change material (PCM) unit. This solar air heater is analogous to a collector integrating a thermal storage unit and a solar thermal collector. In this study, such single-pass solar air heater in amalgamation with PCM was constructed, and several tests were conducted on this device. During the experiments for the solar collector with PCM (spherical capsules), the temperature varied between 30°C and 35°C, and the air mass flow rate ranged between 0.03 and 0.09 kg/s. Results confirmed the predicted experimental findings. With the use of paraffin wax-aluminum composite, the thermal storage efficiency of the constructed solar air heater reached a maximum value of 71% at 0.05 kg/s mass flow rate, its charging time decreased by almost 70%, and its cooling rate increased. The thermal storage efficiency of the compound composite was 76.8% at 0.07 kg/s mass flow rate. The results also indicated that the time of charging decreased by almost 60% with the use of paraffin wax-aluminum composite.
Herbal Formulation C168 Attenuates Proliferation and Induces Apoptosis in HCT 116 Human Colorectal Carcinoma Cells: Role of Oxidative Stress and DNA Damage
Authors: Leong Lek Mun , Chan Kok Meng , Hamid Asmah , Latip Jalifah , Rajab Nor Fadilah
Published: January 2016

The use of herbal formulations has gained scientific interest, particularly in cancer treatment. In this study, the herbal formulation of interest, denoted as C168, is a mixture of eight genera of plants. This study aims to investigate the antiproliferative effect of C168 methanol extract (CME) on various cancer cells and its underlying mechanism of action on the most responsive cell line, namely, HCT 116 cells. CME exerted antiproliferative activities on HCT 116 colorectal carcinoma cells and HepG2 hepatocellular carcinoma cells but not on CCD‐841‐CoN normal colon epithelial cells, Jurkat E6.1 lymphoblastic leukemic cells, and V79‐4 Chinese hamster lung fibroblasts. Further investigation on HCT 116 cells showed that CME induced G2/M cell‐cycle arrest and apoptosis. Treatment of CME induced oxidative stress in HCT 116 cells by increasing the superoxide anion level and decreasing the intracellular glutathione. CME also increased tail moment value and H2AX phosphorylation in HCT 116 cells, suggesting DNA damage as an early signal of CME induced apoptosis. Loss of mitochondrial membrane potential in CME‐treated cells also indicated the involvement of mitochondria in CME induced apoptosis. This study indicated the selectivity of CME toward colon cancer cells with the involvement of oxidative damage as its possible mechanism of action.
Acupuncture for Erectile Dysfunction: A Systematic Review
Authors: Cui Xiaoming , Zhou Jing , Qin Zongshi , Liu Zhishun
Published: January 2016

Background. Acupuncture is increasingly used to treat patients with erectile dysfunction (ED), and our systematic review aimed to evaluate the current evidence for the efficacy and safety of acupuncture in treating ED.Methods. An electronic search was conducted in eight databases to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of acupuncture for treating erectile dysfunction that were published in English and Chinese. The Cochrane Risk of Bias tool was used to assess the risk of bias.Results. Three RCTs with a total of 183 participants met the inclusion criteria. One trial showed the beneficial effects of acupuncture compared with sham acupuncture while the others did not. One trial suggested that acupuncture combined with psychological therapy was superior to psychological therapy alone. However, the overall methodological and reporting quality of the studies was low. The safety of acupuncture for ED was unclear because there were too few reports on this topic.Conclusion. The available evidence supporting that acupuncture alone improves ED was insufficient and the available studies failed to show the specific therapeutic effect of acupuncture. Future well-designed and rigorous RCTs with a large sample size are required. This trial is registered withCRD42014013575.
Efficient Processing of Movingk-Range Nearest Neighbor Queries in Directed and Dynamic Spatial Networks
Authors: Cho Hyung-Ju , Jin Rize
Published: January 2016

