bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Highly Diverse Hepatitis C Strains Detected in Sub‐Saharan Africa Have Unknown Susceptibility to Direct‐Acting Antiviral Treatments
Authors: Davis Chris , Mgomella George S. , da Silva Filipe Ana , Frost Eric H. , Giroux Genevieve , Hughes Joseph , Hogan Catherine , Kaleebu Pontiano , Asiki Gershim , McLauchlan John , Niebel Marc , Ocama Ponsiano , Pomila Cristina , Pybus Oliver G. , Pépin Jacques , Simmonds Peter , Singer Joshua B. , Sreenu Vattipally B. , Wekesa Clara , Young Elizabeth H. , Murphy Donald G. , Sandhu Manj , Thomson Emma C.
Published: November 2018

The global plan to eradicate hepatitis C virus (HCV) led by the World Health Organization outlines the use of highly effective direct‐acting antiviral drugs (DAAs) to achieve elimination by 2030. Identifying individuals with active disease and investigation of the breadth of diversity of the virus in sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA) is essential as genotypes in this region (where very few clinical trials have been carried out) are distinct from those found in other parts of the world. We undertook a population‐based, nested case‐control study in Uganda and obtained additional samples from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to estimate the prevalence of HCV, assess strategies for disease detection using serological and molecular techniques, and characterize genetic diversity of the virus. Using next‐generation and Sanger sequencing, we aimed to identify strains circulating in East and Central Africa. A total of 7,751 Ugandan patients were initially screened for HCV, and 20 PCR‐positive samples were obtained for sequencing. Serological assays were found to vary significantly in specificity for HCV. HCV strains detected in Uganda included genotype (g) 4k, g4p, g4q, and g4s and a newly identified unassigned g7 HCV strain. Two additional unassigned g7 strains were identified in patients originating from DRC (one partial and one full open reading frame sequence). These g4 and g7 strains contain nonstructural (ns) protein 3 and 5A polymorphisms associated with resistance to DAAs in other genotypes. Clinical studies are therefore indicated to investigate treatment response in infected patients. Conclusion: Although HCV prevalence and genotypes have been well characterized in patients in well‐resourced countries, clinical trials are urgently required in SSA, where highly diverse g4 and g7 strains circulate.
Red blood cell exchange in treatment of severe cerebral P. falciparum malaria: A case report
Authors: Genstler Joshua T. , Abdipour Amir
Published: November 2018

Introduction: Red blood cells exchange transfusion has been demonstrated to be helpful in treatment of sever P. falciparum malaria. However, no large scale randomized controlled trials have been completed to date and the CDC does not recommend RBC exchange transfusions as standard of care. We present a case of severe cerebral malaria in a patient with extremely high parasitemia and severe altered mental status who improved rapidly with automated RBC exchange.

Report: Seventy‐two year old female presented with 1 day history of weakness, altered mental status, malaise, and cyclic sweats after returning from a trip to Sierra Leone. Thick and Thin Smears demonstrated P. falciparum rings present and Quantitative malaria screen demonstrated 53.33% parasitemia. Patient was started on quinidine and doxycycline but continued to deteriorate. Automated RBC exchange transfusion was performed within 24 hours of admission and resulted in rapid improvement in symptomology. Repeat thick and thin smears revealed undetectable parasite load.

Conclusion: Automated RBC exchange may improve outcomes in severe P. falciparum malaria when presenting parasite loads are very high.
Effects of ANRIL polymorphisms on the likelihood of coronary artery disease: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Xie Yingli , Zhao Di , Dong Pingshuan , Wang Honglei , Li Daolin , Lai Lihong
Published: November 2018

Background

Whether antisense noncoding RNA in the INK4 locus (ANRIL) polymorphisms are associated with the likelihood of coronary artery disease (CAD) remains controversial. Therefore, we performed this study to explore correlation between ANRIL polymorphisms and CAD.

Methods

Literature retrieve was conducted in PubMed, Medline and Embase. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were calculated.

Results

Nineteen studies were enrolled for analyses. Pooled overall analyses showed that rs1333040 (dominant model: P < 0.0001; recessive model: P < 0.0001; allele model: P < 0.0001), rs1333049 (dominant model: P = 0.02; allele model: P = 0.02) and rs2383207 (additive model: P = 0.004; allele model: P = 0.03) polymorphisms were significantly associated with the likelihood of CAD. Further subgroup analyses revealed that rs1333040, rs1333049, rs2383206, rs2383207, rs10757274, and rs10757278 polymorphisms were all significantly correlated with the likelihood of CAD in East Asians. Additionally, rs2383206, rs10757274, and rs10757278 polymorphisms were also significantly correlated with the likelihood of CAD in Caucasians and West Asians.