Ak-range nearest neighbor (kRNN) query in a spatial network finds thekclosest objects to each point in the query region. The essential nature of thekRNN query is significant in location-based services (LBSs), where location-aware queries with query regions such askRNN queries are frequently used because of the issue of location privacy and the imprecision of the associated positioning techniques. Existing studies focus on reducing computation costs at the server side while processingkRNN queries. They also consider snapshot queries that are evaluated once and terminated, as opposed to moving queries that require constant updating of their results. However, little attention has been paid to evaluating movingkRNN queries in directed and dynamic spatial networks where every edge is directed and its weight changes in accordance with the traffic conditions. In this paper, we propose an efficient algorithm called MORAN that evaluates movingk-range nearest neighbor (MkRNN) queries in directed and dynamic spatial networks. The results of a simulation conducted using real-life roadmaps indicate that MORAN is more effective than a competitive method based on a shared execution approach.
Comparison of the Effect of Two Purification Methods on the Immunogenicity of Recombinant Outer Membrane Protein H ofPasteurella multocidaSerovar A:1
Authors: Thanasarasakulpong Arunee , Poolperm Pichayanut , Tangjitjaroen Weerapongse , Varinrak Thanya , Sawada Takuo , Pfeiffer Dirk , Sthitmatee Nattawooti
Published: January 2016

Recombinant outer membrane protein H (rOmpH) ofPasteurella multocidastrain X-73 can be purified using affinity chromatography but this adversely affects its immunogenicity. The current study presents the results from an intervention study comparing the immunogenicity of rOmpH purified using electroelution with rOmpH purified using affinity chromatography and native OmpH purified using electroelution and a nonimmunized control group. Chickens immunized with rOmpH purified using electroelution produced the highest ELISA antibody levels againstP. multocidastrains. Chickens in each of the 5 treatment groups were split into two subgroups for challenge with two differentP. multocidastrains. The average number of adhesions to CEF cells was statistically significantly lower in sera from chickens immunized with rOmpH or native OmpH purified using electroelution than in those of the three other treatment groups. The survival amongst chickens immunized with rOmpH or native OmpH purified using electroelution indicated high levels of protection. In contrast, survival probability was zero or low in the groups immunized with rOmpH purified using affinity chromatography and in the nonimmunized group. These findings show that the rOmpH purified using electroelution retains its immunogenicity and stimulates high levels of protection in chickens againstP. multocidainfection.
First-Principle Study on the Interaction between Fe and Trivacancy in Graphene
Authors: Hu Xielong , Meng Fanyan
Published: January 2016

Ab initio calculations using density functional theory (DFT) have been performed in order to explore structure and energy gap opening of graphene with bridged-trivacancy and single adsorbed with Fe atom. Compared to the previous reconstructed trivacancy adsorbed with Fe atom with the energy gap of 0.10 eV, one interesting structure for the Fe-doped bridged-trivacancy complex has been identified, with one Fe atom above the graphene plane, and possesses energy gap with the value of 0.32 eV in the bridged circumstance. The band gap can be explained by the decrease of the free electrons. These results provide insights to engineer graphene’s properties through defect addition and manipulation for industrial semiconductor applications such as the photocatalytic technology and graphene based electronics.
Bilaterally Symmetrical Lower Extremity Compartment Syndrome following Massive Transfusion
Authors: Karaoren Gulsah , Bakan Nurten , Tomruk Senay Goksu , Topaç Zelin , Kurtulmuş Tuhan , Irkören Saime
Published: January 2016

Compartment syndrome is a serious condition characterized by raised intracompartmental pressure, which develops following trauma. Well leg compartment syndrome (WLCS) is a term reserved for compartment syndrome in a nontraumatic setting, usually resulting from prolonged lithotomy position during surgery. In literature, 8 cases have been reported regarding well leg compartment syndrome in a supine position and bilateral symmetrical involvement was observed in only 2 cases. In WLCS etiology, lengthy surgery, lengthy hypotension, and extremity malpositioning have been held responsible but one of the factors with a role in the etiology may have been the tissue oedema and impaired microcirculation formed from the effect of vasoactive mediators expressed into the circulation associated with the massive blood transfusion. The case is presented here regarding symmetrical lower extremity compartment syndrome after surgery in which massive transfusion was made for gross haemorrhage from an abdominal injury. In conclusion, blood transfusion applied at the required time is life-saving but potential risks must always be considered.
Current Diagnostic and Therapeutic Aspects of Eosinophilic Myocarditis
Authors: Kuchynka Petr , Palecek Tomas , Masek Martin , Cerny Vladimir , Lambert Lukas , Vitkova Ivana , Linhart Ales
Published: January 2016