Conclusions

Our findings indicated that rs1333040, rs1333049, rs2383206, rs2383207, rs10757274, and rs10757278 polymorphisms may serve as genetic biomarkers of CAD in East Asians. Moreover, rs2383206, rs10757274, and rs10757278 polymorphisms may also serve as genetic biomarkers of CAD in Caucasians and West Asians.
MiRNA‐199a‐5p positively regulated RANKL‐induced osteoclast differentiation by target Mafb protein
Authors: Guo Kai , Zhang Dawei , Wu Haining , Zhu Qingsheng , Yang Chongfei , Zhu Jinyu
Published: November 2018

MicroRNAs are involved in osteoclast differentiation. Although miR‐199a‐5p plays an important role in many different systems and diseases, its function during osteoclastogenesis remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the function and the target gene of miR‐199a‐5p in osteoclast differentiation. The in vitro data showed that miR‐199a‐5p was significantly upregulated after the stimulation by receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa‐B ligand in macrophages and RAW 264.7 cells. After transfection of miR‐199a‐5p mimic, the messenger RNA expression level of nuclear factor of activated T‐cells cytoplasmic 1, tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP), and receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa‐B was significantly increased in RAW 264.7 cells and the number of TRAP‐positive cells was also increased. MiR‐199a‐5p inhibitor showed the complete opposite outcome which brought additional proof to our finding. Overexpression of miR‐199a‐5p led to downregulation of Mafb protein. The luciferase activity was obviously repressed when WT‐pGL3‐Mafb and miR‐199a‐5p mimics were cotransfected into 293 T cells and the inhibitors cotransfected demonstrated reverse result. MiR‐199a‐5p overexpressed during osteoclast differentiation and positively regulated osteoclast formation in vitro by target Mafb.
Selective β2‐adrenoreceptor signaling regulates osteoclastogenesis via modulating RANKL production and neuropeptides expression in osteocytic MLO‐Y4 cells
Authors: Liang Hengxing , Zeng Yuanyuan , Feng Yunzhi , Wu Hanjiang , Gong Ping , Yao Qianqian
Published: November 2018

The β2‐adrenergic receptor (β2‐AR) signaling on bone cells is the major contributor in the effect of the sympathetic nervous system on bone turnover. However, it remains unclear whether receptor activator of nuclear factor κ‐Β ligand (RANKL) modulation and neuropeptides expression in osteocytes are responsible for the mechanism. This study used β2‐AR stimulation to investigate cell cycle and proliferation, the gene and protein expression of RANKL, and osteoprotegerin (OPG), as well as neuropeptides regulation in osteocytic MLO‐Y4 cells. Clenbuterol (CLE; a β2‐AR agonist) slightly promoted the growth of MLO‐Y4 cells in a concentration‐dependent effect but had no effect on the proliferation index. And the concentration of 10−8 M showed a significant increase in the S‐phase fraction on day 3 in comparison with the control. Additionally, CLE‐promoted osteoclast formation and bone resorption in osteocytic MLO‐Y4 cell‐RAW264.7 cell cocultures. RANKL expression level and the ratio of RANKL to OPG in MLO‐Y4 cells were enhanced in CLE treatment but were rescued by blocking β2‐AR signaling. However, neuropeptide Y and α‐calcitonin gene‐related peptide, two neurogenic markers, were inhibited in CLE treatment of MLO‐Y4 cells, which was reversed by a β2‐AR blocker. The results indicate that osteocytic β2‐AR plays an important role in the regulation of RANKL/OPG and neuropeptides expression, and β2‐AR signaling in osteocytes can be used as a new valuable target for osteoclast‐related pathologic disease.
Peptide selected by phage display increases survival of SH‐SY5Y neurons comparable to brain‐derived neurotrophic factor
Authors: Nafian Fatemeh , Rasaee Mohammad Javad , Yazdani Shahin , Daftarian Narsis , Soheili Zahra Soheila , Kamali Doust Azad Babak
Published: November 2018

Brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a well‐known neuroprotectant and a potent therapeutic candidate for neurodegenerative diseases. However, there are several clinical concerns about its therapeutic applications. In the current study, we designed and developed BDNF‐mimicking small peptides as an alternative to circumvent these problems. A phage‐displayed peptide library was screened using BDNF receptor (neurotrophic tyrosine kinase receptor type2 [NTRK2]) and evaluated by ELISA. The peptide sequences showed similarity to loop2 of BDNF, they were recognized as discontinuous epitopes though. Interestingly, in silico molecular docking showed strong interactions between the peptide three‐dimensional models and the surface residues of the NTRK2 protein at the IgC2 domain. A consensus peptide sequence was then synthesized to generate a mimetic construct (named as RNYK). The affinity binding and function of this construct was confirmed by testing against the native structure of NTRK2 in SH‐SY5Y cells in vitro using flow‐cytometry and MTT assays, respectively. RNYK at 5 ng/mL prevented neuronal degeneration of all‐
trans‐retinoic acid‐treated SH‐SY5Y with equal efficacy to or even better than BDNF at 50 ng/mL.
miR‐30a promoter variation contributes to the increased risk of colorectal cancer in an Iranian population
Authors: Sadeghi Hossein , Nazemalhosseini‐Mojarad Ehsan , Yaghoob‐Taleghani Mohammad , Amin‐Beidokhti Mona , Yassaee Vahid Reza , Aghdaei Hamid Asadzadeh , Zali Mohammad Reza , Mirfakhraie Reza
Published: November 2018