Eosinophilic myocarditis (EM) represents a rare form of myocardial inflammation with very heterogeneous aetiology. In developed countries, the most prevalent causes of EM are hypersensitivity or allergic reactions, as well as hematological diseases leading to eosinophilia. The disease may have a variable clinical presentation, ranging from asymptomatic forms to life-threatening conditions. Most patients with EM have marked eosinophilia in peripheral blood. Endomyocardial biopsy needs to be performed in most cases in order to establish a definitive diagnosis of EM. The therapy depends on the underlying aetiology. Immunosuppressive therapy represents the treatment mainstay in the majority of EM forms.
The Subcellular Localization and Functional Analysis of Fibrillarin2, a Nucleolar Protein inNicotiana benthamiana
Authors: Zheng Luping , Yao Jinai , Gao Fangluan , Chen Lin , Zhang Chao , Lian Lingli , Xie Liyan , Wu Zujian , Xie Lianhui
Published: January 2016

Nucleolar proteins play important roles in plant cytology, growth, and development. Fibrillarin2 is a nucleolar protein ofNicotiana benthamiana(N. benthamiana). Its cDNA was amplified by RT-PCR and inserted into expression vector pEarley101 labeled with yellow fluorescent protein (YFP). The fusion protein was localized in the nucleolus and Cajal body of leaf epidermal cells ofN. benthamiana. TheN. benthamianafibrillarin2 (NbFib2) protein has three functional domains (i.e., glycine and arginine rich domain, RNA-binding domain, andα-helical domain) and a nuclear localization signal (NLS) in C-terminal. The protein 3D structure analysis predicted that NbFib2 is anα/βprotein. In addition, the virus induced gene silencing (VIGS) approach was used to determine the function of NbFib2. Our results showed that symptoms including growth retardation, organ deformation, chlorosis, and necrosis appeared in NbFib2-silencedN. benthamiana.
Strongly Unforgeable and Efficient Proxy Signature Scheme with Fast Revocation Secure in the Standard Model
Authors: Pang Liaojun , Zhao Huiyang , Zhou Xia , Li Huixian
Published: January 2016

The existing proxy signature schemes with the proxy revocation function are proven to be malleable and do not possess strong unforgeability. Motivated by these concerns, a new proxy signature scheme with fast revocation is proposed, and it can be proved that the proposed scheme can achieve strong unforgeability in the standard model. By using this scheme, the original signer can generate the delegation warrant for the proxy signer, and at the same time, he/she can perform the immediate revocation to completely terminate the delegation when needed. Analyses show that the proposed scheme satisfies all of the security requirements of proxy signature and has shorter public parameters than the existing ones.
The Protective Effects of Buzui on Acute Alcoholism in Mice
Authors: Chen Chen , Wen Da-Chao , Gao Shu-di , Hu Xiao-yu , Yi Cheng
Published: January 2016

This study was designed to investigate the role of a traditional buzui recipe in anti‐inebriation treatment. Buzui consists of Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis, Fructus Chebulae, Fructus Mume, Fructus Crataegi, Endothelium Corneum Gigeriae Galli, and Excrementum Bombycis. The buzui mixture was delivered by gavage, and ethanol was delivered subsequent to the final treatment. The effects of buzui on the righting reflex, inebriation rates, and the survival curve are depicted. Blood alcohol concentrations, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels were recorded. The activities of alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH), and superoxide dismutase (SOD), as well as malonaldehyde (MDA) levels, were also measured. Our results demonstrated that a traditional buzui recipe showed significant effects on promoting wakefulness and the prevention of acute alcohol intoxication, accelerating the metabolism of alcohol in the liver and reducing the oxidative damage caused by acute alcoholism.
Two Cases of Heerfordt’s Syndrome: A Rare Manifestation of Sarcoidosis
Authors: Fujiwara Keishi , Furuta Yasushi , Fukuda Satoshi
Published: January 2016