Cytochrome P450 family 24 subfamily A member 1 (CYP24A1) gene is overexpressed in many cancers including colorectal cancer (CRC) and correlated with tumor invasion, lymph node metastasis, and the reduced overall survival. We predicted that miR‐30a and miR‐125a regulate the
CYp24A1 gene expression. Therefore, we performed a case‐control study using 800 individuals, including 389 patients with CRC and 411 noncancer controls to evaluate the association between miR‐30a rs2222722 and miR‐125a rs12976445 polymorphisms, located at in the promoter region, and the risk of sporadic CRC in an Iranian population. The genotyping assay for both polymorphisms was performed using Tetra‐primer amplification refractory mutation systems polymerase chain reaction. The results indicated that the frequency of the miR‐30a rs2222722 CT genotype was significantly different in the studied groups (
P = 0.0001; odds ratio [OR] = 1.9; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.39‐2.60). Also, a significant difference was observed under the dominant inheritance model (
P = 0.0001; OR = 1.8; 95% CI, 1.33‐2.43). The frequency of the miR‐30a rs2222722 T allele was significantly associated with increased CRC risk in the studied population (
P = 0.0019; OR = 1.47; 95% CI, 1.15‐1.89). Taken together, our study provides preliminary evidence that the rs2222722 polymorphism increases the susceptibility to CRC in an Iranian population. Therefore, the affecting factors on
CYP24A1 gene expression such as microRNAs can be considered as risk factors for CRC.
Icariin protects against iron overload‐induced bone loss via suppressing oxidative stress
Authors: Jing Xingzhi , Du Ting , Chen Kun , Guo Jiachao , Xiang Wei , Yao Xudong , Sun Kai , Ye Yaping , Guo Fengjing
Published: November 2018

Iron overload is common in patients with diseases such as hemoglobinopathies, hereditary hemochromatosis or elderly men and postmenopausal women. This disorder is frequently associated with bone loss and recently has been considered as an independent risk factor for osteoporosis. By excess reactive oxygen species (ROS) production through Fenton reaction, iron could induce osteoblast apoptosis, inhibit osteoblast osteogenic differentiation. Moreover, Iron could also promote osteoclasts differentiation and bone absorption. The goal of the study is to investigate whether icariin could reverse iron overload‐induced bone loss in vitro and in vivo. Icariin is the major active ingredient of Herba Epimedii and has antioxidant, antiosteoporosis functions. In the current study, we demonstrated that oral administration of icariin significantly prevented bone loss in iron overloaded mice. Icariin could protect against iron overload‐induced mitochondrial membrane potential dysfunction and ROS production, promote osteoblast survival and reverse the reduction of Runx2, alkaline phosphatase, and osteopontin expression induced by iron overload. Icariin also inhibited osteoclasts differentiation and function. Moreover, we also found that icariin remarkably reduced iron accumulation in bone marrow, suggesting that icariin has the ability to regulate systemic iron metabolism in vivo. These results indicated that icariin could be a potential natural resource for developing medicines to prevent or treat iron overload‐induced osteoporosis.
PU.1 and epigenetic signals modulate 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3 and C/EBPα regulation of the human cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide gene in lung epithelial cells
Authors: Wei Ran , Dhawan Puneet , Baiocchi Robert A. , Kim Ki‐Yoon , Christakos Sylvia
Published: November 2018

LL‐37, the only known human cathelicidin which is encoded by the human antimicrobial peptide (CAMP) gene, plays a critical role in protection against bacterial infection. We previously demonstrated that cathelicidin is induced by 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)
2D
3) in human airway epithelial cells with a resultant increase in bactericidal activity. In this study we identify key factors that co‐operate with 1,25(OH)
2D
3 in the regulation of CAMP. Our results show for the first time that PU.1, the myeloid transcription factor (which has also been identified in lung epithelial cells), co‐operates with the vitamin D receptor and CCAAT/enhancer binding protein α (CEBPα) to enhance the induction of CAMP in lung epithelial cells. Our findings also indicate that enhancement of 1,25(OH)
2D
3 regulation of CAMP by histone deacetylase inhibitors involves co‐operation between acetylation and chromatin remodeling through Brahma‐related gene 1 (BRG1; a component of the SWItch/sucrose nonfermentable [SWI/SNF] complex). BRG1 can be an activator or repressor depending on BRG1‐associated factors. Protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5), a methlytransferase which interacts with BRG1, represses 1,25(OH)
2D
3 induced CAMP in part through dimethylation of H4R3. Our findings identify key mediators involved in the regulation of the CAMP gene in lung epithelial cells and suggest new approaches for therapeutic manipulation of gene expression to increase the antibacterial capability of the airway.
Possible protective effect of platelet‐rich plasma on a model of cisplatin‐induced nephrotoxicity in rats: A light and transmission electron microscopic study
Authors: Ahmed Sabreen M. , Fouad Fatma E.
Published: November 2018

Background

Cisplatin (Cis), is a potent chemotherapeutic drug. However, Cis nephrotoxicity is high, thus limiting its use. Platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) is an autologous product, easy to get from blood centrifugation. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of PRP in reversing Cis‐induced nephrotoxicity.

Materials and methods

Thirty‐two adult albino rats were distributed into Group I, the control group; Group II, in which the rats received Cis (5 mg·kg−1·day
−1, intraperitoneal); Group III and Group IV, in which the rats received Cis, followed by normal saline and PRP distribution, respectively (1 ml) over the renal surface 24 hr later. All rats were killed on the eighth day of the experiment. Histopathological changes were examined.

Results

Glomerular atrophy, tubular degeneration, interrupted PAS reaction, highly expressed caspase‐3, and ultra‐structural changes were observed after Cis injection, which improved with PRP administration.

Conclusion

PRP reduced acute kidney injury through the epithelial GFs.
Effects of Conversion From Calcineurin Inhibitors to Sirolimus or Everolimus on Renal Function and Possible Mechanisms in Liver Transplant Recipients
Authors: Tsai Kai‐Fan , Li Lung‐Chih , Hsu Chien‐Ning , Lin Chih‐Che , Lin Yu‐Hung , Cheng Yu‐Fan , Wang Chih‐Chi , Chen Chao‐Long
Published: November 2018

Mammalian targets of rapamycin inhibitors (mTORIs), including sirolimus and everolimus, are used for minimizing calcineurin inhibitors after liver transplantation. However, head‐to‐head randomized comparisons of these 2 mTORIs are lacking. We assessed the differences in renoprotection and possible mechanisms between sirolimus and everolimus in liver transplant recipients. For this prospective cohort study, we recruited liver transplant recipients whose regimens were switched from tacrolimus to sirolimus or everolimus at a Taiwan medical center. Serial changes in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), urinary N‐acetyl‐β‐D‐glucosaminidase, neutrophil gelatinase–associated lipocalin, 8‐hydroxy‐2′‐deoxyguanosine, and transforming growth factor‐β1 during 1 year after mTORI conversion were compared within and between groups. In the 61 patients analyzed, no significant change in eGFR occurred within 12 months after conversion in both mTORI groups. Among patients with baseline eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2, eGFR improved at 6 months and 1 year after conversion (+12.3 and +12.0 mL/min/1.73 m2, both P < .05). Urinary N‐acetyl‐β‐D‐glucosaminidase decreased in both sirolimus and everolimus groups at 6 months (–68.7 ± 137.6 and –62.0 ± 92.4 U/g creatinine, both P < .05), and the reduction of urinary neutrophil gelatinase–associated lipocalin was significant in the sirolimus group (–4345.1 ± 7763.5 ng/g creatinine; P < .05). Neither transforming growth factor‐β1 nor 8‐hydroxy‐2´‐deoxyguanosine changed significantly. In conclusion, the renoprotective effect of mTORI conversion was significant in liver transplant recipients with renal insufficiency, which was similar for sirolimus and everolimus, in the first year and may be associated with ameliorated tubular injury. Available evidence remains insufficient to determine which mTORI conversion therapy is more effective in renoprotection in the long run.
General Pharmacokinetic Features of Small‐Molecule Compounds Exhibiting Target‐Mediated Drug Disposition (TMDD): A Simulation‐Based Study
Authors: Bach Thanh , Jiang Yu , Zhang Xiaoyan , An Guohua
Published: November 2018

Although target‐mediated drug disposition (TMDD) can occur in both large‐ and small‐molecule compounds, TMDD in small‐molecule compounds has received much less attention due to its lower prevalence. To facilitate the identification of nonlinear pharmacokinetics of small‐molecule compounds caused by TMDD, a comprehensive simulation was conducted in the current study to provide the general pharmacokinetic features of small‐molecule compounds exhibiting TMDD. Various conditions, including single escalating intravenous bolus doses, multiple escalating intravenous bolus doses, and intravenous infusion, were simulated for small‐molecule compounds with saturable binding to (1) targets located in tissues and (2) targets located in plasma. Sobol global sensitivity analysis was performed to evaluate the impact of key parameters (Rmax, kon and koff) in a small‐molecule TMDD model on the apparent volume of distribution and apparent clearance. Our simulation data indicated that small‐molecule compounds with saturable binding to targets in plasma demonstrate distinctly different TMDD behavior compared with those with binding to targets in tissue. Sobol global sensitivity analysis results showed that, in general, koff is much more influential than kon and Rmax on apparent clearance and apparent volume of distribution. The TMDD features predicted in various situations in the current work could serve as a valuable reference to help quickly recognize TMDD when it does happen in a small‐molecule compound. The TMDD principals summarized based on our simulation could be used to aid pharmacokinetic data interpretation, dose regimen optimization, and clinical trial design of small‐molecule drugs exhibiting TMDD.
New insights into the antimicrobial treatment of water on Ag‐supported solids
Authors: Theofilou Stathis P , Constantinou Barbara K , Chatziiona Vasiliki K , Pantelidou Nantia , Plyastsov Semyon , Kapnisis Konstantinos , Savva Petros G , Meshkovsky Igor , Anayiotos Andreas , Costa Costas N
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND

Silver (Ag) has been long known to be a strong antimicrobial agent and has been used as such either as AgNO3 or in the form of nanoparticles. The antimicrobial activity of nanosilver is believed to be due to free metal ion toxicity, the consequent generation of excess reactive oxygen species and inhibition of gene expression in several cells.

RESULTS

The antimicrobial activity of Ag/Al2O3 spheres was studied after suppression of free Ag ions by using a suitable complexing agent (Ag+ scavenger). It was found that Ag/Al2O3 retained its antimicrobial activity even after the addition of the Ag+ complexing agent, which is in contrast to the behaviour of an AgNO3 solution which became completely inactive. Initial/preliminary transmission electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared studies indicate possible phospholipid residues on the Ag‐supported solid surface. •OH radicals were confirmed to be formed during the antimicrobial process.