Heerfordt’s syndrome is a rare manifestation of sarcoidosis characterized by the presence of facial nerve palsy, parotid gland enlargement, anterior uveitis, and low grade fever. Two cases of Heerfordt’s syndrome and a literature review are presented.Case  1. A 53-year-old man presented with swelling of his right eyelid, right facial nerve palsy, and swelling of his right parotid gland. A biopsy specimen from the swollen eyelid indicated sarcoidosis and he was diagnosed with incomplete Heerfordt’s syndrome based on the absence of uveitis. His symptoms were improved by corticosteroid therapy.Case  2. A 55-year-old woman presented with left facial nerve palsy, bilateral hearing loss, and swelling of her bilateral parotid glands. She had been previously diagnosed with uveitis and bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy. Although no histological confirmation was performed, she was diagnosed with complete Heerfordt’s syndrome on the basis of her clinical symptoms. Swelling of the bilateral parotid glands and left facial nerve palsy were improved immediately by corticosteroid therapy. Sarcoidosis is a relatively uncommon disease for the otolaryngologist. However, the otolaryngologist may encounter Heerfordt’s syndrome as this syndrome presents with facial nerve palsy and swelling of the parotid gland. Therefore, we otolaryngologists should diagnose and treat Heerfordt’s syndrome appropriately in cooperation with pneumologists and ophthalmologists.
Effect of Solvent, Dye-Loading Time, and Dye Choice on the Performance of Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Rajab Fahd M.
Published: January 2016

Anatase titania films with a thickness of up to 20 μm and deposited over a fluorine-doped tin-oxide substrate are impregnated with ruthenium dyes N-719 and N-749 using Dip and supercritical-fluid methods for the purpose of fabricating dye-sensitized solar cell devices. The dyes are dissolved in different solvent mixtures, including supercritical carbon dioxide, as well as combinations of more traditional solvents including mixtures of acetonitrile, and t-butanol. Analytical studies included thin-film analyzing and scanning electron microscopy to measure titania film thickness and porosity, UV-Vis spectroscopy to quantify dye concentration, and current-voltage device characterizations to assess energy conversion efficiency, as well as open-circuit voltage decay measurements and quantum efficiency to examine electron collection efficiency. A significant result is that using the dye N-749 in a solvent that includes supercritical carbon dioxide leads to energy conversion efficiencies that are higher for devices with a thick 20 μm semiconductor film than for the case of devices with thinner films, including the 10 μm film thickness that is traditionally considered an upper threshold. The supercritical-fluid method for the N-719 dye also enabled shorter impregnation duration than more conventional classical Dip Methods.
Gq-Coupled Receptors in Autoimmunity
Authors: Zhang Lu , Shi Guixiu
Published: January 2016

Heterotrimeric G proteins can be divided into Gi, Gs, Gq/11, and G12/13 subfamilies according to theirαsubunits. The main function of G proteins is transducing signals from G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs), a family of seven transmembrane receptors. In recent years, studies have demonstrated that GPCRs interact with Gq, a member of the Gq/11 subfamily of G proteins. This interaction facilitates the vital role of this family of proteins in immune regulation and autoimmunity, particularly for Gαq, which is considered the functionalαsubunit of Gq protein. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms through which Gq-coupled receptors control autoreactive lymphocytes is critical and may provide insights into the treatment of autoimmune disorders. In this review, we summarize recent advances in studies of the role of Gq-coupled receptors in autoimmunity, with a focus on their pathologic role and downstream signaling.
Tuberculous Dactylitis: An Uncommon Presentation of a Common Infection
Authors: Rao G. Nayantara , Gali Jayasri Helen , Rao S. Narasimha
Published: January 2016

Tuberculous dactylitis is an unusual form of osteoarticular tuberculosis involving the short tubular bones of hands and feet, which is uncommon beyond six years of age. We report the case of a fifteen-year-old adolescent boy who was diagnosed with tuberculous dactylitis, involving contralateral hand and foot. His diagnosis was delayed due to lack of suspicion of this rare entity. The report also examines the diagnostic difficulties faced by clinicians in arriving at an appropriate diagnosis.
On the Exploration of Adaptive Mechanisms Providing Reliability in Clustered WSNs for Power Plant Monitoring
Authors: Rathinavel Sathiyaseelan , Pandi Vijayakumar , Sivaraman Audithan
Published: January 2016