CONCLUSIONS

The present work provides strong evidence that the antimicrobial property of Ag‐supported solids is not exclusively due to the dissolution of surface silver (free Ag+). A possible simplified mechanism is proposed in which the initiation of the antimicrobial reaction is proposed to be a heterogeneous intersurface process, which might include the interaction between the partially positively charged, surface silver atoms and the negatively charged outer membrane (OM) of microbes, and the subsequent activation of a free radical mechanism. Further study and confirmation of the above findings might be decisive for the development of novel Ag‐supported solids with limited metal surface dissolution but strong antimicrobial activity useful for the confrontation of particular environmental challenges. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Non‐traditional atrazine degradation induced by zero‐valent‐copper: process optimization by the Doehlert experimental design, intermediates detection and toxicity assessment
Authors: Hollanda Luana R , Graça Cátia AL , Andrade Lidiane M , Mendes Maria A , Chiavone‐Filho Osvaldo , Teixeira Antonio CSC
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND

Over recent years, several studies exploring new technologies capable of degrading persistent organochlorine compounds have been published. Special attention has been dedicated to atrazine (ATZ), due to its ecotoxicological relevance together with its frequent detection in the environment. Degradation of organochlorines via zero‐valent metals has gained great importance given its practicality and versatility, zero‐valent‐iron (ZVI) being the most applied metal for this purpose. Alternatively, zero‐valent‐copper (ZVCu) was proved to exhibit higher reactivity against chlorinated aromatics, therefore deserving further investigation.

RESULTS

The optimum degradation conditions for ATZ removal with ZVCu were explored through a Doehlert experimental design. The same conditions were tested for the traditional ZVI, which confirmed that ZVCu was more reactive. The analysis of the degradation products suggests that both reductive and oxidative pathways coexist in the studied process.

CONCLUSIONS

ZVCu was effective in ATZ degradation, both by reductive and oxidation pathways, within a wide range of pH values, although faster in acidic media. The resulting solution from the experiment that promoted the fastest degradation is less toxic than ATZ against microalgae Chlorella vulgaris, which is a positive output regarding the application of this process as a pre‐treatment step of ATZ‐contaminated water matrices. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Nomogram predicting extrahepatic metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma based on commonly available clinical data
Authors: Lee Chern‐Horng , Chang Chee‐Jen , Lin Yu‐Jr , Yen Cho‐Li , Shen Chien‐Heng , Cheng Ya‐Ting , Lin Chen‐Chun , Hsieh Sen‐Yung
Published: November 2018

Background and Aim

Extrahepatic metastasis (EHM) of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) leads to a worse prognosis. We aimed to develop a nomogram based on noninvasive pretreatment clinical data to predict EHM of HCC sooner.

Methods

Three cohorts containing 1820, 479, and 988 HCC patients were enrolled from three hospitals in different regions in Taiwan and served as the training and validation cohorts. Pretreatment clinical data were analyzed by Cox regression modeling for independent risk factors of EHM.

Results

Platelet count ≥ 200 × 103/μL, serum alfa‐fetoprotein ≥ 100 ng/dL, tumor size ≥ 3 cm, tumor number > 1, and macrovascular invasion were independent risk factors for EHM and were used to develop a nomogram. This nomogram had concordance indices of 0.733 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.688–0.778) and 0.739 (95% CI: 0.692–0.787) for the prediction of EHM during a 5‐year follow‐up duration in the training and validation cohorts, respectively. A nomogram score > 61 implied a high risk of EHM (hazard ratio [HR] = 3.83; 95% CI: 2.77–5.31, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

We have developed a nomogram that could accurately predict EHM of HCC and be readily available for formulating individualized treatment for all individual HCC patients to improve therapeutic efficacy.
Cholecystocolic fistula diagnosis with hepatobiliary scintigraphy: A case report
Authors: Mallick Bipadabhanjan , Bhattacharya Anish , Gupta Pankaj , Rathod Srinath , Dahiya Divya , Dutta Usha
Published: November 2018

We report a 62‐year‐old woman who presented with chronic watery diarrhea and weight loss. During evaluation, she was found to have pneumobilia in the absence of gallstones, raising the suspicion of bilioenteric communication. Computed tomography demonstrated adherence of the gallbladder to the adjacent transverse colon. Hepatobiliary scintigraphy demonstrated the presence of a cholecystocolic fistula. A planned uneventful open cholecystectomy with resection of fistulous tract and closure of colonic opening was performed, resulting in the complete resolution of clinical symptoms.
Long properly coloured cycles in edge‐coloured graphs
Authors: Lo Allan
Published: November 2018

Let be an edge‐coloured graph. The minimum colour degree of is the largest integer such that, for every vertex , there are at least distinct colours on edges incident to . We say that is properly coloured if no two adjacent edges have the same colour. In this paper, we show that, for any and large, every edge‐coloured graph with contains a properly coloured cycle of length at least .
Distribution patterns of the zebrafish neuronal intermediate filaments inaa and inab
Authors: Liao Meng‐Lin , Peng Wei‐Hau , Kan Daphne , Chien Chung‐Liang
Published: November 2018

It has been reported that the neuronal intermediate filament (IF) α‐internexin may plays a role in the formation of the neuronal cytoskeleton during mammalian development. From a phylogenetic viewpoint, zebrafish express inaa and inab as homologs of mammalian α‐internexin. However, the distribution patterns of the inaa and inab proteins throughout zebrafish development have not been well‐characterized. We generated antibodies specific for zebrafish inaa and inab and analyzed the distribution of these two proteins in developing zebrafish. Inaa was identified in the major subdivisions of embryonic and larval brains as early as 1 day postfertilization (dpf), including the telencephalon, optic tectum, and cerebellum, and inab was also detected in the same regions from 3 dpf to the adult stage. Moreover, we demonstrated for the first time that inaa was distinctively expressed in the photoreceptor‐like cells of the pineal gland, where inab was sparsely detected. Besides, the expression of inaa in male adult fish was found to be stable under different photoperiod conditions. Thus, we suggest that inaa is one of useful markers for studies of zebrafish cone photoreceptors not only in the retina but also in the pineal gland. In conclusion, we report that the distribution patterns of inaa and inab are phylogenetically conserved in the telencephalon, optic tectum, and cerebellum. Moreover, inaa and inab had different expression patterns in the pineal gland and retina during zebrafish development. Both inaa and inab are neuronal IFs and their functional roles may be different in various aspects of zebrafish neuronal development.
Utilization of cardiac resynchronization therapy in patients with heart failure in the Northern Region of New Zealand
Authors: Looi Khang‐Li , Gavin Andrew , Sidhu Karishma , Cooper Lisa , Dawson Liane , Slipper Debbie , Lever Nigel
Published: November 2018

Background

Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) has been shown to improve morbidity and mortality for heart failure (HF) patients. Little is known about the trends in CRT use and outcomes of these patients in New Zealand.

Method

Mortality, hospitalization events and complications in HF patients in the Northern Region of New Zealand implanted with CRT devices from Jan‐2007 to June‐2015 were reviewed.

Results

Two‐hundred patients underwent CRT implantation during the study period. There was a gradual increase in CRT‐D implantation (n = 157) but the number remained static for CRT‐P (n = 43). Patients who received CRT‐P were older (mean age 65.9 ± 14.0 years vs 61.5 ± 10.2 years, P < 0.0007) but had a higher left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (33.7 ± 10.5% vs 24.7 ± 6.1%, P < 0.0001) than those undergoing CRT‐D implant procedures. During a median follow‐up of 4 (2.8) years, 29 (14.5%) patients (14.7% in CRT‐D vs 13.9% in CRT‐P, P = 0.91) had died. HF was the cause of death in 73.9% of the patients. There was no difference in all‐cause mortality between patients with CRT‐D and CRT‐P.

Conclusions

Despite the proven benefits of CRT in selected HF patients, there continued to be under‐utilization of these devices in HF patients in the Northern Region. Reasons for under‐utilization of these devices need further exploration. These data should be useful for benchmarking individual patient management and national practice against wider experience in the country.
Stiff knee gait may increase risk of second total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Zeni Joseph A. , Flowers Portia , Bade Michael , Cheuy Victor , Stevens‐Lapsley Jennifer , Snyder‐Mackler Lynn
Published: November 2018

Osteoarthritis (OA) progression in the contralateral limb after unilateral total knee arthroplasty (TKA) may be related to altered and asymmetrical movement patterns that overload the contralateral joints. The purpose of this study was to determine if biomechanical factors after unilateral TKA were associated with future contralateral TKA. One hundred and fifty‐eight individuals who underwent unilateral TKA completed three dimensional motion analysis 6–24 months after unilateral TKA (baseline). Subjects were re‐contacted for follow‐up (mean 5.89 years after baseline testing) to determine if they had undergone a contralateral TKA. Biomechanical variables from gait at baseline were compared between those who did and did not undergo contralateral TKA at follow‐up using one‐way ANOVAs. Odds ratios were calculated for variables found to be significant in the ANOVA models. Individuals who underwent contralateral TKA had less knee flexion excursion (10.5° vs. 12.1°; p = 0.032) and less knee extension excursion (8.2° vs. 9.6°; p = 0.035) at baseline on the operated side during walking. Individuals who underwent contralateral TKA also had less knee flexion excursion on the contralateral limb at baseline (11.9° vs. 14.0°; p = 0.017). For every additional degree of knee flexion excursion on the contralateral knee at baseline, there was a 9.1% reduction in risk of future contralateral TKA. Individuals who walked with stiffer gait patterns were more likely to undergo future contralateral TKA. Clinical Significance: Altered movement patterns after surgery may increase the risk for contralateral TKA. Knee excursion is an important metric to include in outcome studies and may serve as a target of rehabilitation after TKA. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 37:397–402, 2019.
Effects of conservation period and Lactobacillus hilgardii inoculum on the fermentation profile and aerobic stability of whole corn and sorghum silages
Authors: Ferrero Francesco , Piano Serenella , Tabacco Ernesto , Borreani Giorgio
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND

Lactic acid bacteria inocula have been developed over the years to improve the aerobic stability of silages. The aims of the study were to evaluate the effect of various conservation periods and the use of Lactobacillus hilgardii inoculum on aerobic stability, fermentative profile and microbial population of corn and sorghum silages. Trials were carried out on two corns and one sorghum crops. The crops were untreated or treated with L. buchneri (LB, application rate 300 000 cfu g−1 FM), L. hilgardii (LH, application rate 300 000 cfu g−1 FM) and a combination (LB + LH, application rate 150 000 cfu g−1 FM each). Silos were opened after 15, 30, 100 and 250 days of conservation, and the silages were analysed for fermentative profile, microbial count and aerobic stability.

RESULTS

During conservation, the inocula influenced the fermentation profile. The use of LH increased the aerobic stability at 15 and 30 days in one out of three trials, while after 100 and 250 days, the presence of LB alone or with LH led to greater stability. In all the trials, the acetic acid content increased, the yeast count decreased and the aerobic stability increased during the conservation period.