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) are used in almost every sensing and detection environment instead of wired devices in the current world, all the more in power plant monitoring applications. In such a kind of environment, providing reliability is a challenging task, since WSN makes use of low powered sensors. There are many existing works that provide reliable transmission in WSN (predominantly via multipath routing). However, most of the existing works take additional delay, excessive packet loss, and energy consumption, and hence they provide less packet delivery and throughput. Adaptive Priority Routing (APR) is first proposed during the initial design to provide efficiency in next hop selection. APR computes the priority value for selecting the intermediate nodes during the data transmission in order to improve the packet delivery, throughput, and energy efficiency. In addition to this, APR is developed into QAPR protocol to provide reliability which can operate in two modes,Drepresenting distance mode andQrepresenting quality of service (QoS) mode. The proposed work is simulated in both flat topology and hierarchical topologies and the simulation analysis shows that the reliability is increased significantly in comparison with existing works.
Plastic Change in the Auditory Minimum Threshold Induced by Intercollicular Effects in Mice
Authors: Mei Hui-Xian , Tang Jia , Fu Zi-Ying , Cheng Liang , Chen Qi-Cai
Published: January 2016

In the auditory pathway, the commissure of the inferior colliculus (IC) interconnects the two ICs on both sides of the dorsal midbrain. This interconnection could mediate an interaction between the two ICs during sound signal processing. The intercollicular effects evoked by focal electric stimulation for 30 min could inhibit or facilitate auditory responses and induce plastic changes in the response minimum threshold (MT) of IC neurons. Changes in MT are dependent on the best frequency (BF) and MT difference. The MT shift is larger in IC neurons with BF differences ≤2 kHz than in those with BF differences >2 kHz. Moreover, MTs that shift toward electrically stimulated IC neurons increase with the increasing MT difference between the two ICs. The shift in MT lasts for a certain period of time and then returns to previous levels within ~150 min. The collicular interactions are either reciprocal or unilateral under alternate stimulating and recording conditions in both ICs. Our results suggest that intercollicular effects may be involved in the acoustic experience-dependent plasticity of the MT of IC neurons.
Macrophages: Regulators of the Inflammatory Microenvironment during Mammary Gland Development and Breast Cancer
Authors: Brady Nicholas J. , Chuntova Pavlina , Schwertfeger Kathryn L.
Published: January 2016

Macrophages are critical mediators of inflammation and important regulators of developmental processes. As a key phagocytic cell type, macrophages evolved as part of the innate immune system to engulf and process cell debris and pathogens. Macrophages produce factors that act directly on their microenvironment and also bridge innate immune responses to the adaptive immune system. Resident macrophages are important for acting as sensors for tissue damage and maintaining tissue homeostasis. It is now well-established that macrophages are an integral component of the breast tumor microenvironment, where they contribute to tumor growth and progression, likely through many of the mechanisms that are utilized during normal wound healing responses. Because macrophages contribute to normal mammary gland development and breast cancer growth and progression, this review will discuss both resident mammary gland macrophages and tumor-associated macrophages with an emphasis on describing how macrophages interact with their surrounding environment during normal development and in the context of cancer.
Antenna Array Design in MIMO Radar Using NSK Polynomial Factorization Algorithm
Authors: Gu Shuainan , Li Ke , Ren Xiukun , Zheng Na-e
Published: January 2016

The work presented here is concerned with the antenna array design in collocated multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) radars. After knowing the system requirements, the antenna array design problem is formulated as a standard polynomial factorization. In addition, an algorithm based on Newton-Schubert-Kronecker (NSK) polynomial factorization is proposed. The algorithm contains three steps. First, linear factors are extracted by extended Vieta theorem. Then, undermined high-order factors are confirmed with Newton interpolation and certain high-order factors should be searched for within the undermined ones. Finally, the antenna array configurations are determined according to the result of polynomial factorization. Simulations confirm the wide use of the proposed algorithm in MIMO radar antenna array design.
Association of RBP4 Genotype with Phenotypic Reproductive Traits of Sows
Authors: Marantidis A. , Laliotis G. P. , Avdi M.
Published: January 2016