CONCLUSIONS

This study has shown that a long period in complete anaerobiosis reduced yeast count and improved aerobic stability in all silages. The addition of LB was confirmed to be a good option for increasing aerobic stability of silages, whereas the effect of LH alone or in combination with LB on aerobic stability was not consistent between trials. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Designing and evaluation of urea microcapsules in vitro to improve nitrogen slow release availability in rumen
Authors: Lira‐Casas Raymundo , Efren Ramirez‐Bribiesca J , Zavaleta‐Mancera Hilda A , Hidalgo‐Moreno Claudia , Cruz‐Monterrosa Rosy G , Crosby‐Galvan María M , Mendez‐Rojas Miguel A , Domínguez‐Vara Ignacio A
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND

There is a growing interest in the development of novel and innovative vehicles for controlled release of urea into the rumen, aiming to provide ammonia‐N for the biosynthesis of proteins of bacterial origin and to prevent urea intoxication by direct feeding to livestock. Urea microencapsulation is a system that can control the release of urea to be slow and steady.

RESULTS

The amount of encapsulated urea was 69% of CSU (calcium silicate + urea + Eudragit RS100® + dichloromethane) and 71% of ACU (activated charcoal + urea + Eudragit RS100® + dichloromethane) groups (p > 0.05) The buoyancy of the microcapsules was over 50% after 12 h of agitation in both groups (CSU and ACU), producing significant differences in the volume of the organic phase factor, which was 20 mL at the lowest value (p = 0.0005). The morphology of the microcapsules produced with CSU and ACU showed no significant differences in microcapsule morphology (p > 0.05). The lower temperature (35 versus 40 °C, p = 0.035) retained better morphology of the microcapsules. Regarding the in vitro ammonia‐N release kinetics, unprotected urea reached a maximal peak after 6 h, while CSU and ACU took more than 24 h to reach ammonia‐N released concentration.

CONCLUSIONS

We stabilized the physical factors in the microencapsulation of urea that can allow slow release of rumen fluid. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Specific weight of barley grains is determined by traits affecting packing efficiency and by grain density
Authors: Hoyle Aaron , Brennan Maree , Jackson Gail , Hoad Steve
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND

Specific weight influences the market value of barley grain, and in malting barley a high specific weight is thought to result in an increased malt output. However, links between specific weight and malt output have not yet been established. We hypothesised that packing efficiency and grain density will each contribute to specific weight. These traits would have implications for the malting process, highlighting the need for understanding what grain traits contribute to specific weight, before we can predict its effect on malting performance and efficiency.

RESULTS

We report that specific weight is a product of grain density and packing efficiency, in our study proportionally contributing 48.5% and 36.5% to variation in specific weight, respectively. We report that packing efficiency is determined by grain dimensions, and is negatively correlated with the sum of grain length and depth. Therefore shorter, thinner grains can result in an increased specific weight, which is likely to be detrimental for malting performance. We also demonstrate that among cultivars which have grains with contrasting size traits, the same specific weight can be achieved through differing grain densities.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results demonstrate that both grain dimensions and grain density must be considered jointly to optimise specific weight, and that the relationship between specific weight and malting performance and efficiency needs to be carefully considered with respect to how a high specific weight is achieved. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Synthesis of a 33‐yr series of whole‐lake experiments: Effects of nutrients, grazers, and precipitation‐driven water color on chlorophyll
Authors: Carpenter Stephen R. , Pace Michael L.
Published: November 2018

We conducted a 33‐yr series of whole‐lake experiments to measure ecosystem responses to food web structure and nutrient load, compare aquatic and terrestrial carbon flows to consumers, and evaluate indicators of ecosystem resilience. These manipulations showed that chlorophyll responded to nutrient loading and to grazing controlled by a trophic cascade. In this article, we synthesized experimental results using a new analysis of heretofore unrecognized variation in water color, measured as light absorbance at 440 nm. Long‐term data revealed fluctuations in precipitation that drive water color variation. We compared effects of nutrient loading, zooplankton biomass, zooplankton body size, and water color on chlorophyll. Water color was an important factor in the chlorophyll response. This driver of the chlorophyll response to manipulation was not resolved until decades of data were available. A long‐term context enriched insights from ecosystem experiments and exemplified the complementarity of experimental and long‐term approaches in limnology.
A compact low‐phase noise oscillator using π‐network and complimentary μ‐near zero metamaterial resonator
Authors: Yoon Ki‐Cheol , Ahn Seungyoung , Lee Jong‐Chul
Published: November 2018

In this article, the X‐band low‐phase noise oscillator based on a μ‐near zero (MNZ) metamaterial resonator is presented. The MNZ resonator has small size and high loaded quality factor (QL) and the oscillator has low‐phase noise due to high‐QL. Also, the proposed resonator is composed of complimentary structure which consists of spur‐line and meander‐line. The measured QL of a new resonator is 213 at resonant frequency of 10 GHz and the output power and second harmonics suppression are 14.43 dBm and −30.65 dBc, respectively. The measurement result for phase noise is −101.71 dBc/Hz at 100 kHz offset.
Non‐touch detection of rhodamine B concentration in distilled water using fiber coupler based on displacement sensor
Authors: Samian  , Zaidan A. H. , Anggraeni M. P. , Yasin M. , Supadi
Published: November 2018

Non‐touch detection of rhodamine B concentration in distilled water using fiber coupler and concave mirror (CM) successfully demonstrated. Based on displacement sensor, the concentration of rhodamine B is detected through the peak voltage value which is resulted from the displacement profile. Using the He‐Ne (543 nm) laser as the source, the fiber coupler as the sensor probe and CM with the curvature radius of 12 mm as the reflector as well as the sample container, the rhodamine B concentration can be detected in the range 0‐20 ppm and the resolution of 0.26 ppm.
Optical characterization of high and low resistive silicon samples suitable for reconfigurable antenna design
Authors: Ali Abdul , Topalli Kagan , Ramzan Mehrab , Khan Talha Masood , Altintas Ayhan , Colantonio Paolo
Published: November 2018

Highly resistive (HR) silicon (Si) can behave as a switch when illuminated by optical source of suitable wavelength. Different reconfigurable passive structures, such as filters, waveguides, and antennas, can be constructed using such silicon switches. This letter presents experimental characterization of high and low resistive (HR & LR) silicon for switching application. In the experiment, HR Si is modeled on a switched transmission line by halogen lamp and a laser source. The experiment of utilizing halogen lamp for Si switch characterization is cost‐effective and can assist engineers in designing reconfigurable antennas. In future, this experiment could be utilized in designing novel reconfigurable antennas.
Low‐cost multi‐layer parasitic patch antenna array for 79 GHz automotive radar applications
Authors: Mosalanejad Mohammad , Ocket Ilja , Soens Charlotte , Vandenbosch Guy A. E.
Published: November 2018

A parasitic patch antenna array based on a new multi‐layer PCB technology, called the Any‐Layer PCB technology, is presented. The antenna is designed for 77‐81 GHz MIMO radar systems, mainly for automotive applications. The designed antenna array is composed of 4 sub‐arrays. Each sub‐array is based on 2 parasitic patches which are excited by a feeding patch. With this feeding topology, the radiation pattern and gain of the proposed antenna are nearly constant across the whole 4 GHz bandwidth, which is a very attractive feature for radar designers. A prototype has been fabricated and measured. The gain and SLL are 10.22, and ‐14.11 dB at 79 GHz, respectively.
Novel flowchart design of frequency independent 180° phase shifters
Authors: Tebache Soufiane , Ghanem Farid , Belouchrani Adel , Mansoul Ali
Published: November 2018

This paper describes the design guidelines for frequency independent 180° phase shifters. The proposed configuration is based on microstrip slot transition technique. The frequency independence feature is due to comparing two quasi‐identical structures and the phase inversion (180°) is related to the chosen inverted orientation of the main line compared to the reference one. Moreover, two different schemes are designed and manufactured and a good simulation to measurement agreement is demonstrated. Thus, interesting results are obtained (more than 10 dB return loss, less than 2.1 dB insertion loss and less than ± 3.6° phase deviation).
MRI gadolinium dosing on basis of blood volume
Authors: Liu Chia‐Ying , Lai Shenghan , Lima João A.C.
Published: November 2018

Purpose

Gadolinium‐based contrast agents (GBCAs) for MRI are generally administrated in direct relationship to body weight. Instead, we propose a model for GBCA dosing on the basis of blood volume. The new method was tested by exploring the associations between MRI T1 mapping indices and weight in the MESA (Multi‐Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis.

Methods

Empirically derived methods based on sex and body habitus were used to calculate blood volumes. GBCA dose (in mL) in blood (in L) was calculated as the injected volume divided by the blood volume (i.e., DBV). Of the 1219 participants with cardiac MRI T1 mapping, 845 studies had standard dose of 0.15 mmol/kg (cohort 1) and 166 studies had 30 mL of GBCA regardless of weight (cohort 2). We also created a specific cohort with similar DBV (N = 357; cohort 3).

Results

Postcontrast blood relaxation rate R1blood and DBV were significantly correlated (R = 0.641; P < 0.001). R1blood was significantly associated with weight in cohort 1 and 2, but the correlation coefficient was positive for cohort 1 and negative for cohort 2, indicating GBCA overdosing in cohort 1 and underdosing in cohort 2 in heavy relative to lean subjects. R1blood was not associated with weight in cohort 3. Simulated results demonstrated that less contrast should be administrated for heavy subjects compared to the conventional weight‐based dose.

Conclusion

GBCA dosing on the basis of blood volume could improve the efficacy and safety of contrast‐enhanced MRI studies. This method could be implemented to standardize dose and augment precision in study comparisons.
Nyquist ghost correction of breast diffusion weighted imaging using referenceless methods
Authors: McKay Jessica A. , Moeller Steen , Zhang Lei , Auerbach Edward J. , Nelson Michael T. , Bolan Patrick J.
Published: November 2018

Purpose

Correction of Nyquist ghosts for single‐shot spin‐echo EPI using the standard 3‐line navigator often fails in breast DWI because of incomplete fat suppression, respiration, and greater B0 inhomogeneity. The purpose of this work is to compare the performance of the 3‐line navigator with 4 data‐driven methods termed “referenceless methods,” including 2 previously proposed in literature, 1 introduced in this work, and finally a combination of all 3, in breast DWI.

Methods

Breast DWI was acquired for 41 patients with SS SE‐EPI. Raw data was corrected offline with the standard 3‐line navigator and 4 referenceless methods, which modeled the ghost as a linear phase error and minimized 3 unique cost functions as well as the median solution of all 3. Ghost levels were evaluated based on the signal intensity in the background region, defined by a mask auto‐generated from a T1‐weighted anatomical image. Ghost intensity measurements were fit to a linear mixed model including ghost correction method and b‐value as covariates.

Results

All 4 referenceless methods outperformed the standard 3‐line navigator with statistical significance at all 4 b‐values tested (b = 0, 100, 600, and 800 s/mm2).

Conclusions

Referenceless methods provide a robust way to reduce Nyquist ghosts in breast DWI without the need for any additional calibration scan.