PCR-RFLP was applied to a commercial crossbred pig population in order to investigate the association between polymorphism (SNP) of Retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4) gene and reproductive performance. 400 sows were genotyped and 2000 records of reproductive traits were used in order to retrieve information about the allele frequencies and the association of the RBP4 gene with main reproductive characteristics of the population. A deviation from the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium was observed as a result of the AB genotype excess. In addition, the AA genotype saw statistically significant higher values of (i) the total number of born piglets (p<0.05), (ii) the number of piglets born alive (p<0.01), and (iii) the number of weaned piglets (p<0.01). The number of the mummified piglets and the number of the piglets born dead did not differ between the various RBP4 genotypes. Interestingly, the AA genotype had a negative impact (p<0.05) on the number of piglets born dead, resulting indirectly in a larger litter size. In conclusion, the AA genotype and in extension the A allele of RBP4 gene are in favor of producing larger litter size, suggesting that the RBP4 gene may be used in Marker-Assisted Selection (MAS) programs for a rapid improvement of the reproductive characteristics in pigs.
Fibrolipoma of the Buccal Mucosa: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Iwase Masayasu , Saida Naotaka , Tanaka Yoko
Published: January 2016

Lipomas are common benign soft tissue neoplasms derived from mature adipose tissue. However, they rarely arise in the oral cavity. Fibrolipoma is a histological variant of lipoma that mainly affects the buccal mucosa and causes functional and cosmetic issues. This article describes the case of a 71-year-old male with a fibrolipoma of the left buccal mucosa and a review of previous articles about fibrolipoma.
Illness Severity, Social and Cognitive Ability, and EEG Analysis of Ten Patients with Rett Syndrome Treated with Mecasermin (Recombinant Human IGF-1)
Authors: Pini Giorgio , Congiu Laura , Benincasa Alberto , DiMarco Pietro , Bigoni Stefania , Dyer Adam H. , Mortimer Niall , Della-Chiesa Andrea , O’Leary Sean , McNamara Rachel , Mitchell Kevin J. , Gill Michael , Tropea Daniela
Published: January 2016

Rett Syndrome (RTT) is a severe neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by an apparently normal development followed by an arrest and subsequent regression of cognitive and psychomotor abilities. At present, RTT has no definitive cure and the treatment of RTT represents a largely unmet clinical need. Following partial elucidation of the underlying neurobiology of RTT, a new treatment has been proposed, Mecasermin (recombinant human Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1), which, in addition to impressive evidence from preclinical murine models of RTT, has demonstrated safety in human studies of patients with RTT. The present clinical study examines the disease severity as assessed by clinicians (International Scoring System: ISS), social and cognitive ability assessed by two blinded, independent observers (RSS: Rett Severity Score), and changes in brain activity (EEG) parameters of ten patients with classic RTT and ten untreated patients matched for age and clinical severity. Significant improvement in both the ISS (p=0.0106) and RSS (p=0.0274) was found in patients treated with IGF1 in comparison to untreated patients. Analysis of the novel RSS also suggests that patients treated with IGF1 have a greater endurance to social and cognitive testing. The present clinical study adds significant preliminary evidence for the use of IGF-1 in the treatment of RTT and other disorders of the autism spectrum.
Theoretical Mechanism Study on the Reaction of FOO Radical with NO
Authors: Ou Yang ShunLi , Wu NanNan , Liu JingYao , Han XiangGang
Published: January 2016

The mechanism for the reaction of radical FOO with NO was investigated theoretically. The electronic structure information for the singlet potential energy surfaces (PES) was obtained at the MP2/6-311+G(2df) level of theory, and the single-point energies were refined by the CCSD(T)/6-311+G(2df) level. The rate constants as well as the pressure and temperature dependence of various product channels for the reaction are predicted. The calculated results show that starting from the energy-rich intermediateFOONOtp(IM1), at room temperature 298 K and at 1 Torr, FNO is the exclusive product which is consistent with the experimental results. The present results will be useful to gain a deep insight into the reaction mechanism of FOO + NO reaction.
The Development and Validation of a Rapid Assessment Tool of Primary Care in China
Authors: Mei Jie , Liang Yuan , Shi LeiYu , Zhao JingGe , Wang YuTan , Kuang Li
Published: January 2016

Introduction. With Chinese health care reform increasingly emphasizing the importance of primary care, the need for a tool to evaluate primary care performance and service delivery is clear. This study presents a methodology for a rapid assessment of primary care organizations and service delivery in China.Methods. The study translated and adapted the Primary Care Assessment Tool-Adult Edition (PCAT-AE) into a Chinese version to measure core dimensions of primary care, namely, first contact, continuity, comprehensiveness, and coordination. A cross-sectional survey was conducted to assess the validity and reliability of the Chinese Rapid Primary Care Assessment Tool (CR-PCAT). Eight community health centers in Guangdong province have been selected to participate in the survey.Results. A total of 1465 effective samples were included for data analysis. Eight items were eliminated following principal component analysis and reliability testing. The principal component analysis extracted five multiple-item scales (first contact utilization, first contact accessibility, ongoing care, comprehensiveness, and coordination). The tests of scaling assumptions were basically met.Conclusion. The standard psychometric evaluation indicates that the scales have achieved relatively good reliability and validity. The CR-PCAT provides a rapid and reliable measure of four core dimensions of primary care, which could be applied in various scenarios.
Formulation Optimization and Evaluation of Probiotic Lactobacillus sporogenes-Loaded Sodium Alginate with Carboxymethyl Cellulose Mucoadhesive Beads Using Design Expert Software
Authors: Solanki Himanshu K. , Shah Dushyant A.
Published: January 2016

The present study deals with the formulation optimization of sodium carboxymethyl cellulose-alginate mucoadhesive beads containing probiotic Lactobacillus sporogenes through ionotropic gelation using 32 factorial design. The effect of sodium carboxymethyl cellulose-alginate concentration on the probiotic entrapment efficiency (PEE, %), viability in simulated gastric fluid (log CFU/g), and mucoadhesion over 8 hr (%) was optimized. The optimized beads containing probiotic Lactobacillus sporogenes showed entrapment efficiency of 93.7±1.97%, viability of probiotic in simulated gastric fluid (log CFU/g) of 9.34, mucoadhesion of 71.75±1.38%, and mean diameter of 1.21±0.11 mm. The beads were also characterized by SEM, FTIR, and XRD. The swelling and degradation of these beads were influenced by pH of the test medium. Finally, stability tests performed at room temperature (25~28°C) highlighted a bacterial viability of about 91% and 86% after 1 and 2 months, respectively. The advantageous properties of probiotic Lactobacillus sporogenes-loaded mucoadhesive beads make them suitable for incorporation in functional food and/or pharmaceutical products.
Breakfast Protein Source Does Not Influence Postprandial Appetite Response and Food Intake in Normal Weight and Overweight Young Women
Authors: Crowder Christina M. , Neumann Brianna L. , Baum Jamie I.
Published: January 2016

Breakfasts higher in protein lead to a greater reduction in hunger compared to breakfasts higher in carbohydrate. However, few studies have examined the impact of higher protein breakfasts with differing protein sources. Our objective was to determine if protein source (animal protein (AP) versus plant protein (PP)) influences postprandial metabolic response in participants consuming a high protein breakfast (~30% energy from protein). Normal weight (NW;n=12) and overweight women (OW;n=8) aging 18–36 were recruited to participate. Participants completed two visits in a randomized, cross-over design with one week between visits. Subjects had 15 minutes to consume each breakfast. Blood glucose and appetite were assessed at baseline, 15, 30, 45, 60, and 120 minutes postprandial. Participants kept a 24-hour dietary record for the duration of each test day. No difference was found between NW and OW participants or breakfasts for postprandial appetite responses. AP had a significantly lower glucose response at 30 minutes compared with PP (−11.6%; 127 ± 4 versus 112 ± 4 mg/dL;P<0.05) and a slower return to baseline. There was no difference in daily energy intake between breakfasts. These data suggest that protein source may influence postprandial glucose response without significantly impacting appetite response in breakfast consumers.